First Day of School!

This is Abby at last Friday's meet the teacher.  We are so happy that she has Ms. Dahse, the same Kindergarten teacher that Isaac had two years ago.  We already know and love her so it was a big comfort to Abby on her first day of school.

Abby had to write her name on all her folders and belongings.  She's going by Abigail at school so it is quite an achievement to write it so many times.

Our traditional flag pole picture, this time with TWO students!  Adel and I had the chance to pray with the kids before we walked into the school today: a very special start to a great day.

Kindergartener and second grader!  Isaac said, "Mom, I think you're over-obsessing a little."  Ah, he's growing up.

Isaac got to pick his seat, so he is sitting at a table with kids from last year's class.  That's his best girl-buddy, Belle across from him.  (heart!)

Abby got settled in just fine. 

And went straight to work.  It's amazing how they just know what to do. 

And she didn't even look up as we walked out of the room.  That's when I almost lost it.  My baby is in kindergarten.  Sniff.

This is the moment of truth.  Everyone has been asking me all summer what I'm going to do when both the kids are in school.  I have stubbornly refused to plan ahead and so today came and I had very little on my agenda (yay!).  I came home and sat on the couch for an hour with a cup of coffee, staring at the ceiling, thinking, praying, and being amazed at the luxury of getting to think uninterrupted thoughts at nine in the morning.  I spent the rest of the day doing some deep cleaning in areas of our house that I have neglected for a very long time.  I will probably do the same tomorrow.  And then, I'll figure out what's next for my life now that both my kids are in school.   The day went by amazingly fast.  And then...

Here comes the bus!

Smiles.  A "Fantastic" first day of school (that was Isaac's actual word).

With bus buddy, Connor.

All smiles after the fun first day.

When they got home, they were surprised by schultutes, a German tradition for parents to give kids on the first day of school.

Our friend, Ms. Jen, gave the kids some fun surprises in their cones and I added to it and decorated to their own style (Hello Kitty for Abby and Harry Potter for Isaac).  

They had a great welcome home, opening all their new toys and treats.