Last week our two “big” kids got their report cards.  We were a bit nervous about the parent-teacher conferences since it sometimes feels as though it’s not only the students being graded — and, in fairness, when your first grader writes about the day you forgot to pick her up at the bus stop, it’s not the best reflection of your parenting skills!

As we faced their teachers across the pint-sized desks, we were delighted to learn our kids are both doing really well.  Sure he can be a bit sloppy or she could try a little harder but the reality is, they are doing it all — reading, writing and arithmetic.  And, even more importantly, they are kind, respectful and well-liked.  Gotta say, my husband and I were high-fiving each other as we left those little desks and skipped out the door.  Something is working — between the kids, their teachers and us, things seem to be moving along in the right direction and that deserves some recognition and celebration. So, how did we celebrate?

For starters, we went on a bit of a shopping spree.  Just me, Liam and Ciara, both of whom wear a lot of hand me downs and both of whom were THRILLED to pick out brand new sneakers, socks and underwear.  Really.    They were so excited they called my sister to tell her and raced into the house to tell their Dad and little brothers.  How cool is that?!  The kids were happy to get new underwear for a good report card! I plan to treasure this moment — this sheer delight– because I know it will pass and they will soon be looking for an i.Touch, which they will not be getting!

We then went out to dinner.  TGI Fridays.  Where else can you get dinner for a crowd our size for less than a hundred bucks?  With ice cream sundaes included?!  Once again, they were thrilled.  And I was too.  They felt special. Recognized. Appreciated.  And, with the haste with which we speed through life, I fear I don’t make them feel that way as frequently as I should.  That is why even the small moments are worth celebrating — worth taking the time to make the time count and the memories last.  I’m not sure about the kids but, I’m really looking forward to the next round of good report cards so we can do it all over again!

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