turn, turn, turn

Although there are still plenty of weeks left to the summer, with the girls last day of school tomorrow, it definitely feels like the end of the season. I've had this Byrds song in my head all day

To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven...

 

We found our school 3 years ago on fairly short notice. We didn't have the opportunity to look at 4+ schools before comparing everything and making a decision. However, it was the first big decision in parenthood that we came to very quickly, by following our instincts. From our first visit to the school, we felt comfortable. Then, from Madelyn's first few months there, we patted ourselves on the back, because we were very confident and pleased with our decision. Tomorrow, we'll pick the girls up from their school for the last time, and I'm an emotional wreck.

 

Since, I started my new job in April, we've had a difficult time making it to school by their closing time for pick ups. We are very lucky that my mom and sister, help out a ton. But 2 years after moving south from Fairfield, to avoid spending hours in commuter traffic, we were faced with it again. My old job was very close to the school, so even though we'd moved and I'd changed jobs once, the school was conveniently located. Now, I was back to driving at least 45 mins to 1 hour at the end of the day just to pick up her, before getting Anna. I leave work at 4:30pm, and we typically get home around 6pm.

 

I think I was the first to bring up moving the girls to schools in town... but we quickly got overwhelmed at the idea of researching new schools, and ultimately making that big change, so we didn't discuss it further. Then after a few tough weeks of commuting and being late for pick ups, we talked about it again. I agreed to take on all the research and the tours and see what was out there. In our area, there are not very many options of full day programs. To us, and for our family, a full day program is the best. I did my homework, we found 2 new schools... and then we just waited because we couldn't bite the bullet.

 

Then, I sat at work and (literally) bawled my eyes out, as I wrote to the school and said that the girls wouldn't be returning in the fall. They were great, and I'm sure it happens all the time... but it was certainly a big deal to us. Madelyn has spent 45 hours a week, for the last 3 years with her friends and all of her teachers at her beloved school. At such a young, vulnerable age, that's significant. Also, for our little sweetheart who is emotional, sensitive, caring and shy, it's a big deal. She's raved about school and is happy and giggly, every single day. The amount of gratitude I have for the school, the teachers, and her friends for taking care of my baby while I work full time, is immeasurable.

 

We've tried very hard to speak positively about the school change, and create excitement about the move. We've visited the new schools and made a few new friends, but I'm still terrified. Just yesterday, Madelyn collapsed in my arms, crying because she didn't want to leave her school and go to a new school. I could feel her sadness, and I immediately teared up. I pray that we've made the right decision, and that this change will be a good one for us. My hope is that it'll allow for more time together in the mornings and evenings, and a little less stress for Mom and Dad. Most importantly, I hope my sweet girl makes new friends, has fun while learning and continues to be happy and giggly, each night when we get home. Truthfully, if I can't spend my days with my kiddos, then the next best thing, has to be really great :)

In between tomorrow's last day, and the first day at their new schools, is our V A C A T I O N! I cannot wait and it feels like perfect timing! The coming weeks might be a bit of a challenge as we transition, but I think I'll just keep singing this song, and reminding myself - "And a time to every purpose, under heaven..."