how to make moms cry...

Few moments in life are as surreal as your first child's kindergarten graduation.

 I mean, I'm sure I wasn't the only mom tearing up as my kid, adorned in cap and gown, processed into the room to "Pomp and Circumstance," right?

I'm convinced the whole ceremony is all about making moms and dads cry anyway.

Nice job.

 It's just unbelievable to me that Caroline, once my precious newborn baby, once my active little toddler, once my intense little preschooler...

is now my fiery, independent grade-school girl.

And the next time she'll be in a cap and gown?
I don't even want to think about it.

The moment for which I'd overheard her practicing in the car.

Shake with the right, grab with your left.  
And don't forget to smile.  

 Photo op with the headmaster.  (who, by the way, also happens to be a dad to two black sons!  Cool, huh?)

 Watching kindergartners trying to move their tassels over is pretty hilarious business.

Congratulations, graduates!

Now we can't possibly talk about kindergarten without a little raving about Mrs. Haley.  I will try to control myself and limit my words, but there is no doubt in my mind that God couldn't have picked a better teacher for my sweet Caroline.  (also an adoptive mama herself!)  

Caroline is so sad to lose Mrs. Haley as she moves on to first grade.  Well, good grief, if we're being honest here, I am pretty sad to lose Mrs. Haley, too.

Some of our former students (who are practically family!) came to show their support.

 Caroline, you're an amazing gal.

And we couldn't be more proud of you, our little graduate!

God's got special plans for you, girl.  

Oh the places you'll go.  

Just you wait and see.