Not only did Levi get his papa back home... He also got to start school! If you know me, then you know I have always planned to home school my kids. That option is still open to me, and I think I will re-evaluate every summer and make fresh decisions as each school year approaches. I have been quite unsettled for the last year with the growing feeling that as much as I wanted to, I no longer felt certain I should home school Levi for kindergarten. Honestly, at first I ignored the doubts. I've always planned to home school...so that's what I'm going to do! But, because I have given God control over my peace and emotions, I couldn't resist the nudge to pray about it. The more I prayed and talked to others, the more I finally realized, Levi needed public school. At least for now. He is an amazing kid full of curiosity and he absolutely loves to be with people. To talk to people. And to love people. And as his mom, it is my responsibility to do what he needs, not just what I've planed.
So...all that to say, Levi started school! These pictures are from his first full day of school, on September 13Th. Nathan was home and we all got to go drop him off together. He was pretty excited, as you can imagine.

He decided he should just drive Papa's motorcycle to school by himself. Perhaps someday Levi...someday.

I think he'll be a pretty good addition to his classroom.He'll certainly enhance the class photo.

Saying goodbye to Charlie for a full day!

We got there a little early so that I could take some first day photos before sending him off to fend for himself. OK, that may be a little dramatic. But that is kinda what it feels like. I think it's cause I don't get to drop him off at his class room. All the kids congregate at the school track and wait for the teachers to collect them as classes at the first bell. Of course they have supervision and he's not in danger. But I would like to hold his hand all the way to his class and then place his hand in his teacher's hand. Nathan, on the other hand, thinks this way is great. He says it gives Levi independence and makes him feel more involved and responsible for himself. But this is from the guy who, when I was tearing up on the first day of school, turns to me and says, "It's a good thing babe. It's like the first step to getting him moved out of the house, which is the ultimate goal!"


While Levi was at school, the 3 of us had a day out. While at a store Nathan bought a little football to throw around with his buddy. As soon as we brought Levi home, before we even made it inside, Nathan and Levi were playing catch in the driveway. It seemed like a very "all American" school day.

Naturally, Gracie needed to be in the middle of things. So far she seems pretty OK with Levi being off to school. It gives her a chance to be the star of the show a couple times a week. But she is uber excited to see Levi every time we pick him up. Squealing and giggling style.



Can you picture him as the high school quarter back? I can. Although he did make Nathan realize one of his fears in fatherhood. The other day Nathan said, "Hey Levi wanna go outside and play football?" and Levi said, "Nah...not right now. When I grow up I'm gonna build a robot to play catch with you so I don't need to do it." Nathan turned to me with panic in his eyes. It'll be OK, Papa...It'll be OK.

We've hit a definite land mark. First day of school. One thing Military lifestyle brings into your life is the ability to acclimate to new things smoothly. We went for a long time with just the 3 of us home everyday, finding things to do and taking care of ourselves. Now in a matter of a week we have brought Papa back into our everyday routine and lifestyle, AND Levi has started school and is on his own a few days each week learning how to be his own person amidst his peer group. In my opinion, all the changes have been smooth and celebrated. Well, OK, maybe I don't
celebrate Levi starting school, but I do recognize and appreciate it's role and importance in his life. And I
am excited to see his growth day by day. He's a really cool kid and he deserves to excel and shine. I'm pretty sure that's his plan too.
3 comments:
Oh yes Anna, Levi is a great candidate for public school. He'll be excited every day, and he'll add tons to his class!!
WOW! How exciting! I know you made the right choice, you're the mom :) The football robot idea is hilarious. And ingenious!
Awww, Anna, I think you're a brave mama for making this decision. You are going with your gut and doing what you think is best for your child.
There are always options when it comes to school and you can reassess on down the line. He really does seem like he has a great personality for school. I bet he'll have some new buds in no time!
And remember, you're still his #1 teacher =)
Post a Comment