Today Miles headed off to first grade. It’s not just a new year, but it’s a new school as well. Miles tested into our school system’s ALPHA program for gifted and talented students. That means he heads off to a new school with a whole classroom of kids in this program. In my day, the gifted and talented kids were pulled out during the day to do different work. Here, it’s a whole classroom of GT kids brought together from the whole district, all in one room together. We all have jitters today as we start this new year and hope this new program is a good fit for Miles. He rides the same bus, but is shuttled to the new school that feels very different to us than our warm & cuddly school of last year. (I’m warming up to it though, I promise I have an open mind!) However, we are very impressed with his new teacher who has a high ability license from Ball State University and seems to have lots of energy and is super organized. We are excited to see her work her magic with our little guy.

The first morning of school always has a buzz in the air of excitement, nervousness and a teeny bit of worry (from me!) mixed in. Miles was cool as a cucumber though and little sis was right along with him. (Or in front of him, as this photo shows.)

Our little big guy, the first grader!

I love him so much!

He didn’t even look back as he got on the bus. My throut caught a lump there as the little girl getting on after him looked back and flashed a smile at her mom standing next to me, camera poised to her face. My heart lurched, wanting one more little bit. Wanting that smile looking back telling me he’s ok, and of course that part of me that wants that to bottle it in time. Then, as I watched him settle into his seat, I realized that it’s ok, he’s doing what he’s supposed to. I’m supposed to give him roots and wings, it’s just so hard to see them take off and fly on their own. I’m so proud of him! It’s just so amazing watching your kids grow. It’s such a precious gift to experience.

I didn’t drive to school and see him into his class. I didn’t want to project my anxieties on to him. I know he’s GOT this. He doesn’t need me to walk him in as much as I wanted that for me. So I stayed home and snuggled Joss with a cup of coffee. We are watching the clock though, thinking of him, wondering and can’t wait to see him when he returns home!

Here’s the shot that I take every year. (Though last year I think I only got Joss standing there!)