First Grade

We got Jill's back-to-school letter with her teacher assignment today.  I had been hoping greatly for "Ms Rose".  I had heard great things about Ms Rose and an email had gone around while Bryan and I were on the Cape revealing that many from Jill's kindergarten class were in Ms Rose's class.  Foolishly, I texted my friend Robyn during the drive home and found out that her daughter had Ms Rose too.  That sealed the deal.  I was a bundle of nerves wanting Jill to be with her friends.  So then I sat and stewed about the teacher assignment for the rest of the drive.  So productive!

I got home, tore open the envelope, and saw that I--I mean Jill!--had not Ms Rose, or even Ms Tulip (several other of Jill's classmates had her), but Ms Hydrangea, a teacher I knew nothing about.  I fought tears and called Robyn, while Bryan suggested we call the school and ask for a switch--as if!  I am ridiculous, but fortunately mostly contained.

Later, composed, with the whole business in perspective, I showed Jill the letter.  She avidly scanned the letter for her teacher's name.  I told her, "You have Ms Hydrangea for first grade!"  She looked up with a little sadness, gave me a wry smile, like she knew it was silly to even hope for it, and said, "I was hoping for Mrs. Ludvino (her kindergarten teacher)!" and then dove into my shoulder for a hug.  When she pulled away, her smile was geniune, and I'm glad right now my little girl is more gracious than her mom.  

I pray that Jill will be in just the right place, surrounded by just the right people, for her to have a wonderful year of learning and making friends.  First grade!  BONSAI!!