Each Day, Each Decision, Each Defining Moment

I'm so proud of my kiddos, my treasures.  They make me crazy at times. I don't need to go there, but they are also making me quite proud.

Jas is off to college and seems to be settling in.  He's been home only once and I like that he is getting a feel for being on his own and doing things on his own - even though I know he is hanging with his friends and even staying over in their dorm - instead of his own suite.... but that's a story for another day about his room mate.  At the very least he is developing a routine and getting into the groove of the work expected of him; and so far I haven't gotten any sobbing phone calls in the middle of the night - begging to come home for good. (knock on wood)

Kass has started high school and is really doing well.  We moved, which placed her in a different high school from her brother - actually the one she wanted to attend - and she loves it.  She is so grown up that it is even shocking sometimes to me.  We hang out in the evenings during the week, make dinner together and work on some chore at the house.  I love this time we get to bond, making memories, just the two of us.

Then there are my other kiddos that aren't here as often: Chad's three that we try to see as much as we can (like the camping trip last weekend with 4 of our 5 kiddos):

Tori is driving already!  She is also doing well this year and looking forward to getting her license sooner than I like to think about, lol.  She seems to be enjoying her second year of high school and the social life it brings.

Rach is finishing up her last year of middle school and has outdone herself with her latest accomplishment with violin.  She is first row 2nd chair - what a high honor!  We are very proud of the fact she is excelling and putting her energy into something she loves, her talent with music.  (And Rach- I hope i have your chair listing correct!)

And then there's Drew.  Little rambunctious Drew that loves his electronics and his books.  So smart he amazes us all as he sails above the rest of his classmates in most of his subjects.

I pray for them daily and my hope is that they will continue to remember and acknowledge that each day, each decision, each defining moment leads them to the bigger picture that results from the choices they make.  I want the best for them but more than that - more than even I can imagine for them - I want God's best for them.  I pray they will also strive for what God has for their futures - His best.

Find yourself, keeping it real...

Kat

Organized for back-to-school? What?

Photo: tipjunky.com

Organized for back to school?

Yes, I have a freshman starting at Virginia Tech in about three weeks and I have a freshman starting at her new high school in about 2 weeks.

But I can't even get unpacked and get our lives organized enough to find my comb and the extra body wash I bought months ago. Who can think about gearing up to get organized for back to school?

Maybe this will be the push I need to put it into high gear so that we can finalize the unpacking and getting the house setup.  Jas will be moving "again" and Kass will be wanting new school clothes... so I guess we better get to work!

The house is in "reno" mode with constant progress being made nonetheless.  The floors turned out great - thanks to my charming and... he has moved on to the stairwell wallpaper/walls.  All six layers of it to get down to the plaster.  But underneath that mass of filthy unbelievable wallpaper we are seeing walls and we know that soon we can apply primer and then our choice of color!

I am excited about the progress and I am excited about what God has already done for us - blessing after blessing in this house of our dreams.  However, with so many things that need to be done on the house, I am finding myself frequently in a true "overwhelming" state of mind.  And with the kids going in two different directions with new schools and new seasons starting for their lives - it has been a diversion. Perhaps it's a good diversion, just perhaps.

But I have reminded myself often: "When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I." Psalm 61:2b

...And I am comforted by His grace, His presence, His faithfulness, and His peace... every time... every.single.overwhelming.time.

One boyfriend, one curfew, one text message at a time

While the debate is on in the background, I wanted to sit down and finally f.i.n.a.l.l.y. write another blog.  I have so much to share with my readers, but I will spare you the boring and only share the highlights.

The kiddos

Jas and Kass, the kiddos… I now refer to them in public as “the bigguns.”  They are growing up so fast I can’t keep up; and I am with them every day. (Well almost every day. But I digress <= already!)

Kass has a boyfriend. Seriously you don’t want me to get started on that point.  Trust me when I say, I am just going to leave it at that. And yes, she now has the “worst mother ever” because of the guidelines I have instructed about me being “in-the-know” regarding their conversations and “text messages.” (Can I just skip this part of her life and do a fast forward?!) Sadly if I did – she would be out of college and married after that blink.  Let the roller coaster ride begin, then.

Jas went to his homecoming dance. (Yes, can you believe a formal dance!) And he dressed for it: I have pictures to prove it. He is talking more and more about college plans, taking PSAT tests and I am still reminding him he needs to start applying for those ever lovely scholarships.  Can you believe I will be getting his senior portraits done in just 8 months?! Yeah, I need to stop before I hyperventilate.

The House/Move

Not sure if and/or when we will be moving/selling the house.  That seems to be in an “on hold” mode right now.  But with recent home improvement projects and “other” improvements on the list, we are still enjoying the process of making this one just like we want it.  My kiddos love living here.

Goals

I have been working on creating my goals for the next 5 years and trying to simplify exactly what that means from finances to my children’s spiritual growth.  One thing I do realize more and more each day is this parenting thing is tough.  Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s easy (even with two parents partnering together in one house). It gets tougher as they mature into these ‘tweens’ and teens; and sometimes I have to step back and ask God, “Can I do this?” Then I am reminded, “I can do all things, through Christ…” even when I feel like pulling my hair out.

Interjection here… I am watching the debate and it’s almost comical as they deliberate about “apples and oranges” for this 9-9-9 plan on the taxes.  That is all.

But in the meantime…day by day…

As I prepare for those goals and discuss my kiddos’ (the bigguns’) futures with them, we continue pressing on each day-- one at a time: one hairdo, one curfew, one text message, one XBox match, one girl scout session, one church service, one grade, one boyfriend, at-a-time.

Technorati Tags: teens,tweens,family time,college,scholarships,parenting,personal development,Faith,persistence

A new fave

Technorati Tags: Photography,photos,children,creeks,water,light on water,nature,outdoors,pictures,single moms,girls,tweens

Ode to Autumn… Tadah!

Kass and E are best friends. E is our neighbor but is more like one of the family, I tell her that often.  These two act more like sisters than just friends. The day on the hike was no different as they walked ahead of Mr. M, his boys, and I. Of course they had their time for girl talk (or should we say boy talk) as they crunched in the leaves and posed for the camera from time to time.

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: photography,photos,hiking,Blue Ridge parkway,fall,leaves,autumn,mountains,girls,friendships,girl talk

Home Alone – the kiddos

If you are considering leaving your child(ren) home alone for small periods of time or during the afternoon while you are still at work, you may be wondering: what are the rules? Are there laws dictating at what age a child can be left at home alone?

According to About.com’s article linked below, few states mandate a specific age for allowing parents to leave their child at home.  However, National SAFEKIDS Campaign recommends no child be left at home alone under the age of 12.  At the age of 12 other factors also have be considered to determine if your child is ready for this new realm of responsibility and safety issues.  The article, “When Can I Begin to Leave My Children Home Alone?” provides some guidelines to consider before taking this ‘leap of faith.’

• Is your child mature enough?
• Leave a phone number where you can be reached.
• Call and check in regularly
• Establish a routine for your child to check in with you too.
• Discuss expectations and what will be allowed while the child or children are home alone.  Is television permitted? Should homework be completed? Is the computer off limits?
• Explain how to handle emergencies. 

As a single parent, after school care can be an expensive budget item.  When your child nears the age of responsible independence, it’s tempting to urge them to spend this time at home and save on after-school care programs.  But make sure your child is comfortable with this new plan.  Ensure she feels confident with her ability to manage things on her own in your absence for those couple hours after school. Be sure to cover all the bases before making it a permanent solution.

We have been working on this plan in our home for a few weeks now that the school year is in full swing.  I can’t believe how much my kiddos have grown up.  They are becoming responsible young people right before my eyes.

What are some added tips you can share about leaving your tweens and teens at home alone?  Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: home alone,children,childcare

Photo Credit: fanpop.com

He’s getting older…and wants to drive

Jas has been bringing up the driving thing lately.  Not that I wasn’t expecting it. He turned 15 several months ago and is just weeks away from being old enough for his learner’s.

But this is the part of his growing up I have been dreading.  You know, since he was two and started riding a big-wheel I have hated the thought of him driving.

It’s not even so much about the expenses involved like buying a car, a car insurance policy, or paying for gas.  Although, I have included these items in our conversations so he understands the reality of that next step. Perhaps he should get quotes for insurance on teenage drivers to fully realize the magnitude of driving.

But my bigger concern is simply the hugeness of this step into independence.  He will be officially growing up when he has a driver’s license and a car.  Plus I know what is inevitable.  Once he is driving, it won’t be, “I wonder if he is going to have an accident,” but “when.”

Not that I want to sound morbid or negative, (I know I am sounding morbid and negative) but I am just preparing for the reality of my baby driving out there on those busy streets where all the crazies are.

Maybe instead of wanting to drive he could come to me and say he wants to start a business in California.  Then we could just all move to California with him, discuss getting insurance for business in California and put my mind at ease about this whole driving thing.  Seriously, I would much rather be getting rates for business insurance.

Yeah, I know… dreaming. (Now who’s crazy?)  Instead of looking into business insurance information, I need to start looking into a good deal for a used vehicle, the best deal for teenage drivers insurance, and sending up many prayers for travel mercies.

What are your fears about your baby growing up into adulthood?

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Photo Credit: Katherine Shinault

Disclaimer:  This post was brought to you by your friends at localinsurance.com.

 

Graduation celebration…for three days and three nights

The graduation day itself was wonderful.  Kass was graduating from elementary and we make a big deal of things like that around here.  Since Jas didn’t have any exams for his last day of school he didn’t have to go to school – so he went with me to his sister’s graduation. I took pictures of her getting classroom awards, etc. and when she was crossing the stage for her promotion to middle school, I stood up and got close to the stage in the middle of the room… aimed the camera, click… click… nice; the battery died and I missed it.  Snap.

But I didn’t let that ruin the day for us.  Following the ceremony, we went for a quick lunch and dropped off Jas at the house so Kass and I could have some girl time.  We went to see “Letters to Juliet” at the theater which was just awesome by the way.  It’s definitely on top of our buy list for dvds. 

Then we went shopping –- more fun just for us girls.  The day couldn’t have been any better…. well maybe if I could have gotten that snapshot of her crossing the stage during her promotion… but that’s ok.  We still created some great memories.  Later that day she went to stay at one of her friend’s house for a couple days to continue celebrating.

Saturday, she returned so we could go and have a big graduation dinner at Reb Lobster.  It is our tradition every year one of my kiddos graduates from a level of school, we go out to eat at Red Lobster.  The kiddos love the restaurant and that one night – they can get anything they want.  Mr. M, his boys and his mom and step-dad joined us for the fun.  It was a a lot of fun and more memories.

 

See, we love to celebrate around here.  We don’t mind finding a reason to have a party.

How did you celebrate the end of the school year?

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: graduation day,celebrating,parties,Red Lobster,Huff Lane,Letters to Juliet,movies,shopping

In Honor of My Oldest Child

Today is the BIG Project Forum at Jas’ Governor’s School.  Finally!  This day has been postponed twice because of recent snow storms.  But Jas definitely was favored with the crazy weather – because it gave him two additional weeks to complete the final details on his project.  This was because he stayed true to himself with being quite the procrastinator. 

The project looks great though and it is all setup at the facility and we are about to take him over for his interviews before the forum is open to the public.  Later awards are given out. 

In honor of his project day, I thought I would share one of Jas’ fave comedians, Brian Regan as he talks about a ‘typical’ science fair morning.  Well typical for us around our house… we love this:

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: science fair,project forum,Governor's School,procrastination

As the Planet Slowly Turns

As the planet slowly turns today, we await what is said to be another large snow storm – heading our way. Again.  I am constantly checking the weather channel these last few weeks, which are turning now into months of ‘bad weather’.  I am turning into a weather maniac – instead of weather watching guru.

Please, don’t get me wrong; I love a good snow.  Remember… I enjoyed it back in December and even liked getting another excuse to stay in a week ago when we got snow.  But when a day stuck indoors turned into 3, the kids were out of school more days than I wanted to count, and they called for it again this weekend… I wanted to say “Enough!” 

We must embrace it I guess… as we ‘brace ourselves’ for another winter storm.

By the way. I haven’t forgotten this is February.  I do have an article on relationships in the works.  Hopefully I will have that one posted tomorrow.  So definitely stay tuned for it.  I would love your comments and feedback on that one, seriously.

But in the meantime, grab some hot chocolate, a cozy blanket and get ready to curl up with a good book this weekend if you are anywhere around the eastern side of the continent.  Because that is just what I am going to do.

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Photo Credit: weather.com

Teens and Drugs – Dare you ask?

Today over on www.TWITTERMOMS.com I participated with a posted discussion question:

Would you ask your teen whether he's using drugs?

My answer:

Definitely! You have to continually - on a daily basis - keep your teen engaged. Don't just ask the hard questions, keep communication open by asking and staying informed about their lives in general – E.V.E.R.Y.D.A.Y.  Yes, with hard questions, you might get the 'attitude'; but in the grand scheme of things - SO WHAT!

Keeping your teens away from drugs and smart about their choices – because they know they are accountable to you as a parent IS YOUR JOB.

Don't hesitate to talk to your teenager. I make it a point to let my son, Jas (14) know that he can tell me anything.... A.N.Y.T.H.I.N.G. and that I will refrain from - reacting with shock or over-reacting in general. I want him to know he can talk to me - not only is it an option... I want him to feel inclined to talk to me.  I can’t stress this enough.

Find out what your teen is interested in... beside video games and iPods and talk to them about their interests... research and get brushed up on "did you know" kind of trivia about those topics that interest them.... try it!!!

Keep them engaged - no matter what it takes – then… the hard questions - won't be so.... hard to ask.

How do you feel about talking to your teens about drugs…. about anything for that matter?

Share your thoughts.

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Photo Credit: http://www.softchalk.com/lessonchallenge/lesson/Pharmacology/prescription_drugs.jpg

Technorati Tags: teenage years,teenagers,teens,drugs,drug use,parenting teens,communication,interests,relationships

Got Math?

(This post is sponsored by: TutorVista.com)

My son just started Governor’s School.  We are very excited about his opportunity, but at the same time, I am on the edge of my seat as I await the upcoming inevitable overwhelmed teenager.  The program is setup like college classes, not only the curriculum but also it’s format.  The program covers integrated mathematics and technologies of science.  And during middle school he didn’t have to crack a book.  So it’s only a matter of time before he needs a little assistance since the program is setup to be a challenge for students like him.

What should you do if your student is struggling with school work?  Math seems to be the trickiest of subjects with all ages, from K-12 to college.  Does your child need math help?

Have you ever thought of using online math tutoring?  There is a website called www.tutorvista.com/math-help that might just be your answer.  On their homepage, there is an question box for instant free math help.

When you are dealing with ‘integrated mathematics’ like my son, or calculus, even algebra… we parents aren’t always going to be able to get our kiddos out of a pinch on how to do certain math problems.  But that is when we have to turn to online math help.  This specific online math tutor (www.tutorvista.com) also provides a free demo for first time users where they can try the service for free online math tutoring.

So if your student is struggling with math, try this online math tutor. 

I will be right behind you!

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Photo Credit:  http://www.ct4me.net/images/AlgebraLine.jpg

Technorati Tags: math,calculus,mathematics,tutoring,math-help,online tutoring

Yesterday….

Ok, I left you hanging yesterday…. about my bad morning.  Well don’t feel bad – I also left Mr. M. hanging about why I was in such a foul mood when he called before work that day.  (And in case you are reading this a day late because of your email subscription arrived late, I am talking about the first day of school.  And if you didn’t get an email subscription, why not?  Jump over there and sign up for an email subscription, silly!)

Now, where was I?  Oh yeah – bad morning… well…. it was… to say the least, because….

I got a speeding ticket.

And I am not even going to tell you where or why I was driving in that area which was out of my routine… no I am not going to bog you down with those little details of the why’s or wherefore’s.  I am just going to tell you I wanted to either cry or throw up. 

I haven’t gotten a ticket in several years…ok I have had a few way back in the day… but not recently.  AND they have went up on their fees here in the city!

So my next thought pattern was… How am I going to pay for this!?

You know I have braces to pay for… and with Jas starting high school I had promised to buy him a laptop to assist him with all his studies.  So with trying to find ways to cut back to pay for all that… I didn’t need another surprise blue-light special! 

Well I hate to complain – but it did ruin my morning…. and it took me a while to get over it… but I decided to look on the bright side.  It wasn’t an accident and I was going over the speed limit (because I was in a hurry… but… nope not going to get into that).  So it was my own doing…. but I still felt sick and I still wonder what I can do ‘extra’ to pay for the ticket.

Maybe I can go on eBay and auction off my left arm as a place for tattoo advertisements… what would I get for that?

Any other ideas?

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: speeding ticket,speeding,braces,complaining,bad days,find positive side

Photo Credit: http://www.freefoto.com/images/28/11/28_11_32---Police-emergency-flashing-blue-lights_web.jpg

1st Day Back to School Pics

 

We got up at 6:15 am this morning without any problems… don’t know that it will be that easy the rest of the week… but today we got up without quarrels.

Above is Kass who had to be at school first, we left the house about 7:20.  She is growing up… I can’t get over it – 5th grade this year.

 

And here is Jas about to head to the bus stop… for his first day (official) of high school. He didn’t want me to take this… but after the morning I had… long story for another post, trust me… he knew he better cooperate!

They are sporting their new haircuts I gave them this past weekend.  Here is a pic from a week ago… so you can appreciate the difference.  Jas is going for the Pete Wentz look…. we may have to do some more cutting to perfect that but… it looks better now than it did here below, right?

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: school,high school,school days,first day,children,teenage years,haircuts

Brand New School, Stages, and Cheerleaders, OH My

I sat in the brand spanking new auditorium/amphitheater amongst freshmen students and a few parents scattered here and there Thursday for the freshmen orientation.  Jas will be starting high school Tuesday, and he is a part of history as his is the first class to start in the brand new school that was just built and opened for the first time this school year.  It had been my high school back in the day… but now with all the classes, theaters, credit union branch, and cafeteria inside the new building it was a totally new world.

The drum line started the orientation with a presentation on stage that was quite impressive followed by cheerleaders… doing their thing – their bouncy, flouncy, jiggy with it, thing.  Yes I know I am officially a mom… and officially a mom of a son when I found myself wanting to run up on stage and share with one of those girls what a support bra was.  I found it difficult not to stare at her with the fitted white tee … while she bounced (literally) all over the stage.  Why would they put her on the front row when there were four rows of girls up there dancing and doing routines?  I mean they were all in fitted tees and skinny jeans, but she had the “bouncing” going o-v-e-r-board.

Ok, I digress….

Otherwise, the day went great.  Jas has most of his classes with the other three Governor School students that were accepted from his middle school.  That day I experienced it with him as his shadow… going to all the classes he will have at the high school before transporting over to G.S. for the rest of the day.  It was chaos and the new building is well laid out and absolutely awesome  but it’s about a fourth of a mile from the front lobby over to the freshmen wing… so we did a lot of walking.

I let my mind wander and I began to worry about all the things my fourteen year old will have to face with growing up, starting high school, and all the temptations that come with boys and their teenage years.  But I also reminded myself… I have done the best I could to get him to this point, I have tried to instill in him a foundation of faith and morals as well as respect for those over him.  And I have an open door of communication that he knows is there and we use it when we can with each other.  (I like to know what he’s thinking.)  Now I guess… the rest is up to him.  Yes I plan to still be there to encourage him and remind him of the very things I have taught him… but in many ways… I have to let go now…. a little more…. for this next stage of his life. 

But it’s so hard.

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Photo Credit: http://wwwdelivery.superstock.com/WI/223/1433/PreviewComp/SuperStock_1433R-947491.jpg

Technorati Tags: teenage years,cheerleaders,high school,parenting,governor's School,growing up years,stages of life

…And About “The Talk”

The Talk

Do you remember the post about the doctor telling me it was time for ‘the talk’ with little Kass?  Are you struggling with  the topic of puberty and your elementary school age child?

Well I have eluded to the topic with her on occasion and made sure I had shared some of the basics.  But of course, I didn’t feel totally prepared for the long-drawn-out version of “the talk.”  At least not to the point where I wanted to open the floor for more in-depth questions and I don’t think she felt comfortable doing so anyway.

Book Giveaway!

Then a few weeks back I was approached by Healthy Edudynamics about reviewing a book titled, 101 Questions Kids Really Ask… And The Answers They Need To Know.  They sent me a free copy and I started reading the book.  Let me first say I am impressed and appreciative of the approach to the material.  So much so that I have an extra brand-new copy of 101 Questions Kids Really Ask… I want to give away to one of my readers along with a preview of “A Time to Talk,” a new DVD-based program that gives parents and teachers the necessary tools to begin early with age-appropriate, straight-forward, and accurate dialogue.

Some topics for conversation during such a “talk” about puberty can lead to discussing personal choices – choices a family has to make for themselves and provide as a guide for their children’s way of thinking.  This book adapts to that concept by leading you to input more of your personal choices when it comes to discussing morals and boundaries instead of making those decisions for you in it’s content.  To see what I mean, here is an example. 

This excerpt is taken from the text of the book:

**What is sex?

There are many slang terms for all types of intercourse.  When asked a question that includes a slang term, begin your answer with statement No. 1.

1. That is a slang term for ____________________.

2. Give the definition for the behavior in questions based on the above definitions. (These definitions are outlined in the book in the previous section)

TEACHABLE MOMENT – If children should ask technique or “how to” questions related to intercourse, a parent should acknowledge the question, perhaps try to find out what the child knows or has heard about the topic, and then answer or not answer based on the information the child states and using the personal values of the family. ** Excerpt taken from page 78, Section: Questions About Sensitive Issues.

As you see here, you are able to use the material and yet impart your own ideals as you share the information with your son or daughter.  On the flip side even if you use this material with a small civic group or church group of young people, the content allows you to provide an answer, yet gear the children to what needs to be asked of their parents when they get home so they can elaborate about it.  This gives the family the final say and more control over how their children should be taught in these more sensitive and personal areas.

It also discusses other questions kids have… like “What is French Kissing?”  So it is not just about the sensitive issues… but also a tool for other related conversations about harassment and self esteem/body image issues.

Remember our children, no matter how sheltered, will be exposed to information.  As they get older and closer to middle school age especially, they will ‘hear’ things and may know more than you think they do…already.  Don’t you want them to see you (their mom or dad) as an easy-to-talk to resource?  Keep that door open and gentle… not judging.

Helpful Resource

I think this book can be very helpful for parents and group leaders alike; plus it gives you a jumpstart to beginning such a conversation in a down-to-earth, “this is what other kiddos are thinking and asking” kind of way. 

I plan to use this tool as a resource on this topic of puberty and “the talk” and you might want to check it out too. 

You have a chance to receive a free copy right here.

If you would like to receive this extra free copy of the book and resource DVD about “The Talk” all you have to do is leave me a comment.  One name will be chosen from the comments on this post over the next week, so leave your email address to be contacted or a profile connection with an email linked to it.

Seriously, if you are in the stage with one of your children where “the talk” is coming up soon, you have to check out this book, 101 Questions Kids Really Ask… (And I was surprised at how early that stage really is.)

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: sex education,puberty,children,free book,facts of life,healthy

Back to School… Ready or Not?

Some of the schools in the area started back TODAY!  Mr. M.’s boys were included in that bunch…. It is hard to believe it is already here.  Summer is coming to an end.  Your kiddos’ class photo might not look like this one above, but perhaps…. they are just as ‘happy’ about going back.

My kiddos have until September 8, because their school system always waits till after labor day but we are trying to get ready for the big day.  I made an attempt to buy some of their supplies for ‘back to school’ during the tax-free weekend in Virginia… but we have a ways to go. 

I did find these tips for back to school from Real Simple Magazine to be helpful.  Check them out when you have five minutes to get organized.

They also have some ideas to make it less stressful!  So check out that link too.  It’s time for chaotic mornings and rushed afternoons…once again.

Do you have any tips for us moms as we gear up and psych ourselves up for back to school?

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: back to school,children,school supplies,tips,stress

Photo Credit:  http://www.ncculture.org/HistoryHappens/PhotoGallery/images/largephoto/schooldays1940.jpeg

Two for One Tuesday….Inspiring Mom

Recently… Lisa won a contest put on by BillMeLater.com and Zappos.com for moms as Household CEO’s by making this video.

She shares about her entry and I quote:

“This is my entry into the BillMeLater & Zappos Household CEO Contest. I enlisted the help of my whole family, and all of them (especially my husband) were great sports about it. Some days I feel like the CEO, and others like the housekeeper, but I am grateful for my family and enough to get by. What a great contest and opportunity. Thanks, BillMeLater and Zappos!!!” – Lisa Roberts

She is an inspiration to all of us moms…. and said the $2500 she won in prize money will be going toward ‘back to school bonuses for her staff’….hope you enjoy the video.

Find yourself… keeping it real.

Technorati Tags: moms,children

The Stresses of Raising a 14 Year Old

  

Stressed.

Word for the day, today... is stressed.  You know Jas is just getting over strep, right and that he will be starting Governor's school in the fall, right?

Meanwhile, (and yes he is feeling better) we get a letter from his upcoming Physics teacher from GS and he has a summer assignment!  A lengthy one.

No big deal, right?  He has all summer.

But he doesn't.... He stays almost the entire month of August with his dad. (Mind you he will not get anything productive/school related work done while there....since his dad is not exactly encouraging the whole GS thing anyway.)  And we go on vacation on July 6 for a week.  So he has exactly two weeks left in this month and three weeks after our vacation left in July.  So he needs to get busy, right?

Well, that's how I would logically consider the calendar.... but he (Jas) is having a hard time buckling down to do research and get this project behind him... because he just finished school!

We are emailing a few ideas back to the Physics teacher... and hoping we are at least getting him started on the right track.

Pray I don't pull my hair out.... or his hair out... in the process.

Oh the joys.... GS has already begun.... and it's not even September yet!

Don't you love how I can go from being totally elated to being totally stressed in one week!?

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Find yourself... keeping it real.

photo credit: http://gain11.com/Portals/0/Images/Woman%20Pulliing%20Hair%20Out.jpg

Technorati Tags: teenage years,single moms

Awards, Grades, and A’s Oh My

I sat in the auditorium holding my camera in my lap and listening as they called out names of certificate recipients. Kass had received a couple of certificates so far during her awards assembly, one for math achievement and another one. Now her teacher was announcing the recipients of honor roll. “I have three that received ‘honor-roll,’” he said. The first name he announced was one of Kass’ best friends, but she was absent today. The next name I didn’t recognize as I listened for the third name, thinking it would be Kass…. But… it wasn’t. I was shocked. I started wracking my brain… when did she make a ‘c’?

Then he started again: “This next student made straight A’s not only for the year in her regular courses but made straight A’s all year in her extra course that only a few were selected to take: Spanish.” Then, he said her name.

I was so elated. I couldn’t help but react so I stood up on my feet and started taking pictures of her as she walked up the aisle to receive her award. I didn’t squeal or scream out… but under my breath I did mutter… “You go girl” and “That’s my girl!” I felt bad that I was being “silly” over the excitement of her achievement as I sat there with two other moms I knew well, wondering what they must have thought of my reaction. But I was enjoying the moment as pride for my daughter swelled within me.

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Find yourself… keeping it real.

Photo Credit:  Kass' Spanish Teacher took this photo of her.

Technorati Tags: single moms,school days,grades,proud moms