Parent-teacher conference

Well, we were finally able to have one with Mrs. Kappert, Rachel's teacher. This was the twice-rescheduled conference because of snow. "Fortunately I have all good things to say about Rachel," her teacher said, and the news was, indeed, good: Rachel is reading ahead of grade level, spelling some 1st and 2nd grade words (Mrs. Kappert is doing this to challenge Rachel); in math she has a good grasp of numbers and grasps new concepts quickly, she's socially well-adjusted and -- key for me -- she's very inquisitive. Mrs. Kappert says she raises her hand in class a lot; she likes to give the answers but she also asks questions. "She's adjusting very well to kindergarten," Mrs. Kappert said.

We asked her about a summer enrichment program that is being offered for the month of July; it meets from 9:15 to 1:15 p.m., with after-care afterward, and it's for kids who are strong academically. They need a teacher's recommendation to get in, and Mrs. Kappert said she'd be happy to write a recommendation for Rachel. So, we'll do it if we can move around her camp schedule (including Girl Scout sleep-away camp, which she may be able to do in August). It'll be a busy summer!

Also today, Ruth is in town and we had a terrific time at dinner, just talking about stuff going on in our lives, our parents, etc. -- all the things we never seem to have time to talk about when we're on the phone. I made roast chicken, potatoes, salad and a chocolate silk pie, and all turned out unexpectedly well, considering that my mind was in a million different places between story deadlines, our schedules in the next couple of weeks, etc. Hopefully I will have time next week to take one or two days for myself -- one to run errands; another to do some much-needed pampering! I really need it.