Back to school!

 It is hard for me to believe I have a middle school-er, but it is true.  So far Amanda loves her new school, and all is going well.  I have had to chuckle at a few comments she has made about being "challenged" at this challenge program.  Despite the drive to her school for drop offs and pick ups it is obviously a good fit for Amanda.  I love the outfit she picked for the first day of school, and yes she looks so much older.  I had her take off her glasses for the picture.  Now I know why I won't get her contacts yet, it doesn't hurt to hide her for a few more years does it?  That was actually solidified to me when I watched a boy run to her rescue on the second day of school when she had dropped a few things out of her bag.  Let the fun begin....

 And here is my cute little man all ready for his first day of kindergarten.  He was so excited and nervous and full of lots to say on this first morning.  And even more to say on his way home.  He loves his teacher Mrs. Anderson and has made lots of new friends already.  I was expecting him to want me to stick around for a while on that first morning.  I had told him previously I wouldn't leave until he was ready, and once he sat in his chair he turned around and politely told me "you could leave now mom".  So I left but not without shedding a few tears at how grown up my little man is now.  At least it is only half days this year!

 Maren started third grade with Ms. Haberman.  She is loving being back with friends and was very excited to move up to the big kids playground this year.  Only to find out that she wasn't all that thrilled after the fact, because she loves to run around and there isn't nearly as much grass to run around on over there.  She has settled in nicely though and is loving tether ball...maybe this means I won't see as many holes in her jeans this year from playing on the lawn.  She has also started piano lessons and between that, a busy third grade homework load, and soccer she will have a full year.

And even my baby is sporting a backpack this year.  I can't believe Jacob is big enough to go to preschool, but he is and he is LOVING it.  I am happy for him, as I know that he is loving having kids his own age to play with, and he is so excited everyday to tell me what they had for snack and as we drive he loves to sing me the songs he is learning.


And I have to admit I am secretly loving the almost three hours I have to run errands, clean house, fold laundry, workout, and whatever else I can jam in there four days a week.  I think after the last 12 twelve years of almost constant mothering I love having a few minutes to hear myself think!