Helton brothers: Jonas' 1st day of Kindergarten

Growing up, I can't believe it! I never thought this moment would come but it did yesterday, Jonas turned into a kindergartener! Here is to a brand new start of an elementary adventure.

"Teach your children to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it." (Proverbs 22:6)

Back in January, we applied to schools for Jonas to attend. We were accepted to Bear Creek K-8, an elementary school that feeds into Matt's high school. However, just last week, we got the call from Dennison Elementary saying they have a half day opening. We were elated! Dennison was our first choice but we knew it was tough to get in. Out of hundreds of applicants, we were one of the 60 kindergarteners that was chosen.

The days leading up to the 1st day for Jonas, we enjoyed some moments together. We've been sipping vanilla steamers in the cooler mornings around the fountain and reading books about kindergarten.

Here is a photo of the two bros last year this time. They truly love each other!

The evening before the big day, Jonas requested ribs, corn on the cob, and baked sweet potatoes.

Morning of August 15, 2013...Jonas woke up with enthusiasm. He first got dressed, made his bed, and came running out to greet us with big hugs. As you can see, I was in a slumber from not sleeping well the night before. I was the nervous one, not Jonas! Matt was able to go in late to school that morning to be with Jonas on his first day. Since Matt didn't have students yet, he was able to take the time off.

I whipped up some vanilla scones(requested by Jonas) and while they baked in the oven, we took some time around the fountain to open some 'back to school' gifts. Jonas and Silas received Star Wars water bottles and...

Dad received some work socks. :)

Matt and I started a tradition last year to write the boys letters on their first day of school, and I was happy that we could read them outloud to them. Where were the tissues then?

Time for a photo opp!

These two guys just melt my heart! How sweet are they?!!

2013

2012

Scones with an over easy egg for breakfast.

This is the 4 minute drive to the school...isn't it in a beautiful neighborhood? Jonas wants to ride bikes once or twice a week. That is exciting!

Home of the Eagles!

Dad in his bike clothes, classic!

Dad and his two sons!

Jonas' teacher lined them up when the bell rang and walked them into class.

From orientation night, Jonas knew where his desk was. He looks so proud!

Very attentive and curious!

Teacher called them to the rug on the floor while Jonas chit chatted with his new buddy, Jack. There was a playdate for all kindergarteners in the beginning of the week to be able to see familiar faces on the first day. Jonas met Jack within the first 10 minutes of the playdate but took over an hour for them to play together. Silas was a huge help for Jonas to meet new friends. What brothers are for!

As Matt, Silas, and I were escorted out of the classroom by the teacher's aide, I was able to hold it together. Knowing Jonas was so happy and comfortable being there, helped letting go. Jonas is learning to stand on his own, and I'm learning to become more dependent on God.

Dad took off to work on his bike while Silas and I played on the playground for a few minutes meeting other kids and mommies. What a wonderful community. We feel so blessed! However, I felt like there was a part of me missing...Jonas!

To thank Silas for supporting Jonas in this new journey, I took him to Chuck E Cheese. Silas has been there once and was so delighted to experience it again. What a special mommy and Silas date!