How did it happen? Where did the last 5 years go?
I still remember taking Heather to visit her nursery for the first time - she was only 7 months old - and, like most new parents, I was so fearful of leaving her with people I didn't know. I had all the usual worries: would they cuddle her when she cried? Would they help her play? Would they know if she was hungry or tired? Would she cry all day because I wasn't there?...It is almost 5 years on from that first day and we could not have been luckier - choosing ODR Nursery was one of the best decisions we have ever made for the kids. The opportunities, experiences and care that the wee ones have had in nursery have been fantastic. We are so grateful to all the dedicated, supportive, funny, amazing and caring staff and feel privileged that we got to be a part of their wonderful world. The ladies have truly become a huge part of our lives. Part of our family. From the bottom of our hearts, we want to say thank you.
And so, as we draw ever closer to Heather's last day at nursery, my heart is breaking at the thought. It is not the thought of Heather going to school that upsets me - no, she is more than ready and cannot wait to start. In fact, I'm sure she could go straight to Primary 3!! And it is not as if I won't ever be going back to nursery, as Evan will still be attending for a few more years. I think it's just that I'm not good at endings. {feeling teary}
Graduation Day - Dunblane
To mark the end of Heather's time at Nursery and to celebrate all the achievements of the big boys and girls going off to Primary School, the nursery hold a Graduation Ceremony. It was held at the Catherdral Halls in Dunblane on the most beautiful sunny Saturday afternoon and we nearly missed it! We got stuck in a traffic jam on the way there - I could have cried in the car: my heart was so heavy at the thought we weren't going to make it to the ceremony. Fortunately, the wonderful manager Vic, held up the proceedings until we arrived...we were so grateful.The boys and girls, in their graduation caps and gowns, came onto the stage and sang their favourite songs for us. Linda read a beautiful poem (I couldn't listen to the words though as I knew I would have cried) and the kids were all presented with their leaving gift and scrolls. It was just gorgeous - all of it. And, for the record, I held the tears in until I got home and started to read her yearbook! Many, many tears fell.
Heather's official Graduation picture
Singing on the stage with all the big boys and girls.
Receiving her scroll from her Key worker, Diane
Cutting the Graduation Cake - Heather looks like she's about to burst!
All the ladies who have looked after Heather: (L-R) Natalie, Terri, Vhari, Amy, Marianne and Claire. Sadly, Hayley couldn't be there.
Heather with Jim, her Nursery-Primary Liaison Teacher
Heather and her best friend Esme
Playing outside at the Cathedral
Evan hiding!
