new school

today is casey's first day at St. David's Episcopal School. we worship at St. David's church, and i have always heard the sweetest, greatest things about their little school. children can start in the bright beginnings program as early as 16 months, and the school goes up through kindergarten.

casey and i arrived, monkey in hand, and made our way to the courtyard, where he immediately found some basketballs. this child loves athletic balls, all kinds. he brought them to me, saying, "momma, momma," which i translated to "look, momma, so big!" as i was snapping pictures, he walked over to a tricycle and climbed right on! such a big boy! his feet didn't reach the pedals, but he was content just sitting and watching the other children arrive and play, as in true casey fashion.

we then made our way to his room with the bright purple door, and casey met miss leslie, his new teacher. i got to watch him walk around the room for a few minutes before i had to leave. all i heard were his cries and little feet running after me.

i told myself i should be used to this feeling - casey's been in daycare for over a year now. but i couldn't hold it in. as i walked back through the main building, big tears were falling fast down my cheeks. the accountant, who knows me from church, offered a Kleenex and a hug, and the head of school, sweetest lady, said she'd call. and she did, two hours later, with news that casey was doing just great and was presently in a reading circle.

maybe it was because it's a new place and a new step. the years before pre-school. the fact that my 17-month-old little boy is in "school." oh my love, my heart. thank you, precious Lord. here's to a great year of learning and discovering, of finding Jesus and singing praises.