Back to School

It's the first day of school, and children everywhere have butterflies in there tummies, and parents are skipping around like it's the most wonderful time of the year.

We have mixed emotions around here. It's exciting to get on a new schedule as the summer wears on, and yet it's terrifying knowing that the children are in fact growing and embarking on another year that will surely fly by at the speed of light and the days of fun in the sun at the beach and playing with friends until the street lights come on are over.

Good bye freedom, hello homework.

And hello to these cuties who are ready with their backpacks, supplies, new clothes and nerves!

Brooke and Christian go to school together every day as Ashlyn has afternoon kindergarten and Madison's school starts 20 minutes later.

BRACES!

Put on yesterday, the day before school starts. What great timing! Poor thing was so uncomfortable.

Christian is super-duper excited that he gets to be in 2nd grade with his best bud, Harrison. Those two boys! Look out Mrs. Berman! (His brothers Sam and William wanted to get in on the picture).

We couldn't be more thrilled that Brooke got Mrs. Babcock! She's the best!!!

Madison is starting 7th grade and was eagerly met by her buddies Bridget, Malory and Fatimah once she arrived at her locker. I think these same girls were in her 6th grade picture, too.

Now it's time for Ashlyn to go to school. I made her a tote bag (recommended for K) and she picked out the fabric. It's so cute!

Walking our last baby in to kindergarten.

She has two lovely and wonderful teachers (who've had all the Merrill kids!).

Mrs. Barkman and Mrs. Zdenek ... we love you!

They eagerly hugged Ashlyn and said "Our last Merrill!"

Ashlyn found her desk and was so excited that dad was able to escape work for a few minutes to walk her in.

She jumped right in and became the line leader and had a great first day of school. Not knowing anyone in her class, we were a bit concerned, but pleased for the opportunity for her to grow and learn to make new friends. The first thing she said after school was, "I made a new friend!"

On the 2nd day of school, Ashlyn's still so excited and loves to dress up for it and have her hair done just so. I wish I took a picture of her on the 3rd day when she had Shirley Temple curls.

Being goofy and posing. Soooo Ashlyn.