I don’t save birthday cards. I hate receiving overpriced flowers when I can create a free bouquet from my own yard. There are very few movies that reduce me to tears and I don’t cry at weddings. Since I wasn’t blogging when my older kids were babies, I have no record of their early milestones. Their first baths, foods and smiles are all date-less blurs. I couldn’t even muster up a first day of preschool photo to accompany this post. I am the single least sentimental person I know.
Or at least I was the least sentimental person I know, until I registered Lily for kindergarten last week. How did I become the sniffling, teary eyed mess moping out of the big brick building? What have I become?
From the moment I entered the school, my eyes welled up with tears. I began filling out the paperwork and became so emotional that I took it home to finish it later. These were her records. There were no smiley faces on them or little cutouts of the alphabet. They were real, and serious and permanent. I simply wasn’t prepared for how different it would be from her little sheltered pre-school existence. It was so… public. The halls, the rooms, the parking lot, everything was just super-sized. And when did elementary school students get so freaking HUGE? They were like giants roaming the hallways. Don’t even get me started on the fifth graders— my baby girl is going to school with them? How is that even legal? I’m even debating having her take the bus, which is a whole other issue.
I’m going to be a total basket case come September. Prepare yourself, folks.
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I was the same way! But, of course, my daughter damn near kicked me out of the school the first day.
My daughter can’t ride the bus to school but she rides it home. She not only rides one home, she rides two different buses (she has to switch mid-trip) – that FREAKED ME OUT. In fact the first day I made my husband follow the buses to make sure she did it correctly. It’s amazing what our kids can do without us…and depressing!
You’ll be great!
Ooh I can only imagine how hard it must be! My nephew is going to kindergarten next year too – and I just can’t imagine him in the same school as sixth graders. But I guess it works – I mean, we did it, didn’t we? Best of luck to you! I’m sure you’ll be fine!
In all seriousness it will be worse than you think. The kids will be fine and happy and they’ll adjust without a hitch. I mean it will be bad for you. I suggest dark sunglasses. Seriously. I was caught by surprise by the sheer emotion of it all.
KathyB!’s last blog post..The fantasy’s final death
Awww, Bean! Just bring a box of tissues that first day of school.
I hear ya on that…when I sent my oldest to K in ’02, I cried all afternoon.
When I sent my youngest , 6 years later, I still cried. And I had WANTED him to go to school!
Jen’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday…Handy Manny Daddy!
I went through this a little early since Oliver goes to a special preschool program though the public school system (for his delays). He was only 2 when he started and he took THE BUS. It was insane and absolutely the hardest thing I ever had to do with my children at that point in time. The first day, I had to drop him off myself and I literally felt like I was abandoning him. He’s gone to daycare since he was 3 months old, but this was new. It was the first time he was ever conscious of me leaving him somewhere unfamiliar. But it was also the first day he actually called me “mommy” (he called me “mo” back then – totally weird). It was when I picked him up. He said “mommy!” – but in that one word, I heard “ohmygodyoucamebackIthoughtyouleftmeandI’dneverseeyouagain!.” I abandoned him and saved him in one day – AND got a new and improved name. So it was kind of bittersweet.
Kate Coveny Hood’s last blog post..Our Middle Child, Unusual Accommodations and Dirty Penguins
I felt the exact same way when I registered Reagan for pre-school last month.
Tiffany @ Paging Doctor Mommy’s last blog post.."My Water Just Broke!"
I was a blubbering mess the first day of kindergarten this past September. Your baby will love it though… now mine cannot WAIT to get on the bus and wave me good bye. *sob*
And the kids in their school, which goes to 8th grade, are MASSIVE.
Karen MEG’s last blog post..Playing with the cool kids
I wasn’t all teary and emotional when my two boys entered nursery. They took it badly though.. cried for about one and a half month before they got adjusted to the new routine. It will only get better as both of you adjust to the new “seperation”. After some time you will be glad that she gets to mix with other kids while you get some MEtime for yourself.
Dominique’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday- Two Faces of Roy
I remember when I was still teaching kindergarten, they were such a rascal but I believe that they couldn’t help it since they are only kids.
My boy just turned 3 on Monday and everytime I think about him going to school I cry. I will need to be medicated when it actually happens and I think security will have to unstick my face from the classroom window.
Maybe I’ll homeschool….
Connie @ Young and Relentless’s last blog post..Yo Gabba Gabba New Friends
Oh I hear you! My oldest son starts kindergarten in September too. I am pretty emotional about it, too. I have this fear of me hating his teacher. Then what? Well, chances are I will put him in another school and hope I like that teacher more! Seriously, I will be the mom who takes stress leave from work so I can hide out in the bushes at least for the first month he is there. To make sure the teacher treats him well, and to make sure the other kids are nice to him. I think I have issues, LOL! It is crazy, how fast they grow up. Come September, we can cry together.
Loukia’s last blog post..Kids do say the funniest things!
I was a non-emotional pillar of strength before kids… But kids have a way of bringing out the “mush”, it happens to the best of us Scary Mama :) It’s tough, the kids ARE big and our little ones learn things from those giant kids that you might not really want them to know yet. Especially on the bus. But what my kids were most excited about was riding the bus – they love it! Take the sunglasses advice – I took them, I used them :)
DawnS’s last blog post..Laughter Lives Tuesday!
awww of course you cried, times are changing. they grow up so fast don’t they? god help us in september!
dawn’s last blog post..pineapple & bacon pound cake
I will be exactly the same way when our day comes. Hang in there!
It didn’t hit me when I took them to school, it hit when I was driving home, with one less child. Stopped at a stop sign I glanced in my rearview mirror to see an empty car seat and tears started to flow. I couldn’t believe it. I’m dreading when my youngest starts school since she’ll be the last. Don’t worry, I’m sure you won’t be the only parent with a tear-streaked face on the first day of school. Just remember to wear waterproof mascara.
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Traveling the obstacle course known as my life, with kids, work, writing and all. Another day. Another thought…or two
Carrie Anne’s last blog post..Juice Box Jungle: Exercise? Who me?
I’m going to feel exactly the same way. Sigh…
the mama bird diaries’s last blog post..kelcey gets pissed off on earth day
I know what you mean about the size of those elementary kids–some of them are bigger than I am. Of course, I haven’t grown since about the 6th grade.
This year my youngest started pre-k. He ran and got on the bus with a kiss and “Bye!” I’m way more emotional about my oldest going to high school next year–assuming he passes 8th grade. Am I really old enough to have a kid in high school?? Yikes! I think I might cry right now….
amy’s last blog post..Ducklings
Oh Lord, I’m with you. I’m so glad that Baby Girl has a late birthday because I know that I am totally not prepared for it. There is no way I could sign her up this year.
Jennifer’s last blog post..My sweet boy
I’d rather not even think about this for another 2 years when I have to. Big sunglasses seem like the way to go, Kathy B is probably right on.
Ryan Ashley Scott’s last blog post..Earth Day: 09
It is HARD, isn’t it? I sobbed like a fool at Jack’s preschool graduation. Like, literal snot-dripping and gasping for air.
It’ll be okay though!
Jenni Jiggety’s last blog post..WW: The Sassy Bunch
Oh dear, I just got back to work from registering MY baby for kindergarten! I didn’t realize that they actually evaluate the incoming Ks right then, but I think Alex did pretty well. Hmm, except for the “yeah” and “uh-uh” I heard him say to the teacher. What a day to lose his “yes, ma’ams” and “no, ma’ams”!!!!!
When you’re not the “sentimental type”, it really throws you when something DOES hit hard. Me? I did fine with elementary and middle school graduations, I don’t save all the artwork from school… yet I had tears in my eyes as I signed my 14 yo’s career choice paperwork for his vo-tech high school.
You’ll be fine… and so will she.
Kay’s last blog post..The upside to being a girl (sarcasm included)
Oh girl….
I am right there with you! I am not mentally prepared for kindergarten. I’m just not sure I can do it.
And the bus??!! You are so brave.
Our registration is next week, I think I’ll wear the dark glasses…
Sticky’s last blog post..The one where Sticky gets gifts…
LOL! You sound like me I believe the 1st child got a few pages completed in his baby book. My last one…. I think it’s still in the original packaging. I was so proud and happy when the 1st started school, but sad and weepy on the last one did. So.. don’t worry you are not alone!
Christina’s last blog post..SPRING IN MY BACKYARD
I just wrote a post about this. We are going to our first kindergarten meeting tonight for Hayden. I am trying not to think about it. But when that packet of paper work came in the mail last week, it was all I could do to keep from crying my eyes out.
Jen, buried with children’s last blog post..What Else Are You Suppose To Do With Underwear?
You must have been storing up and then the facet opened! A little sentiment once in a while is healthy. Embrace it!
T Rex Mom’s last blog post..This Week in Fashion…
Oh the bus and kindergarten. I just went through this last Sept. The bus gave me a pit in my stomach but happily I’m ok with it now. I’m like you and don’t cry over much. Sick children, someone dying, General Hospital (shhh) but not really much at all. I passed Kyle’s bus after dropping my middle child off at school. I saw his little face and it struck me as so strange that he wasn’t with me and he was on that bus alone. I didn’t like it but I thought it was either this year or next and he was so darn excited I figured I should go with it. Like I said, it’s ok now but I used to sit and get anxious waiting for the bus to drop him off. If they were late I was calling the Transportation Dept. One time the bus broke down and he was just up the street so I went to get him. He was almost crying b/c he thought he would never see me again. He got over it quickly but it broke my heart. I feel like this is just one way I have to let go and it will get harder as he gets older. Good luck. Just know that we’re all here for you.
Much love from NJ,
Sue
xoxo
3 Peas in a Pod’s last blog post..Extreme Makeover–Me Edition Update
I imagine that the day I take Erin to school she’ll be pushing me out the door saying “Stop it mum! You’re embarrassing me!”
Bec’s last blog post..Tomorrow
I haven’t even had my baby yet and I know I’m going to feel the same way. I’m not a very sentimental person or anything, but you should have seen me bawling when my niece went to preschool. NIECE. Technically, my HUSBAND’S niece. Went to PRESCHOOL.
So. Yeah. Here’s a *hug* and I’ll send fuzzy thoughts of things like tissues your way.
Our triplets start the Big-K next fall as well, and my older daughter will be in 6th Grade at the same school…I think they’re looking forward to their new adventure and being at the Big school with Bis sis. I don’t think it will hit me (or my wife for that matter) until Day 1.
Damon’s last blog post..Preschool medical professionals
Oh yes, I used to be Mrs. Teacher in the room, gently shooing all the mummies and daddies out, saying, “We need to start our first day now….”
And then it was my turn to leave my firstborn with the kindergarten teacher, and she didn’t look as if she could handle all those children by herself, and maybe I should just stay a LITTLE longer to make sure she knew what she was doing…..
And putting them on the bus the second day is even harder. But it does get easier, and the teacher does know what she (or he) is doing, and they like having you come in and help!
Mrs. C.’s last blog post..I Always Wondered Why That Bread Had A Hole In It…
I’m going to be right there with you come September. And I am one of the MOST sentimental people I know so I’m in for it. So, you registered this early? I wonder if I have to. Did you get something in the mail?
Live.Love.Eat’s last blog post..A Steamy Affair
awwwwwwwwww! That sounds SO bittersweet! You have been preparing her for this! She will do great. :)
Kelly Deneen’s last blog post..Peep at This!
Oh, I will never forget when my two oldest started kindergarten at the same time. Even their little 2 year old brother cried when they left. I feel for ya.
Teri’s last blog post..Spring Has Sprung
I got hit hard last week when I read the weekly newsletter the girls’ school sends home… it included the notice about pre-registration of those starting kindergarten this fall. And I realized, I don’t have any more 1st timers… there will never be another “first day of kindergarten”. {sniff, sniff}
Shannon’s last blog post..Look What I Got!
LOL…just wait until she gets to high school. That’s REALLY scary!
(Btw, stopping in from Problogger!!)
Kim @ The Mom Trap’s last blog post..DVD Review: Fireproof (Kirk Cameron, Erin Bethea)
Dark sunglasses will surely be worn!
@Live.Love.Eat, we didn’t get any paperwork— I just happened to call and they were like, “uh, yea- you need to come in next week.” Not sure what would have happened if I hadn’t called, but I’m glad I did. So, yes, call. :)
Thanks for the way you always share so honestly. I too am a non-crier… mostly. Kids seem to be changing me though!
SquiggleMum’s last blog post..Oblivious to the Obvious
I completely relate!! Last year when I signed up my son I was so worried about how he was going to be at the kindergarten screening (he has a really hard , well had , a really hard time transitioning to new situations) that I didn’t think about how I felt. It wasn’t until his last day of pre school that I broke down, and then cried every time I thought about it!! Every day when I put him on that big bus and see him get off I am amazed that he is old enough to be doing this!! I have to say kindergarten has been a huge boost for his self esteem and confidence! But it is bittersweet to see our babies growing up so fast.
I found you through the 31dbbb challenge forum! If you need to still find someone to work on day 17 with let me know and we can check out eachothers blogs! I’ll be reading yours anyway!! I love it!
Onna@toddlercraft’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday
I love to read your post and want you to know the school thing is hard on our kids but harder on us. We loose some of our control over their lives while someone else tells them what to do. Play it off like its a fun time to play with new friends. Give hugs, blow a kiss , get in the car waving , drive, turn the corner and now you can cry. You will be sad at first but it gets better. The new schedule is nice and gives you yime to do things you otherwise couldn’t do. I have the last 2 of mine home while the other 3 are starting their own live. One with a difficult pregnancy that takes a lot of my help. We never really get rid of them
julz’s last blog post..Kaden (the fighter)
Buck up mom. Wait til they are heading off to Jr. Friggin’ High.
I never had a problem sending them off to Kindergarten, then I actually cheered when first grade came along and the whole day thing made it so my oldest LIKED me when she got home…
You know my problem?? The youngest will head to kindergarten this year… Hmmm I could be in trouble now too.
is she your baby? that’s why! i remember the feeling well :)
scrappysue’s last blog post..wordful wednesday – wired for…camping
awww, I feel your pain. I have 3 kids, and each time I dropped them off to kindergarten or even pre-school, I cried and cried and cried. To make it worst, at the beginning of every new semester, I cry. My oldest is 10 and the youngest is 7, and yes I cry the most after the summer vacation. So brace yourself. But you will be fine! Good luck
Anuan’s last blog post..No Recession for the Golden Arches
I cannot even imagine. I might have to medicate.
DC Urban Dad’s last blog post..What’s the best and worst parenting advice you have recieved?
when my little one started pre-k and took the bus, I stood at the door from the time the bus came to pick him up till the bus came back to drop him off for the first week. They grow up so fast :(
My oldest is starting pre-K at the school where she’ll do Kindergarten next year and I just know that on that day in August when I walk her up to her school, I will be a huge blubbering mess. Good times.
No matter how much we stern moms try… we always cry at that first little loss of innocence. I was a mess that day… I’m sure you will be too! :)
HouseWife’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday
I’m having the same agonizing feelings about my youngest going to middle school. Did you know those kids talk about s.e.x. over there? I’m a basket case too. And, I have sent three others through that school already!
debbie’s last blog post..Your guide to second careers
It’s amazing how kids change us…and soften us up too. Although I don’t need any more softening. I’m the sentimental schmuck in my family.
Check out my blog for a spa product giveaway!
turnitupmom’s last blog post..The Lonely Chalker
Awwwww. I already know I will be teary-eyed, and I’ve got about 2 years to go. Aw shit, she turns 4 in a couple of months-I’ve got ONE year.
Thank you… now all I can see in my mind’s eye is a vision of Peter Sack holding up a blank sheet of paper, stating “this is your high school record.”
:)
I am new to this whole blogging thing, for now just reading other people’s trying to muster up the courage to create my own.
My son is in second grade now, but his first day of kindergarten I left with a handful of wet Kleenex…he was my baby and now starting his own little journey without me
My daughter started kindergarten this past year, and now the tears were flowing because not only is SHE starting her own little journey but this will be my last, ‘ first day of kindergarten’.
It’s bitter sweet
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