magnificent seven

I went to pick up the kids from school today, as usual. Except, they thought I wasn't going to pick them up but I got the days mixed up so I was there today when they weren't expecting me. I took a moment to explain the mix-up to Ana's teacher, who afterward took a minute to tell me how Ana is doing in class. In a word, she is doing AWESOME.

Last year was rough. She didn't want to do her work in class and then wouldn't do it at home either. She didn't want to read and many mornings it was a battle to get her to go to school. But this year is different. She is thriving. Her reading has taken off. She likes to go to school. She has totally mellowed out. (Not to say that she is a mellow person, but she is more mellow for her.) A lot of her bad habits are stopping. She is more helpful and more responsible. I actually enjoy talking to her about things, too. I can't even explain how much of a relief this is for me.

If I could go back to last year when I was so worried about her and certain that I was either going to have to home school her or have her repeat a grade, I would tell myself, "Everything is going to be fine. She will mature, and all these things you are worried about will work themselves out." Perhaps 6 is just one of those "terrible" ages and now she got through it.

So, if anyone out there is struggling with a 6 year old girl, I hope you know, that it is going to be okay. Just do the best you can. Love that little girl. Pray for her. Do what you feel is best. And don't worry. Everything is going to be fine. Seven will be much better.