PhD Update

It seems further academic study is not in the cards for me at this moment. While crouching on a NYC sidewalk, waiting for a bus and blocking Noelle from the freezing wind, I checked my email and got my final PhD rejection letter. Rejection is never an easy pill to swallow, but it goes down a lot more smoothly when you look down and see that your 3 year old has fallen asleep in your arms. The street noise, chilly temps, and uncomfortable location were no match for Mommy's arms. Take that, you silly programs with your 2-3% acceptance rate.

I am disappointed, of course, but I am a little surprised by how relieved I also am. These past three years have been so enriching, but they have also been exhausting. I am very much looking forward to a break from the constant reading, studying, and writing. I don't know right now if I will apply again. For now, I plan to just enjoy the extra free time that I will have.

Delilah's Wonderful Report

I went to Delilah's parent/teacher conference this week and was so proud of her! Her teacher said that Delilah is a dream student. She is on-task, a great helper, and an enthusiastic learner. By the end of Kindergarten, the goal is for all the kids to be reading at a level "E". Delilah is already at level H (update: as of June, Delilah is at level N). Books have to be brought in from the 2nd grade classrooms so that Delilah has material that challenges her. She is also advanced in math. But the best part is that Delilah always wants to help the kids who aren't understanding as well as she is. Since Delilah finishes her work so quickly, Ms. Marcoccia will often pair her with a student who is struggling and Red helps until the other kid masters whatever is at hand. Delilah loves learning and the teacher said she asks more questions than any student she's had in a long time.
Great job, Delilah. Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you for being so curious, helpful, and fun!!!