Ready or Not

Although that moment so many of us parents dread is not officially here yet- yesterday it became apparent that whether I'm ready or not it's coming.  My first baby is going to Kindergarten in the fall and yesterday had a little informal meet the teachers, no parents allowed sort of thing.  We originally were told it would be half day which was OK with me for several reason.  She's already been going to Pre-K for 4 days a week half day.  But then the call came that probably was met with elation from most parents, but sadness from me.  They've gotten the go-ahead to have all day Kindergarten.  I won't go into my hesitation with this from the developmental standpoint.  I know she'll be fine.  She already knew about half the kids there from Pre-K and according to her current teacher she's "One of the smart ones."  Not sure if she was implying some of the kids in her class aren't- but I'll let that one go.  

But I think it's a selfish thing.  I was looking forward to having one more year where she had half the day at home.  Since our newest sweetheart was born I've really noticed how much she's grown up since last August when I first found out I was expecting.  I realized recently that I hadn't picked her up since before then and that now she's the huge heavy big girl.  Gone are the baby features that make her look like a preschool child.  She's all grown up complete with an extensive vocabulary that's verging on that of a tween.  She's independent beyond belief, caring and helpful, and this strange social creature that reminds us nothing of our childhood selves. 

 She walked in yesterday and saw the kids she knew and starting jabbering away and hugging all of them like she hadn't seen them in at least 30 minutes- which coincidentally is exactly how long it had been.  It cracked me up and reminded me of some SNL skit making fun of sorority sisters freaking out every time they see each other.  It was strange and like I said nothing like me.  But I'm proud of her and glad she's not afflicted with horrible shyness and isn't afraid to speak up and state her opinion.   

It's just amazing how fast it's gotten here.  People always say that and you take it for granted.  Then before you know it your baby girl is telling you how to change your outfit to look more like a diva.  She's not ALL grown-up yet.  Just this year she's gone from wanting to be Dorothy from Wizard of OZ when she grows up, to a ballerina, a fire fighter, and most recently a cat tamer- not a lion tamer but a cat tamer- as in house cats.  She still cries when she bumps her knee, and wants Daddy to carry her up the stairs after her bath.  She needs help tying her shoes and wants to have story time in bed with Mom and Dad.  But it's just around the corner- the boys, the attitude, the learning to drive... It's all coming whether I'm ready or not.  But for now we'll just tackle Kindergarten and dressing like a diva.  

Circa 2004~ around the time of the "I wanna eat you up" incident

Circa 2009~ Ready to go to a Tea Room