School's Out For Summer

So Thursday was the kids' last day of preschool for this year. I have never been so sad about something of the kids' ending before. This has been the best experience for all of us. First, it gave me some much needed time away from both kids to not only get things done, but to keep my sanity!
Katelyn had really great teachers, made some good friends in her class, and learned so much. Her social skills have started to improve, so much so, that she spoke to her Sunday school teacher this past week (it was a new lady she had never met before)! I am so thankful that her teachers were so patient with her throughout the schoolyear, especially having never heard her speak until this Spring! I am praying that Austin will get her teachers next year because I thought they were incredible ladies!
Austin had a great year too, his social skills have really started blooming. He is not near as shy as he was before he started. He loved both of his teachers (as did I!) and always talked about them at home. My favorite thing he started saying was "my teacher said I (then fill in the blank)". Usually it was, "my teacher says I don't have to nap anymore." or "my teacher said I can have ice cream for dinner". It was never anything I actually thought his teachers would have said! They were so patient with Austin and his "potty training" that is still in progress. I don't know why a kid can be so difficult! He is doing well and no matter what I have to do he will be potty trained so he can start school again in the fall.
I think the hardest part of the whole thing is that the kids don't understand how long it will be until they get to go back to school and that when they do go back, it won't be the same classrooms, teachers, or friends. I am also sad that they formed these bonds with their teachers and now they have to go 4 months without seeing them. I am just so thankful for our church and preschool and these 4 wonderful teachers that have shaped my kids in such positive ways!