Grace "Hearts" Jack

This morning, Grace and I went to an Open House for her preschool, a great opportunity to meet the kids in her class, say hello to her teacher, and get used to her new classroom. As soon as we walked through the door, Grace took off, immediately corralled a couple of other little girls, and gently directed them over to a particular area of play. For a while they contented themselves with the "kitchen" area, spreading a feast on the table, setting up the babies in the high chairs, etc. Later on they moved over to the doll house, then the Play-Doh table ... Only once did Grace remember that I was even in the room, coming over for a quick hug ... or so I like to think. Rather, I don't think she cared much about me at at all ... she just wanted to meet the little girl next to me, to whose mother I was speaking. She introduced herself to the little red-headed, blue-eyed girl, and from that moment on those two stuck to each other like glue.

This was also a good morning for me, for this is turning into "Preschool with Benefits" ... for Mommy made a friend too! The little girl's mom, new to the school system ... we struck up quite a conversation this morning. Interestingly, the girl's older brother is also in Aidan's class, so we've got a lot in common so far. Plus, her mom is from Ireland ... how lucky can I get?! The four of us shut the joint down, staying far, far longer than intended but having a wonderful time.

When we came home, I walked into a sweet, heart-squeezing scene in the living room. Grace was curled up with her best buddy, having a little "chat" about what it was going to be like when she's gone at school. She just needed to make sure Jack understood, and would be OK in her absence.

Oh, how this girl loves her dog! I think I solved a mystery ... she's certainly not going to miss me next week. It's Jack she might be heart-sick for ...