First Day of School

Yes, you read that right.  Today was Jocelyn's first day of school.  I signed Jocelyn up for the Parks and Rec My First School.  (I love the Parks & Rec programs, and Jocelyn has been in a bunch of them over the last couple of years)  She will be going to school on Monday and Wednesday mornings for the month of May from 10:00 to 12:00. 

I tried to get the stereo-typical "First day of school" photo, but she wanted none of it.  When she wasn't running away...

I managed to get this...

The classroom is inside a real Elementary school, so she really was going to school.  I talked it up, about how exciting it would be to go to school and be a big girl going to class all by herself, and at first I thought I had us both convinced, but....   not really....

On the drive to school, Jocelyn asked me to carry her into class, a sure sign of insecurity.   And when I set her down and I said goodbye, I fought the good fight to get out of that room without her seeing the tears pouring down my cheeks.   My baby girl is in school!   How can that be???

But she had a good time!  She played with play dough, and a toy farm, made a place mat for their upcoming snack times, sang some songs (many of which I was surprised were familiar to her already), did circle time, and had a snack. 

Ok, yes, I was stalking the classroom window almost the whole time!!!

When the 2 hours were over, I was anxious to get back in the classroom and see how she felt about being on her own.  Despite what I saw in the window, she is still Mommy's baby girl.  I was greeted by a sad, almost teary eyed girl and she clung for a good hug. 

But soon thereafter, she was chatting away.  I got her to show me around the classroom and talk about what she did.   After class, we blew away some dandelion seedlings and then got in the car to head home for lunch.  All in all, I would say it was a success.  I'm not sure at what point I will feel like I can leave her there and go do some errands or something, but I'm glad she did ok.

On the drive home, Jocelyn said "I'm so glad you came to pick me up Mommy".

I will always be there for you love, Always.