It's that time of year...

for preschool conferences.

I've had great experience with school conferences so far. I did well at school as a kid, never in any trouble, so those parent-teacher pow-wows never seemed like a big deal.

Then I had kids of my own.

Elijah is in fifth grade. He has always had great reports, and is well-liked by (most) of his teachers.

Every teacher on the planet loves Isabel. She is sweet, intelligent, and mature beyond her years. This year her teacher wondered if we even needed a conference at all...Of course, I said I wanted one (who doesn't want to hear great things about their kid?).

And then there's Gabe. My exuberant, enthusiastic, energetic bundle of boy.

I worry about Gabe's school career. He has a hard time staying on task, unless it's something he's interested in. He is very social (wonder where he gets that?). He can be a bit stubborn. Not the ideal student on paper, for sure.

Starting preschool after just turning four was a big decision for us. I was afraid he wasn't ready...



I prayed a lot. For guidance, for God's help, for Gabe to have the right teacher.

As is His way, God was faithful.

He sent this sweet woman our way...

I could not have hand-picked a better teacher for my baby boy. Mrs. Edwards loves Gabe, and actually enjoys having him in her class. Despite his refusal to learn how to write his name. Despite the fact that he sometimes "likes to tackle friends". Despite his stubborn dislike of clean-up time.

She loves his personality. His zest for life. His love of Legos and Hot Wheels and recess. Sometimes she has to lay down the law, but mostly she builds him up and encourages him to try again when he fails to master a task.

We had parent-teacher conferences today. Even though preschool doesn't go on your permanent record, I was a little nervous. I know Gabe loves school; I just wasn't sure if the feeling was mutual.

I had no reason to fear. Although Gabe is still "working" on many skills, he has made "good progress" on many others, thanks to Mrs. Edwards. He has grown two inches, gained four pounds, learned how NOT to tackle friends and most importantly, has developed a love for education.

Yes, God is faithful. I hope He doesn't get too tired of hearing my constant prayers for my kiddos, which are mixed in with many prayers of thanks for all He has done so far.

Mrs. Edwards, thank you for loving Gabe, and for not comparing him (out loud) to his big sister. You are truly heaven-sent.