And so...

It has begun. The kids(all 4) started school this past Wednesday. Yup, even little Miss Rylee. My heart broke just a little bit when we took them to school, as per tradition, on that first day. We got to the playground and pointed out a few lesser known acquaintances to Rylee and tried to encourage her to play. She hesitated, and I could see the panic about to form. Then in( or out, since we were on the playground) walks her little cousin Ellie, who happens to be in the VERY same class. So they hugged, and we snapped some pictures of the two of them together and off they went. She never even looked back. My heart cracked a little, I can admit it.
Since we officially had ZERO kids to worry about for the day AND Cory was off, we went fishing. It was fun! We caught three little dinky trout, but still, we talked and laughed, and I secretly wiped away a tear a time or two. Then the next day, another milestone, Rylee got to ride the school bus. She was thrilled and happy go lucky right up until the bus was about 15 feet away...then she says "Nataly I can sit with you right?" Finally revealing that apprehension. But once again, she boared and never looked back, I walked back to the house alone. I wanted to cry a stray tear, however Cory and I had plans again. We indulged and went and saw a movie. And then again today, the kids walked down to the bus by themselves and I kissed them all before they left. I didn't have to spend my day alone though b/c I went to work with Cory, which is always a special treat. He is sooo different at work than at home. Which is an entirely different post. I've completely enjoyed the quality time I have spent with my best friend. I believe that it says so much that we can spend 3 days in each others company and not be tired of each other. I have exactly 16 days until classes officially start for me. In sending my baby off to kindergarten I may have closed the door to one phase in my life but so many more have opened up. Not to mention all the growing and maturing taking place on many levels with the crazy mob of kids around here. I'm blessed to be such a big part of their lives, but they've got to discover their own selves too.