Lucas has definitely changed his tune about Kindergarten. It is amazing, really. A few months ago, he would say, "No thanks, I don't want to go to Kindergarten." This "No thanks" line has been well used throughout preschool, to steer clear of all kinds of crafts, writing, and singing activities with much success. The real harsh world looms ahead, however, "No Thanks" doesn't get you out of Kindergarten.
Jake and I have been trying to decide where to have Lucas go to school next year. Do we keep him at the Catholic school where he has attended preschool so that he is at least familiar with the faces and routine there or do we send him to the public school? There isn't a bad option really but after attending both informational meetings, we have decided to send him to the Catholic school for this year. It was Lucas who really made the decision for us. Some unexpected funds came in making the tuition no longer an issue (it was a big deterrent at first), so then it came down to what would be the best fit. Lucas walked into the Kindergarten Round Up at the Catholic School gripping my hand and feeling very nervous. The teacher came over and put him at ease and i was able to leave for the 2 hours. I came back to a different kid. He was literally bouncing with excitement. He had the best time and has talked about Kindergarten several times since.
During his time there, the kids planted seeds in a cup and the teacher told them that after their plants had flowers on them, it would be time to come to Kindergarten. I totally ate that up. I don't know why but it was just such a simple thing that made my heart melt. I know this whole Kindergarten thing is way more emotional for me than him, and that plant growing in our windowsill is a symbol to me of the growing he is doing now and the blooming he will continue to show as he starts this new stage. It is also a reminder to me that my time with Lucas at home with me all the time is quickly coming to a close. There are days I don't want that plant to grow, I want to stop watering it or hide it from the sun to slow down time (when you put it that way, it sounds abusive, oops). I would be lying if I didn't have moments that i want to add a ton of manure and build a greenhouse for it to speed up the process. But, as with Lucas, it will bloom when it is time, and all I can do is enjoy the days as we prepare for this new season of life...school.
