Preschool Boy!

 

MJ was all ready for his first day of preschool on August 21st.  He returned to Dubuque Montessori School again this year, but moved upstairs to one of the 3-5 age rooms.  It's a mixed age class that he attends each afternoon for 2 1/2 hours.  He is just crazy about his teachers, and he has the only male teacher in the school.  I love anytime I see men working in the early education field and was thrilled that MJ got him as his teacher.  It has been a great fit!  MJ did not shed a single tear on his first day.  We all drove him to school that afternoon, and then I walked him into his classroom.  After a quick hug and kiss, I was off, and he was all smiles.  It's such a wonderful feeling to see your child so excited about school.  He's happy when we drop him off and happy when we pick him up, and that means A LOT!  It was a really tough decision for me deciding whether to send him mornings or afternoons and how many days per week.  It's really hard to give up some of that time with him, yet I know my own limitations due to my work schedule, and I know how much he loves the time to play and learn, so after lots of thought we gave this schedule a try.  So far, so good!  It's been a bit tough as he no longer naps much, but we've been having "quiet time" in his room when he gets home from school, and most days that works pretty well. 

 

As I look at these pictures that I took right before we left for school, I am amazed at this energetic, sweet, mischievous, curious, and loving little boy.  It seems like only days ago that he was lying in that little bassinet in the NICU looking so helpless, and now he's so strong and full of life.  He challenges us daily, but I wouldn't trade it for the world.  I love you, sweet preschooler! 

 

Oh, and don't ya love his Target sticker he insisted on keeping on his shirt for school?!  :)