Henry and Highschool

Oh Henry! Isn't he sweet? He is such a happy easy going baby. Except for when he is teething. Which is now. Poor baby. Those top teeth are ready to pop through and his little gums are swollen and sore. Bless his heart! I wanted to make sure I captured a picture of him toothless, because when a baby gets those top teeth in it just changes the way they look.

He has taken a couple of steps, like two, unassisted. If you let him hold your hands he is off and walking. Oh goodness. I am not ready for that. I imagine before the month is over he will be on his way and won't sit still for long. 

Joseph and Julia started school this week. Joe had freshman orientation the last two days. Today is the first full day for the entire school. It was busier this morning dropping him off. Lots of guys walking in the building with their backpacks. (Joe didn't have his) I pulled in the roundabout, he opened the door, grabbed his big stack of books, juggled his football duffel bag over his shoulder. We exchanged glances. He gave me a look that I will never forget. He raised his eyebrows and sighed. I could see the look of fear and excitement in his eyes. I can't even tell you how strong the urge was to get out of the car and run over there and give him a big hug, and then help him inside and make sure he got to his locker ok, and was able to remember his combination and make sure he could find his classes, and that he didn't eat lunch alone. I know, I am ridiculous. Instead, I sat in my van that was loaded with his siblings. I told him I loved him. "Keep your eyes and ears open. Call me later.", I said. I watched as he blended into the crowd of 1400 other young men. He is on his way.

Comments

[hermes bag]

I love this boy. very lovely!

[Melissa]

Me too...same as Julie....what a tearjerker post!

[C]

Hi Kirsten :)
I think I've only commented once before but I had to drop you a note on this post. Our family is similar to yours in number and the fact we've homeschooled using a variety of charlotte mason and various other catholic curricula along the way. Through prayer we've decided to send our oldest of eight to high school this year- a freshman. We had open house last night and he starts on Monday. I came home last night and sobbed! You are not ridiculous. This is so hard, I know. I'll add your Joe to my daily prayers for my own son, Isaac. My consolation is that our Blessed Mother, and theirs, will go into the building with them and make sure of all the things we cannot. God bless you and yours!
Corrine

[Julie]

I am totally crying over this! I'm right there with ya, they are growing up way too fast!!!