Sweet Friday

After a very long and busy week, I am SO glad to welcome Friday and the promise
of a relaxing weekend!  Isabelle is officially a second grader and brought home an A on
her first Spelling test, two new books to read from the library, and an excellent
conduct report.  We have a new chore list in place that allows her to earn rewards each
week and she has been doing a wonderful job adjusting to her new routine.  She also
started her fifth year at her dance studio, slipping on her brand new ballet slippers
and stepping up to the barre like a pro.  I have beamed with so much pride this week at
the sight of this precious girl.

She is a social butterfly with an amazing charisma.  She is creative and smart and has so
many interesting things to say.  On her first day of school, she bounced out of bed and
got herself ready with a smile that stretched from ear to ear.  We had waffles for
breakfast and spent a little extra time on her hair, she had her look all planned out.
Her biggest concern on her first day was Brees: would she be okay at the babysitter's
house without her big sister?  Who would look after her?  Would Brees be waiting for
her when she got home?  They've spent every minute of every day together all
summer: there was definitely a little sisterly separation anxiety going on.

Shawn and I brought Isabelle to school and walked her to her classroom.  We strolled
behind her as she confidently navigated her way through the familiar hallways, smiling
and waving and exchanging pleasantries with each and every child she passed.  We
managed to shoot a few photos before she gave us big hugs and kisses and then,
very patiently, said, "It's okay, Mom and Dad.  You can go now, I'm totally fine!".

I felt the lump in my throat and the tears in my eyes and my heart almost danced out of
my chest.  Our sweet baby girl: so mature and full of life.  But, as parents, these are the
kinds of moments we hope for: our daughter feeling comfortable and sure of herself.
Seeing her so happy and in her element makes me feel safe, lets me know that she is on
the right track.  And so we stole one more kiss and then left, hand in hand, looking back at
her over our shoulders a dozen times.  She was busy unpacking her book bag, welcoming
the new kid in her class, getting her day started.  Shawn and I got into our car and
hugged each other so tight: it was a proud parent moment.