First Day of School

This year marks a big year in the Rafter household. Aidan and Mason got into the Norfolk Public Schools Pre K program.

Today just like all other Hampton Roads kids, was the first day back to school. Or in our case the VERY 1st day of school ever. How exciting! and nerve racking! well just emotional. Not only are the boys going to school all day from 9 - 3 but they are doing in solo. The school has placed them in separate classes. We are happy with this decision. Brian and I feel like it will give them the opportunity to grow as individuals.

They go to Sherwood Forest Elementary which is just right up the street from the house. Their school requires the kids to wear uniforms. Hunter Green polo shirt ( which was really hard to find in their little sizes) and khaki shorts or pants with white, brown or black shoes. There is no bus pick up since we are so close to the school. So we are walkers. :) However, this morning we did drive them to school since we had to take in all their supplies. Much more than I want to carry.

At the school Brian and I took them in to their classes. Aidan was a champ. Went right in said hi to his teacher and kissed me goodbye. Brian was standing at the door with Mason. When I came out Brian went in to kiss Aid. Mason looked at me and with a sad voice said, " Can I go give Aidan a hug?"

I told him to go on in and hug his brother but that he would see him later. It was such a big hug. Then across the hall we went to drop Mason off. That was a bit more difficult than we expected. He clung to my leg with this death grip. He began to cry. I hugged and kissed him but handed him off to Brian to calm down. I know how it works with kids and lingering parents since I see it at church all the time. I wasnt trying to make things worse for his teacher. Brian hugged him and off we went. Leaving my boys at school. I didnt cry until we got home and I realized they would be gone all day. I counted down the minutes until I could go get them.

At pick up I gave each of them the biggest hug and kiss. But the sweetest moment was when they saw each other for the first time after a long day at school and hugged. This is the first time they have ever been separated from each other for a long period of time like this.

Tomorrow is a new day and they want to go back. That is a good sign.