Dear Kindergarten,
Five years ago, something really amazing happened. Two tiny 2lb babies were born. They fought for their lives for months, and finally came home. To me. And for five years, I’ve spent every single day and night with them. Loving them, cuddling them, feeding them, bathing them, playing with them, rocking them to sleep. I’ve changed thousands of diapers, broke up hundreds of arguments, woke up countless times throughout the nights. I’ve done my best to teach these babies the simplest things- like how to brush their teeth, and put a seatbelt on. And explain the harder things- like why their friend doesn’t want to play with them today, and why their Papa went to heaven. I’ve tried to mold them into good people- people who are caring, selfless, loving, smart, funny, and independent. Throughout those five years, we’ve hit a few bumps- there were times I wanted to scream out of frustration, and times I wanted to cry out of exhaustion. But mostly, when I think back on those five years, I smile. My heart smiles. For all those special moments I was able to witness, and all the firsts, and all the kisses, and cuddles. I truly never understood how my entire world could lie within another person, until I met these babies.
And today, Kindergarten, you are going to take my babies. I’m not sure how these five years have flown by, but they have. And my babies are now beautiful little girls. They are going to spend more waking hours with you, than they do with me. You are going to be responsible for teaching them many of the lessons they will learn this year. And I won’t be there to pick them up, or give them a kiss, or put a bandaid on their knee. It’s so bittersweet… I am so proud of the people they have become and so excited of the new world that awaits them. But I’m also terrified of the new world that awaits me. I suppose I’ll have more time to do laundry, and perhaps the house will be clean now. But, that stuff isn’t what matters. What matters is my babies continue to grow up into good people.
So, Kindergarten, please be kind to my babies. Mold them carefully. Teach them the fun stuff, and explain to them the hard stuff. Understand this is new for them- and they may be shy or even shed a few tears… I might, too. Make them wait their turn, and be responsible for their belongings. Make them be respectful, and kind to others. Allow them to have fun, and cultivate a love for learning that will last a lifetime. Teach them to read, and write, and how to play Red Rover. I know I don’t need to tell you this- as this is your job and you do it well. And to me, it’s the most important job in the world. But enjoy your time with my babies, Kindergarten, because I’ll be missing them every minute they’re gone.
Sincerely,
One Nervous Mama
Original post can be viewed here on Lindsay Mac Fitness: Toned After Twins.
