And how can I not be a bit emotional? That is a bit of an understatement. I was a mess of tears, but thank goodness for hugs and friends.
Tatum was up a bit before me, all dressed and ready. She came into the bedroom as I was getting Cooper out and ready for his walk. She wanted to go with me on this new day.
I bought a few kiwis to brighten her muffin. The seeds looked too much like crawly things, so it was the first time she didn’t finish her breakfast. I mean this NEVER happens. But, I did try to make it special and that mattered to her the most.
We got out of the house in record time but first, look how adorable she looks.
The cuteness gives me cavities, srsly.
We got to school in time for lineup. Charlotte wore her jumper today. OH, the love!
The whole school (only 1st-12th) headed to the gym for a welcome ceremony for all including parents. They started as every day they start: the pledge to the American flag, pledge to the Christian flag, and pledge to the Bible. Then 2 seniors sang “Bless the Lord O’ My Soul.” and we all sang. Prayers and love to the students. It was remarkable and made me grateful for the covering on this school, on the teachers, and on the students. Blessing BEYOND BELIEF. The hugs from parents calmed my heart too.
I headed off to coffee with some of the moms from her class. We did have a nice time, but I was still a bit sad. Am I ridiculous? Probably.
She had the “BEST DAY EVER” and reported that she loves Mrs. Finnman and seeing all her friends.
That night, we had a very deep conversation about friendship and how sometimes friends let us down but we still remain kind and forgiving. We also discussed why does God allow evil. Yes, she wanted to know. (I did say, let’s have a conversation about ANYTHING on your mind). I mentioned something I had heard: With shadows, you need to have sun. With sun, you don’t need shadows. In other words, with the presence of evil, there IS GOOD. We can know that God allows this but only for a time. He CAN’T force love upon us, but He can promise us eternal life and a life of HIS strength and love to keep us afloat. It’s our choice. He loved us all so much that He did send His son!
We also talked about her adoption. I told her August 22nd is coming and that we WILL celebrate. The best day ever for me! (The day I received the phone call about her). She asked me why the girl who carried her couldn’t keep her. I told her that she never wanted to be a mom, but she knew I had prayed and that TATUM was chosen for me. SHE WAS WANTED; not an accident.
It was an emotional day. I see that she is growing up, but I see that we are growing in our relationship. The most important thing for Tatum is that she loves the LORD more than she loves the world. The next is our relationship being strong and open.
I can’t wait to see how God uses you this year, my sweet girl.