And Off She Goes!

This morning we put our baby girl on the school bus for her first official day of kindergarten. I guess she's really not a baby anymore but a bigger girl headed off into a world of learning, making new friends and becoming less dependent on Mommy and Daddy as she navigates this whole new routine on her own.

Bereket goes to Longfellow Elementary, Rochester's year-round "choice" school. We love Longfellow's small size and think the longer breaks in the fall and spring will be wonderful for family travel (to Disney and Ethiopia and other wonderful places!) but this big change for our little family came fast! We had applied for a spot at Longfellow last December but Bereket's name was not drawn in the January lottery. About 4 weeks ago, her name was picked in a late drawing for some leftover spots. I was mentally prepared for Bereket to start school on September 10th not July 29th! This was a great opportunity though, so out with the September plan and in with a new backpack! And finding that perfect pack took a few tries. Go figure, Elsa and Anna was the keeper!

 

We picked up the required glue and pencils and Bereket's new schoolmate Anthony outfitted her in some great Longfellow spirit wear.

Just in time, Bereket had all she needed to "Meet the Teacher" a.k.a. Mrs. Clauson.

Bereket reported to a day-long mini session with Mrs. Clauson on Monday to prepare for the real deal today.  Jason dropped her off Monday morning and a tearful momma waited in the parking lot to pick her up in the afternoon. I begged Bereket the entire drive home to tell me every detail. She told me a few things.

 

 

Mrs. Clauson wrote a note after the mini session saying that Bereket was respectful and would be a good role model in the classroom. Today I am thankful for the many people who have helped to get her ready for this big step. People like Bereket's beloved daycare provider and preschool teacher, Jenna.

I pray that Bereket will make good choices and special friends. Like Cinderella, I pray that she will have courage and be kind. Here's to a new, great adventure.