Yesterday was an exciting day in the Smith household. We received a letter addressed to the parents/guardians of Rowyn Flannery Smith. The sender was from Post's Corners Public School and I knew this was the letter we had been waiting for. Let me fill you in.
Rowyn is going to JK in September. She would correct me right now and say "JK/SK" since all the kindergarten classes at our local public school are split grades and she knows she is going into a JK/SK class. I'm trying to teach her that she is going into JK, but she seems to know better. :) This is one of the biggest milestones yet. Walking and talking were pretty huge, but this is huger. This milestone has the potential to draw my girl away, not closer. This milestone involves my beloved spending big chunks of time away from me....
For the record, I am not ready for this. I have started to mentally consider other options - private school (too much money, not really what I'm looking for), Christian school (I'll pass on this concept thanks), staying home with me (Ro would probably think this boring), having me homeschool (something I have always been against but I might consider it now). Let's be clear. I'm not afraid of school - I'm a certified teacher and have taught in the public system in Toronto. I think Ro is ready for school (probably more than ready). When asked if she would prefer to go to school or be with me, she, without hesitation, stated she would prefer going to school. She is a social being and will love being with friends every school day (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and alternating Fridays).
Here is what makes me want to throw my arms around my oldest and never let her go - the other kids and what they will say. I want Ro to continue to be a confident, outgoing kid who loves her glasses. I don't want words to rob her of her innocence, of her love of everything simple, of her quirkiness. I don't want her to feel like she has to change to fit in with others, to be liked.
I want Ro to grow in her understanding and love for God, to continue to love the simple things, to be content and confident in who she is and her abilities. I want her to continue to love talking about everything around her, expressing her joys and frustrations. BUT people aren't perfect. People make good and bad choices. Love can change things. God will never leave us, including my little girl. School can be exciting, terrifying, amazing. I can help Ro prepare for all these things, and talk her through them. Bad situations can be redeemed. I am going to be a very involved parent.
I am excited for Ro to be starting this new adventure. Ro can't wait to be in Mrs. McKay's class. You can bet I will be crying after dropping her off for her first full day. I will be praying for her continually.
Anyone have any encouragement?
Trying to hold it together,
Tam
1 comment:
Must admit I'm crying right now and harder as I remember your first day of school as I walked you out to catch the bus knowing what I was exposing you to. The lord gave me Paula Stoneman who got off the bus to greet you and take you onto the bus to sit with her. I knew no harm would come to you! That didn't stop the tears, I knew we were entering a new chapter in our lives but I learned to trust you to others. So glad you can leave Ro in the Lord's hands and know He'll care for her even more than you ever could
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