First

Today was Madisen's first day of 1st grade. She was excited to start in her new school and have a few friends from our old (soon to be new) ward in her class. In fact, she and Emma ran right in without Rachel and I even walking them to their room. I'm thrilled that school starts 20 minutes later- it's amazing what a difference 20 minutes makes in the morning!

This summer Madisen has gotten really good at braiding her own hair. Last night she got it wet and put 2 braids in framing her face. She was delighted that she'd have wavy hair for the first day.

Last week I attended a parent information meeting with Madisen's new teacher, Ms. Gillum. She is sweet, sets clear expectations, and will expect great things of my 1st grader. I was impressed at her organized & inviting room, it was obvious that she loves her job! On Thursday when Madisen got to meet her she was warm and interested as she got right down to speak with Madisen on her level. There was a small gift in a white lunch bag on Madisen's desk. This poem was stapled to the outside and there was some play-doh on the inside.

I dreamed I stood in a studio
And watched two sculptors there.
The clay they used was a
Young child's mind,
And they fashioned with care.

One was a teacher with tools
Of books, music, and art;
One was a parent with a guiding hand
And a gentle, loving heart.

And when at last their work was done,
They were proud of what they had wrought;
For the things they had worked
Into this could never be
Sold or bought.

And each agreed she would have failed
If she had worked alone.
For behind the parent stood the school,
And behind the teacher
Stood the home.

By: Ray A. Lingenfetter
Elementary School Principal (not ours)

It's going to be a great year.... I can feel it!!