September, you greeted us today with a beautiful, crisp 70-degree day. We woke up ready for new routines that come with fall and eager to get outdoors. And even though I couldn’t find my daughter right away when she wasn’t in her bed this morning, thought her pre school orientation was at 1 instead of 10, and felt a little rushed, nothing could stop the joy of the nearness of Autumn.
Preschool wasn’t on the agenda. While researching Mother’s Day Out to send Ruby every now and again in an effort to create time to complete errands, blog, and such, I found an amazing program.
I never thought about it, because I didn’t even think it would ever fit in our budget. I was so surprised when it did and the next day we were touring the school and signing her up for the very last spot in her class.
Another thing that is easing my heart in this transition, a friend of ours is teaching in the classroom right next to Ruby’s. She’s already the number one emergency contact on all of our forms. (Thanks, Amy!)
And she just loves it. At our orientation, she was the first one to line up after our tour at the gym and comfortably took the teachers hand and left her mama at the end of the line. I know the school setting will be a fun and exciting thing for her.
While we make do most of the time, it can be difficult not having family close. There aren’t any grandmas or aunts that can swing by for an afternoon for errand running or a spontaneous date night. I know that the next few months are going to get more challenging as I near the end of this pregnancy.
I feel incredibly grateful that the Lord is caring for me and our family in this way. I didn’t know to anticipate that I’d need some time to myself this fall. I wasn’t able to comprehend how tired I’m already feeling, how overwhelmed, and frustrated because of the constant nerve pain.
I also didn’t realize that I wouldn’t be able to care for all of Ruby’s needs. While I anticipated a time of learning at home for her, I know that she will better enjoy learning alongside other kids. That she needs to get out and run and play with others. And that she likes routine and structure and her teacher is old school and solid.
I’ve been praying and thinking about this fall often. I know it can possibly be a crazy time, but I’m determined to set the pace and make it a sweet one. I think the sweet rhythm and routine of school is just the start. This summer hasn’t been the easiest.
We’ve been waiting on September and calmness that it’s already brought. I’m not necessarily a routine person, but the start of school and fall have me aching for a little structure. My fuzzy pregnancy brain is craving a little auto-drive, programmed with good habits and daily rhythms that make life simple.
And we’re more than ready for you, Wednesday, the first official day of school for Ruby!
