Dear Carter,

(written Monday, August 27, 2012)

Dear Carter,

Happy first day of Kindergarten. It's 5:15AM, an hour before your momma's alarm is set to go off, and I can't help but lay here and think about YOU and your BIG day. I can't help but reflect on my own kinder experience that started twenty-seven years ago. Saying that takes my breath away because I remember parts of that year so clearly. That is the single point that has really resonated with me this past weekend, the eve of your real school journey beginning. We are right NOW at the point in your precious life where you will actually remember things for the rest of your life.

There's no tears, stress or sadness on my part for you starting Kinder. When I see a few other moms so emotional recently, I start to doubt my confidence but then I go spend time with you, share a little bit more of what Kinder will be like and after you listen to me so intently, you say, "Okay mom!" with a HUGE smile across your face and all my doubts are erased, yet again. See Carter, you are this strong and confident kid who is not afraid of new experiences, this is very different than when you where three. You SO LOVE learning, in fact last night I asked you, "What's your favorite thing about starting Kinder?" Expecting the answer of getting a new backpack or seeing Cash, you made me smile when you said, "I am going to learn a lot!" THAT you are, my precious son!

I love you!

Mommy