Rachel and school

Rachel and some of her friends on the school playground. Five of the sixteen girls in her class.

Yesterday, I had Rachel's parent-teacher conference for the end of third quarter. What a joy it is to hear someone gush over our little girl. My apologies if that comes across as sounding overly proud. It's just that in my eyes, totally biased of course, she is perfect. Well....not perfect but at least the smartest, prettiest, funniest, and friendliest six year old ever. It is nice to hear that she is right on target for first graders. Average for math skills and above average in reading and phonics. She has lots of friends, both boys and girls and tends to play with whoever is having the most fun. Her strengths seem to be when she is in front of people. Singing, acting, and reading out loud all tend to be her cup of tea. So different from me in this way. I am comfortable with people and able to talk to almost anyone. (most of you are saying....and talk, and talk, and talk.) I do not like to be by myself in front of a group though. Rachel loves it and can't wait for the next opportunity.

An anecdote from this quarter. The first graders had a field trip to St Mary's hospital. There was a role playing experience about taking someone to the emergency room. They were given the scenario but the words and actions were impromptu, on the spot. Rachel was chosen to play the part of "Mom" taking a little one to ER. Chairs were set up to be the car. "Dad" got in the driver's seat while Rachel buckled in little one. She then went to the driver's side and said, "Move over Dad, I'm driving." At this point the teachers and chaperones in the back of the room started giggling which just pumped her up more. I guess from this point on, she took over the play and had them all in tears with her comments. For example, the "Nurse" asks if they have other children and Rachel says, "No, but we are seriously considering it." She loved it and can't wait to get on a stage again. Could it be possible that she has found her calling at an early age. No, but it is fun to see her enjoying life so much.

Rebekah and I have been volunteering at lunch and recess two days a week this month. It is nice to get a "fly on the wall" type of view of the class and its dynamics. At first, Rachel thought it was cool to have her little sister visit. She is now so "over it." Thankfully, the other girls in first grade love having Rebekah around and always ask her to come sit with them or play on the playground with them. I am also thankful that she still loves to have me come to school. Hmmmm....wonder what age this will become uncool??? Sooner than I will be ready for so I'm loving every opportunity I have now.

Welcome Spring!!

Blowing bubbles in new boots

Rachel, my little biker chick

Rebekah, full of joy, as always

Welcome Spring!!! I hope you are here to stay and not teasing us. Not being totally naive, I am ready for the late April snow storm but secretly praying that it doesn't happen. More SUNSHINE, bluer skies, longer days. It happens every year but never ceases to amaze me how much the weather can affect our moods. Thankfully, our girls LOVE winter. I think cabin fever in Minnesota would have gotten the best of me if it hadn't been for them. Rachel would come off the school bus saying, "Come on, let's go outside and PLAY!!" Rebekah always wanted to shovel and stomp in the snow. What a great reminder of how much fun the winter can actually be.

That said, we were all starting to get a little bored with the cold and wet stuff. Rachel most of all. I could see it in her attitude. The "I am bored, don't know what else to do, so will be sassy and a trouble maker" attitude. Since the weather has changed, she is a different person. I'm sure I am too which probably helps her attitude. We have been out almost every day between school and dinner resulting in two exhausted girls . Earlier bedtime also makes Mommy a happier person :)

letting go

I love my daughters. I always wanted to be a mom but never realized the love that a heart can hold for two little people. (There is room for more too, if it is God's will) My heart is so full and content and blessed. Out of the myriad of jobs I have worked, before, during, and after college, being a mom is the first one that feels like just the right fit.

Who knows where and when the desire to be a parent began for me. Working with the kindergartners when I was in sixth grade? Babysitting in high school? Working as a nanny while in college? Meeting my beautiful nephews and niece? All of these experiences were fuel for making me the mom I am today. Sometimes, I am a good, patient, creative mom. Some days, I am a yelling, short-tempered, not-so-nice mom. On these days, I am embarrassed and feel guilty about not having patience. Thankfully, they are fewer than the good days (or at least I tell myself).

Slowly, I am starting to realize that in order to be the "good" mom more days than not......I need to step away and be hands off once in awhile. This I am not good at. Even when Daddy is home, I tend to step in and do everything and always be hands on. I guess I am a little OC about our children. This said, Dan and I are getting away for a week which causes much anxiety and worry for me. I know the girls we be loved and well cared for with their grandparents. It is just the fact that it won't be me. Any advice on how to handle this, relax, and enjoy our vacation will be greatly appreciated.