So Proud....

Yesterday, Rachel and Hannah were honored in an awards ceremony at their school.  Each teacher selected a student to be honored at the event.  Hannah was chosen by her science teacher Mr. Clarr and this is what he had to say about her.....Hannah Kenney is a remarkable girl.  She is kind hearted, genuine, and a great student.  She demonstrates outstanding character, amazing work ethic, and will succeed in any endeavor she chooses to pursue.  Rachel was chosen by her Geometry teacher Mr. Hansen and here is what he had to say about her....Rachel is a very, very conscientious and dedicated student with a wonderful attitude toward learning.  She is positive, supportive and hard working.  we need to clone her.  Matt and I couldn't agree more. ( Except maybe the thing about the cloning part.  One 14 year old at a time is plenty.)  In all seriousness though, we could not have been more proud last night as their teacher's said these things about our girls.  Because we homeschool the girls for the majority of their classes, it is sometimes hard to be objective about their attitudes, work ethic, etc.... I mean, it is not always easy to appreciate that they worked hard on an assignment I gave them when I am still reeling from the fact that someone smacked someone that morning or rolled their eyes all day at me, or screamed at someone for taking something from their closet without asking.  In other words, separating being a parent from being a teacher is challenging.  So, it was nice to sit back and hear all of the nice things that other teachers think about the girls.  Good grades and academic success are one thing, but being a good person is what really matters.  Rachel and Hannah are definitely that! (even when they engage in typical sister/teenager behavior!) The evening ended with a celebration trip to Scoopy's for custard.  Disclaimer:  Even though Emma was not honored at this event we still think she is fantastic too!!  Although, getting to partake in the Scoopy's trip was more than enough for her.

Hannah and Mr. Claar

Rachel and Mr. Hansen

Rachel, Mrs. Parker, Hannah and Emma

scoopy's!!!!!

As a last note..... I want to take a moment to mention a few things about the lovely women in the photo with the girls.  Mrs. Nancy Parker is a counselor at the middle school where the girls attend a few classes.  She has been instrumental in making this time a success for us.  She has navigated the way for us to smoothly take only a select few classes at school.  Whenever I call her she rises to the occasion and then some!  I can always rely on her for help, advice, and support.  Over the last 3 years she has looked out for my girls at school and cared about their success, as well as their happiness.  I really, really appreciate that.  Mrs. Parker has grown to feel like a trusted member of our family and we are so grateful for her!