It's time...

So a new chapter in our lives are beginning here in our home. Natalie is 5 and she is starting Kindergarten in 2 weeks. I am filled with anxiety and worry. She has not gone to pre-school or had any experience other than a summer program 2 years ago for a couple of weeks. She is so smart, and such a quick learner that I'm not worried about her adjusting or learning or making new friends or listening or being respectful. I'm worried about losing control. I'm worried that I cannot control who she plays with and is influenced by. I cannot control the words she learns and uses at her own free will. I cannot control the family backgrounds, morals and values that will challenge her as she is developing her OWN self. I understand that I just need to teach her to be her OWN self, to make her OWN decisions, and to remember what I've taught her. To not follow just to belong, but to stand up for what she believes in and let others follow HER. It's the first time I'm not in control. I don't like it. Not one bit.

Same goes for Michael. He begins pre-school. He's such a different kid than Natalie. He is a boy, but a very timid one. I hope that soccer brings out more boy in him. He's such a tender little heart who gets his feelings hurt VERY easily. But it's time for me to let go a little and watch the rest of them develop. I've nurtured their wings, I've done the best I can at teaching them how to fly, and now I pray that they fly in the right direction...

Kaytlin, on the other hand, is a TRIP! She is potty training right now - all on her own. I have not pushed at all and she is doing AWESOME! She doesn't use a potty chart or stickers or m&m's or anything. Her only reinforcement is a "Pee Pee High FIVE!" to everyone around. She's totally content with that! YAY! We need to work on the pooping part on the potty though. She hasn't done that yet. Last night, in undies, on a walk with Daddy and Grandpa, decided she had to go. They did NOT make it home...I have to say - I'm glad I was not home! She received the 2nd bath of the day! Ewwww....

So because I have so many thoughts, and this is such a fun, new chapter in our lives, I decided to actually do something with the blog I created back in March. Pictures later...baby steps...