Quinn's First Day of School

This past week was Quinn's first day of school.  We were worried about what she would do and how she would be.  Mick and Grammy started the process of talking about school and getting her excited about it while we were in South Africa.  Then when we came back we continued to talk to her about it.  On the morning of her first day we got her ready, packed her knapsack and watched her reaction.

She was actually really excited to go.  We talked about the bus coming and her teacher and she seemed very happy.

We waited for the bus together and Ronin as usual entertained himself while waiting.

When the bus did arrive, Quinn was so excited she ran for the bus and found her seat and was so happy.  It was such a relief we didn't have to carry her on and then try and lock her in.  There was a mix up on the bus stuff so her first day she didn't have a seat belt.  We talked with the bus driver and told her to give it a go and she will probably just stay in her seat.  She ended up doing just that and it was more difficult to get her out.  After she got picked up Brenda and I, with Ronin, stalked the bus and went to the school to see how she did coming off the bus.  I walked fairly close so I could see her.  I saw her Teaching Assistant go on the bus and then eventually Quinn came out holding hands.  She would take 4 steps and then stop.   Look around and try and figure what this is all about.  Take 4 more steps and stop again.  The TA was so patient with her and eventually she went into the area with all the other kids.  She was so cute and so big.  Hard to believe 4 years have passed.

It was a special day for her but as I stood there watching her it was a reminder that Quinn was different.  I watched other parents walk with their kids and complain about clothes, shoes, backpacks and other insignificant things and I was just hoping my little girl wasn't made fun of.  I was hoping other people could see all the love this little girl has in her heart.  I was hoping that someday I was more concerned about clothes than therapy or doctor appointments.  It was hard to see how other people live.  Then I shook my head and focused on this amazing little girl that fights every step of the way and has laughs and smiles for everyone.  Life isn't easy but she is finding her way.

On her first day Quinn didn't have a snack at didn't nap at daycare.  So much to take in and too much to see to really slow down to eat and sleep!  The next day she ran on the bus and had a great day. She has been so happy to go to school.  It is such a relief.  She is such a beautiful old soul.  Here is a video of her dash to the bus with her brother trailing behind!!!