First day of 1st grade

Our first baby has started 1st grade today. Jacob was so excited for this day to come. For weeks he counted down..."only such & such days till school starts Mommy" he'd say. He really enjoyed his time off this summer by playing with friends, fishing with dad, playing X box, swimming in our backyard pool, watching a bit too much t.v. But he LOVES school! Of course I am very glad that he really enjoys school, and is super excited about being there...BUT, today was very hard for me in a totally different way than when he started pre-school or kindergarten. Today it REALLY hit me that my baby is growing up, he's not a little 3 year old boy anymore, he's becoming a BIG KID!!! He had a bit of the 1st day jitters when I took him into his class. I smiled & told him he was going to have such an awesome time, stayed with him for about the first 10 minutes of class, getting him settled. Then off I went leaving my baby behind, of course crying as I walked back to the van. Heck I'm still crying this evening. I'm very surprised at how emotional I've been today. I guess I just kinda feel like it's the end of an era. My time with him being home with me as a little guy is now officially over, and now his days will be filled with school, friends, homework and undoubtedly less Mommy time. When I picked him up today, I was so happy to hear about how those 1st day jitters quickly changed to lots of fun & excitement, he told me lots of details of all the new experiences he'd had today. Making new friends, meeting a new teacher, reccess, eating lunch in the cafeteria for the 1st time, reccess, rules, oh & did I mention reccess? I know I'll get over this little pitty party I'm having for myself today, which by the way was completely overshadowed by all the celebrating we did for Jacob. I just wish time didn't go by so damn fast! I wish I could freeze it for a bit, and keep him my little 3 year old boy who only had eyes for his Mamma. Here's to growing up! Jacob your daddy & I couldn't be more proud of you, and the sweet young man you are growing into. We love you!!!