a big day

Today was the day -- Max's first day of junior high. I am so glad they have the 7th graders come a day early. They had a welcome assembly, student council members were on hand to give directions to lost-looking students, they went to all 8 of their classes and met their teachers, and then they had games and popsicles outside. All with the added benefit of having fewer students in the halls and none of those intimidating upper-classmen.

Tomorrow the 7th graders get the day off and then they return on Wednesday to the full jr. high experience. Max had a great day. He didn't seem to have much difficulty getting up and ready to leave by 7:30 -- I hope that lasts. Between the two elementary schools he has attended and ward members, he said he knew several people in each of his classes. He didn't have any locker troubles (anyone else ever have nightmares about being in school and not being able to open your locker?). He genuinely seemed to enjoy his first day. Hooray!

It seems strange that my big 7th grader has a 2-year old sister. (Who missed him very much while he was away at school and kept saying, "Max is coming right back!".)

Marc gave the boys their traditional father's blessings last night. I love the way he seems to says the very things I have weighing on my mind in his blessings. I love the way the boys look relieved and comforted afterwards -- I am sure it reduces their nervousness about starting the new school year.

After Max and Lucas had their blessings, Eva hopped into their spot and said, "it's my turn, Daddy!". So Marc gave her a little blessing, too. She actually kept her arms folded and eyes closed throughout. It was the sweetest thing.

Lucas was mighty bored today with Max gone. I think it helped him to be ready to go to school tomorrow! We made cookies for Max, we dug out his old piano books and practiced, and we went to meet his new teacher. (I don't know what I was thinking when I didn't take a photo of them together!)

Marc's parents came over to take us out to dinner. The kids are always thrilled to see Grandma & Grandpa, but Eva was in heaven. When she was finished eating, she sat on Grandma's lap and got her back tickled. (oh, I have such sweet memories of doing the same thing with my grandma!)

Even better, she was able to commandeer Grandma in her bedroom for some playtime, and talk with Grandma on the phone, even though they were right next to each other!

Look what a sweet treat awaited me in the mailbox tonight! Jessie sent me some Heidi Swapp gigundo photo corners, pink polka dot brads, Special Handling stickers, a very fun assortment of ribbon, and, most exciting of all... a circle journal!! We talked before she left about making circle journals to send back and forth to each other, but of course I kind of forgot about it, and Jessie managed to already make the cutest one and write in it and send it to me. So fun! Now I have to get on the ball...