Well today was a big day for us.. We sent our "little boy in the middle" off to school!
Elijah Braden (my big 5 1/2 year old) started Kindergarten today. I really can't believe it to be honest.
It still feels like yesterday I was in the hospital having him, and now he's school age! As the saying goes, "don't blink, it goes by fast," I now realize, I am in total agreement with that.
I wonder if this little boy knows how much he has helped heal my heart?
When Maddie Grace passed away, Eli was my little encourager at home. Noah was in Kindergarten at the time and I just don't know what I would have done without having my little Eli around.
He gave me so much purpose during the day when all I wanted to do was crawl up in my bed and cry. He would jump in my lap, tell me he loves me and would ask me to read him a book. Those moments with him will always hold a special place in my heart. My little boys have truly helped me through missing my little girl. When it ached so much and I wanted was to hold her; I would hold them.
Making Eli's little lunches and watching his face light up in excitement over simple every day things, gave me peace. God knew I needed my my Eli Bear to help me through the quiet moments of thought, because if you know him you know there is nothing quiet about him. =) I loved his distractions.
So, as I packed his lunch yesterday, I thought to myself, it has come.
This moment where I let go of his hand and send him off to someone else, has come.
I watched him this morning with a joy filled face as he skipped up the stairs to discover his new classroom.
I watched as he hung his little book bag up on the hook marked with his name.
I watched as he chatted among the other students and I thought to myself "I did it." "We did it"...
One more of our little birdies has lifted off safely from the nest.
After 5 and a half years by his Mama's side... He's ready to take flight.
It may only be a short flight today... like until noon. =) But it's still a big one for us.
I saw so many things in his happy little face this morning. But mostly, I saw contentment.
There comes a point in every Mama's life where we have to find contentment in right where we are.
I am so very sad that Eli won't be by my side all day long anymore, but at the same time; I'm thrilled!
We made it to Kindergarten.
He's happy and so... that makes me happy.
I can't even imagine the joy that lies ahead for our little Elijah Braden.
The new experiences, the knowledge he will gain in his elementary years; It tickles my heart.
I'm just so grateful that for the last five years of his life, he's been all mine.
I'm truly grateful for that.
With each big milestone of my boys, I'm always reminded that we will not experience those with Madeline. But, through her tiny little life, I'm reminded not to take for granted the ones I have with my beautiful boys. She gave me a greater appreciation for life and for my children.
As I watched Eli stand by his teacher today, (who also happens to be his Aunt :)... I beamed with pride! I sure am proud of this little boy.
What a joy he is to us!
Happy new school year Elijah Braden!
We are praying for great things as you start your new adventure!!!
We love you,
Mommy and Daddy =)
Noah is also having a really big week!!!
Yesterday he turned eight!! Yes, eight! Man that makes me feel old...
And he just entered into the 3rd grade today. He is so happy!
I am throwing his birthday party this weekend and we can't wait. He has requested a "cowboys and indian" themed party... so fun!
Annnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnd, next week we will be starting to move!! We have so much going on in our lives right now so stay tuned! =) I'm hoping once we get settled at the farm I can catch you all up on of our fun from this summer! I'm also looking forward to spending some great one on one time with little Jonah Asher! We are so blessed!!!
Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Much Love,
Natalie
Here are a few fun pictures of Eli as a baby and from today! Enjoy =)
Newborn Baby Eli
Toddler Eli
Kindergartener Eli!!!!
Of course Jonah needed a rocket back pack too. =) lol
Love my little boys!!!!