
How are you doing this weekend? How about coffee and a game of chess today? Are you up for that? Of course there’s tea, and some other beverages to choose from as well, if coffee isn’t the drink of your choice.
My daughter and I played a game of chess this morning. It was her idea. We haven’t played in a few weeks, and now I know why! She has been practicing secretly with a boy at school, without telling me. Her game was much improved. She planned ahead in a way that I haven’t seen her do previously. I’m impressed. Impressed is btw the theme of pretty much everything this week. Let me start at the beginning.
On Monday evening I was sitting next to my daughter on the couch in the living room, relaxing, and watching a movie on my computer (it happened to be a documentary about how young children learn. LOL.) I see a little bubble coming up telling me that there is a mail from her principal with general information to the parents at her school about Covid-19. I stop the movie and read it. Just when I’ve started the movie again her principals name comes up one more time, but from a private email address, not the general one for all the parents. Of course I stop the movie again and read the email. A private email from her principal asking me to please call her, and that I could call her anytime, in the evening as well, with a number attached. Of course my mind started to race, thinking about any number of reasons why my daughter’s principal would like to talk to me. I decide to call her at once. She is a very pleasant lady to talk to. She thanked me for calling so fast, and she didn’t leave me hanging for long. She asked me how I would feel about Ms H (my daughter) taking some of her classes with older children in 4th and 5th grade, to challenge her a little more. She is currently in 2nd grade, (in a Swedish school, her native language is English.) We talked about this for a while, and agreed that she would not start a new class completely, but take some subjects with other classes. She started out this week having math with 5th grade.
I am very proud of her, and I am extremely grateful for the teacher’s to have seen her, and noticed that she needs to be challenged in these crazy days of Covid-19. I am very happily surprised that my little girl have gotten that kind of attention. Of course I know that she is gifted, but I am her mom, and not one of those moms that ever would ask a favour for their child. My daughter’s principal had many good things to say about my daughter that made me very happy.
I don’t know if the next thing that happened is connected to this, or not. The next day I wrote a thank you letter to the principal, telling her how grateful I am for everything, and that as a parent it is sometimes difficult to express that to the teachers since we never see them in person these days, but that I want them to know that I am very grateful. I also mentioned that we are moving in December, mentioning the part of town we are moving to, and that my daughter is going to take the bus to school starting December 1st. I’ve already messaged that information to the teachers, but thought I might as well tell the principal since I was talking to her. A few days later I received another email from a different principal, a principal at a private school here in town. In fact her school is situated only a short (about three minutes) walk from the house we are moving to in December. A long, long time ago I put my daughter on the waiting list to this school, without much hope that she would ever get in. I don’t know if there is a coincidence that they offered her to start in January when the next semester starts, or if the schools are talking to each other. This school have more resources. Students from this school are high above the national, and regional standards. I have a few days to think about this. Do I want my daughter to start another new school? She really likes the one she goes to now, but she would have to go on a bus every day if she wants to stay at this school. If she starts a new school it would not only be a good one, but a great one, across the street from us.
I have asked my daughter, trying to explain the pro’s and con’s, but I think it is hard for her to understand what it would mean for her to take the bus by herself everyday. I know she can do it, but if she doesn’t have too? She is only 8 years old. In the end I know I am the one that have to make the decision, and I have to make it soon. I am going to start by taking my daughter there tomorrow. We can’t enter the other school, but I can show her the outside, and make the short walk between our new house and the school, for her to feel the short distance in her body. During busy mornings, having school/work close by is pretty darn nice.
Do you need a refill on that coffee? As you may have noticed in the photo at the top there is fresh ciabattas this weekend as well. It has become a weekend tradition at our house. Please help yourself to some if you’d like. They are still warm. How is your week? Please tell me about it in a comment.
Love,
Maria
A week full of good news for your daughter. Very cool that the teachers recognized that she needs to be challenged – I think that if kids aren’t challenged enough, they get bored and the can slip back instead of striving forward. Also good news about the other school. As a kid who spent 45 minutes on a frigid bus every morning starting when I was 6, I can say it wouldn’t kill her, but having a much better school in such close proximity… Yeah, new kids, having to make new friends, etc., but at her age and since she just started off anyway… Good luck in your choice, I’m sure it will be difficult, but made with her best interest in mind 🙂 Have a fantastic weekend!
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Thank you Trent! There is indeed different variables to consider. I’m leaning towards changing schools, but I would really like for her to be positive to the idea. I too had to take the bus for several years as a kid, it doesn’t kill you, but some mornings it was pretty tough. Have a fabulous weekend 🙂
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What an exciting turn of events! Sounds like H’s star is in the ascendant. 🙂 I’d be leaning towards the new school, it has many pluses, and it was one that you applied for earlier… things have a way of working out for the best.
Our unusually warm spell has ended, having broken multiple records, and we are back to typical November weather. After three days of drizzly rain, we have a mix of clouds and breezy conditions. Good for a brisk walk today! Looks like Thanksgiving gathering won’t be happening this year, although as you know Americans, stubborn folks will risk their health for ‘traditions.’ Not worth it to me, one day is like another. 😉 I like the idea of Zoom (or similar) dinners, almost as good as being together in person. Stay safe and well!
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Indeed! Thank you Eliza. I am leaning towards the new school. Her dad also put his voice on that school.
I understand that many people will be very disappointed to not be able to celebrate thanksgiving according to their usual tradition. We don’t celebrate Thanksgiving here, but Christmas will be different. At the moment different regions in Sweden have different rules. In our region we are probably only allowed to celebrate Christmas with our immediate family, that we are living in the same house as. In our region any unnecessary travel is discouraged. Further north, where my sister lives its different, they have almost no restrictions, and very few cases. I still haven’t been able too see her since I came back. We’ll see. I want to see my sister, but I would be happy just celebrating with Miss H in our new apartment. Hopefully it will be a white Christmas with plenty of outdoor fun. Stay well and enjoy your walk my friend ❤
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Wow, big decisions. I always find decisions about my boys and their education to be so weighted! That said, us mom we always make the best choices for our little ones. Great coffee post, thanks for the virtual cup.
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Yes, education is so important, as are friends..Her dad and I are both leaning towards the new school. I am hoping that our daughter will realise that longterm that is a great choice for her. I hope you are enjoying a wonderful weekend.
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I am sure she will. It will be a new adventure for her. Hope you have a nice week
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So many good things are happening for you and your daughter, Maria! This makes me happy! Taking her to the school and walking the short distance will show her just how nice it would be to be so close to home, maybe even walk home for lunch as I did as a kid. Just finished my coffee, thank you! 😂❤️ Stay safe guys!!
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Thank you, that is my hope John. It would be very convenient being close, and the school is a great one. Fingers crossed I will get her onboard with the idea, as it would make the process much easier. Thanks for joining me 🙂 Have a great rest of your weekend!
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Hi Maria,
Wow! Parent to parent, I know this is great stuff for you and Ms. H. I’m excited to hear how all this unfolds for her. I’m also impressed that your current principal was paying enough attention to notice Ms. H’s situation and see a possible way to better meet her needs. Wonderful!
Please make sure you stop by my share today as I’ve have the info for the Global Coffee share idea and I’m hoping you can find a way to join us.
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Thank you Gary! I am impressed that her principal and teacher are paying attention to one individual’s need when the whole world is crazy. That is very impressive. I will be sure to come over for coffee 🙂
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So happy for your good news! Wishing you peace of mind and heart as you make the school decision ❤️
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Thank you so much ❤
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Oh that is just awesome news. You must be so proud. As a single parent it can be hard making decisions like this for our treasures. Trust yourself, you are an awesome Mum with a beautiful treasure of a daughter. We have had a busy week here in Aus. We are finally on tank water no more chlorinated town water, my digestive system & skin are so grateful. Have a wonderful wonderful week ahead my friend. ( :
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Thank you so much!
That is great news about your water. I know exactly how irritating heavily chlorinated water can be as it was a huge issue for me in Las Vegas. So happy for you! Enjoy the rest of your weekend ❤
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You must be very proud of your daughter. I am sure you will figure out what to do
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Thank you so much! I am leaning towards the new school more and more. Her dad also put his voice on that school, and he rarely has an opinion, so of course I want to honour that.
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It’s good that your daughter’s principal rang you with that proposal, I think it’s a good idea and shows some good thinking on the school’s part. As for the new school I’m not sure. Do you think your daughter would take to a new school if she is settled where she is? I guess the both of you talking it over will help to decide your decision.
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Thank you. I am very impressed that both her teacher and the principal noticed her, in the current situation. As grateful as I am I am leaning towards the new school. It has more resources and the students are there to learn, which is not always the case at her current school (there are some trouble makers there, one of them in her class.) And then there’s the distance. Her dad put his voice on the new school yesterday, I want to honour that if possible. We’ll see how the pieces comes together. Many variables. I hope you are enjoying a wonderful weekend 🙂
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Weekends are difficult at the moment as we are in a second national lockdown, but we are together and we are well. Hope you both stay well too.
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I loved hearing about the secret chess practicing and I’m sure that whatever decision you make it will be the right one.
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Thank you so much!
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I think this is all so positive about your daughter. She is clearly an intelligent young woman. I hope you will let us know what is decided about the school. I sent my children to private schools and for my son who was very bright it was the best choice as they kept him involved and interested.
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Thank you! Education is so important, and learning have been a priority at all times in our house. I am leaning towards the private school. I think it will be great motivation for her. She gets bored and distracted when things are too slow. The new school have resources to make it interesting, and a better teacher/student ratio. Her dad put his voice on that school, which is something I want to honour if possible. He rarely has an opinion concerning her. I will keep you posted 🙂
Do you have snow yet? We don’t, it all disappeared, and we’ve had a mild week. It looks like we might get some by the end of next week, I really hope so! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
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No snow here yet but soon I think. And yes education is soooooo important. It has been important for both our kids who now have careers and are in their 30s.
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You can be proud 🙂
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I am. Thank you.
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What wonderful news!! I was sitting here enjoying my virtual cup of coffee with you and ciabatta when you said you got that message to call the principal. I would have called right away too! What wonderful news, as she is a special girl with a wonderful Mom! I know she will enjoy the new school and so close!! Children adapt well to changes and with all that the private school offers it sounds a perfect place for her to learn and grow. Awesome sauce! ❤️ Thank you for the coffee and have a wonderful rest of your weekend! 🤠❤️
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Thank you so much Diana!
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Lycka till
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Tusen tack!
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Oh, I am so very happy for you both! It’s really awesome when school’s recognize intelligence. I remember when I was in Kindergarten and was already doing 2nd grade work. I was so frustrated and bored, and getting into trouble because of that. We moved, then, too, for other reasons, but the best results. When I tested at the new school, they placed me in 2nd grade class, but I took several subjects (reading, science) two grades above that. That was long before they had such things as “gifted” classes. By the time I hit junior high, I was taking classes across the street at the college. STill, I was often bored stiff. So, it thrills me to no end to see a school recognize and support a child with intelligence. Hopefully, your Ms. H will at least try the new school (say for a few weeks… ought to be workable if you ask). She might find it really great.
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Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I took my daughter to get a look at the school today. I am thinking that this is one of those times when I have to decide with her best future interest in mind. .and her dad put his voice on the new school, that means something to me. I hope you are having a good weekend.
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I’m awake, almost. I’m vertical (with only a slight tilt). I am walking, though my foot still looks like a cadaver, and though it’s chilly, it’s a beautiful morning. So, it is a good day! 🙂 ❤
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You are up, that is wonderful news 🙂 Be well and safe my friend.
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That’s awesome news about your daughter. I’m sure you choose the best school for her. Thank you for the coffee and fresh ciabatta. Have a great week ahead!
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Thank you so much!
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What wonderful news for your daughter ❤️. Our week has been busy. Therapy and we are still doing our school at home because of Covid numbers here..no in person learning. Very sad. Hope you have a great week
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Thank you so much! Homeschooling is very busy, I can imagine all the things you have to do. Mom’s are super heroes. Have a wonderful new week.
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WOnderful job, Mama.
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Amazing… 🙂
Sagittarius
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Thank you!
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most welcome 🙂
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