Tubo's go back to school 2006 !

For some, it was back to school today. For me, it wasn't a return at all. It was a fresh start. It was a day I could not envision too long ago. Two years ago, we were confined to Cincinnati Children's Hospital waiting for Joey's marrow to bottom out so we could receive those life saving cells. Today, I took my son to Kindergarten. And, I am here to tell you that ONE of us is happy for him. Joey has already decided after 1 1/2 hours of school that it is boring.

My third grader, Gina, has tried to advise him that Kindergarten is fun, but he has made his own assessment. Hopefully, tomorrow will bring new challenges, activities and friends. I know he will be fine. He just needs to get the hang of this. He said tonight, "You mean I'm going to be there for 6 HOURS tomorrow?" And, then, the killer hit me...."But, Mommy, I want to be with you!"

Don't get me wrong. He's not a cling monster. In fact, I was strictly prohibited from crying today so I wouldn't embarrass him. As always, he's just not one for change. Soon, though, I know he'll make friends and fit right in. He has a long life ahead of this...I just know it. He knows it too. In church this past Sunday, the reading was from John:6. Now, I was certain that Joey wasn't picking up anything from mass the way he was squirming in the seat. And, then, Fr. Jay ended the Gospel by stating, "If you eat this bread, you will live forever." Joey looked at me and whispered, "Mommy, I WANT some of that bread!" Statements like that ground me and remind me of what is important. I am sure that is why Joey was put here on this Earth. I am sure he will be here for a long time to teach us all.