Locked out

My son got into school.  A great school!  And I couldn't be prouder or more excited...or more nervous.  I knew they would fall in love with him (everyone does- he is incredibly sweet) but is the sweetness enough?  Does it help these underpaid teachers get through the rough times?  The meltdowns associated with Aspergers and other ASD's? How much can I bribe them (gift cards, massages- I have done it all) so they won't freak out when he does?

Fast forward the morning of his 1st day.  I wake up at 5:45 so I can shower, get dressed for work, attempt to put some ridiculous make up on to try and cover the bags under my eyes (totally unsuccessful) - should not have had that 3rd glass of wine last night.  Dammit.  And then I go in to wake up prince charming.  Earlier than he has ever been up in his life.  At first, he jumps out of bed!  He is excited.  Yay!  Everything is coming together.  And then he decides he is tired and does not want to go to school.  Ever.  He tells me he loved being home these last 9 weeks and does not need school.  And proceeds to shut his door and locks it.  I frantically search for the little key thing that will open the door and can't find it.  At this point, I am actually saying the words I try not to say in front of my 3 small children (but fuck it- no choice) and my wonderful boyfriend hands me a piece of Xanax and gets the door open.

At first I try talking to him about his fears and what his new school will be like and then I realize I am not getting through to him at all.  As much as our 3 different behaviorists have worked on feelings with this kid (and he can pick them out in pictures), I don't think he is going to all of a sudden verbalize them to me.  So I use the fear tactic instead.   Judge all you want- I needed this kid to get on the bus.  I told him it was illegal for him not to go to school and that I could actually be arrested if he didn't go.  Yep.  A little crazy but the kid ran downstairs and put his sneakers on.  I guess he does love me after all.

Who knew I would be a crying mess when my beautiful little boy got on the bus?  I didn't expect it.  But there it was.  Tears streaming down my cheeks.  Like he was going to Kindergarten for the 1st time.  Except he was going on a bus in crappy weather- over an hour away.  A million thoughts ran through my head- what if he hates it?  What is he gets lost getting to his classroom?  Will his teacher get him at the door?  My boyfriend was just worried that he had a bowling trip today and didn't want him to lose and throw a ball at someone.   But, he didn't and he did great.  And I am one proud mom.  I am sure these next few weeks will be filled with many challenges, but for right now, tonight anyway, I am happy.

Anyone else have any funny first day stories to share?