an early morning and quiet at home

Last night there were 2 pairs of shoes lined up beneath the old school desk that sits in our kitchen.  I walked by many times and was awestruck by 2 sets of shoes instead of the single pair set out on school mornings. 

Yes, this year 2 of them will go and 2 of us will stay.  

For some reason this time feels vastly different.  

Sending my first off to kindergarten didn't feel nearly this final or hard.  Perhaps it is because my second is so young or maybe it is just a major milestone that pulls at my heartstrings because it marks the swift passage of time.  Either way, these little sentimental moments and milestones force me to pause and remember how precious the time with my children is to me.

With her hand in Daddy's and her sisters behind, she marched up to school with a cheerful but slightly hesitant demeanor this morning.

She enjoyed having the entire family along for the start of a new day at school.

Her big sister was an amazing helper and encouraging presence as she talked her sister through all the day's events.

 I am delighted they will be together and have each other.

With these 2 gone, it has been very quiet around the house.  The quiet is sometimes soothing and other times eerie and unsettling.  The little tats, sweet imaginations and sisterly play were missed but we look forward to many afternoons with these wonderful sisters!