And so it begins...

This week we began a whole new phase for our family. Grant went to 1st grade! He was nervous and excited. A new school, a new uniform, and a much longer day than any of us are used to. He has had a good week, but a very trying emotional week. Tears have been shed. This isn't that surprising since its his way of dealing with stress when he's overwhelmed. But we are thankful he wakes up everyday and ready to go and tackle it again. We really think over the next few weeks we'll all adjust to the new situation and enjoy the structure school provides.

We chose to put Grant in a private school that offers a Classical Christian education. If you aren't familiar with the Classical approach, Chuck Swindoll just did a great breakpoint on it this week. You can check it out here: http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/breakpoint/listen/classical-schools-back-to-a-better-education-218122.html

We learned of the Classical approach before Grant could even walk and we fell in love with the school at that point and knew it would be something we would at least have to try for our family. As the time got closer, many obstacles came in the way. The school is located 25 minutes away and is in a temporary location since it doesn't have the funds to build (the school is in its 5th year). But we both knew that it was our first choice and decided to make a go of it. God answered prayers very abundantly. The car pool situation is a huge blessing! I am okay with Grant traveling that far but I was not willing to make my younger two spend hours in the car each week taking Grant back and fourth. Currently, we share the responsibility with 3 other families. So in a month that has 40 trips, we drive 10 of those. What a praise!! We are taking it year by year, but so far the positives are way outweighing the negatives. Not to mention there are only 7 kids in his class. We love the small class, and feel its a great fit with Grant's personality.

I am surprised by how much I miss Grant during the day. I am trying to pray for Grant every time that twinge of missing him hits, so he is definitely being covered in prayer throughout the day. Don't get me wrong, its easier having just two most of the day to take care of. I think it just makes me even more thankful for the years I did get to spend with him - all day, every day:-) I know its so cliched, but its true - the days are long, but the years are short. On a bright side, I am loving seeing the friendship develop between Evan and Colin. Now that Colin doesn't have his big buddy to play with, he suddenly has a lot more interest in Evan. Evan loves it and I love hearing the chuckles they share so often during the day.
Today Colin and Evan were being particularly quiet in the playroom together. I went to check on my little buddies and found them hidden in the corner eating -a big no, no outside of the kitchen. But when I realized they had nabbed apples as their forbidden snack, I couldn't help but laugh.

On a serious note, my neighbor received some terrifying news last week. Her 5 year old daughter has been diagnosed with brain cancer that has spread to her spine... The week she was scheduled to start kindergarten she instead underwent her first surgery to remove the tumor from her brain. If you think of it, please pray for this family. They have a long road ahead of them. If you would like to find out more and follow her story, you can search for EllaReidMasonnews on carepages. The family appreciates your prayers during this trial!! It has made me step back and realize how many frivolous things that I set my mind on during the day and I am making a concentrated effort to appreciate each moment I have with my loved ones. Its a gift, not a given!