Dear Ethan,
I can hardly believe we’ve reached this moment. As you sleep soundly, clutching your favorite stuffed animals and surrounded by a sea of toys and books, I can’t help but reflect on how quickly time has flown. You likely have a secret binky hidden away, just in case the nighttime sounds stir you awake. I know the routine all too well; I tuck it back under your pillow every morning, keeping your little secret safe just a bit longer.
Tomorrow marks a significant milestone for us: your first day of kindergarten. The mere thought of it takes my breath away. For six years, this day felt distant, a day I often imagined while you were nestled in my arms. Now, it’s just hours away. While I know you’re more than prepared for this adventure, I’m not sure how I will handle it.
I’ve pondered how to capture this moment in a photo. Should I opt for something humorous about what your teachers might be in for, or stick to the classic, “How is this happening?” Upon further reflection, the words that resonate most are simply: Thank you.
Thank you for being my greatest joy and turning my life upside down in the best way. Thank you for making me a mother. You’ve taught me to cherish the little moments while preparing me for the bittersweet act of letting go. You will always be my greatest achievement, my first glimpse of unconditional love. It sounds cliché, but watching you grow feels like witnessing my heart beat outside of my chest.
Parenting is a complex journey. In the beginning, I had a tiny, dependent being who needed me for everything. Those early days were overwhelming, filled with sleepless nights and countless doubts. I often recall a mother’s words: “One day, you’ll put them down and never pick them up again.” I remind myself to relish each fleeting moment because before I know it, you’ll be a little man taking on the world. And that’s when the real challenge begins—letting go.
Letting go is no easy feat. It requires both faith and courage, qualities I sometimes struggle to find. The past six years have been a beautiful whirlwind of motherhood, filled with adventures and memories I’ve tried to capture in photos and stories. Yet, as you step onto that bus tomorrow, your journey will truly begin, and I’ll be left to watch you grow further away from being my little boy.
I will miss our daily escapades, from grocery store adventures to snuggling on the couch for “Curious George” marathons while the twins (pretend to) nap. However, I know this transition will be worth it. I look forward to hearing about your new friends and teachers, and all the exciting experiences school will bring. It’s a bittersweet day as I realize the bus is taking you one step closer to growing up, while I can only hope I’ve equipped you well for what lies ahead.
You’re ready for this, Ethan. If anyone is prepared to face the world, it’s you! “Oh, the places you will go!” You’re everything I ever wished for in a son—smart, funny, and a natural leader with your own unique style. Most importantly, you have the confidence to be yourself, and I hope you never lose that. So, as you board that bus tomorrow, I won’t cry for the boy you’re leaving behind but rather shed tears of pride for the wonderful young man you’re becoming.
Tomorrow, you officially become a kindergartner. I hope this school year opens doors to amazing opportunities! Make new friends, learn new things, and always remember Mommy’s rules: be kind to everyone, question everything, and most importantly, always be true to yourself—just leave out the “poopy butt” talk and obsession with pretend weapons.
Love you to the moon and back, and more than all the stars in between,
Mommy
For more insights into the journey of motherhood, check out this blog post. If you’re considering at-home insemination, you can find reputable kits at Make a Mom. Additionally, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development offers excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Leave a Reply