Math Camp

 Earlier this year, Clair was introduced to the opportunity to earn an invitation to Math Camp. Clair loves math and generally feels she is rarely challenged in it. She loves when it's hard. So, this idea of Math Camp became a strong goal for Clair. 

After much work and initially thinking she did not qualify, she got the invite in May. We quickly took the opportunity to sign her up. And, here we are, in New Jersey for the week, at Math Camp on the college campus. 

Clair loves the idea of college. She's my youngest and she's the only one who has asked to visit a college campus. She has her journey planned out already.  I'm really excited for her and for her interests. I love visiting college campuses and traveling. So this is super exciting to me too. 

We arrived on campus Saturday and got all checked in. The camp runs a total of 5 days. She was excited and not too nervous. Her only nerves come around when she thinks others are looking at her, such as when I'm picking her up and dropping her off. 

The camp is a mix of competitions and lectures. The things she's learning are somewhat over her head and somewhat interesting. She says the most fun has been meeting a couple of new girls she enjoys talking to. She does also enjoy the competitions, but finds it disappointing that the majority of the kids in her group speak Mandarin during the competitions and she can't follow. Yes, most of the kids have come from China for this competition. 

Each day she gets more confident and independent. She is managing the day with little help. She's on campus for 12 hours and 2 meals a day. She has independent time too. She doesn't reach out to me much except to tell me she needs an app or that she's ready to be picked up. 

She was giving me a hard time about all the pictures I took Saturday. I was capturing my visual memories. 

Last night she didn't want a hug when I picked her up and people were watching, but as soon as we got out of the car at the hotel, she was her snuggly self. I can see her growing each day - more independent and confident. I know it's good for her. I am excited for her. I am also just a little sad to see these snuggly years coming to an end. 

She's still my girl and loves hanging with me and doing adventures. What a great week for her!