Dear Olivia and Evan,
As I opened my eyes this morning, the realization that you will be starting a new school year at a new school today held me hostage for a moment. Today, you embark on yet another new chapter in your young lives, and as we rode the elevator down from the 17th floor I thought of so many things I wanted to say to you. Things I’ve already covered in the many conversations we’ve had leading up to this day, but as a mom can’t help but feel the urge to repeat in case you didn’t hear me the first time.
Floor 16 – I wanted to tell you that I know what it’s like to be the new kid. I understand the butterflies in your stomach and wondering if you’ll make friends. Believe in yourself. I do.
Floor 15 – I wanted to tell you I understand worrying about finding your way both physically and socially. You’ll spend a lifetime finding your way. Never give up.
Floor 14 – I wanted to tell you that sometimes the new kid is at a disadvantage simply because you are new, but the very fact that you are the new kid is sometimes an advantage in and of itself. Embrace the adventure.
Floor 13 – I wanted to tell you that as the new kid other kids will be drawn to you. Some won’t accept you. That’s okay as it will be their loss.
Floor 12 – I wanted to tell you to embrace this new experience with a positive outlook because while it is all strange and a bit scary today, very soon it will all be routine and familiar. It’s the circle of life.
Floor 11 – I wanted to tell you to try not to look so nervous. Sometimes the simple act of smiling can be the beginning of a beautiful friendship. It is said a picture is worth a thousand words. I believe a smile is worth at least that much.
Floor 10 – I wanted to tell you if at any moment today you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, just breathe. You’ll be amazed how a couple of deep breaths can help you see things in a whole new light.
Floor 9 – I wanted to tell you to remember you only need one good friend. Quality trumps quantity.
Floor 8 – I wanted to tell you how my heart is torn between wanting to keep you home with me all day where I can love you and protect you and wanting you to go out there and have experiences I can’t provide for you. Don’t grow up too fast okay?
Floor 7 – I wanted to tell you how I prayed last night that those you cross paths with today will see you as I do…smart, kind, caring, funny, creative. More importantly, I hope you always see yourself as I do.
Floor 6 – I wanted to tell you not everyone will have things in common with you. Embrace the differences. They may pleasantly surprise you.
Floor 5 – I wanted to tell you to be patient with yourself and others. Time has a way of charting our course from the trivial to the really big stuff.
Floor 4 – I wanted to tell you to not be afraid to try something new. That’s the beauty of a clean slate.
Floor 3 – I wanted to tell you to listen when the teacher speaks, when someone new talks about themselves, etc. Listening is one of those skills that will come in handy later in life.
Floor 2 – I wanted to tell you to follow instructions when necessary, but also to make sure you always express yourself. It’s okay to speak up.
Ground – As we exited the building for our short walk to school, I took each of your hands in mine and said, “Just be yourself, and remember how much I love you. I’ll be waiting to hear all about your experiences this afternoon.”
I realized that’s really all you needed to hear.
Love,
Mom
What do you tell your children on their first day of school?
This was my first time featured in the Huffington Post
with a message to my children on their first day of school!
LITTLE MISS WORDY 
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Very beautiful. I can feel the tenderness in your words. Brings me back about 30 years.
Thanks for the reminder!
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Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts and commenting. I appreciate it.
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It is wonderful. I shared it on Facebook.
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I enjoyed reading this and truthfully, I wish I’d written it. It is always hard to let them venture out on their own but unfortunately it is part of being a good parent. You sound like one of the good ones. Peace to you.
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Being a good parent is do difficult sometimes. We want to make it right and easy for them, but can’t and shouldn’t because in so doing we would be stripping them of the very experiences they need to grow. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
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Finally, I get a chance to swing by! My husband took the kids out for a few hours so I’m catching up on my blog reading. Anyway, to echo what everyone has already said this was such a beautiful letter to your babies on their first day of school.
I could personally relate to Floor 9–quality over quantity. I’ve always preferred having a few good friends over many superficial ones. It’s kind of like job hunting, you only need ONE! 😉
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Great idea, with the floors! And a good post.
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Ha! Thanks. It’s a bit of a lengthy elevator ride. Thanks for stopping by. Off to Carnie’s Corner to check yours out too!
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Crying. You just spoke my heart in such a beautiful way.
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Awwhh…I think it simply voices many a mom’s wish for their babies. Thank you for taking the time to stop by and read.
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School already? We have a few more weeks. Such sweet and wise sentiments you have for your children…I hope they have a wonderful school year.
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They start early here and get out in May. Thank you for your sweet comment!
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Awh, this is precious! While my kids are not yet school age, I still found myself nodding along as I was reading!
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They are definitely points that can apply at any age!
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Oh how my heart related to this. Though I didn’t have 17 floors. Some miles. Some car sitting, or lane walking. oh this is so bringing back memories.
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Different location same hopes for our babies.
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Exactly.
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Wonderful, thoughtful, warm, heartfelt … they are sure to make it – ground floor will see to that -:)!
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Thank you. Doing my best to keep us all grounded. 😉 By the way, I love your avatar photo! Beautiful!
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I’m one big emotional mess today and this was just so sweet and you’re such a great mom Leah. *hormones*
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Thank you Vernette. I’ve been right there with you today. Pick up time couldn’t come soon enough for me. I was dying to hear how their day went. I hope all is okay with you and you were just having one of those days?
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Awww I hope they had a good first day. I’m ok, today is the 3rd anniversary of my mother’s death. So just a lil weepy.
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I know what that’s like. I’m sorry. Hugs! Kids had a great day. Thank you.
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I hope they have a great first day!
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Thank you! They did! 🙂
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Perfect advice and beautiful children. They’ll be great and the repeating will continue. I’ve realized that daily encouragement and long hugs mixed with good food takes the sting out of the difficulties they’ll face.
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My sister and I had our mom’s lectures numbered. We could tell which one it was going to be from the first words out of her mouth. ha ha. We’ve never forgot them though…proof she did a good job!
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Be sure to tell them this everyday. Especially the last one. They will benefit from these ideas for the rest of their lives.
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Funny how they apply at any age huh?
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Awww…. So sweet and touching! All you can do is pray you rubbed off on them enough so they will make the right decisions away from their new home…
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Thank you. My dad always said he and my mom had done their job in teaching us right from wrong. It was up to us to take those lessons with us and remember them when faced with our own decisions.
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Ah this tugged the heart!
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My heart went through the wringer today until the moment I saw their smiling faces exit the building this afternoon.
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Boo Hoo!! That is so touching! Your children are beautiful!
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Thank you. I admit to boo hoo-ing a bit today. They had a great day though!
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What an amazing keepsake! Gotta come back and read it again when i’m not running out the door!
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Thank you! My blog…virtual hope chest.
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So heartfelt! Transition and letting go is never easy. But you made it so. Thank you for sharing.
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Thank you. It was definitely a transition, but one I hope we all adjust to smoothly.
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