All Right Now

Lauren has been at her school for the past 2 years. This year will be her last year before entering kindergarten. At times, certain things about the school have challenged us, from the driving distance to class placement. Ultimately, however, it is a wonderful school with beautiful facilities and a warm and nurturing atmosphere.

Everything good about this educational institution was reaffirmed in spades today, on her first day of Pre-K.

With uncharacteristic drizzle in the air, she tentatively approached the school entrance.


Then she saw Mr. Lee. Mr. Lee is the long-time security guard for the school who stands out front each morning and every afternoon (yes, it's somewhat of a sad statement that a security guard at a preschool would even be necessary). He remembers every. single. child's. name. He compliments Lauren constantly on her outfits and welcomes her with a gentle smile. Often, Lauren bows her head in shyness, but she always gingerly reaches out her hand to him. No matter how many other children are arriving, Mr. Lee almost always, and I mean always takes her hand and walks with her to the door. While she has never actually admitted it, it is so clear how much such a simple gesture means to our child, and in turn, to us.

Well, this morning, the relief of seeing Mr. Lee's familiar face spurred something in her. The characteristic shyness evaporated and she broke away to effusively greet him.



Thank you Mr. Lee, for your warmth and dedication to the children of our school and particularly, our daughter.

The ebullient welcome didn't end there. After posing for a quick photo op in the reception area . . . . .


We spotted favorite teacher Miss Phyllis, and Lauren ran, no, she literally sprinted straight into her arms.



By this point, my eyes were so clouded with tears, it's amazing I could even see through the camera lens. Good thing it has an automatic focus.

We bounded down the long hallway to classroom number 6.



Then outside into the cool mist to be swarmed by friends who excitedly called her name.



Our little girl beamed and with barely a wave to her Mama, ventured off to enchant everybody with her own independent, rockin' self.




I last glimpsed her giggling and running across the dew-encrusted grass, arms pumping, legs scurrying, and auburn hair spread across her shoulders.



Only then could I bring myself to turn away and retreat to the car, filled to the brim with love and the knowledge that our baby has turned into a beautiful, friendly, fun-loving and vivacious little girl. And she's gonna be more than all right.