First Day of 3 Year Old Preschool

Thanks to a March maternity leave, summer vacation felt like it was extra long this year. That being said, all three of you babies got extra attached to me, especially you, Wiley-bug. When I went back to work, you had a hard time saying goodbye and getting into our new routine. A week before preschool was to start, we started a paper chain countdown to help you out. Each morning, you warned, "Ok, but I gonna cry a whittle bit when you 'weave,' Mommy."

Monday night, we prepped by setting out backpacks, picking our first day outfits, and reading (listening to them on the ipad) books about the first day of school. You were both excited and ready for a new school year.

You woke up, Tuesday morning to find balloons and streamers hanging from your door. Your [sleepy] eyes sparkled with excitement when we asked why everything was decorated, "It my first day of school!" There weren't any nerves in the air...yet.

 

Once downstairs, you boys were thrilled to see more balloons in streamers decorating the kitchen and your breakfast chairs, along with special pancakes: 3 P R and 3 P W (3 year old Preschool for Ryan and Wiley).

Backpacks and shoes were on by 8:00...thirty minutes early! You were pumped and ready to go.

Once buckled in and on our way, the mood in the car slowly shifted. Wiley, I could watch as your body language changed and you got more and more quiet. Nerves were finally kicking in. Sensing the same shift, Ryan, you asked, "You okay, Wy? You gonna cry when Mommy 'weaves?' You no need to cry." As we neared the school, we prayed that you boys would have the courage to face your first day of school together. Ryan, you suggested that you  boys could sing "Jesus Loves Me," if you got nervous and God and Jesus would hug your hearts (what we tell you at bedtime so you can be brave!). Between that and our prayer, I was barely keeping it together myself. The love you two have for each other is just so beautiful to witness.

We arrived at school and all headed in, hand-in-hand. Daddy took you, Wiley to wash your hands, while I took you Ryan. While washing hands, you casually let me know, "I no want you to 'weave' now, Mommy. I scared you 'weave' me." Your eyes began to water and I knew we were doomed! We were gonna have two crying kids and probably a crying Mommy with this drop-off. Mustering all the bravery I had in myself, I whispered to you, "Buddy, Mommy has to leave. I have to go to my school for a few hours too. But today, I need you to be brave for me, okay. Wiley is a little scared too and he needs his best buddy to help him be brave. Can you do that for me, please; can you be brave for Wiley?" With a hug and a kiss you said, "Sure!"

Out in the hallway, we teamed up with Daddy and Wiley (who was hanging onto the classroom door jam, refusing to go in). We gave our quick kisses as you headed for the room, Ryan. Head held high, and courage oozing, you grabbed Wiley's hand, pulled him away from the door, and led him into the classroom. We watched as you tried so hard to stay brave, Wiley. No tears fell, but you could see the apprehension in each step. How lucky you boys are to have one another to go through each new stage! I watched (through my own watery eyes) as you two headed to hang up your backpacks, ready to conquer the day. I pray you continue to stand-up for each other and lead one another throughout the rest of your lives. I pray your relationship just grows stronger and stronger. I am so excited for you boys and another year of preschool. You both have such wonderful qualities; I can't wait to see what you do not just this year, but with your lives. Continue to shine little boys! We sure do love you!