Sophia's in Pre-School!

Sophia is rapidly approaching three years old and with that comes the ol' passage to pre-school. I thought that because she'd been going to a cooperative day-care twice a week -- which meant that I worked there for half a day each week -- the transition would be virtually pain-free.

Not so.

The first day of school was wonderful. Papa and I both took her to see her off on this auspicious day.

Sophia walked in to find a play produce stand complete with cash register, plastic fruit and milk containers. She went straight to the cash register where she quickly learned how to open it up and grab the cash.

While she was at work with the produce stand, Sebastian and I got the 10 minute tour showing us where her belongings go (i.e., the cubby for her changes of clothing for each day in case of accidents as they don't allow diapers even during naps), the outdoor area, the play room, and the bathroom complete with a very low to the ground toilet and matching sink.

We turned to Sophia as we neared the door, and Sophia could barely pull herself away from the free money to say good-bye (while I, on the other hand, cried in the car.)

When I picked her up from school, the first thing she said was "I made money!" Ah, Papa's girl!

The next day was fine again, and I marveled at her independence though perhaps in the back of my mind a little sad that she was able to grow up so easily, with barely a glance good-bye.

The third day though, things began to break down. Sophia didn't want to get out of bed (she is quite the night owl), didn't want to get dressed, and complained that she didn't want to go back to the "new school." After pulling out my hair to get her dressed, fed, and on the bicycle to get there on time (they close and lock the doors promptly at 9am -- if you don't make it, you're out for the day), she cried loudly and gripped my legs as I tried to exit. It took two teachers to hold her while I made my escape.

This same procedure has repeated every day since until (FINALLY!) today when she gave me a kiss good-bye, said she loved me, pointed out to Teacher Jenny that I would, in fact, be back for her after her nap, and reminded me that she fully expected a treat of chocolate milk when it was all over. (Hallelujah!)

Hopefully our transition is over.