First Day of School Traditions

I love traditions. One tradition that I started when Katie first went to pre-school was to take a first and last day of school picture. And this year was no different. Except that this year, even though today was the first day of school for both of my girls, I could only take a picture of Madeleine.



As I was taking the photo, it occurred to me that I wouldn't take any more first day of school pictures of Katie. And it made me feel a little nostalgic. A few hours later, I was checking my cell phone and look what I found...

Katie had taken a first day of school picture of herself and sent it to me as a text message! She had titled the photo "first day of school". Is that the sweetest thing ever? I honestly can't think of a time I've been more touched by a gesture. I spoke to her on the phone later in the day and told how much I appreciated it and how happy it made me. She said that she knew I would be feeling sad and that it would cheer me up. God, I love that girl!

Another first day of school tradition that I started about 8 years ago, is that I spend part of that day at the little beach on the bay in my town. Usually I take my trusty beach chair, a book and some lunch. I sit and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the beach (one of my favorite places to be) and I stroll along the water's edge. It's a quiet, peaceful and serene way to catch my breath after a hectic summer. I love the sense of renewal I feel whenever I am at the beach. Here are some photos from today: