I thought it was going to be a good day. I thought we had made progress. I spoke to both of Emma's teachers, they were great, sounded enthusiastic and willing to look out for Emma and they recognized her transition challenges, etc. etc. etc.

Emma and I talked a lot this weekend about my own challenges with Middle School transitions. I asked people for prayer.

She left this morning feeling pretty positive and she came home crying that she never wanted to go back there, ever!

Her teacher called to talk to me about 15 minutes later to apologize for upsetting Emma (she hadn't meant to upset her) and we brainstormed possible reasons for the breakdown and possible solutions for next time.

The good thing is - we are in touch. We know each other now as collaborative partners in this thing called Junior High School. We don't see each other as "that horrible teacher/parent" (yes, I have had those before) and so far, so good.

I told Emma her teacher had called, that she was concerned and that we all want what is absolutely best for her.

She is going to start a swim team next Monday night. I am hopeful having an activity in the evening along with her church activities will help her. I know when she did swimming this Summer it seemed to help with her moods, too... because whoever designed the horror that is Middle School had to do it during one of the worst hormonally challenged time EVER! Argh.

So - I will keep working with, and most importantly, loving my little Emma. I appreciate the support, here, too from y'all.

I am also going to go into the office and see if there is a school newspaper. Emma is a tremendous writer. If there ISN'T a paper, maybe we could do a newsletter or something, involve other kids, do something where Emma can shine and connect with other kids.

*Crossing fingers.*