This Mom is Letting Go (a little)

There comes a time when you realize that your baby isn't a baby anymore. I thought the first day of school was one of those days until now. Today, while at the All School BBQ, I truly saw it for the first time.

I made my way to her classroom. I watched from a distance as the teacher's helpers got them in line and got their name tags on. She was happy and helpful and all grown up. I delighted in the sparkle in her eyes when she saw me standing there waiting for her. She dragged me into her classroom and introduced me to EVERYONE. My baby that is usually pretty shy at first had no problem telling me who everyone was. Some of the names I had heard before, some not. Her teacher assured me that Anna is a joy to have in class, is thoughtful, caring, polite and respectful. Phew. Not that I doubted that she was, but boy was it good to hear. Fear #1 - Gone.

She led me to the cafeteria to get our lunches. I held back when wanting to help her with everything. And guess what? She did it all on her own. Just like she does everyday when I am not there. Fear #2 - Gone. She carried her tray outside while saying hi to all of her friends along the way. We ate our lunch with our neighbor friends and then off to the playground to see what Anna describes most days as her favorite part of the day.

On the way, a little girl Anna's age runs up to her screaming her name and gives her a HUGE hug. It warmed my heart so much. They rounded up a couple other classmates and headed off to play. I think she even forgot that I was there and that she was just seconds before so anxious to show me the lay of the playland. Fear #3 - Gone.

As I walked away from her classroom I let out a big relief sigh. I saw it for my own eyes. Life is good.