Madeline's Kindergarten Graduation

 Madeline graduated from Kindergarten at the end of May with high honors. 

Well, not really, but man oh man were we all so proud of our girl.

 Madeline had a speaking part in the graduation ceremony and we practiced all the way to the church were the graduation ceremony was held.  We talked about speaking clearly and slowly with care.  We talked about inflection and animation and I am SO PLEASED that I figured out how to share her portion of the speech below.  It was awesome.  

 Madeline went into kindergarten with all the basic skills that a kindergartner is supposed to but she was READY to learn.  Our experience with our church MDO was tremendous.  I am convinced that children thrive in an environment that is not only full of resources but that a loving and nurturing environment is key.  She was reading by Christmas and is a tremendous reader now into chapter books who stays up late and wakes up early so she can lay in bed and read.  Amazing.

 Madeline is tall AND her last name starts with a "W" so she is destined to be in the back of the risers for the rest of her life. This is her little friend Cassidy and I just have to point out that she looks 18 in this picture!!

 I promise you I can still envision her as our little chubby baby when I look at her profile.  She has grown into such a kind and empathetic young lady.  She learned SO much in kindergarten.  I think the little book about "all I needed to know I learned in kindergarten" is so true.

 Madeline's teacher Mrs. Moseley could not have been a better match for M.  Madeline just THRIVED with her innovative and exciting teaching techniques.  Mrs. Moseley always kept the kids moving, thinking, and busy.  She moved so seamlessly from one activity to another and CHALLENGED the kids to learn at a level beyond my realm of comprehension.  Madeline rose to the challenge and LOVED her.  She is an amazing teacher.  

 We made it through kindergarten!  It was SO HARD for me to let her go to school.  SO HARD!! But Madeline just absolutely blossomed.  Her strength and independence had made Mommy stronger too.

Mrs. Moseley encouraged me to have Madeline apply and interview to attend a summer program through our local university.  Madeline was ACCEPTED and we appreciate Mrs. Moseley even more because she had to do a lot of work on Madeline's behalf as a recommendation.  

Congratulations to our girl!  We can't wait for fall!