I am trying to squeeze in as much volunteer time at the school as work, life, the girls will allow me. They both get so excited when I come to school and I enjoy being helpful in the class — and if I’m completely honest, my favorite part is just meeting them for lunch so I can see them having fun with their friends.

 

Today was volunteer appreciation day in both classrooms and I was invited to both and tried to scurry between the two rooms. Mrs. Kaul’s kindergartners sang a song for us and I am not ashamed to admit that I cried. I am a softy for Miss Gwyneth Grace, my baby girl.  She is far too quickly growing up into a smart, beautiful, super tall, jokester. I have no idea how B and I ended up with this girl with such a sweet, kind, sensitive soul. Just one of those lucky, lucky mysteries.

 

 

I ran down to Annabelle’s class and joined 1st grade for cookies and lemonade. This year has been a difficult one for Annabelle. She has, shall we say, a smart wit and matching mouth. She is full of spunk, sass, and attitude and when channeled properly she is creative, kind, smart, and fabulous. If, let’s say, her personality is not quite appreciated, she uses her powers for evil rather than good and there is no channeling the beast. She wants to be the best at everything, and if that means she is the most rotten 1st grader, well then she will RULE THE ROTTEN! Do not challenge this child’s will. Direct her properly though and someday she will rule the world.

 

I have stayed up many nights worrying about this girl and cried many tears hoping for easier times. But she never gave up. She worked hard. She wasn’t deterred. Her fire still burns full-flame and she has added more and more friends to her arsenal. Her friendships are her joy and are very, very important to her. Second grade will be better, I know it. Annabelle has willed it and so it will be.

 

Always finding a reason to laugh and smile and be happy. It’s not possible for me to be more proud.

 

Here’s the little card we made for Gwyneth’s unbirthday party to share with friends. One little boy told me “This is very, very special. I have to put this back in the envelope so it doesn’t get messed up. Yeah, This is very, very special”.   And my day was complete…