Preschool Princess

Violet's big day came on Wednesday - her first day of Pre-K, or pre-kindergarten, as the preschool program for 4-year-olds is known here.

She'll go to Growing Hearts Preschool on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30 to 11:30, just like Cora did three years ago.

Violet has been very eager, asking about preschool for weeks in a very excited voice. We got ready on Tuesday with haircuts (for both girls) and a trip to Old Navy for a new school outfit.

Cora was very sweet at Old Navy - rather than being upset that she wasn't getting any clothes, she took over the dressing room job. She helped Violet into and out of each dress, encouraging her and generally being a great big sister.

On Wednesday, Cora was very disappointed she couldn't go along to Violet's first morning.She helped her get dressed and ready, gave her a little bear, and made the picture you see here.

Stace came home from work around 7:30 so we could walk Cora to school, and then walk home and drive to preschool.

When 8:30 arrived, we were let into the classroom, where all the children found their name tags on a desk with a scavenger hunt sheet.

By following the clues, we were able to introduce the students to the different areas of the classroom, playground and bathroom.

The children were allowed to bring a favorite stuffed animal friend, so Violet chose her Beanie Boo clip Stripes the Zebra.

Before Stace and I left, we took a family photo in front of the chalkboard door/school bus. Later, Miss Lorrie gave us a copy in a frame that Violet helped decorate.

Violet had a fantastic first day, and happily told us about her new friends and the fun activities she did. She got her preschool bag, a gift from Miss Lorrie, so she and Cora now have matching pink bags.

Violet had such a great time, she was very sad on Thursday because that wasn't a school day for her.