Evan starts kindergarten on Monday. He will go to school all day - from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. He has a uniform: red polo shirt (tucked in), khaki or navy shorts, and a belt. I have bought all his school supplies and taken him for a haircut. His sneakers still fit. I realized today that I failed to get him a backpack, but he does have a brand new Mystery Machine (Scooby Doo) lunchbox.
I realize that he will be fine. It's me that I'm worried about!
He's my boy. I'm going to miss hanging out with him every day. And I wonder what changes school will bring. Will he make a lifelong friend? Will he quickly learn to read - and love to read - like his dad and I do? Will he be able to sit still for that long? Will he influence his class and his school for Christ?
I think he's amazing. Smart. Verbal. Imaginative. Justice, rule and structure-oriented. Loves to tell stories. Likes to make up new games. Climbs anything taller than himself. He's my hugger. He still climbs on my lap for a snuggle, even though he tells me very seriously, "no kisses." He helps his sister with juice boxes and videos. He loves to swim and wrestle with his dad.
Conversations with him are always a surprise. After being disciplined the other day, he told me "Every person has a part to play in this life. I don't think this is my part." When he prays, he often says, "Thank you, Lord, for everything. Just, everything." And then he wonders why I add more specific prayers, "Why, Mom? I just prayed for everything."
Corrie and I will miss him this fall. I'm sure we'll get into a good routine, and I will love having some time alone with my girl, but it will be different. Last year, when he went to preschool, she threw a minor fit one afternoon. "I want my brother named Evan NOW!" I'm anticipating more of the same.
May God guide and protect you, dear one. Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
