Back To School

(James playing in the river.)

Today, the boys head back to school, and while they’re going back to the same place, with the same friends and familiar faces, it’s still bittersweet.  James is in pre-kindergarten this year, which means a different classroom in a different wing, with more expectations, responsibilities, and fun adventures.  Next year, he’ll start kindergarten at a local public school, and that, I think, will officially mark the end of his babyhood.  He’s excited and ready, and I know he’s up for the challenge.  I can’t believe how big he is, and we’ll celebrate his fifth birthday (Fifth!) in December.

(Rhys watching his brother kayak without him.)

Rhys had a rough start last year, and I sometimes wondered if I pushed him to start school too soon.  But he ended up loving it, and is just as excited to return as his brother.  He’s got a couple years left in pre-school, and next year, he and I will get to spend several days together while James goes to school all week.  But Rhys adores his older brother, and I know the transition next year will be hard for him.  That’s why this year feels so special.  And, of course, the brothers will reunite again in a few years, when Rhys starts kindergarten, too.  But I am not ready for that yet!

This year will be a time of growth for both boys, as school years always are, and I’m thrilled that they are so eager to get to school each morning.  We still have quiet and laid-back days, and I know these times, when they are both so young, are numbered.  I don’t tend to get too sentimental, but I am aware that time is passing and my little guys are growing up before my eyes.

Here’s to a wonderful school year filled with amazing adventures!