Writing quickly before I have to get in the pick-up line at school. I hope the kids who get in my car this afternoon will be a lot happier than the kids we dropped off this morning. Both were apprehensive, so we tag teamed them. Girl clung to my hand as we arrived at her classroom, while Bob escorted Boy down the hall to his class.

“Dad, when you’re nervous, do you ever feel like you have to barf?” Boy asked Bob on the way there.

No one called me from the nurse’s office today, so I assume no barfing went on. I assume no crying did either. I sure as hell didn’t cry. I know lots of moms do when the youngest one goes off to kindergarten but not me. For me it’s happy happy joy joy.

Why do I feel so goooood today? A weight has been lifted from me, a weight called GUILT. Because until today, I felt guilty for leaving my little one with anyone else but me. Even Bob. But I don’t feel guilty about her going off to kindergarten because it’s the best thing for her in the world. So happy happy joy joy.

At the same time, boy’s butt has been removed from the couch (even though it still bears his indentation) and his face is free from the PSP. He’s back with his friends and what we’re hoping will be a kinder, gentler teacher this year. Happy happy joy joy.

So I savor this moment. Because in 15 minutes, they’ll be in my car giving me the lowdown on the day. Right now I’m imagining it was a good one for them both. For me it was, as SpongeBob says, “The Best Day Ever!”