Preschool!!!

After far too long debating, waiting, procrastinating, we've gotten Alex into a preschool. The 5 minutes from home preschool has her on a waiting list, but looking at how Alex is at home (crazy) and how Mommy and Gabey are (also crazy) I decided the time was now and we just needed to get her in somewhere. Luckily, a few friends in our playgroup all send their kids to one preschool, so I visited on Wednesday and sent her off on Friday for her first day!

It went like this. We got there and she charged right inside, ignoring the director who stands at the door awaiting high fives and/or hugs from each kid every morning. She trucked her way upstairs and proceeded right off to the play dough table to make cookies, stopping only to ask where the oven was to bake those cookies.

Taking the hint, I demanded a quick kiss goodbye and Gabe and I went on our way to an idyllic grocery shopping trip - he got to sit with my purse instead of with a bitey sister - and then we got home for our baby play date. A couple hours later, and we were back in the car to pick up big sister.

I had to park sort of far away because so many parents were there to pick up the kiddies, but from almost two blocks away I heard very loud screaming and crying. I quickly recognized the voice. Imagining that the whole morning had gone that way, I walked a bit faster.

Upon my arrival to the playground I was greeted by one of Alex's teachers who informed me that she had gotten a bit muddy and I should try to remember to bring spare clothes next time. Apparently she had fallen on her bottom in the mud and the screaming was because she got stuck there. But as I looked over, she was playing with the older boys (gasp) and generally very happy. Also very muddy.

A few minutes later, we were headed home, much to Alex's horror. She screamed all the way to the car because she didn't want to leave. As did Gabey, because he was enjoying his time in the playground too but didn't get to get muddy! Poor guy. Anyway, I calmed her down, took a few pictures, and she got "un-upset" (and also put on some clean pants from a friend). All was well again. She told me bits and pieces of what happened that morning - something about snack, friends, a pet show where Ottowina won a ribbon. She asked what Gabey and I did. She asked what the cats did while she was gone.

The rest of the day proceeded as per usual. Fighting with brother, sort of eating lunch, playgroup.

First day, a success. We'll see how long it takes for her to get used to being on her own, but I do predict at least one day of tears when she realizes that Mommy and Gabey will not be joining her at preschool.