The other day at dinner we somehow got onto the topic of Nathan moving on to first grade.  After talking a little bit about what things might be different and what might be the same, he very matter-of-factly looked over at me and said,

"Mom, I don't want to go to first grade!"

I then, of course, asked him why not. And he then replied,

"Because I want to stay with Mrs. M_____ forever and I want to see her everyday!"

It was the sweetest thing and I could feel my eyes water up inside.  I know that he has been so, so fortunate to have such a great kindergarten experience and it is largely due to his loving, warm, and gentle-spirited teacher.  From the moment I sat through her new parent meeting I knew that I could go through that school drop-off line each morning and not have a single worry about sending my baby off to "big-boy school". 

This school year has been full of learning experiences, new doors opening, and great changes that I am so thankful for.  I can hardly believe there is just one week left of school!  And, while I am certainly looking forward to summer, closing the books on the school year will be bittersweet.  I am just praying and hoping everyday that each year will just get better and better.  Mostly, though, I am proud that my sweet Nathan truly appreciates his teachers and recognizes how meaningful they are in his life.  ♥