First Day of Carpenter's Kids

Well, we made it!! Today was Easton's first day of Carpenter's Kids. We woke up early this morning and started preparing for the day. He was supposed to bring something that started with the letter A, so he chose his yellow airplane and put it in his new backpack. We packed his lunch (PBJ, pretzels, baby carrots, and a Capri Sun) and I showed him how to get all the baggies open and made sure he could do it by himself. I was so nervous about him going away with people I don't know. Having been a teacher, I know how little things can get overlooked so I wanted to make sure he could at least eat his lunch without much or any help. 

While we were getting ready this morning, he wasn't too thrilled about the whole idea and he kept saying that he was going to school "tomorrow" and I had to disappoint him that it was in fact "today". He was not sure about it and was still insisting that he wanted me to stay with him. I think he likes the thought of going and playing with the other kids but he just wanted me there too. While I was putting on his cute little Nike shoes, I explained that it was just like at church when he goes to class and I leave him for a little while. He plays with the kids and then I come back and get him. I told him that I would be back in just a little while and pick him up from school, too. That seemed to click with something in his little mind and the morning started to turn around. 

I took his picture, of course with his new backpack. A while back I decided to get him something special to make going to school a little easier. This new backpack and lunch-box was the perfect thing. He has been carrying them around for days - talking about what to put in them, what food he wants in his lunch box and how everyone will be so happy when they see them. I let him help me pick them out on the internet and then we waited for them to be delivered. He has been thrilled ever since they came in. I think they are absolutely adorable!! Maybe a little pricey for a backpack and lunch-box, but not really for a special treat.

We got there and I walked him in and he showed off his backpack to his teachers and then I helped him find a chair. He started playing with some cars and I told him I would be back in a little while to pick him up. He agreed and I took a few more pictures and then left. I waited in the hall to see if I heard any crying and it seemed the coast was clear. I left and got teary myself as I was getting in the car. 12:30 seemed so far away. I know some of you think I am nuts. I mean, it was only 4 hours, but to me this morning, it seemed like forever! My baby boy is growing up and it is all part of learning to let him grow. 

I was nervous all morning until I went to get him. He was playing happily when I walked in and was happy to see me. His teachers said he did really good - no crying, kinda quiet, but did everything they asked. I was proud and relieved they didn't have to deal with any breakdowns. 

He was very glad to be home. He immediately got down in the floor and started playing with Lawson. I couldn't help but smile to see how much they had missed each other and were glad to be back together. They were both smiling and laughing right away. 

I praise the Lord for taking care of my baby during his first day at "school". I know this was just a very small step, but it seemed big to us. God cares about every aspect of our lives and I was comforted to know that He had Easton in His hands. Easton seemed to have a good time, I didn't have a major breakdown of tears and all three of us took an afternoon nap. What a great day!