Hannah's First Day at School

Hannah started at Genentech's brand new daycare/preschool facility yesterday. It was the first change we made in her child care since she was born, so it was a little traumatic all around. Lots of kids flip out when they first leave the house and go to a full-time program, so we were expecting the worse, but Hannah did OK. We both went to drop her off, and when I left, she said "Bye Daddy, love you" without being prompted. And then when Maria left to go to work shortly thereafter, Hannah said "By Mommy, don't forget to smell the flowers!" Keep in mind, Hannah is not even 2 yet. We'd never heard her say that before, so it took us by surprise and was just about the sweetest thing she could say.

She cried on and off throughout the day, as people came and left her classroom, or when the other new kid got upset. She didn't nap, but that's not surprising since she's used to napping in her crib, alone, as opposed to in a room full of kids and toys and teachers. All things considered, she did great. There's tons of things at the center to stimulate her and help her continue developing, and the center's staff seems great. They're trained educators, so they can provide Hannah with things that even Maria and I could not. They play outside, do arts and crafts, sing, and even have an organic kitchen for snacks and lunch. It's kinda like a full-time Summer Camp. I kinda wish I could hang out there all day!

Today was a little better than yesterday. She cried less, napped for an hour, and seemed to have more energy when she got home. I'm sure we're not far away from the point where she'll be throwing a tantrum when we come to pick her up, or when she wants to go on the weekends!

Along with smiling, solid foods, dropping the bottle, talking and walking, this is yet another milestone in Hannah's life. Another little sign that our precious little girl is slowly (quickly?) growing up. Her 2nd birthday this week will be another, as will her first real birthday party on Sunday.