Jack's First Day of School

Jack started first grade on August 16, 2006. What an exciting day! While Jack ate his waffles and got dressed, I jam-packed his Star Wars backpack with all his new school supplies, and then Sam and I waited with him at the bus stop. Thankfully, it was a beautiful morning, because Jack insisted that we go out there at least 20 minutes before the bus was due to arrive.
Didn't he look very handsome and grown-up?? It's hard to believe he's already big enough for school.

On the Monday prior to the first day of school, I took the boys to the school's Open House so Jack could meet his teacher and some of the kids in his class. He loves his teacher...he said "she seems like someone who will never yell at me." Which is true! He also was happy to see a couple of kids from the neighborhood were in his class. So, because of that, Jack was not the least bit nervous or scared as he waited for the bus; he simply couldn't wait for the day to begin. He got on the bus without giving it a second thought. I, on the other hand, was overwhelmed. I choked back my tears and snapped a few photos.

Sam was all smiles until he realized that he wasn't going on the bus, too. Then, he was completely beside himself and kept saying, "I'm a big boy now! I'm a big boy!" Now, he waits in the house while Jack and I wait for the bus!

So far, Jack loves school and has lots of new buddies. In fact, he spent every day after school last week at a different kid's house! His new buddies include Nick, Johannes (who speaks fluent German!) and Carly, who was in Jack's class at daycare. School, he says, is fun but hard. There is really not much time to socialize! It's work, work, work! Unfortunately, all that work's taking its toll because he's already missed a day with a fever and severe cold--new germs, apparently!