UIL

Here in Texas we have something called UIL.  I never knew what it was, only that it governed academic, athletic, and music competitions.  I don't know when I began participating in UIL, but Shelby has been able to participate the past 2 years.  This year, the elementary schools had early release, so that our school district and two other school districts (all small towns and all districts with just 1 school for each grade level) could hold the academic UIL competition at our elementary school.  Shelby tried out and was asked to join the spelling team.  She was on it last year, so it was a perfect fit.  Too bad we kept forgetting to study for it after school; fortunately, she did have practice at school from time to time.  

At the competition, our PTO held a Kids' Fair, setting up games throughout the building as well as selling snacks and treats in the cafeteria.  Shelby had a blast hanging out with her two friends Maddie and Maggie as they waited for all the different competitions to be held.  We joined her at the end to hear the results.  We were excited when her name was announced as the second place winner for spelling.  She was tickled that she got second place for the second year in a row.  We'll have to work harder next year to see if she can get first.  

The next day, her school had an assembly to present all of the winners and participants with trophies and ribbons.  

Mr. G, her Spelling coach, and the other members of the Spelling team.

Way to go Shelby!