Kindergartener Kaitlyn

The day has finally come, we have a child in regular, everyday school. It's week #3 and she's LOVIN IT!!

First day of school was a bit hectic as it's new for all of us. We have to get up earlier than usual (which I thought was early before!!)

A healthy breakfast of left over cinnamon rolls, a banana and milk.

We had a new backpack and lunch bag packed and ready to go! I know you're shocked that she chose pink.

Say c-ya to big sister!! Loading up the car with all the kiddos (thanks to my friend Kim who took the younger 2 for about 30 minutes for the first few days while I could focus on just KP)

Olson Elementary is a BRAND NEW SCHOOL this year and so it was new for every parent too--mass chaos in the parking lot both for the drop off and pick up. We were almost late getting there as we had to park quite a ways away. We could walk them into their classroom (it's the only day they allow that--after that it's into the cafeteria to wait with their class for their teacher)

We found her desk, (at the green table next to a sweet girl) did a worksheet, mom had to do a couple things and then I said to Kaitlyn, "It's time for me to go." She whispered, "I'm not ready for you to go yet." I said, "Okay I'll go stand by the wall for just a minute." After a minute I walked over and said, "It's time for me to go, I'll be back to get you after school is over." "Okay mom." Hugs and kisses and I was out the door! (totally shocked by the way!!)

Now on the 3rd week of school, I am amazed at her growth. For a few days I walked her with 2 in tow into the cafeteria to find her class and wait with them. After about 4 days I suggested that she could walk into the cafeteria by herself and say good-bye to me at the door. On day 5 she wanted to try it. We did that for a couple of days and then I suggested that she could find the cafeteria by herself from the door of the school. She didn't think she could, so I asked her to show me the way and see if she could. She could and the next morning she announced that I could leave her at the door of the school. Then after a couple days of that she announced that I didn't need to escort her to the door, I could just drop her off in the carpool line and she could find her way along the sidewalk into the school and to the cafeteria where her class waits. We've done that for about 2 days now and I have to admit it makes me more nervous than her. I always sit and watch her until I can't see her anymore just to be sure she's made it. I can't believe how independent she's become and how she instigated it! What a girl!!