School Struggles...Have I Become THAT Parent?

 

 

This year has started off to be a mix of happy and hell all stirred together.

 

Faith started SK at the regular, public school and most days it is torture dropping her off.  I have struggled with how to do this in a way that I don't leave the school crying and worrying about her and the people who will be around her all day.

 

I remember doing daycare and telling the parents not to worry about their child crying as they were dropped off, and sometimes getting frustrated when they stuck around...it just prolonged the agony for all of us, the parent, the child and me.

 

Now, the tables have turned.  I have 5 kids, and none of them have had huge issues with separation.  They gladly went to school and I never had to worry about them...now I have Faith, and my biggest fears have come true...

 

I have become that parent.  The one who can't leave...The one who prolongs the agony and makes it harder for everyone involved.

 

And I am aware of this.  I just can't figure out a way to drop her off and leave feeling alright.

 

To back this level of worry up, Faith has had some behavioural issues this year.  It has only been a month and she has bit 2 teachers, broke the teachers necklace, hit, scratched and pinched various teachers and has thrown the chairs around the room.

 

This is not what I wanted...and yet, we knew what we were looking at when we fought in the beginning for her life...

 

I have had those "bad mom" feelings...the ones where I really "dislike" (really I mean hate....) Faith.  Awful, I know.  But it is where I was at the other night.  She is fine at home, she is cuddly and loving and playful and I thought to myself that one time....Why can't she do this at school?  Why does she have so much control over my feelings in the morning, that ruin my day?  Why do I LET her have that control over my feelings...?

 

I absolutely adore Faith, don't get me wrong.  I know these are just hurdles we are jumping right now, and it is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

 

A few weeks ago I used my Boardmaker program and put together a bunch of charts and PEC symbols and a Behaviour Escalation Continuum for the teachers.  It took me an entire weekend, printing, planning, laminating, cutting, velcro'ing etc...It was a lot of work.  They were all so thankful for the help, because really, they don't know her yet.

 

And I can be a huge help in that area.  I am struggling with the drop off.  The EA's who work with Faith during the days are amazing.  The school has really worked hard to help Faith in the transition.  I had been taking Faith up the stairs into the room, because she was really giving them a hard time, and then I was sneaking out. 

 

Faith would be so upset when she didn't see me after I left...so I have been encouraged to say goodbye and just leave.  Which I have done a few times.  That is so hard, because Faith ends up screeching and hitting and running after me.  It breaks my heart. 

 

I thought I knew best and today said that I would just sneak out.  The EA said, Faith doesn't trust her when I sneak out....and then it clicked.  I am doing what makes ME feel better. 

 

I AM THAT PARENT!!!

 

Today, Faith started hitting the EA with her mailbag and I was able to hold her and tell her she needed to be nice.  Then I said bye and I left.  Faith ran after me and screamed.

 

I was crushed.  But I have to do it.

 

I am going to suggest that I meet the EA at the door of the room and say goodbye there, so I am not going into the room to prolong the goodbye...and I will just have to accept the fact that Faith will have a good day.  Hopefully, and try not to let it bother me so much.

 

I really don't want to be that parent that everyone dislikes.  I don't want to be overbearing.  I want Faith to be successful and be able to transition well. 

 

I just don't know that I can separate myself from this...

 

HOW DO OTHER PARENTS DO THIS???

The One Where Reality Kicks My Butt!!

We had gone for at least a month without a seizure.  Probably even more then a month.

Last week, Faith had a very small, focal seizure while I was away in Toronto for a social media conference.  Pete texted me to let me know and I was kind of sad about it...she had gone sooo long!! 

But we were hoping that it was just a fluke and that the new medication really was the miracle we were hoping for. 

School Bus Training and Faith...

Don't mix so well...

I am so excited that Faith is going  to start school this year.  I am excited for her, mostly...but also for me!!  I am going to have 3 hours, every.single.morning to myself!!  That means I could have a nap, go for coffee, have a pedicure, blog etc...

Letter from Kindergarten

Pooky, 5 years old, was switched to the new kindergarten class this year.  There were 4 classes to start with and too many kids altogether, so they created a new room.  The teacher was transferred from another school and is quite experienced in the classroom. 

We had parent teacher meetings a few weeks ago and it was nice to learn how she runs her classroom.  I wasn't sure about it when she described it...she said that it was open concept and the kids learn through play.  I did an observation in the class to see how Pooky was doing and I loved the class for her. 

The kids were all playing, they would travel between the various centres: writing, reading, house, painting, playdough, chalkboard, puzzles etc...and everyone got along.  The kids were all responsible for what they chose to do.  There were some girls painting and when they finished their picture, they brought it over to the shelf and found their name to put their picture on.

It was actually really cool to see how the kids listened, learned and practiced getting along...like in the real world!!  This was a perfect fit for Pooky.  We frequently get these little letters home from her teacher and they are really cute.  Here is the latest on below.

Dear Parents,

Sometimes teachers feel like the woman who lived in the shoe,
We have so many children, we don't know what to do!

New winter clothes have buttons and zippers and ties;
So many to fasten, oh how the time flies!

Snowpants, boots, coats, scarves and hats;
We know that mittens must come last!

Please spend a moment or two tonight,
Showing your child how to put things on right.

Then we'll send them out ready, set, go;
All bundled up warm for the snow!

A great big "THANKS!" comes back to you,
From happy teachers with students who know what to do!

To help your child along,
Try singing this little song:

(to the tune of Head and Shoulers)
Snowpants, boots, coats, scarf and hat,
Scarf and hat,
Scarf and hat

Snowpants, boots, coats, scarf and hat,
Your mittens come last
Your mittens come last.

Because we can't do up our zipper unless your mittens come last!

So, it doesn't really fit the whole tune of the song, but I like that these kinds of notes come home:-)  This teacher is amazing.  I like that the kids are going to know how to be productively independent when they head into grade 1. 

And that is just that - Pooky will be in grade 1 soon...I can't believe how fast time flies!!

End of the School Year

I both love and dislike the end of the school year...

No more having to be up and ready early in the morning, but now the kids are home all the time and needing to be able to entertain them...lol...I am kidding, I love that school really is almost done.

I love that the kids come home with their school work and projects, and I thought that I would share this from Cutie Pie...I will have to scan the pic and add it at a later date...

The 3 Bullys

This book is dedicated to my sister Pooky
Illustrated by Cutie Pie

The 3 bullies

On a Thursday morning a kindergarten student named Alisa was playing on the playground with her friends.

They were playing tag. When the kindergarten children were running they bumped into a bigger student. Then the guy said "you beter run little kid". Alisa tried to say sorry but the big guy ignored her. So Alisa and her friends kept playing their game.

The next day the little kids were playing a different game. Another little student ran in to the guy again. He said "you beter run or I'll hurt you". The little kids say, "you bully!" The guy said "what did you say?" The little girl said, "you bully". The bully tried to punch the little girl. But another girl named Cutie Pie (she used her own name) said "STOP!" Cutie Pie ran and helped the little child. Then the little girl said, "watch out! The bully is chasing you. Run!"

But Cutie Pie said "NO!" Then Cutie Pie talked to the bully and said " you should stop bullying people because do you want to be treated good right?" The bully said "yes." "Then treat the other people good."

The bully said sorry to the little kid. And they made a statue of Cutie Pie ito remind them to never bully.

The End

The next page is what I need to scan...it is a colouring of the statue of herself...the hero!!
Too Cute!!

My Controversial Post for the Month...

This is controversial...this is my disclaimer at the top:-) Don't read on if you don't like being offended:-) Have I covered my butt enough??? ;-)

The new Ontario Curriculum for Health and Phys Ed...It has been in a number of newspapers...I am sure you can find it if you need to:-)

I really am only ticked on a few things...not the whole.

Dalton McGuinty has made some changes that are to start in September in the schools in Ontario. Lots of people are up in arms about it and the protest rallies are rolling out...

How much of it do I disagree with? Maybe I have a different perspective then most people in my circle...which is fine. We are all unique individuals with unique perspectives...life would be boring otherwise.

This post focuses on the sex ed part of the curriculum...if you want to read it all, you can find it here.

The first change, and I am not sure if it really is a change...but the kids are going to start learning about body parts in grade 1. You know, the proper words...boys have a penis, girls have a vagina etc...I don't see an issue with that.

Why not? I think it is important for kids to have a sense of reality. Cute little nick names are inappropriate (my opinion) and become confusing.

The other issues that they address in grade 1 are hygiene, 5 senses, and healthy and unhealthy feelings in a relationship (potential abuse, bullying).

Grade 2 - They will cover the stages of human development, body changes and factors that contribute to healthy growth and living.

No problems there...it is good for them to start learning that...properly...

Again, in grade 2 they talk about how you learn that your body is yours...and no one should be touching it...and that it is ok to tell an adult when something uncomfortable happens.

Oh, and they cover oral hygiene...

Grade 3 - building healthy respectful relationships.

identify the characteristics of healthy relationships (e.g., accepting
differences, being inclusive, communicating openly, listening, showing
mutual respect and caring, being honest) and describe ways of overcoming
challenges (e.g., bullying, exclusion, peer pressure, abuse) in a relationship

This is also the grade where they start to talk about visible differences (colours, disabilities etc...) and invisible differences (personal values, beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation). I think this is where a lot of people start to get up in arms about it. Specifically the last 2 mentioned.

We all have our different thoughts, values and beliefs on this topic. But the reality is, it is a part of everyday lives now. It is seen everywhere and to ignore it and deny it is wrong. That would be raising our kids with a false sense of reality. To learn in grade 3 that you need to respect people, no matter what; that you need to learn to communicate openly with others, that you need to be inclusive...is in no way interfering with what I choose to teach my kids at home.

So...they learn how to build and maintain a healthy relationship in class...they learn to look past invisible and visible differences...and to build relationship with the PERSON...not the value, belief or sexual orientation...I don't see the issue there...

Grade 4 talks about the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty...it is happening earlier now...we have already, by this point talked with our kids quite openly about their bodies and by this point they already know it all. This is a class that is needed...just because we are open and discuss these things in our home, doesn't mean that the family who lives next door does...and things are happening earlier...and there is more to blame then just education (have you seen the TV shows/commercials and movies these kids watch now a days?, that is another controversial post on its own;-)

They talk in grade 4 about the "feelings" of wanting to be more then friends. This is applicable at this age...I am not sure how early in the year I heard from Cutie Pie that her friends were "dating"...she is in grade 3...Cutie Pie knows what our stance is in regards to dating, so no matter what she learns, if I have done my job, it shouldn't matter, and I should be able to trust her judgements as she grows.

Oh and the favourite topic in grade 4...personal hygiene...no questions or issues with that one at all:-)

Then we get to grade 5...reproduction, menstruation and fetilization (whether natural - penis/vagina or mechanical) sounds fine to me...they also learn about emotional and interpersonal stresses and how to manage it. No matter what the cause is, this is absolutely necessary for kids to learn.

How do these kids feel about issues they can control in their lives (positive or negative attitudes, respect etc..), issues that they can't control in their lives (gender identity and sexual orientation being a few - along with disabilities and skin colour) I mention these two because this is where the controversy seems to come from.

Whatever your beliefs are, if they are so important to rally and fight things...then this shouldn't be a problem. You will be that parent who will be ready to openly discuss the teachings and let them know where you stand. I truly believe that the followup discussions are key to whatever they are learning...even if it is about bullying!!

Again, to learn how to handle stress at this age is vital...Have you spent time with a kid this age lately? They have stress...it doesn't matter what family you are being raised in...there is stress (I know!!). Whatever the stress is related to doesn't really make a difference. Just the idea that they will learn some healthy coping methods is good for me to know and to build on...

It talks as well, in grade 5 about relationships. That if you choose to be in a relationship at this age, you need to be prepared to deal with the hurt and responsibility that ensues. It talks about healthy ways to end a relationship...how to show someone you like them...This one seems a bit much...to a point. But I can see where they are coming from.

Like I said...with kids in school right now...grade 3 and grade 6...I hear all about the relationships their friends are in. I have even been told that a couple of my kids had been asked to date someone...my kids responses were - We don't do that...we don't have time, etc...because of what we taught them, they are aware of the complications and consequences of relationships at any age. I cannot be with them at school...and they are not the "norm" I guess...considering how many boyfriend/girlfriend talks I have heard...

I trust that I have taught them right and I know, because they have, that they feel open to talk about these issues with us. I think I did something right so far;-)

Grade 6, grade 6, grade 6...here is where I start to have a minor issue...this is from the document:

describe how they can build confidence and lay a foundation for healthy relationships by acquiring a clearer understanding of the physical, social, and emotional changes that occur during adolescence (e.g., physical: voice changes, skin changes, body growth; social: changing social relationships, increasing influence of peers; emotional: increased intensity of feelings, new interest in relationships with boys or girls, confusion and questions about changes)

Doesn't sound bad...but one of the examples...

Teacher prompt: “Having erections, wet dreams, and vaginal lubrication are normal
things that happen as a result of physical changes with puberty. Exploring your body
by touching or masturbating is something that many people will do and find pleasurable. It is common and is not harmful and is one way of learning about your body.”

Here is where it gets nitty gritty;-)

While I am ok with the kids learning about their physical changes, lubrications, wet dreams, erections...I have an issue with them learning, in grade 6, about masturbation. Maybe this is where people will start to throw stones at me...I have been ok with it all until we get to here.

I think that maybe this goes a bit too far...the whole masturbation thing. In grade 6, I think it should be basics, still. Like how babies are made, body changes, and how to deal emotionally with the physical changes...I think it could open a whole other door at this age...and when there is age of majority set in our country...I do think that it puts that age of consent into jeopardy...

And that is all I am saying about that...:-)

They will also learn about dating relationships in Grade 6. And I am ok with that again.

I am going to stop at Grade 6...because by the time they hit Grade 7 they have seen and learned much more then I have ever taught them...because that is what happens when kids get together. Whether in the school system or the homeschooling system...relationships are built regardless...

In a nutshell, to try and wrap up my feelings on this whole issue...I stand firm in the belief that I have already started teaching my kids right from wrong, healthy versus unhealthy, our morals, values and beliefs and that they will choose to do with that what they will.

I cannot hide my kids from the world. Whether I agree or disagree with others choices...is it right to teach my kids to "dislike" that person? Or, as a Christian, is it more important to build that relationship, love everyone, be respectful and SHINE in our world?

I choose the latter...I choose to raise my kids to not be ignorant to the world, to not be naive when they are posed with a situation...I also look forward to the family discussions that we will have after these issues are taught in class. What better way to keep lines of communication open with our children and what better way to teach them how to live a life that they can look at and be proud of their decisions and choices.

BUT...this is my opinion...I have been through a lot in my life...I am in a different stage then others and I KNOW that I will receive some backlash about this...and I am OK with that:-)

Insight into her heart...

Cutie Pie has been doing really well in school this year. She started out rough, but has really improved and is starting to take a lot of pride in her completed assignments and tests. The other day she brought home a 12.5 out of 15 test mark and was ecstatic...You may remember some of her other work here or here. Too funny if you ask me...

Yesterday the assignment she brought home was a writing paper. She was happy that it was neatly written, had earned a sticker and there were no spelling mistakes:-) I read it and was reminded how her heart is so different from my other kids;-) In her own words...

Family

My favorite people are my family. My sister Angel died when
she was born. I can never get her out of my heart and she died 9 years
ago. I never forgotten about her since I was born. I love my sister
a lot. I love my sisters and brother too. That make's a total of 8
people in our family. I love my my sisters because we have fun
together. I love my brother because he helps me a lot everything I need
help with. I love my parents because they snuggle up with me and read me a
story. Then I read it to them. Then I go to bed. My family is the best.

She has such a tender heart:-) She is adamant that we have a family of 8. If she hears us tell people that we have 5 kids she always corrects us and says we have 6...no matter what. I think it is cool that she seems to have that connection even though this happened before she was even born:-)

The Bullying Dilemma...

I homeschooled for 6 years, Mr Hockey and Princess started school in Grades 7 and grade 3/4 and Cutie Pie started in Grade 1. This year I wanted to homeschool Cutie Pie, but really struggled with all the "life" things on my plate. So, she went to school 2 weeks into the year.

Last year, there was a boy in Cutie Pies class who would constantly chase her and try to kiss her. She was not ok with it and the teacher handled the situation fairly well. I believe it did stop, mostly, during the year and all was well.

This year, Cutie Pie ended up in the same class as this little boy again. Now I wish I had of spoken up in the beginning and had her or him switched.

Yesterday we got a call from the teacher informing us that Cutie Pie was being "tormented" by this little boy. To the point that she stood outside the classroom yesterday, in tears, scared to go into class...oh my goodness!! He has been hitting her, pushing her and spit in her face yesterday. I am so happy that Cutie Pie is confident enough to let someone know. I want to deal with this boy myself!!

I phoned this morning and talked with the teacher a little more in depth. She had given him a warning and then when that didn't work, she phoned his mom, who was not home...she told me that she was going to be letting the office know about what has been happening and if it started again she would be sending him to the office. They would deal with it and potentially he will be suspended if it doesn't stop.

The mommy in me wants to pull her out of school and homeschool her again. I want to protect her at all costs!! There is this joke that I heard through the homeschool community all those years...about socialization...That if we, as homeschoolers, wanted to socialize our kids the way they are socialized at school, we will just take them into the bathroom at lunchtime and tease them and take their lunch money...funny? Well, now that is a reality for my kid in the school system...

Apparently the teacher thinks that it is starting during the walk from breakfast club to school, and suggested that Princess take Cutie Pie under her wing a bit and keep her away from the boys...we will see how that pans out. I could keep them home from breakfast club, but don't think it is fair, or right, to teach the kids that when there is a bully situation we need to run away from it. We shouldn't have to be the ones to change...

Which leads me to my other thought. I really wanted to suggest to the teacher that these 2 be separated during class time. Even having one of them moved to the other grade 3 class. But, I don't want my kid to have to change...she should not have to be penalized for someone elses actions...

Which is why I probably won't pull her out of school again...unless it becomes obscenely unbearable (like my big words? That is how you know I am upset!!)

I hope that this boys mom takes this seriously. The rest of his life, and how he will behave, is dependant on how this situation is handled at home...that is what I believe anyways...I know his mom is a single mom and they have a younger child (toddler) and I think it would be an eye opener to have to find care for him while he is suspended...maybe that is what it will take?

I am planning on going to the school this afternoon to walk Cutie Pie home...should I talk to this kid in my "mom" voice? Do you think that I should encourage Cutie Pie to walk away from him and say things like - I am not allowed to play with bullies? Do you think this will put a target on her back even more? I don't know what to tell her to do...there is only so long that you can ignore it...I plan to follow up with the teacher next week to see how things are going, and what has changed or not changed...

I am just kind of stuck on suggesting the right thing to do...how have other people dealt with it? She is such a sweet kid, and has the worlds biggest heart...it breaks mine to see her hurting like this...

What's going on lately? Let me tell you;-)

I seem to go through these blogging stages, many days in a row...then a while in between...and if that is how it goes then be prepared for more then 1 post:-)

I started my work placement. It is great, I wasn't sure how much I would enjoy a nursing home, but I really do. It seems like such a fulfilling job!! And I have learned how much I can handle.

I have seen some pretty interesting things in the last 2 weeks...a pressure ulcer (first night, first resident)...Definitely looks different in person, a huge hole in the coccyx (tailbone) area...I also was present for a fecal disempaction (not a favourite memory!!) it was really hard to watch, because it is so painful, but necessary to be done. This past week I was an assistant to the dermatologist...he was doing a skin tag removal. Let me tell you, it was the coolest thing I have seen!!

First they freeze the area. When the freezing goes in the skin tag puffs right up. Then after the freezing is working the doc put the syringe into the skin tag and then he took a razor blade and sliced the tag off...easy as pie!! The tag was on the syringe and I held the sample jar and held the lid on top to help get the tag into the bottle. Then I got to shake it up and write on the label!! It was so cool. After the tag was removed he had to cauterize the area, to stop the bleeding. When he turned the machine on the bed started moving. I had to unplug the bed...so it is this mini looking welding gun type thing...it made this horrible bug light type noise and the smell!! I never smelled burning flesh before that night...now I know it all too well!! Anyhow, it was neat to be a part of that. Maybe there is a nurse deep down inside of me?! We will see!!

Faith had some appointments this week, the dietician came and her weight is flat lining again...concerned? Not really, not yet. I am toying with the idea of putting her back on pediasure to see if it will work this time...and giving her an allergy pill or something like that...there is no lactose in pediasure, but I wasn't sure if it was lactose or casein that was upsetting her body...she is growing taller which is good, at least there is growth:-)

We also met with IDP (Infant and Child Development). It was a much needed appointment. I asked a few questions about sleeping, the future, the resources that are NOT available, pec symbols etc...lots of different things. We think that we are going to write out a social story book about bedtime routines and try to take care of 2 birds with one stone...I really am excited about it and seeing if it works for her, if she can grasp it and keep it!! The ideas, the routines, can she retain that type of information? I am dreading the toilet training (great readiness checklist) aspect of life that is coming up...and I think we are just going to wait until she brings it up...when she is ready. When the bedtime pec book is working a bit then I will write one about the bathroom and seeing if that helps at all...It is so hard, I know that kids are all so different, but we had started with the others by now, and they were ready for it, Faith is nowhere near ready!! Anyhow, it was a good week, and I am looking forward to next week:-)

I went to the hospital today...for me!! Believe it or not. Yesterday, my wrist started hurting. I answered the phone and I couldn't hold it at all, I had to switch hands. My wrist was shaking so bad...it eventually has worked its way up my arm and there really is no explanation...other then the laptop and sitting in the wrong position (thanks Shash;) So, since it was worsening I decided that I should have it looked at. Off I went and I was sent home with an anti-inflammatory and a scrip for a wrist splint. I bought one and it will do, I can drive the car and move my fingers when it is on. It is great!! I wish that I could afford to buy one that was custom made, it would be way more comfortable.

I am not sure really what triggered it for sure, is it just me out and working now, the computer or just am I falling apart? Haha, no, I am sure it is the computer issue...I bought a lapdesk to raise the laptop a bit higher, we will see how this works. I have looked up a few issues that it could be - Carpal Tunnel or Tendonitis...or just my muscles working harder then they are used to:-) I will see in a few days and if it is still bothering me then I will see the doc about it more. For now the wrist splint is working great!!

So, that is a bit of an update from me, hopefully I will get on here again soon!!

Ongoing Conditions

This is the topic we are on now in school. We all had to pick a condition and do a report and then a presentation on our topic. I chose to do mine on Crohn's Disease. I think I did well on the report and the presentation is coming up soon. We have our last test, on the various conditions, next week. I think we are studying something like 40 conditions!! All on one test??? That will be interesting.

One of the topics will be epilepsy, which I know some stuff about...we are living it!! I actually have written a short childrens book...I was inspired after having to explain to 2 caregivers this past week how they can handle the situation should it arise. It can be kind of scary for someone who doesn't know anything about it to all of a sudden be given this child to care for...

So, the book I have written is a very brief explanation of epilepsy, from Faith's point of view. There are going to be some epilepsy facts added (once I get permission from the various foundations to repost their stuff), and the last page is a personalized protocol page (thanks Cheryl for the awesome idea!!) that parents can fill out. The idea is that the book travels with your child and you don't have to keep explaining everything!! I will keep you informed how it all goes. And if anything comes of it.

Tonight the conditions we are talking about are cancer and arthritis. We started watching a video on arthritis last night and it was heart wrenching!! They were talking a lot about juvenile arthritis and these kids were just kids. One of them had arthritis affect 60 of her joints. She couldn't have been more then 7.

She was on some pretty harsh medications, and I had thought it would be so nice to be able to have something natural that kids could use instead of filling their bodies with all those chemicals. I know that Lakota is a natural remedy for joint pain. I wonder if it is ok to use on kids? And I wonder what other remedies are out there?

I know that I felt better as a parent that I tried and still continue to use a naturopath. Even though we aren't using the R33 anymore, we are using febriplex and have thought about using another homeopathic remedy to fight against the flu.

I couldn't imagine having to go through range of motion exercises with my child to the degree that is necessary with juvenile arthritis. I know it was hard enough getting some of those exercises done with Faith but she could already do a lot on her own.

Anyhow, these are some conditions that I may be working with one day, when I finish my course. It is good to learn, but also very difficult emotionally. I can see that this will be an area that I will need to work on. Being able to help a client without becoming too emotionally involved.

Oh, and on the last test that we got back, it was case studies on abuse, I got 29 out of 30!! I was sooo excited, because it gave me more room to mess up on last nights test...which we will have to wait and see how I did.

Last test next week then we are on holidays and then into placement. I can't wait!!

School, work, Faith and stuff...

Real exciting title, I know...

I have been having some issues lately...hard time going to sleep at night. I am not overdoing caffeine, or sugar...I just can't sleep. I am usually up until at least 2 or 3am and it is getting tiring...I don't have much energy during the day and I am exhausted at night...just can't slow down. Hopefully when school is done I will be able to go back to normal life? We'll see.

School has been going great. I am pulling off marks in the high 80's low 90's. I love this course. I believe that I have said before that I finally found my passion. I have a skills test coming up on the 8th, and it sounds like it won't be too hard. Basically a complete or partial bed bath and using the manual lift to move the client (dummy). The hardest part for me, I think will be talking to the dummy like it is a real person. Maybe I should practice at home with the dolls galore that we have...wouldn't the kids love to catch me talking to their dolls? Mom's gone crazy!! It has all caught up with her!! No, I am really excited for Christmas break and then heading to the nursing home. Doing some actual hands on work! I loved helping to care for my grandma, so we will see how this experience turns out for me. After school Iwould like to try to get work at one of our local hospitals. I think it would be a blast to work in a fast paced environment where it changes from day to day. Either that or in home care. Haven't fully decided yet:-)

Work is going awesome. I still take a client out one time a week and we enjoy spending that time with her. She helps me and my kids see the world from a different view point. Today we went to a movie, Space Buddies...it really is a cute movie. I would really like to see Santa Buddies, and I know my kids would love to as well. Soon enough:-)

My other job is the new one. I have only been doing it for a few months now, but I love that I can work from home, on my computer and get paid!! Pete always said that if I got paid for being on here, he wouldn't bug me as much;-) I am holding him to it!! Now I am trying to figure out how to get a laptop, that I know the government will pay for at income tax time. Only problem is you need the money up front...I am going to start getting more creative I think:-)

Have I used enough of these in this post?? :-) :-) :-) :-)...

Faith is doing well. We are seeing more and more signs that are becoming concerning to us. She seems to go into these comfort positions. I would expect this kind of behaviour from a much younger child. Her hands curl up so she looks like she has cerebral palsy in her hands, and she holds them by her mouth, while sucking her tongue. Usually she has climbed into her high chair, or curled up somewhere and she just seems to go into her own little world. This is on top of the lack of empathy that she shows, which could be typical since 2 year olds are so vastly different. I, however, and really wanting a diagnosis of something. I still feel in my gut that there is something going on and with a diagnosis comes knowledge...not the end of the world. With the diagnosis comes the ability to focus treatment directly and prayers directly in a specific area. It is so important...remember back to her birth? We prayed for pee until we got it, then we prayed for her lungs until they cleared...praying with purpose:-) We are heading to our second home (the other hospital) on Tuesday this week. This is the first of 3 December appointments. This one is with the pediatric opthamologist and we are desperately hoping for a surgery date to correct her strabismus. If not surgery then we are hoping for better prescription glasses or other options to be offered...I am starting to get frustrated with the whole hospital protocols...ggrr...On a better note, we have been seizure free for 2 weeks now...that is exciting!!

Not much else going on. I get to meet the kids teachers on Friday for the first time. I have been in school everytime an opportunity has been there for parent teacher nights. It will be good to see where all the kids are at. Mr. H got his report card...high school remember. He is on the honour role!! We are waiting to see the girls cards then we will go and celebrate their acheivements, because school and these ages are hard times for kids. When they do well they need to be rewarded...so there will be some treat coming up for them!!

Anyhow, my life in a bit of a nutshell for now. After our next appointment I will blog about the outcome (pray for the surgery to be scheduled!!) and let you all know how it went.

Goodnight!

I don't know what to title this one...

Well, I have been so busy lately, between home and school and work. I am glad to be busy with important things though and I am learning to organize and make life easier with it all.

Home life is actually becoming a lot easier, the kids have really stepped up a notch here and are helping out lots. We actually have a chart and a routine that is working (it has only been a week, but it is working nonetheless). The kids are learning that when they get home from school they have set chores to do before anything else gets done. My goal is to make life less difficult for hubby (and less difficult for me in the morning) and still have things getting done.

The house jobs have split up nicely and with the exception of Pooky (4 years old) everyone is taking on their role and contributing. To make life easier, we also prepared 15 meals ahead of time and froze them. So, on those days that I am unable to have time to think about food, the family is still getting a decent meal (and it didn't feel like a huge task). I like that we can just pull something out and voila supper is there. I have been spending a lot of time studying and doing an assignment and there will be lots of studying going on until the end of this year (then placement starts - no tests!!). I just find that I was not able to fit everything in and have time for myself.

I have also started going to bed sooner. If I miss my shows, then oh well. I have picked up a bad achy cold not sure what exactly it is, but it is no fun and I know I need more sleep to knock it out. So, bed early, proper eating habits, eventually I will figure out how to juggle it all:-)

I have been spoiled the past 14 years, being able to stay home with the kids and not having to go out. I am now seeing what this other lifestyle is like and giving kudos to those families who do this all the time. It is so hard to leave and know that there are still things that need to get done. I am also seeing how fortunate I am to have the husband I do (who gets things done) and to see how great my kids are. They make this so much easier for me to do.

We had our first test last night and our first assignment was due this past Tuesday. I think I did ok on the test. I counted somewhere between 70-75 questions right (I hope) out of 80, so I got at least the minimum mark that I was supposed to get, which is a 70%.

We have now moved onto anatomy and physiology and it is not too bad. I was a bit freaked out at first. We have learned, in 2 classes so far, about cells and tissues, the integumentary system and the lymphatic system. Tonight we cover the respiratory system and the circulatory system. On Saturday we cover the other one (mind blank) and then we have our test on Tuesday. That is just the first half, then we learn the other systems and test the following Tuesday. It is intense, but we get to learn it and then move onto something else (which I think is communication).

I am calm, and I am doing ok. I am not stressing out so much about being back in school and I am looking forward to my first placement which will be in January. I still have to pass the 16 hour standard first aid HCP course (Sat and Sun classes) in 2 weeks, I asked about the test and it is multiple choice for that one. I think I will probably do ok. I am going to pick up the manual ahead of time so I can be a little knowledgeable when I go to the class.

Anyhow, that is what I have been busy with. We moved the computer so I can try to get on more often. I hope to be updating this more then once a week, now that it is more "reachable"!!

I am off to have a bit of a rest, since the baby is sleeping and the others are all at school...be back here later!

School, not what I am used to!!

I am taking the PSW course (personal support worker) part time in the evenings. I was pretty good at school as a kid, and teen, I loved going and doing my work. There was a purpose for going to school and that was to graduate.

I had high marks, I rarely had to study, I remembered everything...

I thought this course was going to be a breeze!! Then I showed up for the first night...

Why is it that the memory is something that goes first? I have read a number of chapters in the book and do you think I can remember any of it? We had a practice "test" yesterday and we were able to use our texts for it...I wouldn't have passed without it!!

Oh well, I will have to cram really hard before the first test, which is September 30. I also have an assignment due on Sept 29. I am learning a lot about myself, and my values...

Last night we talked about ethics. I couldn't believe some of the responses of people in the class in regards to life support and such...I wanted to scream at everyone of them, but I stayed reserved and thought, eventually they will hear about our story. It is better to tell it when I am not upset...

So, while I now understand more about ethics and the code of ethics, and how ethical dilemmas are to be handled, I still don't necessarily agree with how we were handled. See, learning about myself...I thought I was over this, obviously not!!

We had a very human ethicist, which is the way it is sometimes, but in this field you need to put your own opinions and thoughts and values aside and make sure the 4 areas are being met.

Anyhow, I gotta run and get supper ready, will write more on this topic another time.

I never got a call from the school...

Today was report card day. I do like reading them over and seeing how well the kids did. This term they all did very well. Along with her report card, Cutie Pie (7years old) brings home her terms work for us to look over and do with whatever we please...

1 piece of work took me by surprise and now I wonder what the teacher thinks of our family...

My Favourite Song - A Prompt Response worksheet.

Prompt
WHAT is your favourite song?

Response
My favourite song is Schools Out because it reminds me of school out.

Prompt
WHEN did you first hear this song?

Response
The first time I hard this song is when I went in the van.

Prompt
WHO else likes the same song?

Response
My dad likes this song too.

Prompt
WHAT is one special part about this song?

Response
The best part in the song is when the shkool is blown in to pesas.

Prompt
WHAT is the message of this song?

Response
The message of the song is thers no more school.

Prompt
WHAT would you tell other about this song to get them to listen to it too?

Response
I would tell others if you have a favourite song choos shkools out.

And then it was all reiterated into a real paragraph...all of it!!

Wow, I wonder what they think of us now? And I wonder why she wants to be homeschooled???

I am glad that they don't take things like this seriously as a threat to the school...LOL!!!

How time flies...(or how fast our kids grow up)

So, the first full week of school has gone just wonderful, for all my kids...even me!! It has been really nice to enjoy some one on one time with Pooky for a change. We have a great routine started that I hope will last for the entire school year and it is so not stressful!

Cutie Pie has been enjoying making new friends and learning lots and lots. Every night she has a book that she 'reads' to us, all about the word IN. She is so proud of the fact that she can do this on her own. The other day, I overheard her counting to 10 in french. French is the one subject that we didn't do while homeschooling, and I knew she could count to 10 in spanish, thanks to Dora...but I asked her if she had learned the french in school and sure enough she did. She is such a sponge and just seems to be soaking everything in...

I guess with this part of growing up and growing independent, she is also learning what she likes and doesn't like.

My nephew goes to the same school and my sister was there picking him up. She saw Cutie Pie and said "Hi" and CP just flicked her hair the other way and walked away from her. Shafted...by a 5 year old...This seems to have hit earlier with her then it has with any of the other kids...

A conversation we had the other night consisted of this...

Me: Gracie (Cutie Pies real name is Grace)come here
CP: My name is not Gracie, it is Grace
Me: Sorry...Grace, come here

So, she is growing up. She is not my little Gracie anymore, and yet she still is...and if you call her Gracie, in public, you may get a hair flick and a look of disgust...

Wordless Wednesday - First Day Of School

I know this is supposed to be wordless...but...I have to say that I am excited for her and also kinda nervous. Not because it is her first day, but because I have let her go...does that make sense? I knew it was time for her, you just know when it is right, but she is my first child to make this transition to school. She was assessed at the high end of Grade 3, which is really good considering the time of year. Oh, I know now what parents feel when they send their 5 year olds off to Kindergarten.

SHE LOVED IT!!!

Well, Princess thoroughly enjoyed school. She came in beaming from ear to ear and made the comment..."I don't know why people hate school"?

She showed us all the work she had done, and made sure to point out that the teacher said she had beautiful handwriting. We tell her this all the time, but it meant more coming from an outside source.

She chose to stay after school for the french club with a friend she had made, so my mom had to wait 15 more minutes for her.

She also said that she wanted to go back today, and why couldn't she.

So, that posed a whole discussion last night with Pete. What would be so wrong about signing her up now, to go for May and June? If you know our family, and speak with her, please don't mention this. We are still in the mom and dad talking stage...

But, it would mean 2 months of tuition and my reasoning is that it would bring her up to par for the grade 4 level next year. We have done no french at all and the math was a bit different than the curriculum we have chosen here. By going for these 2 months, I feel like it would just bring her up to date on what they are doing and allow her to build the relationships that she would continue into grade 4 as well.

What do you think? Is it silly for her to start school now? Should we wait? What are your thoughts on this?

Oh yeah, and now we are dealing with Cutie Pie who has been volcano'ing out of both ends since 2am...my house is so much fun!!

Trial and sickness...

Pooky has been so sick. It started yesterday morning. She could hold nothing down, she became so lethargic and pale and had lost all muscle control, it really freaked me out. There was no fever and the bottom half of the excitement didn't really start until later on. Anyhow, she finally stopped puking around 11pm. I stayed on the couch with her, so Pete could get some decent sleep. She woke up this morning and drank a whole cup of pedialyte. We are taking it easy today.

As for the trial part. Princess went to school today. She is trying it out and seeing what she thinks. They are going to pair her up with another grade 3 girl and will spend the day with her. Hopefully she enjoys it. She was up at 630 this morning and was raring to go. It was really cute to see her so excited. I can't wait til she gets home and we hear all about her day!!

Anyhow, gonna run and get a snack. I have been so hungry lately, but can't seem to make myself eat very much...oh well, such is my life!!

Everything you ever wanted to know about syllables...

This is for Leslie (if you haven't read her blog, you need to go now and read away...it is a great place!!)- typed up from my notes...

What is a syllable and what must every syllable have? - At least 1 vowel sound

There are 6 kinds of syllables:

1. Closed - any syllable that is closed by a consonant, these are almost always short sounds (cat)

2. Open - any syllable that ends with a vowel, these are almost always long sounds (cry)

3. Silent 'e' - silent e at the end of the word makes the vowel long (time)

4. Diphthongs - (not underwear...) - I didn't really get this one a whole lot, but I wrote down the diphthongs that smarter moms knew and I didn't know... - ou, oi, ai, eau, aw...when the vowels are together it is one sound not more than one, so it is one syllable (oil, out, aw/ful)

5. Consonant -le - always stands by itself as a syllable (un/cle - un is one syllable and cle is one syllable)

6. R-combination - r combined with a vowel changes the sound (pap/er - the r changes the sound of the e)

Oh yeah, the letter Y, when it is anywhere but the beginning of the word is a vowel sound.

So, I am not a pro at figuring this out just yet, but think that I can wager a guess at the word 'celery' (Leslie said that her and her hubby have an ongoing argument about this word, is it 2 or 3 syllables) then you can all tell me what you think too...let's help out Leslie everyone.

To me, the word ce/le/ry has 3 syllables, because there are 3 vowel sounds - the 'ce', the 'le' and the 'ry' - tell me if I am right and if I just made an argument worse...don't throw the hard tomatoes, make sure they are soft...

School Project

How do you motivate your kids to do schoolwork? This is something that we struggle with in our homeschool.

I have come up with a solution...I know you are all dying to know it, aren't you?

Well, our family is very much into hockey and the NHL. Stanley Cup playoffs start tonight, so I thought what would be a better unit study then to do something revolving around the playoffs...

So, now we have 8 bristol boards on the wall with the opposing team logos on each one. Then we have the standing that each team is in at the moment.

As the games are played we are going to keep track of the teams that win and lose and what the semi-finals are going to look like. The kids are thrilled about this and I think hubby is as well. We are also making predictions on who we think will win and I will have the kids keep a journal of each game and team and player stats throughout...maybe a chart or a graph of some sort as well.

I am making this up as I go, if anyone has any suggestions I would appreciate them very much...or, if you just want to get in with your predictions maybe we can chart those as well and see what the majority thinks...this could be fun!!