Two years ago we experienced a terrifying first day of school. Well, let me correct that, “I” experienced a terrifying first day of school.

We had moved to the island just DAYS before school started. We knew nothing and no one and had the girls starting at their new school.

I had spent my entire youth in the same house, going to the local schools, with the same friends.  I was traumatized at the idea of my children being the “new kids” and amazed at their courage as they walked into the classroom and found their way into the community.

Now, 2 years later, we are doing it again.

Another new school, thanks to hubby and I choosing a home on the OPPOSITE end of the island to where we initially moved when we arrived here.

But this time, it was different.  There was no terror for me. No fear and anxiety. Even though I was not a part of the school community, I felt comfortable welcoming myself into it.

Perhaps it was because I had a kindergartener, and in kindergarten ALL the parents are new to each other. Or maybe I had more faith in our ability to adapt to new experiences.

Whatever it was I welcomed the first day of school, embraced this new beginning and gladly ushered my kids into their new school, their new classrooms and their new life.

And coming home I finally felt HERE.  I felt the roots sliding down into the ground, our stability forming, our permanency growing.

We are here, we are settled, and we are happy.

Two years of risk, effort, creativity and stress. But now, it is starting to begin.