To Boone, on your first day of school.

Boone, today was a milestone.

I knew going into this, you would have the hardest time adjusting. It took months, (years, even!) of attending church Sunday school, before you would walk in bravely, without tears and bribery from dad and me. All summer we've been talking, praying, preparing you for today. Kindergarten.

Luckily, you'd been placed with Lincoln's kindergarten teacher from last year. You've played in the classroom on "bring the family" days. You were so excited, bouncing down the hallway as we went to find your line. All month you've been assuring me how courageous you would be, knowing deep down, the fear that comes with making new friends, and strange surroundings. To say I was proud wouldn't adequately describe my emotion.

As I stepped away to escort Lincoln to his first grade line, where his friends were eagerly waving him over, dad said your eyes filled with tears and you buried them in your tiny palms. Consider his heart sunk. Daddy told me later he could relate all too well. I can too! You are just like me, sweet boy. As a little girl, I was so fearful of new environments. Even the regularity of Sunday school left me in tears. Every. Week. Sound familiar? Daddy introduced you to a sweet little boy, standing shyly by. Quickly we discovered "shy" was the wrong adjective. I hope that "chatty" will be your new best friend! 

As dad and I walked you to your classroom with the other students, I spied you taking deep breaths, trying to maintain your dignity. It was then, my heart broke, hugging you one last time before I left. As your mom, I want to protect you and keep you little, meanwhile desiring wholeheartedly for you to bloom and grow into the man God created you to be. It's a conundrum.

I'm sitting in the car, eagerly willing time to pass, to hear how many new friends you made. I have no doubt you came out of your shell. You are my shy, social, little man. Can't wait for our "first day of school date" this afternoon! 

Our prayer for you this year, is that you blossom both academically and most importantly spiritually. That you seek your strength and courage from Jesus. 

Our next memory verse: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord, your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9.

I love you,

Mom

We left in such a rush I didn't get to finish the sign!!! But you get the gist. ;)