Everything I need to know, I learned in Kindergarten...

Goodness, it feels like just yesterday we were counting down until the first day of kindergarten, and that's not just a saying... we literally did a 10 day countdown complete with presents, activities, and words of wisdom from our closest friends and family. 

Dear lord, the energy I had. 

I justify this crazy because our first kid was having this major life moment which meant our family was having a major life moment. (I only regretted it a little since this then required us to do to more countdowns because I am nothing if not a consistent parent.) 

These first borns, y'all... they have to share all the firsts with us - we are all literally doing everything for the first time at the same time, except as parents we're supposed to know what we are doing. Spoiler alert - we do not know what are doing.

I fear I didn't plan an elaborate countdown to senior year - kindergarten mom is totally judging me. But I did go re-read that "lesson plan" and wouldn't you know that all those people that loved you then (and still love you now) had some great wisdom that applies all these years later.  Here are some of my favorites: 

• Pick your friends with care - they are a reflection of you. - Pops
• Always be yourself. Try new things. Be ready for new challenges. - Gigi
• One day it will all make perfect sense. - Uncle Pete 
• Just do YOUR best. - Uncle Jody
• Work hard. Have fun. Kiss a girl. Make new friends. - Nana 
• Be nice to your teacher. Work hard. Have fun. - Jenni
• It's only a mistake if you don't learn from it. - Uncle Josh
• Walk humbly with God and give all glory to Him. - Tia
• Be kind to everyone. There will always be someone in class that needs a friend. - KK

In all these years, you've learned these lessons and more. But you know what, you've taught me and others so much along the way. Proud of you, kid. You may have entered a season of lasts, but I can't help but think of all the firsts there are to come and how lucky we are to be part of each and every one of them!