Back to School

We’re starting our 2nd week of school, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about the way things are turning out so far.

I have arranged for my step-sister to pick up my kids everyday after school, so she’s their after school care giver.

She has a schedule — designated homework time, play time, reading time, snack time, etc. I just LOVE it! She’s the one that I count on for things and she’s always there. I love that she cares about my kids, and dedicates her time to be all the things I can’t be during their few hours after school. They have expectations, she doesn’t allow certain behaviors, there are consequences for such behaviors, and I don’t have to worry about “suspensions,” etc. This arrangement makes this mom super happy and at ease about things.

Allie was supposed to be a bus rider, but that schedule was putting her home later than I liked for her, so we worked it out for her to ride with April also. She’s meeting her and then getting a ride home. It’s working out just beautifully.

Last night, however, Allie informed me that she wants to quite karate… she’s almost to her black belt. she has 12 more classes to go, until meeting this goal. I was taken back, and in shock at this news. She refused to attend class last night, super stubborn about it. I called on my dad, because he has been a huge supporter for this the last 4 years. I can’t just let her quit. Chandler, her instructor refused to accept her decision last night. He said see you in class on Wednesday. So.. she has another day to truly think about this, but I can’t just let her throw away all the work we’ve put into this. She’s doing so well too. I know she took the summer off, she feels like she’s behind everyone else, but truly, she’s not. The instructor told her that everything they are doing is just review. sigh.. just not what I expected to hear from her last night.

On to another subject..

I ordered a light up shower head for the boys shower, and it needs to be assembled. Austin saw it, and he got all excited, asking me to please let him install it by himself. He said, just lay the stuff out for me, with with the instructions, and let me do it. I think that is just amazing! He is one smart cookie.

I am just hesitant to take a breath and relax just a little, for fear of something that could happen to interrupt these few and far between calm moments.

I have to say, life feels pretty good and we are enjoying our space and family and free time. School life is good so far, our family life is good, and there’s no chaos to report… lol