Today our oldest officially started kindergarten. Mom and I walked him into class—no big deal, just casually holding onto his tiny hand until the classroom door became a portal to Growing‑Up Land.

We expected maybe a hug. Maybe the quiet thrill of independence. What we didn’t expect was the emotional smackdown in the car afterward. I held it together—barely—but Mom? Let’s just say she handled those tears like a champ. Rightfully so. That little guy, who yesterday couldn’t even hold a crayon, is now front and center in the school hallway. Cue full meltdown, emotionally speaking.

Here’s the adorable twist: he’s known one of his teachers as Mrs. Judy since forever. But in school, it’s Mrs. Mclaughlin.

• At home, she’s Mrs. Judy.
• At school, she is Mrs. M‑claugh‑lin (with the emphasis on getting it right).

We’ve prepped him with subtle reminders—and rolled our eyes at how quickly his face flips from “I got this” to “Dad, seriously?”

The ride leaving was a rollercoaster:

• Dad: Maintained composure… For the most part.
• Mom: Full-on waterworks. Tears, sniffles, that heart‑on‑sleeve moment where you realize your kid is doing the unthinkable—growing up.

We’re so sad that he’s not our “tiny baby” anymore—but beyond proud and beyond happy, too. Because what he’s starting isn’t just school—it’s a journey, of unlocking stories, letters, words… even before he knows it.

So here’s to:

• Kindergarten beginnings, and the wild emotional ride that comes with them.
• Little victories—like calling his teacher Mrs. M‑claugh‑lin instead of Mrs. Judy.
• The joy of him sounding out words, retelling stories, scribbling with purpose, and chasing that holy-grail of tying his own shoes
• And parents who can’t help but cry (mostly Mom), laugh (mostly Dad), and cheer the loudest.

He’s growing up fast—but he’s also growing into something wonderful. And that, is worth every tear, every minute of pride, and every whispered reminder to be respectful (and accurate) when calling a name.

-Matt Webb