"Dear First Day..."
💛 Every First Day Has a Story. What's Yours?
Children (ages 5+), teens, and adults are invited to submit a poem, letter, reflection, or spoken-word piece inspired by a first day that shaped them.
No writing experience is necessary.
We're not looking for perfect writing.
We're only looking for real stories!
Event Details!
📅 Date & Time
Sunday - July 19th 2026
Begins at Noon!
📍 Location
Birdie's Deli
1020 E Broadway STE F, Columbia, MO 65201.
🎟 Free Participation
Bring the creative juices and appetite!
Birdie's Deli Will be operating with a reduced menu! See Staff for more information
Why "Dear First Day..."?
At The Sandwich Way Education, we believe stories have the power to bring people together.
No matter our age, we've all experienced moments that shape us.
A first day of school.
A first day in a new home.
A first day at a new job.
A first day after a difficult season.
When we share our stories, we discover something important:
Many of our hopes, fears, challenges, and dreams are not so different after all!
"Dear First Day..." was created to celebrate those moments through creativity, reflection, and connection.
Because every first day deserves a voice.
The Prompt!
✏️ "Dear First Day..."
Participants are invited to write a poem, letter, reflection, or spoken-word piece inspired by a first day that helped shape them.
There is no right or wrong way to respond.
We're not looking for perfect writing.
We're looking for real stories.
Stories of courage.
Stories of growth.
Stories of hope.
Stories of new beginnings.
Need Inspiration?
Your submission might be about:
• Your first day of kindergarten
• Your first day at a new school
• Your first day on a sports team
• Your first day in a new town
• Your first day at a new job
• Your first day after a major life change
• A first day you wish you could relive
- A first day sending your child into the world without you
• A first day that changed your life
The story is yours to tell. 💕
The "Dear First Day..." Collection
Dear First Day is more than a one-day event.
It is the beginning of a growing collection of stories from our community.
Participants may choose to have their work included in the online Dear First Day Collection, a digital archive celebrating creativity, courage, reflection, and connection.
Together, these stories will create a lasting record of the moments that shape us.
Whether you're sharing your story at age 5 or age 95, your voice matters.
Because every story deserves a place to be remembered.
Participation Options!
🎤 Share Live
Choose to be considered as a Featured Community Voice and share your work during the showcase.
💻 Join the Collection
Choose to have your work included in the online "Dear First Day..." Collection.
💛 Celebrate Community
Connect with writers, families, and community members through stories and shared experiences.
We can't wait to receive your submission!
Whether you write a poem, a letter, a reflection, or a spoken-word piece, your story matters.
Join us as we celebrate new beginnings and the voices that help shape our community.
FAQ
Do I need writing experience?
No. We're not looking for perfect writing. We're looking for real stories.
Can adults participate?
Yes! Dear First Day welcomes participants ages 5 and older.
Will every submission be read live?
Featured Community Voices will be selected from submitted entries and invited to share during the showcase.
Can someone read my work for me?
Absolutely. If selected as a Featured Community Voice, you may choose to have someone else read your work.