Big Things for Our Big Girl!

On Madison's first report card with official grades she got 4 A's and a B. One of the A's was in math which is her hardest subject. We were so thrilled with her. She has an awesome teacher! She couldn't say enough wonderful things about Madison. She said she was bright, beautiful, well manner and liked by her classmates. She said that Madison is the kind of kid that every teacher wants to have in their classroom. I was elated! We have had our challenges since Madison started school. But it was obvious at that moment that with patience, determination and love things fell into place. I was excited to get the opportunity to lead a literature circle group with 6 advanced readers from Madison's class. As a teacher with a passion for teaching reading, it is such a thrill when your own child is excelling in reading. I love teaching first graders how to read, but meeting with a third grade literature circle group has been a refreshing change. The discussions have been awesome! I'm looking forward to meeting with the group for the rest of the year. Madison has had some big events over the past few months. She was chosen to read a line at the Veteran's program at her school. She did a beautiful job. She decided that she wanted to participate in the science fair for the first time. She decided that she wanted to do a project related to chemistry, so we went to the library and did a little research. She chose to make crystals. It was a learning process for both of us. It was also an opportunity to see how much alike she and I are. We both like to be in control. It was a a challenge for me finding a balance between giving her the appropriate level of support and giving her the reins. I don't think either one of us realized how much time and work it was going to be. There were some bumps along the way but in the end we were both so glad that she was able to have the experience. She was nervous about having to be interviewed by a judge. Another likeness that she and I share! But I talked her through it and she said it was easier than she thought. She enjoyed being able to share her project and seeing all the other displays. She ended up with an outstanding achievement award. We were so proud of her! But most of all she was proud of herself! There are many changes that I'm getting used to as Madison gets older. She is done with happy meals, wants to wear her hair down instead of the ever popular pony tail and comments regularly "Mom! I'm too old for that!". She is thrilled to have her own room and her own space now. But every night she insists on listening to the same lullaby CD that I played for her as a baby. I will cherish that for as long as it lasts. I fear that it won't be for much longer! She is such a lovely long lady!