Back to School Bravery

On Tuesday of last week, Ethan had a 24 hour stomach virus.  He was a sick little guy for a little while there but his brother was more than happy to keep him company while they played Ipad and piled stuffed animals on the bed. It was sweet!

By that evening Ethan was feeling a little better and his fever was gone so to cheer him up Josh challenged the boys to a Nerf war after he got home from work...I don't know who enjoys it more, Josh or the kids, ha!

We spent Saturday at Opry Mills back to school shopping and of course Ethan had to ride the train that is inside the mall.  Landen would have loved the train ride too but we left him at home with grandparents since he isn't much of a shopper.  Ethan loved the new Lego store at the mall!  He has been saving his allowance for a few weeks and spent every last dollar in there.  Of course, he had to try on clothes in order to go to the Lego store.  I can pretty much judge on shirts without him having to try them on but pants/jeans are another story.

One day earlier this week I found them in Ethan's bed watching cartoons and snacking with their cowboy hats on....crack up!!!

Yesterday, Ethan went to stay with his Nannie for a few hours to enjoy some time together before school started back and Landen came into the kitchen wearing these Cookie Monster goggles and said "Wike my gwasses Mama?"  I could kiss his cheeks off!

And last but not least, today Ethan headed back to school.  Our Summer break has come to an end and he is a big 2nd grader now!

Ethan showing off his new backpack...

Landen wanted shoes and a "pac-pac" like brother.

This morning was hard. You would think that by 2nd grade you would be used to them going to school but it's difficult to entrust your child with a teacher who you've met once.  It was also hard because Ethan decided that he didn't want me to walk him into school on the first day for the first time EVER.  He said it makes him cry when I leave the room.  I was so sad but so proud at the same time.  He is so mature sometimes and I am proud that he was able to face his first day on his own.  He was a little nervous and needed a little reassurance last night and again this morning but he was BRAVE when it came time to get out of the truck!  His little brother cried saying "Jar come back".  He will miss having him home to play with and fuss with.  And I might have shed a tear or two as I watched my almost eight year old (who by the way, should still be four) walk into school without me on the first day.  I found this quote that suited today...

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"Listen to the desires of your children. Encourage them and then give them the autonomy to make their own decision."  - Denis Waitley

Well, I am headed out shortly to pick up my sweet boy and hopefully hear about his AWESOME day!!