Ava starts Kindergarten.

Well It's been over a week now and we are well into the school groove. I've been letting my thoughts simmer as I process this milestone. 

I emailed these sentiments to a friend that seems to capture my thoughts on this time that I want to make sure I don't forget: It seems every milestone holds some pride, joy and sorrow too because we are saying goodbye to other things, I can remember one of my saddest milestones was when Ava got her first tooth and I felt like so this is it - that sweet baby gummy smile is gone - did I appreciate it, cherish it and will I remember it? and I didn't even get to say goodbye to it, that new tooth just showed up. Such a normal milestone but it also represented so much more to me. We survived the baby years which is a celebration but also sad because we will miss those sweet moments  and we might always think of ways we could of been better during that time -more present , more intentional and nothing says your slipping thru my fingers like going to school and and your child having to cultivate their own village and world in a space away from you for the first time. 

but on the flip side...

My new favorite time of day is the time I use to hate, late afternoon, after school she is in such a good mood, she is so excited to tell me about her day, to re-connect with Rhett and is just so joyful. I am loving the time with Rhett and our quiet days together right now. I love finally getting to answer's Rhett question in the affirmative that he has asked me throughout the day "yes it's time now to go get Ava." She's thriving already in this new space with new confidence, new friends and excitement for what lies ahead, while I'm sure some of that will wear off I am soaking it up while I can.

She held a firm grip as we got closer but she also easily let go when it was time for goodbyes and in that way I guess it was all as it should be and everything I want for her...that her roots will also give her wings. 

Kindergarten Eve Yogurt Run

The only first day tears were from Rhett, when he realized he wasn't getting to stay at Kindergarten with her.