Kindergarten!!

 Our baby girl joined the ranks of school-aged kiddos this fall! She is now an official kindergartener! Wow, how did that happen? She is more than ready to start school and Christopher and I have no doubt that she will do amazing things in the months and years to come. We are amazed at her kind heart, thoughtfulness, musical ability and smarts! Of course, she's ours and we are biased, but she is such a bright and perfect child! 

That morning I made her take pictures...just what she wanted to do so early in the day. She was finally able to use her Wings back pack. She had been asking about it all summer. She was so excited to share it with her classmates...Chris and I tried to explain that most kids, ok probably no one, would know the Red Wings, but she didn't care one bit. I was able to find coverage for my class (thank you, Pam! I can't ever repay you!!) and be there for her first few minutes of kindergarten. 

 We drove to Sandy's house so she could ride the bus to school. I put her on the bus, drove fast to beat the bus to school and was there to meet her when she stepped off. 

 This was her getting off the bus that morning and arriving at Woodland. We found her line-up spot and waited. While we were waiting, she said, "Mom, I really don't think you should bring your big camera in the class! The clicking is gonna be way too loud!" Well, lucky for Leila, I didn't even go inside. Other parents were saying their good-byes on the playground and I didn't want to be the only one following the class, so I gave her a huge hug and kiss, hid my tears, swallowed the lump in my throat and watched her walk inside with her class. Only moms and dads who have had that first day of kindergarten experience can understand the feelings that were swirling around inside me. My baby. My big girl. My lovely child. 

Gramma and Aunt Chris met the bus at Sandy's house after school and took Leila out for a treat. She had a fabulous first day and was eager to head back the next morning! Here's to a great start of school!