First Day of School AKA When Did Caroline Get So Old?

Today we had our first day back at school. Most years, I spend the night before the first day tossing and turning. I agonize over new shoes for the girls, how we are going to all get out the door in the morning, how I'm going to get all of my prep done, and the list goes on.

For some reason it just didn't happen this year.

Maybe it was our awesome summer? Maybe it's just more experience? But this year, I went to bed at 8:45 (don't judge - I was up early to run), I had everything prepared for the girls, and we actually got to school early.

The girls had an awesome day at school. (The only tears were the ones I held inside as both girls just walked into school without hesitating.) My classes went well. And although it was like a rain forest outside today, I managed to not sweat through my clothes. That is success.

For the first time in a long time, I am very content with the idea of the school year starting. I have always loved my job, but September usually brings a sense of remorse that I didn't do more with my summer or that I need just one or two more weeks to feel ready.

This year feels good.

And that's nice.

So here's to a wonderful year full of new experiences and challenges for all of us. And may I still feel this sense of hope in a few months when the sneakers aren't so shiny white and my patience level is significantly lower.

Cousins

Boating with the Cousins

Earlier in the month, we went with the girls, Auntie Emily, and cousins Cate and Cooper out on a boat ride and spent the morning on a neat little "island" that is only there at low tide.

Dare I say it? I enjoyed the boat ride. I'm sure that is mostly due to the fact that the ride was short and we spent the majority of the time on the beach, but that is progress!