Kirsten's Freshman year has come and gone. How is it possible that I have a child in high school???? Or that the child in question just FINISHED her first year???
This was the first year of high school. I had prepared myself. This is when all the bad things could start to happen. Be prepared. Don't freak out. Pray Pray Pray. Talk to her. Try not to let the little things bother you. Be strict, but not too strict. Believe in what she says, but don't be a fool. Get her involved. Be involved. Don't be too involved. Be there for her. Don't smother her. Gravy, I needed anti-anxiety pills before school even started!!!!
She floored me. That shy sweet child that would make me walk her into elementary school every year showed no signs of inner struggle when walking into the doors of the high school. She was EXCITED. ( I mean, I'm sure she was nervous... but for some reason she didn't want me to walk her to her first class! =P) Kirsten's biggest complaint about High School.... she doesn't like the food... and she refuses to take her lunch. (I'm not sure if it's an uncool factor or that she just hates to bring something extra to school each day) Nonetheless... I figured it went under the category of... Not MY problem. And let's face it, at the end of the day if that's your biggest issue you're doing alright for yourself. I watched... holding my breath all year to see how she would handle all the firsts AND if she would be able to solve any problems for herself. I finally am exhaling (until school starts next year) she made me so proud I couldn't stand it. She danced in Stars, Sang in Choir, performed services in the Key Club, was in the Christian Student Union and above all else... made Straight A's all year. I couldn't believe this self assured, dependable young lady was mine. (Where did she get it???? ) lol
I have to brag on this child. I know next year, she could stumble or fall. I know that in a teens world things change on a day to day basis. But, I'm relishing in this year alone. This year was great. This year me realize how grown up my little girl was becoming... and although it's sad to see that she doesn't need her mommy to help her make all her decisions, it amazed me to see that we could talk about things, and she could make her own decisions (that for now) were awesome!
(By the way... I know that after writing this very inspiring description of my child that she will now dye her hair blue, get a nose ring and fail the 10th grade. ) Hey... but 9th grade was Awesome Ya'll!!!
Now, here's hoping for an awesome summer!!!!