Friday, August 31, 2012

First Day...

On Monday morning, my big boys headed back to school. I really can't believe it's that time of year again, and as silly as this may sound... I've found myself fighting back tears all week long. 
We ALL nervously anticipated the beginning of this school year, and thought it may present itself  more challenging than in years past.
 You see, Shane and I had to make a REALLY TOUGH decision at the end of May that we knew would significantly impact our sweet Corban. 
We decided to have Cor repeat the third grade. 
 Due to some struggles he was having, and because he has a late birthday (and is always one of the youngest kids in his class) we decided it was best for him to stay back.
Oh y'all...this was one of the hardest decisions we've had to make, but we just knew in our hearts it was right for Cor.
Needless to say, Corban was a little anxious about starting school this year.
What would his friends say and think? Would he stand out? Would he make friends in his new class easily?
We spent a lot of time this summer talking and praying through each of these fears and anxieties. 
 Well y'all..I know it's only the first week of school, but I can honestly say that the Lord is so GOOD! He has taught us many things through this situation and proven Himself faithful the entire way. I'm not going to lie, the very first day was TOUGH, but Corban was able to see and recognize the Lord's hand in it! He has learned to depend on Christ for his strength and has seen blessings amidst this difficulty. 
The Lord has blessed him with new sweet friends, a wonderful teacher, and several opportunities to share God's love with others. He has learned what it's like to feel "different" and can now be more empathetic to others who seem "different" too! 
I really believe this is gonna be a GREAT year!

So Monday morning dawned bright and early for us as we got up and got ready to head out the door.
Riley was the first one up! In a matter of minutes, he was dressed and ready for the day.  I wish I could say that this trend continued past day one, but unfortunately it didn't;)
Pancakes were unanimously requested as our "back to school' breakfast of choice. 
And I've discovered that you can make just about ANYTHING with a little food coloring and some pancake batter-HA!;)
As we walked out the door, we joined the parade of families already walking down our street. It was a sea of kids sporting new hair cuts and carrying new backpacks;) Shane went into work a little later than usual so he was able to walk the boys to school on the first day too.
Once we got to school, the boys were super excited to show Shane their classrooms and introduce him to their teachers.
Both boys seemed to settle nicely into their new rooms, and the only tears shed as we hugged goodbye were...MINE;)
It's only the first week, but we are trusting and believing that this is going to be an AWESOME year for our precious boys! We know that the Lord has big things planned for them and we are excited to watch those plans unfold. 

Our verse for the year is  
Psalms 119:66 
"Teach me good discernment and knowledge, For I believe in Your commandments." 


12 comments:

Colleen said...

Adorable pictures! I know what you mean. My daughter is starting first grade but we thought that she might have to repeat kindergarten. It was such a stressful time with the decisions and meetings.

chicks3 said...

It is a tough decision to hold a child back. We called it "a gift of time" It will really pay you back in high school when he is responsible and independent. I'm a retired elementary teacher and had to help families with this decision a few time. God bless.

Stefanie and Bill said...

Oh Jenny, darling pics! Having five boys, we have had each son except one repeat K. I am really proud of you and Shane for doing the really hard thing and keep Cor back. So many would have sent him on to the next grade, for fear of what others would think! I KNOW God will reward your decision and Cor will obtain a better foundation and he will reap the benefits for the rest of his school years! Way to go!

Courtney said...

They look so handsome on their first day. I think you made the right decision with Corbin and now is the best time to do it. I hope he continues to have a great year.

Stephanie said...

What a great post, and so inspiring! I think one of ours will repeat next year and I have been bracing myself for the fallout! You have reminded me that instead of worrying, I need to put that faith in God and see how he plans to use this possible transition for His good. What a remarkable young man (men) you have!

Donna said...

The kids are almost as adorable as those pancakes...or maybe the other way around! Hope the school year treats all of you well!!!

Donna said...

PS. Agreed....we held our boys back and they were the oldest in their class but it proved to be a really good decision.

Brian & Ashley said...

You're a great mom! I'm sure that was a hard decision, but you made it thinking only what is best for Corban. I'm thankful his first week was good.

BRANDY said...

Jenny, Nicholas has a June birthday and we made the decision to wait to send him to Kindergarten. We thought it would be better for him to be the oldest than the youngest and it has made such a fantastic difference in his school experience. Nicholas always thrives and does so well in school. I know it was so hard to make the decision, but I think as time goes on, you will be glad you did. And just think, now you get one more year with him at home before he goes to college! :-) He is going to get settled in and do just great!

Jo said...

I read your blog from time to time but don't think I've ever commented ~ sorry.

The years from Pre-K to third grade are such important years. They really need to have a firm foundation in order to be successful in their education.

Many children need the gift of time to get a firm grasp and once they do, they soar! You and your husband made the right decision, you already know that :)

Jo
ps ~ I should add that I'm a teacher and a mom :)

Melanie said...

What happy faces to start the new school year! I though of you guys often this week & prayed for you every time! I am SO excited to hear that the year is already off to a great start & that God has been faithful to make a smooth transition for Cor!!! Trusting God for a great year ahead for Corban & Riley! They are such smart, kind, handsome boys, I know God has wonderful things in store for them!

Lexie Loo, Lily, Liam & Dylan Too said...

Your boys are adorable, and SO grown up! I'm glad that the first week went well. I'm sure that had to be a difficult decision to make, but it sounds like it was a good one!