1st day of school

The 4 of us sprinted out of the house at about 7:55 this morning, plenty early, but Eli had been ready since about 7:30, and her parents (well, at least her dad) was a bundle of nervous energy. We walked the 10-15 min to their schools, which are right next to each other, and the girls left us at the front door of Reu's kindergarten...A few moments later Reu and I found out that we were early... about 4 HOURS EARLY... the first year kindergartners weren't supposed to come until the afternoon. So, we went and got a little treat (8:30 is a little early for ice cream, but not on a day like today!), and went home to hang out.

Birgit stayed with Eli until about 10:30, and I for one could hardly wait for the report. We were already positive though, since Eli met one of her classmates at church yesterday, and was excited to inform us that she had a friend that she'll see everyday but Saturday.

And the news was good. Both Birgit and Eli brought home smiles. And, Eli and Reuben wanted to walk home by themselves, so they sent Mom on ahead to have their own little way together (they'll do this regularly soon we hope...Birgit walked a total of 80 minutes to and from school with them today!).

Reuben ran through the door after his afternoon at school all proud to show off the little orange band that kindergartners wear so that cars will see them, and we played ball on the playground with a boy who is in his class this evening.

1 day down, so far so good. Maybe it will all work out???

Otherwise, we're just grateful for the past month. While we were ready for them to start school, for us all to "start life" a little more here, we have had a wonderful time together. If moving is always like this, maybe we should do it more often! (no, I'm not that serious) We've played games, our kids have learned how to play cards and chess (yes, their father is an academic, what do you expect). We've played tennis, gone swimming, hiking, bike riding, spent time with cousins.