Defining Parent Moments.

I think it's safe to say that most parents question themselves and their decisions constantly. I know I am always asking myself if we are doing the right things while raising our crazy kids. Most of the time it's things like 'did they eat enough vegetables today?' or 'what time should a two year old really be going to sleep?'- but sometimes it's the bigger questions like 'are they independent and confident in themselves?'

And today I got that answer and it honestly was one of those mommy moments I have both dreaded and looked forward to.

Henry has been in the same daycare center since he was about 4 months old. We love it there and more importantly, our kids love it. He has moved from the baby room to the toddler room and most recently [today] on to the preschool room he went- 7 months early with special permission from the state licensing.

That in and of itself is awesome but the past month or so he has been having a hard time at drop offs- crying, screaming, etc. We attribute it to being used being home with me and being ready to move up to the next classroom.

Well this morning was Henry's first official day as a preschooler. Never have I seen him so proud and excited. He was telling everyone that he was going to be a big preschooler as we walked in the door. I wanted it to be a little special so we dropped Holden [who ran in dancing] and Hazel [who smiled and 'talked' to her teacher as I handed her off] off in their rooms together and then walked into his new room hand in hand.

He was a tiny bit hesitant at first but he walked to his brand new cubby and hung up his jacket and extra clothes, then walked into the room with all the 'big kids'. His teacher asked him what kind of cereal he would like for breakfast- he said "Life"- hugged me and went to sit at the table. With regular chairs. Not little baby toddler chairs.

I got tears in my eyes as I walked out to my car. It was then that I realized Ryan & I are doing something right as parents. He is a smart, confident, silly and genuinely nice little boy.

It's hard to see them grow up so fast but it's in these little moments that I am so glad they are.