the big Kindergirl

Layla started kindergarten last week. Mine was the kid who, bawling heart-breakingly, had to be physically pulled away from her mother by her teacher on the first day of school. She was happy when I picked her up at the end of the day.

Day 2 dropoff: Layla's eyes watered up and she gave me a few extra hugs (kind of desperate ones) in the hall, but she only asked me to come in as she found her name tag. Atta girl.

Day 3 dropoff: Two hugs, a brave smile, she ran in the classroom then ran out for one last hug, then ran in again. I think we just might make it, folks.

Day 4 dropoff: A quick hug and she ran in.

Day 5 &; 6 dropoff: I stayed outside and waved at her through the window as she hung up her backpack. She waved happily and blew some kisses.

Day 7 dropoff: I stood in the driveway and watched her ride her bike away with her brother. She stopped at the corner and waved back at me, then pedaled on. I'll never tell whose eyes may or may not have watered up, standing there for way longer than necessary after Lays had biked out of sight. How is it that I try to have it both ways? I want her to need me but I want her to spread her wings at the same time. Being a mom is weird sometimes.