When did I turn dumb?

I have always considered myself a smart gal.

In first grade, the school suggested to my parents that I be moved directly up to third while skipping second.  I needed to be challenged. 

And although my grades showed a lack of understanding come fourth grade, I got it all. 

I struggled a bit more in high school, but my yearning for knowledge didn't end.  

The rest was just crappy baggage.

But what amazes me is the rate at which Ryan is learning, and the things he is learning in third grade.

Last night I took a look at his math book.  Woah!

They are learning perimeters, square feet, and things like median and mode (which I completely forgot until I saw him doing it).  They have been slowing introducing fractions which I know for a fact I didn't start until fourth grade.  

He is even required to learn typing.  

You heard me.

TYPING!

That wasn't even a required course and it wasn't offered until 7th grade.

I know times are changing and with (hopefully) a computer in almost ever home, this is a skill that will definitely come in handy.  

But dangit...it makes me feel kind of dumb.

Not dumb in a 'we-never-learned-that-stuff' kind of way.

More of a 'wow-that's-a-lot-more-pressure-on-kids' kind of way.

I see Ryan handling it all in stride.  He studies very hard and works toward goals that are challenging yet reasonable.  I'm very proud of him.

And secretly, I'm looking forward to the day when he truly surpasses me.

Feeling the love

There are certain people in my life, whose mere presence brings me joy.
They don't even need to utter a single word.
Just knowing that I will be seeing them makes me smile.

I have mad love for these people, and I would drop everything I was doing should they need me.

I'm fairly certain they know who they are...but if you aren't sure, drop me a line. 
I'll let you know if you've made the list. ;)

Tipper Gore would be proud, I think.

The very first thing that Ryan's teacher told us tonight was that Ryan was a pleasure and that he always makes her laugh.  She went on to tell us about something funny he did today.

Ryan: Mrs. F, I do not think this book is appropriate for class.  (He holds up a book he picked off of her shelf). Do you know anything about it?

Mrs. F: Well I know it is a non-fiction book and that it contains facts.

Ryan: Well, do you look at each book you bring in here?

Mrs F: (while stifling a laugh) Yes I do.  What seems to be the problem?

Ryan: (disgusted he turns away and hands her the book) Please look at page 28.

Mrs F: OH!  Thank you Ryan. I will make sure this book is removed from class.

Ryan: Thank you.  

She then explains that he walked back to his desk, satisfied that action had been taken.

btw...The book was about art.  And on page 28 there was a picture of a naked man statue.