Monday, September 14

Kindergarten...

Well as we get ready for our first full week of school, I wanted to share with you how Rainee did her first couple of days and the few things I gave her if she ever gets homesick.

I made a little photo pocket for her, something I did last year... and it helped her on many a day when she was having a hard time and only wanting to be home with mommy. It reminds her, we're never too far away.


I also gave her a baggie with a few special little things to go along with this care card...
  • These (chocolate) kisses are to remind you that you are loved.
  • This penny is to remind you that you are special and valuable. Remember, there isn't anyone else like you. You are special.
  • This sticker is to remind you that we will stick together and we will be here to help you when you need it.
  • This band aid is to remind you that we will always take care of you. If you have an ouch-y or your heart is hurt.
  • This pencil and eraser is to remind you that it's OK to make mistakes... it's the best way to learn... everything takes practice.
Plus I couldn't forget 'the mommy shirt'... 'the mommy shirt'... this started when I was working full time... there were many times when I'd leave for work and Rainee would be crying, which of course broke my heart. On one particularly hard day, I gave her one of my shirts with perfume on it. Somehow it comforted her, knowing she could smell mommy anytime. She'd smell it, wear it, hug it, sleep with it... it helped on the days she was missing me most. Since then we've carried this little tradition on... she asks for it when she's having a difficult time... so of course I couldn't let her go to Kindergarten without 'the mommy shirt'. It's in her backpack... whenever she needs it. So far just knowing it's there has comforted her.

I wanted to start a tradition for breakfast on the first day of school... and since Rainee loves pancakes... I made her an 'R' pancake... she loved it and gobbled it up!!! Before we left for school, I gave her all the little things for her backpack... giving me a big hug she said, 'Thanks mommy, now when I'm at school... I know just where you are when I need you most!'... too sweet!

The first day, she seemed to be comfortable... playing with other kids... laughing... having fun... taking pictures with mommy and daddy... then it happened... the whistle blew to freeze... the tears started flowing... she knew it was time to go into the classroom WITHOUT mommy! I took her aside, gave her big hugs and reminded that I'm never too far away... all she has to do is pull out her picture pocket or her mommy shirt if she needs me... the tears were still flowing, but she gave me the biggest hug ever... and followed the kids into class...

The second day... she didn't want to play with the kids or go on the playground... she wanted to stay with mommy. So we stayed outside the gate until the whistle blew to go to class... then... the tears started... what a killer... once in line she kept blowing me kisses until she went inside.

As for me... on the first day... Steve had to comfort me! It was killing me that she was hurting... that she's in kindergarten... that this is the start of a whole new life for her. On the second day, I was better too... but I miss hearing her little voice at home.

Firsts are always hard... I hope each of her firsts get easier... although I do hope she continues to give me those great big hugs and kisses...

5 comments:

Julie Tucker-Wolek said...

*sigh* U are breaking my heart with these stories....awwwwwwwwwwww poor Rainee and poor Mommy....I loveeeeeeeeeeeee the photos though....adorable!!!!!!! And I know what U mean.....not with school, but when his Dad lived in our state....phew....Adam NEVER wanted to go with him....started crying and telling me to call the judge and tell him he doesn't want to go.....*sigh* that was hard....love to U girl....hope she gets better with leaving soon....awwwwwwwww :):):):):):):):):):):):):):)

Jana said...

All I can say is that you are certantly one of the most special moms and Rainee is a lucky girl!!! The idea of the little things that remind her of your love is soooo special and it's a wonderful help in times of need. Michelle you are special and your ideas make this world better. Thank you!
I have to say that your last LO is briliant and i love love love it!!!!!

Jen said...

You are bringing back such memories of when my girls went to Kindergarten. I'm getting all teary eyed. They were fine. It was me who was crying! They were like...ok, bye mom! Sheesh! You are a fantastic mom and Rainee is so blessed to have you! ;D

Deana said...

Makes me cry just thinking about it! I hate to say it, but it doesn't get easier the older they get. I'm not a fan of back-to-school time! :-(

Adorable project/gift you made for her. I'm going to have to remember all those little sayings & goodies you used. Soooo cute!

♥ the photos, too! You're all adorable! :-)

Lizard said...

Awwwww this is 2 much 4 me. I have tears rolling down my face. I can only remember those days. U r such an awesome mommy. U take such good care of her as she does in return to you. I had lots of fun at your new home. Thx 4 the swim and entire day. Lizzy