Dear moms,

I can remember so clearly, when I opened our little fireproof safe and found a birth certificate and social security card. I went to the bill drawer and found our latest electric bill for proof of residence. I drove by the doctor’s office to pick up immunization records. I showed up at registration and was certain I deserved a trophy when I walked in with all of the afore mentioned papers, including three different versions of an emergency contact form.

I was shocked when I was just one mom of 342 that had all the correct papers. I squared my shoulders and resolved myself that I was still special; that moms are unique creatures capable of filing amazing amounts of information to be collected at just the right time.

I remember the first morning. Perfect lunchbox? Check. Picture? Check. Picture in front of the school? Check. Picture with dad? Check.

I remember driving away after dropping her off. I remember pulling over a few blocks later. I remember just taking a deep sigh. Tears.

Who could I call? I could call mom, but she would worry. I could call my husband, but he’s at work. McDonalds. I’ll go by McDonald’s. As I pulled up, I was probably the 14th car in line. All the mamas trying to drown their sorrow with a Dr. Pepper and a plain biscuit with strawberry jam.

It felt like the last of the firsts. I kinda didn’t know what to do with that.

But I have awesome news for you. There are so many more firsts. Things get even more fun and more exciting! You get to show them your favorite Audrey Hepburn movie. You get to quote Lord of the Rings together. You get to debate about taxes and immigration.

Keep watering that garden, mama. Those flowers are just beginning to blossom.

You did it, sweet thing. You made it to the first day of kindergarten.

Love you so much,

Kate – One mama just a few years down the road