Pushing the Envelope

We start kindergarten in less than four months.  Yes, I am counting.  She wants to go to school, ready learn to read and subtract, develop new friendships.  I, on the other hand, feel an immense amount of dread over the whole school situation.  A new chapter to embark upon filled with unknowns, which is not a place where I perform my best as a mommy.  But, we can't freeze time, and the time is quickly creeping up on us!  So, I'm preparing her, and myself, for this journey through opportunities to meet new and different people, putting more personal responsibility on her plate and opening our door to new experiences.

Last evening was just me and Abbey at home until bedtime and I think the best evening we've shared together in a long time.  That's because Abbey didn't have to share her mommy with anyone else.  She voluntarily helped me with chores and cooking dinner then gave herself a bath from start to finish.  She felt important and validated that I was appreciative of her help.  There were no meltdowns or whining; just an evening of nirvana between the two of us filled with respect and love. 

I've wondered a lot over the past year as to how she will function in a school setting where she isn't the center of attention.  So much so I felt it important to involve her in those outside-of-her-niche activities to gain exposure.  But there are a handful of people and circumstances where she is just not willing to compromise.  I'm one of those people and as much as it drives me insane sometimes, I just need to accept it.  And cherish it.