Moving On

Riley has been at the YWCA daycare/preschool since she was 8 months old.  We have both really enjoyed her being a student there.  She was constantly learning and growing under their care, and I knew she was well cared for, safe and loved.  I truly count this place, and the teachers there, as a huge, HUGE blessing in our lives. 

Still, all good things come to an end.  Even this. 

Riley was voted the "Best Smiler" of her class.  I agree! 

Last week, they officially "graduated" the class of kids who will be moving on to Kindergarten with a little graduation ceremony.  It was cute in the way these things are - kids singing and smiling, parents beaming, a few tears here and there (yeah, I mean me...) 

With two of her school friends - these girls have been friends since they were TINY. 

The Girl sang and danced - I think she liked the attention. Shocking, I know.  

 Leaving the most precious part of my world somewhere everyday is a hard thing, but honestly, the teachers she has had over the past several years have been so amazing and have made it not just doable, but easy to feel great about.  They have taken incredible care of Riley and have taught her so much more than just letters and numbers.  They have encouraged her to think creatively, helped her understand her world a bit better and have helped ME understand how to better parent my own child.  They have been more than I ever could have asked for when looking for someone to nurture, love and teach my little girl; there are no people on earth I would trust more.   

Candace

Jen

Kajsa

 

Taylor

You can see in the photos that Riley loves all her teachers and they adore her right back.  Even though it's on to a new chapter for the us, I will always be so grateful that her education started out this way, in this place.  It's been the best possible option for her, and for me, for the past four years.