Lucy’s not even in preschool, yet tomorrow feels like back to school.

After more than a month since she’s been in official daycare, Lucy starts at her new provider, Julia’s, tomorrow. Our regular routine of Eric dropping her off before work, and my picking her up in the afternoon will resume again.

I have a fantastic vibe about Julia. The two times Lucy has been with her, both have done very well together. And half of Julia’s upstairs is packed with toys and craft supplies and pint-sized everything for the kids. Lucy’s eyes almost bugged out of her head during our first visit. Julia takes them places (the zoo, the park), and is outside every single day — regardless of the weather.

I know Lucy is going to absolutely thrive in her care.

I can’t believe we survived this month, but we did, spectacularly. My mom and Eric’s mom and dad were our family’s lifesavers. They willingly and flexibly took Lucy so I could continue to work, allowing us to accommodate Julia’s family schedule. I think we were all a little surprised just how well it went, how well Lucy and the grandparents adjusted and truly enjoyed their special days together.

We really can’t thank them enough.

As much as I’m looking forward to resuming our routine, I will miss having Lucy at home two days a week. There were days when I was priming her spot at the end of the driveway, but for the most part, we had a wonderful month. It’s been a treat — and really forced me to work smart and balance my time. A good learning lesson, one that I’m going to try to continue even when Lucy will be at Julia’s three days a week and with my mom one.

Hope you all had a great long weekend and make the most of today.

Possibly related posts:

1. She’s here. Not that we’re excited. (high five!)
2. The daycare dilemma
3. Shelby love, via magic caregiver dust
4. Oh, make!
5. Empty