One down, a hundred-something to go . . .

Today kicked off second grade for Haleigh. She has not been looking forward to school, mostly because she had a pretty boring year in first grade, and a teacher that she didn't exactly mesh with. Haleigh is an exceptionally intelligent child, who is also quite social and um, loud. She had some behavior problems last year brought on by boredom, and her desire to dominate most situations. She spent most of the year frustrated, and she didn't expect to ever like school.
This year, she transferred to a new school because she tested and was accepted into the "highly capable" program. I always feel awkward telling people that, like I'm putting my child up on some neon-lit pedestal. But the fact is, she is a gifted little girl. I'm just going to embrace it.
Anyway, she met her teacher briefly at the end of last school year when she was allowed to go and visit the new classroom. She got to participate, but because it wasn't her classroom at the time, she didn't get completely comfortable. So, she was convinced that this year was going to be horrible.
Then, we had a back-to-school ice cream social last night where she had the opportunity to put her supplies away and see her teacher again. She remembered that she actually really liked this new teacher. When we got back in the car she said "I'm actually kind of excited about school now." HOORAY! I'm happy to report that feeling continued . . . she had a wonderful first day and says she LOVES school. Well, alright! Thank goodness for happy beginnings!