Kindergarten Graduation!

Woo hoo!  I have an official, certified 1st Grader!  I can't believe we've made it this far.  It's surreal...  If you'd have asked me six years ago where we'd be in June of 2010, I would've busted out into tears and most likely would have thought the worst.  My little girl has fought and clawed her way to today and she walked across the stage this morning, just like every other Kindergartner to receive her awards.  I am so proud of her and all of the hard work her teacher and teacher's assistant have done this year to get her where she needs to be in order to move up to the 1st grade. 

Sydnie has really grown this year and she's gone from only being able to write her name and a few letters and numbers to being able to write sentences, read books, and do math problems.  She has learned to be a big girl, for the most part, by walking to her classroom on her own and by not missing us so much that she cries each day.  Her anxiety level has almost diminished and she only has occasional bouts of separation anxiety.  Unfortunately, today was one of those days when it showed itself.  Sydnie didn't want "mommy" to leave her when the ceremony was over. 

Most children who've experienced numerous hospitalizations, surgeries, and procedures have a tough time with anxiety and separation issues.  Sydnie has had a tough time overcoming her fears and she really misses her family when she's at school.  We are so proud of the progress she has made this year.  I know it will get better, we just have to take it day by day.  I am so thankful we had such a wonderful teacher and assistant this year for Sydnie.  They were genuinely concerned about Sydnie and her well being.  It was a Godsend to have Mrs. A and Mrs. B for Sydnie.  Thank God for great teachers!  They come few and far between!

Here we come grade "1"!