The first of many firsts...

...was the first day of school for Mirai. Well, preschool anyway. She's three years old and, as today bore out, more than ready for the experience. We had our "Meet and Greet" last Thursday evening when we "met" her teacher (whom we already know but it's all part of the experience) and took her to see her new classroom. And, more importantly, she was shown her seat at the classroom table, complete with a nameplate!

Papa and Mirai before the school meeting

Gramma Cheri after the meeting taking Mirai to her classroom

"This is MY spot!"

At home already

Last night was pre-school-pre-prep (okay, not a real word, but it SHOULD be). Early bath and shampoo - check. Fingernails trimmed and ears thoroughly cleaned - check. Clothing laid out for the next morning - check. Lots of bedtime stories and hugs and kisses before prayers and bedtime - check. Backpack ready with required school items - check.

Lunch made and put in the fridge - check.

A really good night's sleep and very hard to wake up this morning despite going to bed early - check. :)

Still sleepy but she's ready to go with handbag in place...

The realization that, no, she could NOT take her babies with her to school

After a breakfast of bagels (aka "cookie? COOKIE!" - who am I to argue about the exact name of carbs?) and milk, we were off to school. It went without a hitch. She was so excited to have her backpack and lunchbox. She marched into the school, put her backpack and lunchbox on her hook in the hall and went to her seat without a backward glance. So I left (after snapping a photo or two).

Her teacher, Miss Lela, said she did well and I could tell that, although she was tired, she'd had a good day.

Miss Lela brings her out and puts her in her car seat - this
Gramma is learning the pick-up routine...again! ;)

After we got home following the end of the school day, I noticed she was singing the Happy Birthday song - evidently there was a birthday celebration at school. I continue to be amazed and pleased at her ability to hear and repeat songs. All in all, it was a BIG day for a special LITTLE girl who continues to delight and amaze us. God bless you, Mirai. We're so proud of you.