Big Brother

Mojo started Kindergarten this week. She was ready. Actually, she was more than ready. I think she was ready a couple of years ago.

Bucket was so proud to show her around the school and be the one "in the know". It is just the two of them at the elementary school and he feels in charge. During the open house I enjoyed watching him introduce Mojo to the PE teacher, to Mr. Jones, head custodian, and to the principal.

So, naturally, on the way to school that first day, I had a little chat with Bucket. I was feeling a little nervous about leaving my baby girl. I pumped him up about being the big brother and how it was his job to look out for lil sis. "Bucket, when they make the announcement for car riders and you come downstairs, look around and make sure Mojo is out there. She may not remember the carpool number." He answered with a confident, "Yes, Maam!"

Fast forward to 3:30. School dismisses at 3:45 but I am already in carpool line because I can't wait to see them. The doors open and the kindergarten teachers escort the new kindergarteners outside ahead of everyone else ... I guess so that they will not be trampled. There she is...smiling from ear to ear...precious!! Mojo climbs in the car and begins telling me all the details while we wait for Bucket.

We wait and wait and wait. No Bucket. He is called by the staff several times and yet he is no where to be seen. After waiting at least 10 minutes, he emerges from the school, pale as a ghost. I watched as he spoke to a teacher's aide and it suddenly hit me. He was looking for Mojo. I yelled out the window (sophisticated, I know) to let him know that Mojo is in the car. He came running and climbed in.

As soon as his rump hit the backseat and the 5th grade safety patrol kid closed the door, he exploded into tears. Bless his heart. He had been searching every kindergarten class for Mojo and couldn't find her. He was so upset. I did the best I could to reassure him and tell him he is my hero. Did I put too much responsibility on him? Was I expecting too much?

I'm not sure the answer to those questions. But what I DO know...Bucket loves his lil sister. I do not need to worry about sending my baby girl to school. She is the most protected and cherished lil sister at JG elementary school.