Yesterday was the big day.  Harlo started first grade, which is the first year of all-day school here in Utah.  You can imagine, it’s a pretty big deal here for us at the Miller Manor.  For weeks I have dreaded sending Harlo away for full-day school.  I wish half day school was the norm forever, that would really be more my style. 😉

We picked out her first day outfit, went on a special date the day before school to chat about anything that was making her nervous (using the school bathroom) and things she was excited about (eating lunch at school) and all the things in between.  I realized that I have done a dang good job raising this one so far.  She is such a sweet and special little girl and she will do so well in first grade.

 Sweetest little toothless smile!

 The big moment! Please take care of my sweet girl!

When she got home I had a plate of warm cookies waiting that we could eat while she told me about her day.  She told me about her teacher who was really nice, a friend in her class she already knew and a new friend she made at recess.  She told me about lunch and how she shared her extra treat with someone who didn’t have one, and how she was brave and went to the bathroom and an older school girl helped her wash her hands.  She told me that she raised her hand to answer a question and got the answer right, and her teacher used her as an example for “arms folded, eyes ahead”.  She told me she helped with another boy at school who is big like her, but has a different kind of brain and was really nice.  I loved hearing every last detail.  Every cookie she finished I said, “Want another one?” I never wanted the moment to end.

My day was filled with tender mercies and I know God is looking out for us.  He has heard my many prayers offered and he is answering them one by one and extending His Grace all the way.  Somewhere between the weepy drop off, and the plate full of warm cookies, I realized that we are going to be just fine.