The Next Big Adventure

Well, it's happened, and far to quickly. Samantha is off on her next big adventure.

Today was Sam's first official day of JK, and it was the best, most emotional morning ever.

OK, lady at the grocery store, you were right when you told me to "enjoy it, because they grow fast". And the retired couple who told me to "watch out, she'll be grown in no time". But really, I'm not sure how time has gone by so fast. Honestly, didn't you just take your first step last week? Say your first word yesterday? Now today, there you go, riding your bike off down the sidewalk on your to your first day of school.

I am SO incredibly proud of her, how brave she was, how independent she's become.

She absolutely insisted on riding her bike to school, reminding us she needs her helmet. Then, with her lunch bag packed, her backpack (which is far to big) hanging off her tiny shoulders and her helmet buckled, she was on her way.

As we turned the corner towards her "big girl school", we met the crossing guard, a few friends and followed them towards the kindergarten doors. The smile on her face slowly grew bigger and bigger as she saw all her "new friends", including Amber and Ally, waiting in line to go inside. Then, seconds later the school bell rang and I barely had time to hug her and kiss her before she followed the line into the school, leaving me outside alone with my tears and breaking heart.

I hope she remembers that her indoor shoes are in her backpack, along with love-filled lunch, change of clothes, indoor shoes, and water bottle. Did I remember to tell her that?

I hope she remembers to use her manners, be kind, and have fun. Did I teach her that well enough?

I hope she remembers how proud I am of her and even though my eyes were filled with tears, my heart was full of an overwhelming sense of pride. Did I show that to her?

Either way, it's Sammy's time now. I can no longer lead her, but instead guide her on this journey, and hope and pray that she becomes the amazing, kind, silly, and smart girl she know you is.