1st Day of Preschool!

Ever since we moved here and saw Grace's future elementary school (which is conveniently located just down the road from us), she has been DYING to go to school! Well, the day finally arrived for her to go to preschool and she was SO excited!

Happily discovering her backpack (which we bought for her a couple months ago) this morning...

...and the banner I made for "1st Day" pictures:

When Travis was growing up, his parents would make him and his siblings green pancakes for the first day of school (as in "green means go!"). I thought it was such a cute tradition that we decided to carry it on. And since Grace loves bacon, we added that in too. :)

 

I couldn't believe how grown up she looked today!

 

When we got to her school, she was super excited to explore the classroom, but not so excited for me to leave....so there was a little clinginess, but no tears shed when we said goodbye. I have to admit that (like any good mom), I worried about her much of the time she was gone (in part because there were a few kids who were crying when I left). But, when I picked her up, she was happy, had made a new friend, and was eager to go again!
We let her choose dinner tonight, which included mac'n'cheese and raspberries (her current favorite foods), then going out to Cold Stone for ice cream. I love the idea of going out for dinner or at least a treat on the first day of school each year, and look forward to doing it with all our kiddos in the future. When we were at Cold Stone, Travis teased "Grace, this has been so fun, you should have a first day of school every year!" Love my funny honey. :)

Then tonight, after family home evening, Travis gave her a father's blessing (since we weren't able to last night). In it Heavenly Father blessed Grace that she would remember how special she is and how much her Heavenly and earthly parents love her, that she would be brave when making new friends, that she would be a good example to her classmates, and always be able to choose the right. It was a really special experience, and one I hope she always remembers.
I'm so proud of my big preschooler and am so excited for the growth and learning that's ahead of her this year. We love you Grace girl!