First Grade

Wednesday was Jake's first day of first grade. Being on vacation and trying to get my own classroom ready, I really hadn't stopped to think about this milestone in Jake's life. That morning Chris brought Jake to school to make sure he got settled in. As they were leaving my classroom to go to his, Jake's big brown eyes filled with tears of nervousness and the fear of the unknown. At that point it hit me too. We stood outside my classroom hugging and crying. Thankfully, Chris took him to his room and by the time they got their Daddy had him laughing. I am going to miss spending lazy summer days with him, but I am excited for what is to come for him.

Dear Jake,

How exciting! Your first day of first grade. I am so excited for this new adventure in your life. When Daddy and I made the decision to send you to the same school that Mommy taught in, we thought that we were doing the best thing for you. Little did we know that we were doing the best thing for Mommy and Daddy. I spent much time thinking about which teacher to put you with and I thank God that I have that choice. Most parents send their child to a complete stranger. I worried about you all morning (even though I knew Mrs. Skeel was taking good care of you), but when you passed my room and gave me a big smile I was able to breath again. Your Daddy had already texted me to see how you were, and of course, as soon as I saw you I had to text him back. These are a few things that Daddy and I hope you learn now that you are in school full time.

1. We hope you learn to love reading...it will take you on great adventures.

2. There is more honor in failing than cheating.

3. Have faith in your own ideas.

4. For every enemy, there is a friend.

5. Be gentle with gentle people, but stand your ground with tough people.

6. Have the strength not to jump on the bandwagon if it is headed down the wrong road.

7. Always have sublime faith in yourself and mankind.

8. Remember that the most important relationship you can have is the one you have with God. Even you don't feel like he is there, just close your eyes, fall to your knees and let Him enter your heart.

9. Have the courage to be brave, and the patience to make good decisions.

10. While we may not always agree with your decisions, we will always love you. There is nothing you can't talk to us about. We are incredibly proud of you.

Love Always,

Mommy and Daddy