Samantha turns 11 today. This past year has been monumental for her. All social anxiety has gone by the wayside and dare I say, Samantha has blossomed. She regularly goes to a nearby classmate's home in the neighborhood to see if her friend is able to play. This is a pretty big deal as Samantha was more fond of staying home alone rather than hang out with the neighborhood kids. And now she can easily spend 3 to 4 hours outside. Goodbye iPad! Well not completely, but you get the idea.
Another huge sign of social advancement is Samantha wanting to play softball. Holy moly, this is a team sport!! And she didn't even need to know anyone on the team or make sure she had a friend join her. This is amazing! But wait there's more! Samantha also expressed interest in doing AFYP; the drama group that Ian participates in. Samantha is currently working on a production of Alladin Jr. Talk about putting yourself out there!
Samantha has also continued horseback riding, which she absolutely adores and would love to bump up her lessons to 2x a week. Needless to say, it's been a very busy Spring for her and we've done much juggling of the various schedules to try to accommodate all the activities.
This past year we also found out that Samantha has a mild learning disability that has impacted reading comprehension, phonological sounds and spelling. We are confident that within 4 to 6 months time of working with a reading specialist (which Sam will start in the Fall), she will be able to catch up. But this year has been a struggle with the demands of 5th grade Her homeroom teacher is amazing and has been helpful in accommodating Samantha but we definitely need to bump up our efforts now that we know exactly the areas Samantha needs special help in.
Samantha is growing up. Her height has shot up this past year and her face is looking so grown up. I can't believe it sometimes that is my daughter and how beautiful she is. She pretty much wears her standard uniform of black leggings, t-shirt, and her hair in a ponytail every day. No matter where we are going, Sam finds this look to be the one for her. It takes a lot for her to vary and change any part.
Samantha has been known to drive me crazy most days. She has her mind made up way before you even try to reason with her. I quickly pick my battles and most days, it's not worth the challenge. But there are the days when Samantha is sensible and so amazing to be around and I get excited to see the person she is turning in to. She is funny, quick-witted, wicked smart, and has an amazing sense of self. She stands up for herself and is quick to let you know what she is thinking. When she likes you, she really likes you and is still bringing her 2nd grade teacher her favorite candy bar of Kit Kats. She'll randomly stop by her former teacher's classroom just to give her a hug. She also loves her 3rd grade teacher and enjoys her time with her each Wednesday when Sam does after school tutoring with her. You always know when Sam is good with something when she willingly goes and does not complain about it.
Happy birthday to my fiercely independent, feisty, funny, and brilliant daughter. Each year we get a little closer to figuring all these issues out. It's pretty awesome how far we've come. You are the perfect blend of your dad and me and a force to be reckon with. I hope this year brings you the happiest of days and the ability to adjust your sails when the storm hits. You teach me every day how to be a better mother by pushing me to new limits I never thought possible. I love you more than you realize and wish for you a great year of being 11 with Lucy by your side.
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| 1st day of 5th grade! |
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