In life there is no editing. You make choices, good or bad, and live with the results. I thought of this as I sat down to edit the photos I’d taken of Kaleb on his first day of Kindergarten. To use this as an example to my son, I decided not to edit any photos, but to show them as they were SOOTC (straight out of the camera). Just as you can not edit life, I would not edit what I saw this day. I will teach Kaleb that the choices you make can not be edited.
Always be prepared my dear Kaleb. Plan ahead so that things don’t sneak up on you. We laid your clothes and backpack out the night before so that we would be on time your first day. Your mamma always tries to be on time or earlier. Remember this, as being late says a lot about your character.
You have so much love to give Kaleb Brian McElfish. I have never met another child that has a heart as soft and sensitive as yours. Share this tenderness with all that you meet. Remember, as your little brother Konnor looks up to you (notice he had to have a backpack on today just like you), others will look to you to see how you behave and act. Show them what is right.
My two little men. How quickly you are growing. Soon you will add another brother to your little world. Love and teach him as you are doing with each other. Kingston James McElfish will look to both of you.
These dear little feet that use to kick me in the stomach (now so big at a size 12), where will they carry you in school and in life?
When you walk ahead of me, remember that when you look behind I will always be there to catch you.
As your parents, we want to hold your hand all your life, but we know the time has come to release you a little into the world. School is your first step alone without us. Put into practice all that we have taught you so far in your 4 ½ years.
This is the place that you will daily go to for the next 9 years (K-8). This is were you will learn to read, write, learn, grow and become the young man you were meant to be.
Remember to walk the straight path in life Kaleb. The road to what is right is narrow, but is always the best way to take. Staying the straight course has always proven the best choice for both your parents. Although you may be tempted to steer off the straight path, listen to your heart and remember what we have taught you about what is right and wrong.
What will school hold for you my son beyond this door?
What will soon fill your little mind?
You were so excited and curious as to what this day would hold for you. Seize on to that wonder and excitement in life my son.
Remember to balance work with play. You need both in your life to be a complete, healthy and well rounded young man.
Knowledge is nothing without wisdom and character. Remember this as you learn your ABC’s and 123’s.
We were so proud that you were able to find your name all by yourself. You got right to work following the directions of your teacher, Mrs. Samis.
This was the first time you wrote your name all by yourself without your parents help. I can’t wait to read all the stories you will write. You have such an imagination, that is just waiting to be watered and nurtured.
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.” This was the first time you ever said the pledge. You stood so respectful, attentive and tall. You will soon learn about the history of this great country of ours. You will grow to be a proud American.
You love to make friends. You want everyone to be your friend. You are so eager to know everyone because your heart is so big. Some of the kids in this class may become friends you have for the rest of your life. I can’t make everyone be nice to you, but I can teach you how to be a friend. Treat others my son as you would like to be treated. Being a good friend is the best way to have a friend.
For the first time, your parents are giving over the reigns of teaching you to another. I know the time has come to let you go a little, as you so adamantly let me know five minutes into your school day, “Mamma, why are you still here?” As your mamma, it is hard to watch another lady take over where I must let you go. Listen to Mrs. Samis. Learn from her. Just don’t forget to come home and share with your mamma what this other lady in your life is teaching you.
Kaleb, your name means faith, devotion, whole hearted. Be proud of who you are and what you stand for Kaleb Brian.
I love you my dear son, my first born, my soft hearted boy.