Madison graduated from Preschool...

Today was one of those bitter-sweet days where I am so excited to see Madison grow up and all, but sad that she will be starting Kindergarten in the fall all day.  The graduation was outside and very simple, but personal for each child.  Madison went up in front of the entire group, stood on a chair by Mrs. Annie while they showed pictures of how they have changed since the beginning of the school year, what they love about Stone School, how much they have grown (3/4 " since Sept.), and a picture they drew of themselves at the beginning of the year and one they drew at the end of the year.  Madison ended the year as a mermaid according to her drawing.  Then they pick a stone (for stone school), pose for a picture and then it's the next child's turn.  Madison just glowed and was so excited to be a part of it all.  During the graduation she asked me to hold her cup so she could clap for the 'kids'.  I was touched this year by Madison's teacher when Madison was having a really hard day and was in tears entering the preschool.  This is very unusual behavior for Madison so Mrs. Annie sat down right there in the walkway, put Madison on her lap, and just held her until she felt safe and loved.  Mrs. Annie truly knows the children and their different personalities.  She recognized that this was not normal behavior for Madison and took the time to comfort her even though kids were coming in, clamoring for her attention, etc.  Madison will always know Mrs. Annie loves and cares about her and she quotes her all the time.  What a blessing it has been to watch Madison blossom into a very confident child.  She used to be afraid of new kids at a playground, but now she can find a friend no matter where we go, she is social, talks to adults, loves to watch seeds grow, and is fascinated with butterflies after watching them go from a small caterpillar to beautiful butterflies in her classroom.  She has just started to play Chess with her daddy just like he played with his.  He is so patient in teaching her and she is so eager to learn.  It's her new favorite game and she is catching on to what moves the different pieces can make.  I'll post pictures later:-)  I forgot my camera and my friend took some and will e-mail them to me.