"Let's get the boys" my husband whispered. We crawled out of bed and tried to prepare ourselves for the morning routine that has been all but forgotten. Our two older boys woke up just as expected, Christian with a wide eyed smile and a jump out of bed...while Ethan rolled over with an unintelligible mumble, shoving his face into his pillow.
"Let's go boys! It's the first day of school!"
New school clothes were washed and ironed the night before, lunches were packed and backpacks made ready. A feeling of butterflies mixed with excitement flowed throughout the house as pancakes flipped and milk was gulped.
The boys brushed their teeth while we gave a quick fix to their two moppy heads of summer hair. We really should have had their hair cuts done before today. The boys grabbed their shoes and socks and put them on in a hurry as time slipped away.
"We don't want to be late guys, let's hustle," my husband said as he grabbed his keys.
This is it. The boys will be in the second and third grades this year. It seems like just yesterday we were visiting preschools for them - and now they're running out the door, so big and strong.
"Guys, wait!" I called as they neared the car.
"Listen to your teachers, be good to your friends and look out for each other, okay?"
"Okay, Mom! We've gotta go!"
"Have FUN!!! I Love You!"
"Love you, too, Mom!"
Just then, Ethan turned back to give me a hug. It was more of a tackle to tell the truth but it stopped me in my tracks nonetheless. My heart swelled and I followed him as he went back to the car so I could give each of the boys one last kiss.
As they drove off, I stood and waved. It's hard to explain the emotions of seeing them go. As a parent, you're so happy for their milestones and adventures while at the same time, a piece of you is taken with them when they leave.
The car vanished in the distance and I turned to start the day.
Have a Great first day of school, guys. We Love You more than you'll ever know.