I Will Survive!!

 At first I was afraid, I was petrified. Kept thinking, I could never live without you by my side...


OK, maybe that is a bit dramatic, but Monday night, that is sure how I felt. I am not sure how it happened, or when it happened, but my little girl grew up. Tuesday was her first day of PreSchool!

This has been a long and anxiety filled road. We signed Eliza up for a preschool only to find out 2 weeks before school was to start, that they would not be opening. I PANICKED.

In no way does she NEED to go to school right now, but the socialization and education she will get is incredibly important to me. Most schools didn't want to take her because she was not 3 yet. I wanted to start her before Emelia comes so she has a set routine. I didn't want her to be "sent off" once Emelia came.

I wanted a place she could go to be Eliza, not Emelia's sister. I want a place she can be silly and loud without being shushed(to a certain extent) because a baby is sleeping. I also wouldn't mind a few hours that maybe I could nap if Emelia naps too!

I have been so excited for Eliza to go to school. When we would go there to drop off paperwork she would beg to stay. When we pulled up one day the kids were out on the playground, she jumped out of the car and ran to the fence, "Hi kids, I'm Eliza". My heart melted, my outgoing little girl. I knew she would be just fine, I didn't realize it was me that would have the issue!

As Tuesday got closer my heart got heavier. I can't believe my baby girl is getting so big!

We went to bed Monday night, dreaming of school!!

Tuesday morning, I woke up at 545. I couldn't sleep. I didn't want her to be late(had to be there at 9) and I was afraid we would over sleep. What to make for breakfast? I want to make sure she eats enough, but nothing too heavy. Oh the stress I put myself through!!

Luckily, she woke up like a champ!

After this video, she did break my heart. She said to me "I don't want mommy to leave when I go to school" and started to cry. Oh, my heart ached. I quickly reassured her I would give her a lot of hugs and kisses and she would have fun.

We got ready, watched The Wiggles then I told her it was time to go. She was very excited for her backpack, we packed extra clothes and a coat...don't need much for Preschool.

Time for first day pictures! I had her outfit made from this Etsy shop. I love all of her outfits, I am sure you will be seeing more of them on Eliza come holiday season!

I had this sign made on Etsy. It was perfect. She made it and emailed me the file and I printed it at Staples, so simple. I blurred out her school name, that is why there is that big black spot.

I got her backpack from Pottery Barn Kids, one of my favorite stores!

I wish Mark could have been home for her first day, but unfortunately he had to go in to work. 

As we drove to school we blasted Princess songs and talked about all of the friends she would make. It is only about a 5 minute car ride, but I was nervous. Mark called her to wish her luck and she was in a great mood. Pulling in, my stomach dropped, don't panic Eliza.

What in the world was I worried about? These were the only pictures I could get of her going in seeing as she ran in so fast. She walked in yelling "Hi kids, I'm here!". Oh man, the princess has arrived!!

She ran right to her teacher, even asking if she could hold her hand. We found her cubby and she hung up her bag. Then took off to play.

I am so thankful she isn't shy or scared, but hey a little bit of an "I'll miss you" would have been appreciated! 

After getting the run down from her teacher and her director I was on my way, what to do for 3 hours?? I drove around, ran some errands, but I was so nervous I would be late I couldn't take my eyes off the clock. Hopefully as we get settled into a routine I will figure out what I can do during those times.

One of my favorite things they have, an APP for your phone to check in on your child. I am able to see what she is doing, if she had any accidents, if she ate her lunch and everything in between. It is nice to have a little reassurance when you are away.

I arrived back at pick up time to find this little nugget.

Just quietly reading in the reading cove. The kids who stay full days were getting ready for nap time so she was quietly waiting for me. She couldn't be any more precious. 

She was excited to see me and tell me about her day. She did fabulous. No accidents, very polite and best of all, no tears!! 

Eliza Marie,

I am so proud of you. You have become such a beautiful, caring, strong and independent little lady. Every day you grow and teach me something new. You have taught me what unconditional love is and the feeling of bursting with pride. Please, never change. Pretty soon I will be writing about your first day of highschool, but as of now, lets enjoy PreSchool together!

Love you to the moon and back,

Mommy