Goodybest Story: My Daughter's First Day In School September 25th, 2024

Dear Diary,

Wednesday was a monumental day in my little family - my sweet only daughter's day of school. She's two years old, and before yesterday, she'd been crying to follow her brothers to school each day we dropped them at school. So, my husband and I decided she would start this term. As I reflect on this bittersweet moment, I feel different kinds of emotions sweeping through me. I mean, it's hard to believe that my tiny baby of yesterday, whom I used to cradle in my arms, is now a (school girl) stepping out into the world with a backpack 🎒 twice her size. Haha 😂

This morning began with a mix of excitement and anxiety. I woke up earlier to prepare for the day. I ironed their uniforms; Wednesdays are their sports day; I cleaned their white sneakers and then prepared and packed their lunch box before 6 in the morning.

^{fried rice plantain and eggs}

When they woke up their father brushed their mouth and bathed them while I made their breakfast, which was custard and bread. I fed my daughter while her brothers ate by themselves, it was just a blend of smiles and some slight reluctance to eat. Her eyes were gleaming with curiosity, and I wanted her to feel confident and comfortable. So As I dressed her up, I twirled her around, and she giggled; I wanted to make sure she was ready to conquer the day ahead.

Her brothers were assuring her that school would be fun, that she would find new friends, and they would be exciting activities. I injected enthusiasm into my voice while reminding her of her beautiful pink bag, colorful crayons, and playground waiting for her, haha 😂.

When we arrived at the school, I carried her out from the car with her school bag, and she was holding me tightly; I felt the familiar rush of protectiveness; the thought of her navigating a new environment made my heart race. I paused to take a deep breath, reminding myself that this was an essential step for her independence, and then took her to her classroom.

Inside the classroom, her teacher welcomed her and took her bag from me, I dropped her, other children were there, I knelt to her level, looking deep into her bright eyes, and whispered "Remember I'll be here when you're done, I love you so much baby be a good girl." I kissed her on the forehead. She nodded, stepped a bit forward, and told me bye-bye. Sincerely, the moment felt like an eternity.

As I turned to leave, a wave of sadness washed over me. It was the first time I left her with a total stranger; I know for sure she would miss me because we're always together. Would she fit in? I told myself Goodybest, you won't cry; this journey is for you all. I made my way back to the car, with a sense mingled with loss and pride. My little princess was taking her first steps toward becoming her person.

Throughout the day, I busied myself, trying to keep my mind off her absence. I went to the market to shopped materials for a very important event that was coming this December, but then I glanced at the clock more times than I could count; I wasn't imagining her playing, laughing, and learning. I couldn’t wait to hear about her day; I tried calling her teacher, and her lines were off; yes, they don't use their phones during school hours. Well, nervousness causes it, I knew it would be a mix of new experiences and shy smiles. I left the market before 1:30 PM so that I could pick up my baby early. When the time finally arrived to pick her up, I was filled with anticipation.

As soon as I approached, she spotted me and ran into my arms, her face lit up with joy. “Mom! Mom! I hugged her, I asked her teacher how she was doing, and she said she's such a happy girl! My heart swelled with pride. I called her siblings to come down and we talked all the way home, filled with stories about their new friends and fun activities. I realized that this was the beginning of an amazing adventure for her.

At home, we all showered; I fed her and put her to sleep because she didn't sleep in school; I read their communications and responded too.

Wednesday was the day that marked a new chapter for my baby girl; I will always cherish the moments of holding her close, and I embrace the joy of watching her grow. I tucked her into bed that night. I am hopeful and grateful to the Almighty God; I know that she's ready to face the world one little step at a time.