First Grade

This morning I sent my children off to their first day of school.   That is, at least, my children who are attending our home school district.  Jamee moved back to Saint Louis on Monday and Grant started his college classes the same day.  But today Jade began her senior year, Brock started as a sophomore, Moise went to 6th grade.  Even Kruz started with a new babysitter.  

The house was abuzz with activity.  We took the customary front porch pictures.  All the while, tucked away in the back of my mind was the keen, aching awareness that something was missing.  Laynee should have been here in the mix of back to school.  She should have gone to first grade.  

I think this day, this first day of school, does not get better.  It does not hurt less.  I will miss her.....always... on the first day of school.

She loved her back pack so much.  She was so proud.  This day, when this picture was taken, she refused to look at the camera.  She just wanted to look at her new back pack.  So today, like last year, I took a crisp new back pack to her grave.  Minnie Mouse this time.  I am pretty sure she would love Minnie Mouse.   I have decided that this will be a back to school tradition.  The back pack doesn't ease the pain, not even a little, but it's something that I can do for my little girl.  

I LOVE YOU LAYNEE GRACE