Smarty Jones

No, I'm not referring to the thoroughbred who won the 2004 Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.

This is yet another nickname for Poodle. I usually invoke this moniker when she's being a smart-aleck and has a little too much sass in her tone for my liking.

Today, though, it has new meaning.

Most parents feel pride when their child has a big accomplishment. It's almost like it validates you as a parent and you can give yourself a pat on the back for doing something right. Yesterday was one of those days.

I got the mail and saw a rather puffy envelope from the Shelby County School System. My immediate thought was, "Great. They're all in a tizzy again about her being absent nine times this year."

*insert nasal "Nine times?" "Nine times." a la Ferris Bueller's Day Off here*

Anyway, as I was saying, I was miffed because I thought it was something to do with attendance. I opened the letter and knew immediately what it was after just the first paragraph.

"There is a great deal of work that goes into identifying students for the gifted education program. Please take a moment to read the following multi-step 2nd grade Child Find Screening Process for the Gifted Education Program in Shelby County."

Joy. Elation. Pride. These adjectives just offer a glimmer of what I felt.

I've always known she was smart. And not just "get by" smart, I mean holy-crap-how-does-she-already-know-that?! smart. I've never wanted to go around hawking it, though. I didn't want to be one of THOSE parents who constantly tell you how marvelous their Little Snowflake is, when the rest of the world can see something completely different. I've largely kept my opinion(s) to myself regarding her intellect. I didn't want to come across as obnoxious or arrogant and thinking that my kid was the best thing since sliced bread. Although, when you consider the fact that she (or the other two, for that matter) were never, ever supposed to happen, it makes me want to shout it from the rooftops.

I am a very proud mama today. I am thrilled about the opportunity she's been given. She can be challenged now (provided she passes the test) and can begin to sparkle and shine. I've knew it was there. Now she gets to show everyone else.

Poodle, uh, I mean Smarty Jones, I am SO proud of you. I love you.