Brasel Buzz: The FIRST First Day

Well, things have settled in a bit into "school-year mode" around here, so I can finally share a few pictures and stories from Eli's first day of K4 (4-year-old kindergarten). He is going three days a week, and while I was originally feeling like that was way too much, it thus far seems to be a good balance for him and for the family.

On his first day, we all went together to drop Eli off. On the way up to the K4 door, Eli said, almost to himself, "I am so excited!", which made this mommy feel so happy for him (but still a little emotional for me!). He enthusiastically showed Daddy his locker, since Daddy did not go to the open house day, and then went on to find his seat with barely a glance back at us. No tears from Eli, and Mommy managed to not let any sneak out until we were safely back in the car and on the way home (and I was missing his little voice, and life observations, piping up from the backseat of the car). It was different to just have three of us, as Evelyn got her parents to herself for a little stop at a coffee shop to play before Daddy headed off to work. At pickup, Eli was happy to see us, and rather nonchalant about the whole day. No big deal, just a big kid going to school. Um, still a super-big deal to Mom. :)

He seems to enjoy his class and teacher, and he always has a big smile, and sometimes a wave, for me when I pick him up each day. We don't hear a ton from him about school, but we get a sense of what he is doing and learning from the weekly updates from his teacher, and from what he starts to teach Evelyn, and us, through his play (lining up for music class, new games from gym, etc.). He is particularly excited about Spanish class and recess, and likes to help me pack his lunch each evening before a school day. So proud of our big little guy, and excited for him to grow and learn this year!