The realization of "Normal"

I attended my very first parent-teacher conference Monday afternoon. I don't know why, but I expected to go in, sit back, and ready myself to receive nothing but celestial praise in regard to my daughter's academic performance.

...didn't happen.

Instead, I was greeted with, "Madeleine is right on track. She's doing as well as can be expected in reading and seems to be excelling in math. Her social skills are finely tuned and I am not worried about her transition into higher levels of education."

Is that all? Where was, "Your child is beyond talented?" Shouldn't I be hearing, "Please talk to our counselor about getting Madeleine involved in the Excelled Learning Program?"

Why was I disappointed? Maybe it's because my friends hold Madeleine in such high regard. Friends like Randy, Jeff, Rachel, Jessica, and many more often label my child as precocious, incredible and genius.

However, it is the case that my daughter is (deep breath)... normal. After submerging myself in the landscape of my ordinary world, I realize that I am absolutely satisfied with normal. In fact, I rue having thought otherwise.

At any rate, the PE teacher came in to my conference, specifically, to laud Madeleine's performance in the gym, as a leader and participant. Wait... Madeleine? Well... I never assumed... are you sure... Maddie?

Phys Ed... Whodda thunk?

Turns out my kid is NOTHING like me! Good for her. I only hope I continue to parent in a way that encourages individuality and respect.