Little Girl, Big Day

She started school this morning,

And she seemed so very small.

As I walked there beside her

In the pre school hall.

And as she took her place beside

the others in the class,

I realized how all too soon

Those first few years can pass.

Remembering, I saw her as

She first learned how to walk.

The words that we alone made out

When she began to talk.

This little girl so much absorbed

In learning how to write.

It seems as though she must have grown

To girlhood overnight.

My eyes were blurred but hastily

I brushed the tears away

Lest by some word or sign of mine

I mar her first big day.

Oh how I longed to stay with her

And keep her by the hand

To lead her through the places

That she couldn’t understand.

And something closely kin to fear

Was mingled with my pride.

I knew she would no longer be

A baby by my side.

But she must have her chance to live,

To work her problems out,

The privilege to grow and learn

What life is all about.

And I must share my little girl

With friends and work and play;

She’s not a baby anymore –

She’s in pre school today.

All ready to go

Showing off her princess backpack - it's been packed and ready for 2 days now!  She wanted to get it out before breakfast this morning!

So excited to get a picture with her very own sign - just like big brother!

This is her teacher, Miss Sue, who Kendall just adores (and so does Mom!)

There weren't any tears, from either of us which was a great thing!  Kendall loves her teacher and is so excited to be an official part of Grace!  Last night was the annual Back To School Picnic and I had to go early to help set up for PTL.  I took Kendall with me and Andy and Riley met us there later.  After we got there, I didn't see much of her except for a random high every now and then.  She has lots of little girlfriends at Grace and feels right at home there - and for that I'm so thankful!

On a side note, yesterday was her first day of Little Gym.  She's now in a class without me and she LOVED it.  She also loves her teacher there too.  I was expecting a little hesitation, but no, she was the first in the gym and first in line to try all the skills.  She listened and followed directions so well - now why doesn't this happen at home?  Oh well!  

She's growing up way too quickly for this mom, but I'm thankful that she's surrounded by such wonderful adults and friends to help guide her!  I really wish I could just freeze time.  This is always my favorite age.  They are old enough to start to understand things and become more independent, but they are young enough to still love to hug and snuggle.  These days are going by too quickly!