Will's First Day of 1st Grade

The new school year is upon us! 

Man, that snuck up fast.  I think having a freakishly cold August has made me a little bitter about the official end of summer arriving.  I adore fall, but only after a thorough summer, you know? 

 

So I've spent the past week or so in high-organization-mode preparing our family for a return to structured school weeks.  School supplies, cleaning, new clothes and shoes, meals, organized "drop zones" for papers and such, etc.  I hate feeling unprepared.  Hate it.

 

And now the first day of first grade is complete for Will and it went off without a hitch.  He was excited, though a little bummed about the end of our relaxed summer too.  Can't say I blame him.  But we're all motivated to have another great school year.  Will's new teacher is Mrs. Jimerson and there will be a student teacher in the classroom through Christmas time as well.  There are several of the same kids in his class as last year, but he's also lost his buddy Jagger to a different lunch and recess time (Jagger's in 2nd grade) so I think he might be feeling a little lost without that regular play mate this year. 

 

For his first day breakfast, I made cottage cheese pancakes - one of his very faves. 

And I'm gearing up for another year of packing lunches.  I'm feeling kind of neutral about this - motivation and dread.  Just being honest.  ;)

And on to the first day pictures!  The morning went very smoothly and we left enough time for all the pictures you know I wouldn't go without.  Can't get over how grown up he looks!

This will be Will's fourth year using his L.L. Bean backpack.  And until he starts carrying an actual textbook or something with bulk, this should continue to serve him well.  Love it!  (And Sophie's too.)

Oh, this boy.  He holds my heart.

And I love every inch of him to pieces!

I was psyched to get a sibling picture that unintentionally hid Sophie's cast.  They actually initiated this pose.  :) 

 

Will got a call from his Godmother before school to wish him luck and tell him she's thinking of him on his first day.  Thanks, Aunt Casey!!

Will's one-last pose suggestion on our way back outside to head to Lisa's.

Will & Jagger

Comparing current height difference.  Jagger is one school grade and 20 months older than Will.  I love Will's expectant little expression in this pic.  He really looks up to Jagger... literally and figuratively. 

And this one just cracks me up.  :)

Buds

So sweet.  Lisa came outside and whispered some words of luck to each of them in an embrace and kissed their cheeks.  She truly is a second mother for these kids.

Time to go!

Bye, buddy!  I'll be thinking of you all day.

First grade?  Let's do this!