The Beginning of The School Year

Sometimes I wasn't sure if Nanny was setting me up or not.

When Mini started a preschool program, I called Nan the first day.

I'd tell her how much I missed my munchkin and that we should get together soon.

She'd reassure me that my girl was fine and I shouldn't worry.

This happened when my daughter started UPK as well. It was a new school so I was nervous.

Than again, the following year for Kindergarten, it was yet another new school. Again, the nerves snuck in so I called Nan on the first day.

First day of first grade was rough for me. Yet another new school and this one was HUGE.

What if she got lost going to the nurse's office?

What if she couldn't find her classroom and just got lost?

My nerves were shot and I paced most of the morning. Around lunch time, I called Nan. I relayed my fears and I could almost hear her roll her eyes. She again, as she had each previous year, told me my girl would be fine.

Halfway through the year, I had dropped my daughter off at school late. Her classroom was downstairs and around the corner. The woman at the front asked her if she wanted me to walk her down. She said no and walked through the doors by herself.

I must've had some look on my face because the lovely woman offered me a tissue. I called Nan in tears when I got home. She thought it was hilarious! She giggled as I told her what happened. She reminded me that I wanted her to be independent and that it was a sign I was doing a good job.

I needed to hear that.

Second grade wasn't as bad. I called Nan like I always had on the first day. I was a lot calmer than in previous years. When Nan asked me how I was doing I said that I felt okay since it was the same school as last year and she knows the school and I volunteer so Ill be there a lot.

Nan got quiet. "You mean you don't miss your own daughter?"

I was speechless for a minute, then Nan cracked up.

"Are you serious?" I asked. "Have you been setting me up for the past few years just for this moment?"

She just laughed and thinking about it still makes me smile.

That was the last First Day of School that Nan was around for. She passed away the following Summer. Mini is finishing elementary school this year and I wish that Nan was around for when she starts Middle School in the Fall.

I have no one else to call.