The last day of 2018

Another year end has arrived.  As I knew it would be, it has been a year of some transitions.  Overall though, I think it has been a good year.

We still have all of this week off school.  Lots going on though.  Catherine works tomorrow, the kids have double swim practices on Wednesday and Thursday, and Andrew has to work on Friday.  We have an all-day swim invitational on Saturday, and Catherine works again on Sunday.  Not entirely getting to sleep in, but still better than 5AM wake-ups.

We are planning to be at some friends' house to ring in the new year tonight.  Honestly though, I would much rather be home.  We might compromise and go for a few hours before coming home to ring in the New Year, but that is still several hours off.

I'm looking forward to another wonderful year in 2019.  Prayers for safety and good health for all!

The emotions of the past week

As we got into Friday evening, the emotions of everything began to weigh on me.  Robert knew it, and I tried very hard to be strong.  I couldn't however, ignore the meaning of everything happening around me.

For one thing, Robert will be leaving the middle of January for a pacific island.  His orders are for three years there.  Us visiting him is extremely cost prohibitive.  Even him visiting us is super expensive.  We are hoping he might be able to come back in 17 months for Catherine's high school graduation.  However, that is not a sure thing, either from the timing or from a financial standpoint. Knowing my son was leaving and it could be more than year (or even years) before I see him again was a tough reality to face.  Add to it the fact that my father-in-law may not know who he is next time, or even be around, and those were some serious emotions.

There is also the fact that Robert brought a dog with him.  Turns out this dog is only a four-month-old puppy.  Our sweet Abby is less than thrilled, although she is very tolerant.  Of course Catherine and Thomas adore this puppy and are doing a very good job of being helpful and caring for the dog.  It was tough for Robert to say goodbye to the dog yesterday, and when the dog realized Robert wasn't here, he was sad as well.  It hurt my heart.  I'm also concerned about the kids being attached to the dog.  He is supposed to go to my mom's house to live for a couple of months on Thursday, but I don't want her getting too attached either, and I'm not entirely certain she is going to put up with him.  I could handle him being here for a while, but it isn't what I want for us.  I feel guilt that part of me is irritated with Robert for adopting a puppy right before going overseas, but I understand how it happened since Robert is incredibly impulsive and this is a sweet puppy.

I am so very, very grateful for the amount of time we all had together last week.  I was a little caught off guard that I was so emotional at the end (although lack of sleep played a part as well).  It was hard knowing Robert would be so far away, but him being a functioning member of society is certainly what we had been going for, and I'm proud of him.  I'm so grateful he loves the Navy, and I love what the Navy has done for him.

We still have a week until school begins again.  I am looking forward to a bit of quiet time before it all gets crazy again.

The second half of our week

This was the first time my in-laws were here for more than three days.  I think, without saying anything, that all of us had some concerns that it was too much togetherness.  The first few days felt as though they moved very slowly, but that was fine.  I enjoyed each aspect of our Christmas celebrations and rejoiced that we still had so much time to go until school is underway again!  One of my favorite things we did was our church service on Christmas Eve.  Everyone was especially happy to see Robert, and I'm glad he was able to be there.  The church has been extraordinarily supportive and prayerful regarding his naval service.  My in-laws didn't join us because they needed to attend Mass in order for it to "count" as attending church.  I felt badly because I do wish for us to attend as a family, but felt it was important Robert have an opportunity to see our church family.  Andrew pointed out it was his parents' decision not to attend with us.

Wednesday evening some friends came over for dinner and so most of the family was preparing for that.  Thursday Robert wanted to purchase a computer (a joint gift via cash from nearly the entire family), and Andrew, Robert, and my father-in-law spent the afternoon doing that before my mother came down for a very nice dinner out.  Friday was the 55th wedding anniversary of my in-laws, and we celebrated a day early.  After dinner was one of my favorite parts of the entire week.  My mother headed home, and our family settled in to watch a movie.  We had purchased a new TV for our living room because it is the larger of the rooms, and I loved watching our family sit and laugh and laugh.  My heart was incredibly full as I sat and watched everyone share those moments and laughter.  I know that memory will always be vivid.

Last evening the swim team holds an alumni meet against current swimmers.  In two races, Robert and Thomas swam right next to each other.  My in-laws enjoyed watching the kids swim.  It made for a later dinner of leftovers, but we all sat around our table and ate together.

Because of Robert's early flight, it was a time for good-byes last night.  I will write about that in another post though, because it was very emotional, and I want this post to be one of the many happy memories of the week!

It suddenly got very quiet around here

For the past seven nights, there have been seven people sleeping in this house.  Robert has already landed back in Texas, and Andrew is on the road taking his parents back.  That leaves only three of us sleeping in this house tonight.  Right now Catherine is at work so it is incredibly quiet.  I had to be up at 3AM to take Robert to the airport, and it's been an emotional few hours, so I'm grateful for the quiet.  I will definitely write another post soon about the rest of our week after Christmas, but right now I'm just too tired.  I am so incredibly grateful for the past week!

Merry Christmas 2018

We are all pretty tired around here, but it has been an absolutely wonderful day.  We enjoyed our morning around the Christmas tree, and it was extra special having my in-laws here.  After we opened all of our presents, Andrew made some pancakes for breakfast and we began to get ready to head north to be with my mom, sister, and grandmother.  I really enjoyed our morning.  I especially love watching the kids enjoy the morning.

We were just about five miles from home when the check engine light came on in the van.  We decided to turn around and take two cars.  It was less than ideal, but it was what needed to happen.  Ironically, when I picked up Andrew's parents last weekend, a warning light came on in Andrew's car also, so our 2001 Honda is currently the only vehicle working at peak performance.  Ugh.

Anyway, it was a very nice afternoon at my mom's house.  Two aunts, an uncle, two cousins, a husband, and their four children joined us in addition to my aunt's brother.  After we all ate and enjoyed visiting for a while, I took Catherine and Thomas to visit my paternal grandmother, and Andrew, Robert and my in-laws came home.  Fortunately, they were only half hour ahead of us because when they got here they realized they didn't have a house key since they were driving my in-laws' vehicle.  Oops!

Honestly, I will remember this Christmas for many good reasons.  It's a transitional year.  We are no longer trying to get together with all of extended family, although we are extremely blessed and that still happened.  We are now entering the phase of life where we are hoping our children spend some time with us for the holiday.  I am so grateful for this opportunity to spend some of the day with so many loved ones!

Christmas Eve 2018

We are having a pretty quiet day here right now.  Robert had to take his new dog to the vet for a check-up early this morning, then we will have lunch a little after Noon.  We are having a big ham lunch because my in-laws are going to church late afternoon and we are going in the evening.  Normally we would all just go with my in-laws (because them coming with us wouldn't "count" for them...don't get me started), but we want Robert to be able to see our church friends who have been so supportive and prayerful of him.  We should all be home by 8:30, and plan to enjoy a quiet evening.

Unfortunately, I have a bad cold and am not feeling well at all.  Fortunately, Andrew usually does the cooking in our family anyway, and his mother is here to help.  Honestly, I would prefer to just lay in bed and sleep, but that isn't really an option.  However, I am grateful that I am able to enjoy the holiday, and am looking forward to tomorrow.

Our house is very full, and our hearts are even more so

We are all here, and for the next 72+ hours we will pretty much be together every waking moment.  There are seven humans and four pets.  That is a lot of breathing creatures, and a lot of personality.  Both Robert and my in-laws leave next Saturday.  I know it is going to be crazy, and I'm particularly praying for patience and kindness for us all.

As full as our house is, my heart is even more full.  Robert will be at his next assignment for three years.  Because of the cost of transportation, it will be only once he can come for a visit, if that.  My in-laws are older, and my father-in-law especially is failing.  This is the year to make memories.  I'm so grateful for the opportunity.

This is not where I want to be right now

I am currently at my in-laws house.  With the commitments of everyone, this was the plan that worked best.  I got here this evening and will bring them back tomorrow.  I am excited that we are all going to get to spend the week together.

However, this is not where I want to be.  This is the first night of our two weeks off for break.  I love, absolutely love this day, and I'll be honest, I would much rather be home with my kids.  I understand though, that this is where I need to be tonight.

At the same time, I just learned some information that brings me tears.  Thomas texted me to let me know that he is swimming the 500m free race tomorrow.   I will forever remember Catherine's first 500m race, and how Thomas was right there to check on her.  I remember Robert's first 500m race, and how he nearly collapsed when he was done.  Tomorrow's meet is away, and Andrew and I don't do away meets.  I am terrified that something is going to happen.  I am afraid that he won't be able to finish and will be upset, and we aren't going to be there for him.  It breaks my heart that I can't be there.

Honestly, nearly everything involving my younger two kids breaks my heart these days.  I am just so grateful to be their parent, and I can't believe how quickly the time is passing.

Done working for a few weeks

I had to work yesterday afternoon.  The school day was a full day, but the schedule was adjusted and the afternoon was an exam.  The rest of the week consists of two exams scheduled each day.  I was asked to work this morning and was in for a science class.  I was flattered that I have been trusted to administer three exams, and of course I am always grateful for the opportunity for additional income.

That should be it for a few weeks though.  I am scheduled to work again the first day back, but that is 19 days away.  Even though I have to be up before 6:00 the next two days, no work for awhile.  Looking forward to some down time!

High school swim

I neglected to write about the high school swim season beginning last week.  Andrew and I will be working at all the home meets in some way during the season.  My job will normally be guarding the doors, which means I am finished less than half way through the meet.  Then, I get to watch the rest of the meet with Andrew.  It works out well. 

Last Tuesday was the official beginning of the high school season.  I'll be honest, I missed watching Robert compete.  He was never a star swimmer, but he was always competitive.  The beginning of the season also meant Thomas's first high school meet.  He swam the JV heat in most of his races, but he was competitive in those races.  As just a freshman, he does have some potential for improvement.  Catherine did fine.  She just isn't very strong and she struggles with stamina.

Many meets to go!

Several prayer requests

I am a huge believer in the power of prayer and good thoughts, and I have a few requests...

1) A friend lost her mother yesterday after a several year battle with cancer.  She lived longer than many with her particular form of cancer and while I am sure there is comfort that she is no longer suffering, only eight days before Christmas is a very tough time to lose a loved one.  Not that there is ever a good time, but there are particularly crappy times, and this is one of them.  Please pray for her family.

2) There is a young family in town whose son (only eight-years-old) had a leukemia relapse and had a bone marrow transplant around Thanksgiving.  He is doing well, but please pray for continued good news and healing.  While I am so grateful that things are going well, I can't even imagine the fear of his parents.

3) Our high school students have finals this week, and that means it is most certainly finals week in our home.  For Catherine I'm not overly concerned, although Math is always a challenging subject for her and that exam will be first thing tomorrow.  For Thomas, and many freshmen, it is not always completely understood how much just one 90 minute test can affect their semester grade.  Please pray for all of our students, specifically that they work hard and find the knowledge they need in their memory banks!

4) Lastly, please pray for safety for all who are traveling this holiday season!

A day to wrap things up

I am off today!  There was a job yesterday I could've taken, but Andrew encouraged me to be home.  I'm not sad!  The kids and Andrew have a meeting after school, then will go straight to swim work out and Andrew will also work out.  He will then drop them off at swim practice and come home.  I have a meeting at church at 6:30 this evening, but no where I have to be until then.  I have the next 9-1/2 hours completely to myself.  And I plan to wrap, wrap, and wrap things up!  I have Christmas music on, and a Christmas candle lit, and the trees are on.  This is the only day that I have the entire day, and we finished our shopping for the kids yesterday just in time!  So looking forward to today!

I took the morning off

A few weeks ago I accepted a job for this afternoon.  It's in band, and let's face it, the kids all know me!  I loved the fact that it meant I didn't have to be at school until 11.  Most days this happens though, I am called in for the morning.

I'll be honest, the call came this morning and I said, "no."  I had a plan for my morning and it didn't include being at the school.  Nine times out of ten I will always go in, and I do hate to miss the opportunity for extra income.  However, sometimes I just need to step back, and this morning was one of those times.  Being able to do so is one of the greatest blessings of this job.

I still don't have to be at school for another three hours.  I have enjoyed a cup of coffee, and I've sat here with the Christmas lights on and enjoyed a very quiet morning.  It is truly a blessing.

We finally have a plan...sort of

When anyone has asked about our Christmas plans, my response has been, "Everything is TBD.  It depends on Robert's schedule."  Obviously, we weren't going to make any definite plans until we knew for sure what Robert was going to be doing.  However, I was beginning to become concerned as the days kept ticking away.

Finally, over the weekend we developed a plan.  Robert was coming in on the 23rd and staying until January 2.  Oh, and he plans to bring a dog.  Okay.  Lots to work on there, but at least some definite information. 

Because of other commitments, we decided it would be best if my in-laws came here.  Of course, that means ten hours of driving to go get them, and then ten hours of driving to return them, but things were starting to formulate.  We could get them on the 22nd, and if both Andrew and I went we could do it there in back in the same day.  We would have to, because Andrew had to work the evening of the 21st and we have Christmas at my grandmother's house on the 23rd.  We worked it out though, and we had a plan.

Then along came Monday.  Because an eye infection caused him to miss a test, Robert's plans changed.  He decided he would be coming in on the 22nd and returning on the 29th.  The good news is that the 22nd was a very late flight, so we would be back in time to get him.  And if the dog didn't come (he isn't certain about those plans) then he could stay over at my grandmother's house until the next day when we would be there for lunch anyway.  Unfortunately his return flight is 6AM, which means leaving our house at 3:30.  I was not pleased, but it can be done.

Then came Tuesday.  He decided to change his arrival flight to earlier on the 22nd.  Well, no one can pick him up.  By this point I was beginning to be a little irritated.  As I pointed out to him, when one needs to rely upon others to make things work, one ought not to assume we are sitting around twiddling our thumbs waiting to serve him.  And still no definitely information on the dog.

So the in-laws are coming, although we aren't exactly sure how long they are staying.  Robert is coming for a week, and possibly a dog as well.  We have an idea where everyone will sleep, and I know we will be busy and enjoy each other's company.  I'm also grateful that by the 29th or 30th, it should all be done.  So while Christmas week might be crazy, we will have an entire week after before we go back to school.

At least we have a plan...sort of!

So happy to be back at the high school

This week, I was off Tuesday, and then Monday and yesterday I was in Kindergarten.  I love the little ones, but they are oh-so-very exhausting.  The schedule of working much later into the afternoon is also tough on our family, but I do enjoy seeing little friends every once in a while.

Today is probably also my last full day until after the holidays.  I am scheduled both tomorrow afternoon and Tuesday afternoon, but nothing all day.  I don't expect anything else either, and honestly that is fine with me.  There is definitely a lot that needs to be accomplished in the next couple of weeks!

It was a lovely morning drive

I had a doctor appointment this morning in my former town.  Last night we had a very cold night around here and there was frozen fog.  It was just after sunrise as I was driving this morning, and it was really very lovely.  It's especially beautiful right here in the holiday season!

Army Navy

Today is the Army and Navy football game.  We've always been a fan of this game in our house, and last year we rooted for Navy given Robert's plans.  However, we are now officially a Navy family, and this is our first football game as such.  Andrew and I are both dressed in our "Navy Mom" and "Navy Dad" sweatshirts.  We are in different rooms because I am cleaning and he is grading, but we both found ourselves being more emotional than normal as the introduction to the game was taking place.  While Robert isn't at the academies, he is serving our country, and we are very proud.

I also get a little emotional because this game means the end of college football Saturdays.  They are the best Saturdays of the entire year.  College basketball just isn't the same until March.  So for today, I am going to enjoy what I hope will be a Navy win!

Ten years of blogging

It was a Monday, ten years ago today, that I began this blog.  I actually remember it very clearly.  I had been worried about blogging for privacy reasons, but I'm so very glad that I have ten years of memories saved here.

Ten years.  Wow.  I love thinking back to those little people who I wrote about all those years ago.  Our lives were so different.  I was a mom of little kids.  Now my oldest is out on his own.  Ten years went by faster than I can even imagine.

Friday makes everything better

It was kind of tough to get out of bed this morning.  It is really cold, and we are really tired.  However, knowing that it is Friday makes everything better. 

After school I have to run band errands, Andrew has a meeting, and the kids have swim workout.  There is no swim practice this evening, but they are attending a dance.  Tomorrow Catherine works, and Andrew will take Thomas to the church for the Christmas program rehearsal.  His hockey supervising duties for tomorrow were cancelled, but I will probably spend a couple of hours at the church getting my job done.  Sunday is the Christmas program and Andrew has a meeting.  I am hoping to make a quick trip to my hometown for an open house, but we'll see what the weather is like and what other things I have finished.  Next week I am working every day except Tuesday (as of right now) and I need to be getting some gifts wrapped...and purchased first!

After today, only ten days of school remain until two weeks off for the holidays.  In the meantime, I hope to remember to enjoy the magic of the season, and not get to stressed about making everything "perfect".

Yesterday was wonderful

Yesterday was really as wonderful as I thought it would be.  Sleeping in was definitely a fabulous start to the day.  I didn't get nearly as much finished as I would've liked, although I did get about 95% of Christmas cards finished.  I really just sat and relaxed while working on the cards, and just thoroughly enjoyed the quiet down time.  That is very rare.  It was even an extra treat that Andrew's work finished much earlier than expected, and he was home before the kids.  It was nice to have some time to catch up.  I have a bunch of errands to run this evening, but I am cautiously optimistic I can live in an uncluttered house by this weekend!  I even have a few fun holiday plans!

A wonderful day to be off work

Within the last two weeks, I missed a couple of opportunities to work today at the high school.  I was bummed, but it turns out that today is the only day I'm off this week...and my first school day off since November 2.  Because I get to sleep in 45 minutes on days I don't work, it meant we were still asleep when a later-than-normal phone call came that school was on a 2-hour delay.  That meant I got to sleep until nearly 8:00!  It almost feels too good to be true.  That unexpected snow at just the right time was much appreciated.

And even better is the fact that I don't have to leave my house all day.  In fact, I have almost all day to myself.  The kids will be home at 3:00, but have to be out the door by 3:45 for swim workout and won't get home from practice until nearly 8:00.  Andrew has athletic director duties at a wrestling meet this evening and probably won't be home until even later.  I plan to get so many things handled around the house, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to make it so.

In the meantime, I'm enjoying a few moments to just sit.  I have Christmas music playing, and the animals are all sleeping.  In fact, one of the cats is cuddled up with me.  I know that when I get up and start cleaning, I'm going to be irritated by the things my kids couldn't put away, but with the Christmas music on and the snow covering outside, it is incredibly peaceful.  I am so grateful for this.

Christmas stories

Catherine is our Hallmark/Lifetime movie girl.  She seems to have her dad hooked on the current batch of holiday movies as well.  I'm not always the biggest fan, although sometimes I will sit and watch one.  I just find the formula of two people who don't get along but are drawn together (usually by kids or an animal) to be tired.  Same with the one of them left town (usually her) but now has returned due a family issue and high school sweethearts are reunited.  There usually isn't much of a twist.  I do understand why people might like them, but I prefer watching ESPN.

Books however, are another thing.  I have checked out several books from the library.  Most of them are "Jessica Fletcher, Murder She Wrote" type mysteries with an amateur sleuth solving a quaint little town's murder.  I enjoy these overall, but right now I am insisting that all of them be Christmas stories.  It makes me enjoy the days I am working at the high school and can read and read!

How do people decorate in a day???

On Thanksgiving Thursday, Andrew and Thomas took all the Christmas boxes down from the attic and put them in our garage.  I had no intention of beginning to decorate that evening, but I needed the boxes to be handy and they were leaving the next day.  I didn't get much done the next day either, between breakfast out, an afternoon of volunteering, and a quick after-dinner drink with some friends.

It then took me ALL DAY Saturday and Sunday to continue decorating.  Notice I didn't say finish...I don't think I'm there even yet!  Granted, I've also been working on Christmas cards and the band fundraiser chaos, and working basically full time, but it was yesterday before I finally put all the tubs back in the garage.  And it doesn't mean that things are all put together.  It just means the tubs are back in the garage.  I still have items that are normally up that need to be stored somewhere.  So the tubs came into the house nine days ago, and I'm still not living in a house put together. 

However, there are tons of people who seem to be able to decorate in a day...how is this possible?  I am sure that perhaps the entire family helps, but I still don't understand how it gets done in a day.  I am ready for less clutter, but not sure when I will actually get there!

The first weekend of the season

One of the nice things about Thanksgiving being so early is that we get an "extra" weekend in between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I would love to say that it makes the season less crazy, but so far that is not the case.

Honestly, I had been looking forward to Friday evening all week.  The kids only had swim workout but no swim practice.  Looking ahead at the calendar, it was one of the few (and perhaps only) evenings we would be able to make it happen.  We took Abby (the dog) along, and were one of the first visitors in line.  In fact, we were home by 7:00 for a quiet evening.  We popped some frozen pizzas in the oven and hung out together.  I love those evenings!  We even heard from Robert telling us the power had gone out on base.

Saturday I was up fairly early to head to my hometown.  I was having lunch with my mom and grandmother, and there was also a community home tour I wanted to attend.  I was also able to make a quick trip to the soap store I wrote about in my last post.  It was a crappy weather day, and the traffic was rough on the way home.  I stopped and treated myself to a Starbucks coffee on the way home, and between that and the Christmas music I was listening to, it was very soothing.  Andrew and Thomas took off for my in-laws, and because of a traffic accident their five hour drive took nine hours.  Catherine had to work all day, but was home in time to watch the OSU game with me.  I spent the evening working on my Christmas cards, and we enjoyed our evening.

Yesterday Catherine had to work again, and I made a trip to Kentucky to visit some relatives and deliver the wreaths they had purchased.   It is always fun to visit with them, but I think we all felt a little antsy about things we were wanting to get done.  I didn't stay very long, and that was fine with all of us.  I came home to get some things done around the house and try to get ready for this week.

Andrew and Thomas will be home today.  This was a planned trip, but the plans, of course, didn't happen as they were originally planned!  I will be so glad when they are home.  I'm trying to enjoy all the moments though.

My new love...soap!

Soap??  Yep!  I am in love with soap.  I have never been a person who would even think about spending a lot of money on beauty/health products.  However, I had seen an advertisement for handmade soap at a shop in my home town.  When I was on a quick visit there a few weeks ago, I swung by the shop,  It was a crowded day, but I picked up a couple of things.  I. Am. Hooked.  My hands have never felt so smooth and soft.  I actually look forward to washing my hands!  I had picked up some holiday scents and they smell awesome, and I am just completely in love with them.  Of course they are more expensive than buying hand soap at the grocery store, but I've decided it is going to be a splurge I'm willing to make on occasion.  I am meeting my mom for lunch tomorrow, and I plan to swing by the store before I leave town!

And that's why I don't like to substitute in Phys Ed

Today I was only scheduled to work this morning.  Honestly, I was looking forward to having some extra time to get some things done around the house.  When I got to school though, they were short two subs so I agreed to stay and spend the afternoon in art class.  However, both the music teacher I was subbing for this morning and the art teacher for the afternoon had 1st period plan, so I was sent to Phys Ed just for that class.  I was sitting there thinking how grateful I am that it was only for the one class period, when all of a sudden there is a commotion and a student is coming across the gym with blood all over his face.  In jumping for a football, he tripped over some mats on the floor, and collided with another student.  His managed to go head first into the door, and his face fell into a lock with his nose striking a handle.  Oh goodness!  Two other students escorted him to the nurse, and I was relieved to hear that it doesn't sound as though stitches are required.

The ironic thing is that I had been asked to attend a training yesterday for first aid, and specifically bleeding.  I had to do band things so I couldn't, but of course several people joked with me about it.  It was not at all how I had planned to begin my day...and it's why I don't want to be a sub in Phys Ed!

Trying to change my attitude

I'm not going to lie...I've been struggling with holidays this year.  I have known all along it is going to be different, and I am a firm believer that things shouldn't continue to be done just because that is the way it has always been done.  But this year, I'm just really struggling.  I'm finding it tough to shop, specifically for my in-laws because I know they don't want just "things."  At this point in their life what they need are physical help, and we just can't be there to do that.  I'm not sure how to make it happen from here, but I am extremely cognizant of what I am purchasing for them.  Catherine and Thomas never made lists, although with Thomas it is kind of easy, and I'm sure we will come up with things for Catherine.  Robert needs a computer and most of the family is contributing to that, which is easy.  I just feel behind overall.

I was annoyed with taking down the fall decorations this year.  We had warm weather for so long, and then it felt like it went straight to cold.  I felt like we missed having real fall-like weather, and I'm annoyed by that.

I was annoyed by the schedule of the past weekend, I'll be honest.  Even beyond that, I was annoyed with my Christmas decorations.  Suddenly, I didn't like them.  I went shopping yesterday to try to find some more, and I just can't find anything I like.

I'm not enjoying my Christmas cards this year, which is usually one of my favorite things about Christmas.  It's not that it feels like work, but because I decided to go with a different plan this year, I'm not enjoying it as much.

I feel like a grinch and a scrooge and I don't like myself.  I think about the family whose young son received a bone marrow transplant yesterday from his little brother, and everything they have all been through.  I feel so guilty for being whiny about my little problems...and they aren't even really problems.  I'm just in a bad mood, and I need to get over myself.

Last evening was a step in that direction.  After delivering wreaths (the never-ending band fundraiser) I decided to go shopping.  I didn't buy anything I had set out to buy, but I did find some other things.  I enjoyed some time to myself, and I enjoyed the Christmas music in the stores.  It was snowing, and although it was cold and the roads were wet, I couldn't help but smile at the young girl who ran out of the store and gasped and was so excited about the snow falling.  And the snow made the holiday lights look even more lovely.

I'm still struggling with some things, but I'm also remembering life's beautiful blessings.

Thanksgiving came and went

Honestly, I didn't love this year's Thanksgiving.  The day itself was very nice and I enjoyed seeing so much of my extended family.  In fact, there were 31 of us altogether at my aunt's house, and only my sister and Robert were missing from the family.  It was nice to see everyone, and Robert even took a couple of moments and FaceTimed so he could say hello to everyone.

The rest of the holiday though, was a little rough.  The kids had swim Tuesday evening, and I was working frantically trying to get the house picked up.  In fact, I worked until 10:00 that evening, and the kids were helping also.  I ended up sleeping on the couch because that way I could go ahead and change the sheets on our bed because I was fairly certain I wouldn't have time on Wednesday...and I would've been correct!

The kids had swim first thing Wednesday morning so we were all up by 7.  I had to be at the band fundraiser by 8:45.  It was 9:30 before I got home, and since my van was full of greenery (the first of many trips) I needed to unload it myself.  I had an appointment at 11, then ran a band errand, grabbed a quick bite to eat, and headed to my actual shift at the fundraiser.  I finished with that at 3:30 (with another van load of greenery) and dashed home to get dinner started.  Andrew and his parents arrived about ten minutes later.  We got dinner started, and Andrew and the kids began cleaning out the van so we could drive it the next day.  After dinner Catherine made dessert to take to the family meal, and we mostly just hung out and watched TV.  We even spent some time watching Thanksgiving episodes of "Friends" which is a tradition we do every year when we can make it happen.

I went to bed early, but didn't sleep well.  In fact, I woke up not feeling well Thursday morning, mostly from sinuses.  My in-laws were in no particular hurry to get moving that morning, which was tough for Andrew and I to get ready since there were things we had forgotten to get out of our room the night before.  There were lots of little frustrations that occurred, and as we were leaving (later than I had told everyone we needed to leave) I fell.  I'd had a bad toe anyway, and it took everything I had not to cry in front of everyone.

I went to bed even earlier Thursday night, but woke up feeling even worse Friday morning.  We were having breakfast with Andrew's parents before they all left, but the place we wanted to eat was closed.  That meant a big chain restaurant, but I was concerned because I had to get the church payroll submitted.  I suggested a different place to eat, but Andrew's parents didn't want to eat there.  Of course, the wait for our food was just as outrageous as I was convinced it would be, and the ONLY thing I was able to accomplish at church was the payroll.  I would have been able to get a little more done, but Andrew locked himself out of the house as he was trying to leave with Thomas to take his parents home, and I had to run home and let him in before doing my afternoon shift at the band fundraiser.  Because it was the last shift, all of the greenery that hadn't been picked up had to be loaded into my van and brought home.  Another parent who volunteered with me is a packing genius, and although the van was packed to the brim, I got it all home in one trip.  Of course since Andrew and Thomas had left, that meant I was unloading it on my own.  I had to get all the bedsheets changed again so Catherine could sleep in her bed (where we sleep when my in-laws are here) and I could sleep in my bed, but I was able to meet some friends for a quick drink before Catherine and I tumbled into bed early again.

Catherine had to work all day Saturday, and I had to make some band deliveries.  I was able to be home by the time Ohio State kicked off, but since I had awakened feeling poorly again I didn't get nearly as much done as I had wanted.  The only chance we were going to have to decorate the tree together was Saturday evening, and I needed to have the trees ready before that.  However, I couldn't put the living room tree up before the train platform was down, and I didn't even know where that was.  Andrew and Thomas left his parents 90 minutes later than I had expected them to, and I needed them for the platform.  I was able to get the first tree put together and was putting lights on it while the platform was put together.  Unfortunately, I realized that most of the lights had stopped working form the year before, so we needed to purchase new.  Catherine got off work an hour early, so she joined the guys in a "quick" trip to get more lights...which took a ridiculous amount of time.  When they got back, I realized Andrew had purchased the wrong lights, but he needed to pick up the pizza we ordered.  I ran back to exchange the lights while Andrew got the pizza.  When I got home I realized I these lights weren't right either, and also realized that Andrew had put mushrooms on the entire pizza.  I don't eat mushrooms...never have in all of our married lives.  Can't do it.  He is aware of this, and it meant I had no pizza for dinner.  At this point I really wanted to cry, but I had to get back to exchange the lights...again.  I finally put the lights on and we finally started with the ornaments after 9:30 that night.  None of us really felt like doing it, but Catherine had to work all day Sunday so it was our only shot at doing it together.  Poor Catherine was so tired she just wanted to go to bed.  We were all very tired, and instead of fun memories, it was just tiring work.

We couldn't wait until this weekend though, because Thomas and Andrew are headed back to Pittsburgh again.  I know that overall life is very much blessed, but this was definitely not the break any of us were hoping it would be.  I knew things would be different than the last several years, but I didn't expect it to be so exhausting.  On the upside, the house is almost decorated, and the band fundraiser is beginning to wrap up!

Remembering to keep it all in perspective

Just 4-1/2 hours until school is finished and we are out until Monday.  I'll be honest, while I accept the changes to our holiday this year, inside my head I've been lamenting things a little.  For instance, I don't love the fact that Andrew will be making two trips to PA to retrieve and return his parents for the holiday, nor do I love the fact that I have to spend several hours on Wednesday and Friday working at the rescheduled band fundraiser.  I also don't love the fact that Catherine has to work two eight-hour shifts this weekend.  I accept it all, but I don't love it.

As a reminder though, my kids are all healthy and happy.  A family in town has a young son whose leukemia has relapsed.  He is currently preparing for a bone marrow transplant and is spending several weeks, this holiday included, in the hospital.  He is transported twice a day from the Children's hospital to another hospital for full body radiation treatments.  This young man is eight-years-old.  He has already been through so much.  His parents are both from very large families, and I'm sure they really wish they would be spending their day similar to mine.  Instead, they will be sitting with their young son who is in the process of fighting for his life.

It really helps to keep things in perspective for me.  I may not have as much relaxing time or as much family togetherness, and Robert may not be here, but overall my family is extremely blessed in more ways than I can count!

I literally put it on the calendar

I completely understand and accept that things are different with the holidays this year.  We certainly can't ignore this.  Between the death of my brother-in-law and the absence of our sailor, there is no denying it.  I get it.  However, there are certain things that I still want to do with the four of us at home.  After all, Thomas is only 14 and we are going to enjoy ourselves.

I've mentioned on several occasions that I love decorating our Christmas tree.  Most of the decorating is left to me, but hanging the ornaments is something we do together.  I've told Robert we will still be hanging his ornaments on the tree (although with him missing, things may be hung a lot lower than in the past), and I really look forward to it.  I knew this year finding time could be more challenging.  I learned years ago that trying to decorate with my in-laws around is not something that works very well.  Andrew will be leaving Friday afternoon to take them back to their home.  I have to work at our band fundraiser Friday afternoon (re-scheduled from this past weekend) and since Andrew is out of town, I made plans with friends that evening.  Andrew will be back sometime Saturday afternoon, but Catherine has to work 11-7 on Saturday.  She is working the same hours on Sunday, and the Thomas has youth group Sunday evening.   Swim practices are all of next week, so Saturday evening will be tree decorating!  And in case anyone thinks that we don't have plans at that time and they want to make other plans, I've made it very clear...it is on the calendar.  We have plans, and I don't care that it doesn't involve anyone else.  Our calendar is filled for that time slot!

My favorite Monday of the school year

If I have to be in school on a Monday (and on 34 Mondays of the year, it is a school day) this is my absolute favorite one of the year.  As I tell everyone, it's already like it's Thursday!  Not only is it only a two-day school week, but then we get to celebrate Thanksgiving, which is my favorite holiday of the year.  Andrew's parents will be here, and we will spend the holiday with my mom's side at my aunt & uncle's house.  Overall, this is pretty much my favorite week of the year, and I am so incredibly grateful!

She's already been pulled over

Catherine texted us as she was leaving work to let us know that she was on her way home.  A couple of minutes later I checked our app on our phone and knew she would be home very soon.  About that time I received a text from her that she would be later than expected because she had been pulled over.  Ugh!!!!  I couldn't imagine what my super cautious girl had done!  She arrived home very shortly later, which I assumed meant there was no citation involved. 

I was correct!  It turns out she had only turned on the parking lights and didn't have her headlights on.  She was accustomed to driving her dad's car while she was practicing, but will mostly drive our very old car now that she has her license.  Because of this, she wasn't certain how to turn on the lights.  We all kind of laughed about it, and it's a lesson learned by her!  We are sure that the officer who pulled her over chuckled, at least inwardly if not outwardly, when she handled him her paper (in our state our licenses are mailed about a week later) indicating she was a new driver.

I think a friend best summed up parent's feelings about a new driver, "It's a new level of parental freedom, and a new level of parental terror."  Very well said.

Ice storm

In all of the chaos of the week (and we had PLENTY), I neglected to write more about Thursday morning's ice storm.  We loved the extra two hours we were able to sleep in, but we didn't love the other consequences of the storm...like the power outage.  We had received word around Noon that day that our home mostly likely had now power, and we arrived home to a cold house.  We were very grateful that it actually only ended up being out about five hours.  We were lucky.  My aunt & uncle were out overnight.  It really gives new appreciation for electricity and all the things we use it for!

We have a licensed driver!

Catherine can drive on her own!  It is awesome...and terrifying.  I literally wanted to vomit when she left for work today.  I am very happy for her though.  And honestly, it is delightful to have a driver who I am pretty sure is actually going where she says she is going!  My sweet girl is really amazing.

It's a little ridiculous

So much for Catherine getting her license yesterday!  It wasn't a problem getting her the temporary permit...they handled that.  And it wasn't because she failed the test...that wasn't it either.  Nope, it was simply that there was some sort of miscommunication at the time Andrew made the appointment and it is actually today.  Ugh.

It is our week though.  Things have been a hassle this week.  For instance, Andrew texted me that Thomas needs to stay after school and finish his science test.  Ninety-five out of one hundred times this wouldn't be an issue.  Except of course, for the fact that Andrew needs to take Catherine to take her driving test.  It would almost never be a problem for me either, except that this is one evening that I need to go teach at the agency.  I only do this 3-4 times a year at most, but tonight is one.  Because it is starting earlier than normal, I don't have a lot of extra time after school today.  We will figure out how to work this out somehow!

Appreciating the quiet start to my day

It's been a crazy week.  Almost laughably so, except that it's really not funny. 😊

I am in day three of a five day assignment.  The teacher had hand surgery and had spoken with me the first day of school about being here for her at this time.  The students are awesome.  I really enjoy her classes.  This teacher has 1st period off, which I don't generally love.  However, because her classes are so good throughout the day, I don't really mind either.  In fact, this morning, it is particularly appealing.  I've been catching up on some things I needed to handle personally, and I was able to get some hot chocolate from the coffee cart.  Honestly, for a few minutes, I just sat here and felt so grateful for my life.  I'm staring down the beginning of day where it will be about 11:00 before I am home this evening, but I felt such peace and gratitude this morning.  It was a lovely feeling to begin this Friday!

We needed that two hours

With everything happening last night, our kids were up much later than the usually are...and I was up even later.  I tried really hard to sleep and not think about all of the chaos that occurred in the evening, but that is easier said than done.  However, I was also pretty sure based on the forecast of freezing rain and sleet that we were going to be on a school delay this morning.  So I justified Thomas's 10:30 bedtime last night as really being like an 8:30 bedtime...at least I hoped that was how it would work out!

The alarm went off this morning, and instantly I was disappointed.  However, as Andrew was out of bed turning off the alarm, our call came with a 2 hour delay.  Woohoo!!!!!!!  That meant not only did we get two extra hours of sleep (give or take), but we got to go to work in daylight.  While the ice is not necessarily good, I have to admit it is very lovely.  Unfortunately, we just received notification that our power might be out, which kind of goes along with the chaos of yesterday!

Yesterday was particularly craptastic

It has been a long time...a very long time, since I've had a day that was as rotten as yesterday was.  And further, it's been an even longer time since a day like this wasn't caused by Robert.  He is still off in training though, and our day here at home really stunk.

It all started with the five-year-anniversary of my dad's passing.  I was especially emotional about it, but life has to go on.  Yesterday after school, Thomas stayed to work on his computer class, and Andrew stayed with him.  While I was at home, I learned about some behavior issues with Thomas that I wanted Andrew and I to address with him before he went to his swim work out.  We walked into the cafeteria to discuss it, and before I could get started I noticed the janitors were moving out all of the table and chairs.  I asked why, and they explained there was an event in the cafeteria that evening.  I replied that yes there was, it was our chili supper, and we were definitely going to need tables and chairs for that.  It turns out there had been a serious scheduling miscommunication.  Thank goodness I had managed to catch that before we got there to set up an hour later and had nothing to work with!

The chili supper ended up being a very nice event... right up until I was cleaning up and managed to lock my keys in my trunk.  I knew instantly I had done so, and called home right away to have Andrew bring me another set.  During that phone call I learned that Catherine's wallet was missing.  They had looked everywhere (they really had...every place I thought to suggest they had already looked, and then some), and the more I learned the more convinced I became that it had been taken out of her bag in the band room.  There has been a problem with that.  Her debit card hasn't been used, so it might have been someone thinking they were being funny...which they were not.  The part that was making her sob is that her learner's permit was in it, and she is scheduled to take her driving test again today (we could use some good thoughts for her to pass) and we were weren't sure that was going to be able to happen.  Fortunately Andrew made a phone call today, and it does seem that with some additional paperwork it can still be done.

When I finally got home last night, Andrew and I had a long discussion with Thomas about some of the things that were happening in his life that he may not have even known about.  It was a tough conversation, and Andrew and I have to watch how much we disclose about other students.  It can be challenging.  After that I checked my email...and learned that the wreaths sold by our band that were supposed to arrive this weekend (and for which all the plans had been made) weren't going to be arriving until the middle of next week.  AGH!!!!!!!  At that point, it was just enough.  Nothing could be done about anything at 9:30 at night, and it was just time to sit and have a glass of wine.

On the upside, there is a plan for the wreaths, and it does appear that Catherine can take her test.  So as craptastic as last night was, today things are starting to work out.

It's another one of those weeks

I was reading a post I wrote exactly one year ago today.  I wrote about how ridiculously crazy our week was...and we are definitely having one of those this week again.  I know that this is really just for me and my memory, and totally understand if no one else wants to keep reading!

Monday I worked at school.  Andrew was committed to helping with the middle school football fundraiser, and that took far longer than expected.  I came home after school, but we were only home about an hour before I had to get the kids to work outs.  I then ran some band errands, then went back to to get the kids from work out and to swim practice.  I was home about an hour before I had to head up to the marching band awards.  My kids weren't there because of swim, but I had all of the necessary paper products.  When I left I called Andrew because he needed to pick up the van that had been left at the middle school.  By the time I did that, it was time to get the kids picked up from swim, then I went home and did a little bit of band work.  I had hoped to be in bed early, but life gets in the way!

Yesterday I was only scheduled to work in the morning at school.  When I got here they asked me to stay all day.  It was a teacher I like and I hate to turn down an opportunity for income.  I ended up staying later even than the end of the day, as there was a student testing who wasn't finished when the final bell rang.  The kids both had meetings after school, and then Andrew helped Catherine work on her maneuverability for tomorrow's driving test.  The kids were able to be home about an hour, and then I took them to swim practice.  Andrew had a church council meeting, and he picked them up on his way home.   I was able to get three loads of laundry done, and tons of band stuff accomplished.

Today I am at school all work, and have to do MORE band errands after school.  The kids will have swim workout and then go straight to practice.  I have to be back at school at 5:00 to set up for our chili dinner fundraiser, and I am hoping Andrew will join me after he gets the kids from workout to practice.  He'll need to get the kids from swim practice, and I hope to be home by 9:00.

Tomorrow is another all day at school, and Andrew will take Catherine to her driving test right after school.  The kids have swim in the evening, and I will try to get to church and do my job there, and also get to the grocery.  It's a pretty light day overall.

I'll be back at the school all day on Friday, then need to leave right after school to head north to teach at the agency.  They agreed to start class an hour earlier than normal, so hopefully I'll be home between 10 & 10:30 that night.  Andrew will need to get the kids to work out at 4, then from there to swim, and pick them up again at the end (unless Catherine passes the driving test!). 

I need to be up and at our next band fundraiser by 8:30 Saturday morning.  Catherine has to work at 11, and I'll be done with the fundraiser around 1:00.  Catherine works until 7, and we might actually get to spend some time hanging out as a family that evening...or more likely picking up the house!

I'm not sure if we are going to church Sunday morning because Catherine works again at 11, and I have to be at the final day of the band fundraiser at 11:30.  Thomas will arrive at 2:00 to do his shift, and we are both finished at 4.  I'll have to finish wrapping things up, and Thomas and Andrew might be able to head to the Family Advent activity at church from 4-6.  Thomas also has youth group that evening from 6-8, and Catherine will need picked up at 7...and then next week arrives.

I'm tired.  We are all tired.  Swimming is a wonderful activity for the kids, but oh goodness.  It is definitely a time commitment.  I'm so grateful for all of the opportunities, because honestly, that's what these are.  We aren't worrying about food on the table or a roof over our head, but it is crazy busy!

My dad has been gone five years

I'll never forget the phone call telling me my dad was gone.  In spite of having been ill for 17 years, it was such a shock.  I had talked to my mom earlier that day, and she told me what a great day my dad had been having, and that he had been up and moving around more than he had in quite some time.  I'll always be grateful his last day on Earth was spent that way.  I'm grateful he didn't die in a hospital, and I'm grateful there was never the decision about having to put him in a nursing facility.  These are all blessings.

Five years is hitting me like a ton of bricks though.  Five years.  Five years.  How did five years go by so quickly?  It isn't just about missing my dad.  It's that there are five fewer years left in my life, and the lives of everyone I know.  I recognize that is overly dramatic.  But five years ago, I didn't have any kids in high school and my youngest was in fourth grade.  Now, my youngest is in high school and my oldest has flown the nest.  With schedules, it's often tough to find time even for the four of us to just hang out and do family things.  In another five years, none of my children will be students here anymore, and Catherine could be nearing the end of her schooling altogether.

I'm super emotional about all of this, I'm not going to lie.  I don't like the fact that there has been five years of memories...five years of full days without my dad.  I know that time marches on, but right now I feel like it is marching right across my heart.

I really loved our weekend

Our weekend was really fabulous...but as always too short!  With the kids on the band trip Friday, Andrew and I had the afternoon and early evening to ourselves...no transportation to swim needed.  We decided to run to do some quick Christmas shopping, and then enjoy a dinner out.  That has become our Friday night routine, although we normally stay in town in between running kids.  We didn't have to this time, and especially enjoyed the fact that we had a gift card to use.  In fact, while we were at dinner we realized the restaurant had $5 take out that was easily reheated, and that meant we had a good dinner for the kids as well.  Bonus!

Andrew picked the kids up and everyone was home by 8:00 Friday evening.  I remember walking into my kitchen at that time to pour myself a glass of wine, and thinking how I was pretty sure that was the very best moment of the weekend.  It was Friday, still had the entire weekend in front of us, and we were all home and going to enjoy some family time.  We watched several episodes of Modern Family, and listened to the kids share their excitement and memories from their day.  It was an awesome beginning to our weekend.

Saturday we got to sleep in...another wonderful part to our weekend!  Catherine had to be at work early afternoon, and the rest of us spent the day cleaning the house.  Our dear friends came from out of town, and we enjoyed the visit.

Sunday we went to church, and Catherine worked again.  I made a quick trip to my hometown, then came home and worked on band work.  Andrew had made a fire in the fireplace, and worked on school work.  Thomas had youth group that evening and I had to run some band errands, and then, as much as we might want to avoid it, it was time to start another crazy week.

Ornaments

My favorite part of decorating for Christmas is hanging the Christmas ornaments.  More specifically, it is unwrapping the ornaments each year.  Some of them are from my childhood or from Andrew's childhood, and we cherish those.  Some of them are from trips our family has taken together and we love those as well.  My favorite though, are often the ornaments that belong to our children.  Many of them represent interests or activities they've had during the year, and many of them are from special loved ones who are no longer with us.  I remember that in 2008, all seven of my grandmother's great-grandchildren went to Disney World, and my grandmother cross-stitched each of them a Disney-themed ornament.  Robert got Mickey Mouse, Catherine received Belle, and Thomas's was Lightning McQueen.  I made sure last year that the ornament Thomas received from us was football, because I knew that was a one & done activity.  Whenever possible, the year and giver are written on the ornament, and if that isn't possible I try to include it on the box (if it came in one).  This year because Robert is still in training, he doesn't have his own tree, so I am planning to still hang his ornaments on our tree.  When we take them down though, I will be packing them separately in their own box so that he can have them next year if that works for him.  I will miss unwrapping and looking at those ornaments throughout the season.  Would it be too neurotic to take a picture of each one???

I cried again this year

I was able to attend the Veteran's Day program at our school again today.  In fact I am subbing for the teacher who is in charge of putting on the event.  It is, without a doubt, my favorite assembly that we have each year.  I am always blown away by the respect shown by the students.  My tears pretty much began first thing.  Our neighbor is part of the sheriff's office color guard that presents our country's flag.  Immediately the students were silent, and my eyes filled with tears.  I then cried throughout the entire Star Spangled Banner.  I couldn't help but think of my son, and honestly, how much I wished he was here.  For everything he has put us through, he has made a mature decision, and is making a sacrifice to serve our country.  Andrew had come over to stand with me, and I'm grateful that he did.  It was just nice having him there.  I became somewhat emotional as the veterans were introduced also, especially as last year's speaker, and our friend, Kyle was introduced.  I don't know where we would be without his advice in the last year!  I'm so grateful to all the veteran's for helping to serve and protect this great country in which we live!

Veteran's Day

Today is Veteran's Day, and is the 100th anniversary of the ending of WWI.  This year is definitely a new perspective.  While Andrew's father was a Marine, my family has very little military experience except for my grandfather in WWII, and a great-uncle in the Korean War.  Now though, my son is serving.  I'll be honest, the day has made me emotional.  Our pastor, who is very emotional, became choked up while speaking about Robert from the altar, and I can't ever let anyone cry alone!  The songs have made me tear up, and it's just a completely different perspective for me.  I feel like I really get it for the first time, and I also know that I don't completely get it.  I have not yet had to deal with Robert facing imminent danger, but that will most likely be in our future.  I am so very proud of Robert, and I'm grateful to the military for another reason.  I am grateful to our military for making men out of the boys who join.  I know many are like Robert, and I can't imagine where he would be without the discipline and structure of the military.  I'm so grateful for it all!

Five years since I've heard my dad's voice

It is so hard to believe it's been five years since I've heard my dad's voice.  All through my life, the five-year mark has always been a tough one, regardless of what sadness or tough event I was remembering.  I just can't believe it's been five years since I spoke to him.  He called me from the hospital while the kids and I were with Mom at a cat show.  I'm so grateful he is no longer suffering, but I sure do miss him.

I am ridiculously emotional

I'll be honest, I'm a little bit of an emotional wreck.  I know part of it is that it is Friday and I'm pretty tired.  I'm sure part of it is also that we are within a week of the five-year-anniversary of my dad's passing.  And my hormones must be way out of whack because I feel ridiculous about things.  I woke up with the beginnings of a migraine this morning, and it was a very frustrating morning in my house.  I began crying, and my emotions just don't seem to have settled since then. 

Our school has a cross-country runner that qualified for the state race being held tomorrow.  She is an absolutely lovely young lady in every way.  I had her in class right before lunch and gave her my best wishes then.  They just called all the students and staff into the hallways to cheer her off as she leaves.  This should not be a cause for tears!  I know cross country can make me emotional anyway, but good grief!

Band trip

The kids are on an all day band trip today.  They came to school as normal, but then won't be back until about 8:00 this evening.  Andrew and I are hoping to take the evening and get some shopping out, then grab dinner.  Our Friday evening routine since home football games ended (and Andrew had to be there) has been to have dinner together.  Working makes it possible.

Anyway, the kids have been excited about this trip for weeks.  Honestly, for the adults, it is kind of a pain.  It is a huge amount of work, and we are "competing" against bands that have far larger budgets, and much bigger expectations.  The directors don't particularly want to go, but a prominent community member basically insisted it needed to happen, and even raised the money to make it financially possible.  I was kind of rolling my eyes about the whole thing, but I am glad that my kids are happy about it, and I'm grateful that they will have the opportunity to perform again.  We watched them at the community performance last night, and I was pretty impressed with them overall!

It's kind of ironic

Today I am subbing in what would have been called a Home Ec classroom.  There is a personal wellness class, and the rest of the classes are kitchen based.  It's a little ironic that I would sub in these classes.  Most of these kids can probably get around in a kitchen far better than I can!  So far this morning I've watched a movie about using knives, and then watched one on nutrients and minerals.  None of these are things I'm very good about...and yet here I am!

Rural country roads

Last week, on one of my days off, I made a trip over to Indiana to do some shopping.  It was a cloudy day, and the drive was about 45 minutes.  I absolutely loved it.  While it would have been even more gorgeous if the sun had been shining, even a cloudy day in the fall...over rural farmland...it doesn't get much prettier (except for maybe that sun).

Honestly, it really doesn't matter what time of year it is...driving through rural farmland is, to me, one of the most peaceful experiences on earth.  I can remember driving through farmland one time and literally feeling the stress escape.  It's amazing to me.  I know there are many people who need the lights and sounds and excitements of the city to feel alive.  Not me.  I love the quiet and peacefulness that empty roads can bring!

Almost at the end

Tomorrow is the last marching band performance for the year.  The season is seventeen weeks long, and I think we are all ready for it to come to an end.  It was a good experience overall for Thomas.  For Catherine, I think it is mostly good.  She struggles socially, and while she has really good friends in band, there are also some students who aren't very nice to her.  I know part of it is that there are some meanies out there, but part of it is her own demeanor and how she chooses to interact with people.  Anyway, tomorrow the marching season comes to an end.

And the next season actually began two weeks ago...so no down time.  Our laundry loads are about to increase dramatically with two swimmers using towels.  It's also weird because Andrew and I have a lot of quiet time together when they are gone.

So almost at the end...but a new beginning!

I miss reading newspapers

Pretty much from the time I moved out on my own, I had a subscription to the daily newspaper.  I grew up in a  house that subscribed to two daily newspapers, one in the morning, and one in the evening.  I have always looked forward to reading my newspapers.  Once I became a stay-at-home mom, I developed a very specific routine to my newspapers in terms of how I would read them.  And when I was on vacation, I always came home and read in the order in which they were delivered.  It's what I did.

The price however, had become almost out of control.  The monthly subscription price had more than doubled in the last five years, and as Andrew and I looked at cutting expenses, it seemed an easy one.  I was hoping we could still get a Sunday paper, but even delivery of just that was a ridiculous cost.  We finally settled on just a digital subscription.  I still think the price is obscene for what I am getting, but we still wanted to be able to get local news.  In early June, we became digital only subscribers.  I told Andrew I was pretty sure by the end of the summer we would cancel even that because I wouldn't be reading it.

For the most part, I am right.  More days than not I don't read the newspaper.  I never worry about reading it in order anymore, and I skip much more than I used to because sometimes it is days old when I read it.  Andrew is still very dedicated to reading the front (national news) section each morning, but only that.  I miss holding the newspaper and really reading it, and I miss getting to do my puzzles at the end of day.

Mini-vacation

I did end up being off Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.  It was really, really awesome.  I had to pass up some jobs on Friday, but it was important to me to be at Catherine's honor roll ceremony.  So by Thursday morning, I knew I wasn't going back to work until today, and it felt so freeing.  I didn't feel guilty about it either, because I knew I was already scheduled every day this week (there is no school tomorrow), every day except Tuesday (so far) next week, and both the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving.  Plenty of days scheduled, so I allowed myself to really enjoy the days off.  Not only was it three days in a week, but three consecutive days leading into the weekend.  It honestly felt like a mini-vacation.

I was able to get a lot accomplished.  Wednesday I mostly spent the day at home working around the house.  Catherine had to work after school, but was home before Beggar's Night ended.  It was predicted to be monsoon like, but there was actually no rain.  Thomas spent most of the evening on the porch to hand out candy, and the kids dressed Abby in a pumpkin sweater.  Because it was Halloween, the kids had the evening off from swim.  It was wonderful!

On Thursday I tackled a boat load of errands.  Most of them were Christmas shopping though, so I didn't mind terribly.  The kids had band practice that evening, and I worked at the church while they were there.  Friday I headed to Indiana after Catherine's ceremony for some more shopping.  I was home by mid-afternoon.  Andrew took Catherine for another attempt at her driving test.  She was able to pass the driving, but failed the maneuverability.  She took it in better stride this time, but if she doesn't pass it next week when she tries again, she may not be able to get it (by law) until the end of the school year.  That is not exactly what I'm going for!  While the kids were at swim that evening, Andrew and I grabbed some dinner out.  We've decided we might make this our Friday evening routine during swim season.  It is nice to be working again and not feel guilty about spending money on things like that.

Saturday we traveled north to grab lunch with my mom and grandmothers.  It is such a blessing to be able to do that.  On the way home, se drove through our former town where they were having a craft show.  We didn't find anything we couldn't live without, but we did get to see many old friends.  Our hearts will always be in that town.  That evening Andrew went to a football game with a friend, and then yesterday was a typical Sunday.  Catherine worked and we watched a Steelers victory while getting things done.  I also did some texting with Robert, and it was so nice to hear from him!

It was really a wonderful little mini-vacation for me.  I almost feel refreshed!

It just keeps getting worse.

Last spring, our family was horrified to learn of the arrest of someone we knew from our former town.  He was accused of a relationship with a minor.  Thomas had been good friends with this man's daughter, he was Catherine's first soccer coach, Andrew and I had been to their house for social events, and they had our boys one time when Catherine had to be taken to the hospital.  I just kept thinking it couldn't be true and there had to be some explanation that would make it all not true.  In early summer, I learned the identity of the girl, and she was a classmate of Thomas's...and they had made their First Communions together.  The man finally went to trial this week.  First we learned that he admitted they had contact but nothing had really happened.  Then we learned that when the young lady's family found out, they offered not to press charges as long as he promised to resign his coaching position.  After the family confiscated her phone, this man sent the young lady another phone so they couldn't continue to communicate.  I thought all of this was bad enough, but it got worse still.  During a lunch break after taking the stand in his own defense, this man somehow managed to disable his ankle monitor (he was out on bond), and left.  It's been three days, and his whereabouts are still unknown.  In the meantime, he has been found guilty, but sentencing is delayed until he is located.

Yesterday was his wife's birthday.  Wishing her "happy birthday" seemed absolutely ridiculous.  There is absolutely nothing "happy" about yesterday, or probably most of the last six months for that fact.  We texted back and forth for a bit, and honestly, it brought me to tears.  This woman and her kids are being so strong and brave, and my heart just breaks for them.  While I certainly didn't discuss this with her, for many of us who know them, our biggest concern is whether or not this man is still alive.  His mental state is clearly questionable, and I just can't imagine his family having to go through that on top of everything else.  Honestly, I am beginning to wonder if there are drugs involved.  I just can't reconcile everything that has happened with the man I knew.  Honestly, it feels as though each piece of information I learn makes the story worse.

Might have a few days off

Right now, I am not scheduled to work the rest of the week.  That almost doesn't seem possible.  I won't work Friday because Catherine made the honor roll, and the breakfast is Friday.  Andrew doesn't think he can get anyone to cover his class, and I'm not missing this.  I'll be honest, I really do love being off on Fridays because it leads right into the weekend!  We'll just see if anything comes up for tomorrow or Wednesday.  I would love to pick up another day tomorrow, but it is out of my control.  I am already scheduled all four days next week (there is no school Tuesday) and four of five days the following week, so I'm not going to stress about the rest of this week.

I'm happy to report that Thomas is back in school.  He felt pretty good by the time that I made it home (Andrew left earlier to be with him).  By the time I saw him, I could tell that he felt much better.  He stayed down though, and we had him go to bed early just to get some extra rest.  Hopefully the rest of us don't get it...although if Andrew does I know where he can get a sub for his class!

I hadn't planned on it, but it worked out

I am working today, just as I do most days.  And what happened this morning is exactly why I love being at our high school.  It really is what works best for our family.

Right at the beginning of 3rd period, I received a phone call from the nurse that Thomas was in the clinic and had vomited.  He obviously needed to go home.  Not only am I working, but I am covering for a second teacher who had to leave unexpectedly so I know they would be really short if I left...or if Andrew left for that matter.  Fortunately, 3rd period has another adult in the room.  That meant I could leave and go check on Thomas.  He definitely needed to go home, but was running no fever.  I consulted with Andrew, and we decided he was old enough to be alone for a few hours.  I found another teacher to cover and I ran Thomas home.  The schedule worked out perfectly in that I was able to run him home and get back, all during that period.  I would prefer to be home with him, but this is a situation working parents deal with all the time.  I don't get paid if I don't work...it's that simple.  There is no fever, and it's actually going to only be about five hours, and Andrew could even be home about an hour earlier.  Yes, I am trying very hard to justify that I have left my sick kid at home.  I don't like it, but it will be okay...it will be okay.

Ultimately, I'm so grateful that our entire family is able to be in the same building.  It makes these instances so much more manageable.  I hate having sick kids, but this is going around and it happens, and we can deal with it!

Hopefully next time

Catherine didn't pass her driving test.  She was absolutely devastated.  She cried for almost an hour.  I felt so awful for her.  She had marching band this evening though, and I'm grateful she had something else to think about.  She will be able to take the test again next week.  Fingers crossed it goes better next time.

Ironically, this happened on the same day that our invitation to her honor roll breakfast arrived.  She worked hard, and really wanted to make the honor roll.  We are so proud of her!  She really is an amazing young lady!

The last Friday of October

The last weekend of October...I just don't understand how we got here so quickly.  I can't believe it has been four weeks since we've seen Robert at his graduation at the end of September.  It's really crazy.

The last Friday of October means the end of football season.  Normally it would mean the end of marching band is close, but we still have another two weeks due to the competition schedule.  This is not only an entire week later than normal, but swim practices are beginning a week earlier as well.  So while we normally go directly from marching band to swim with no break, this year we actually have two full weeks of overlap.  Nothing I love about that!

Catherine is taking her driving test after school today.  I'll be honest, I am absolutely terrified at the thought of her having her license.  Generally speaking I think she is ready, but I don't think I am.  While Robert often made poor choices in life, I was more confident in his abilities behind the wheel.  I am concerned that Catherine sometimes doesn't pay attention to the world around her.  I'm not necessarily hoping that she doesn't pass...I just can't imagine this whole experience!  My biggest concern is Thomas being in the vehicle with her and causing distractions.

It's really looking like fall around here.  The leaves are nearing their peak color (about a week late) and it's very pretty outside.  It's also been much cooler than average.  While I enjoy cooler weather, I miss the days of fall when it's the perfect temp outside.  We haven't had too many of those this year.

It's been a crazy week with subbing every day, and it's also the culmination of our band fundraiser, so I've been working on pretty much nothing but that in my "free" time.  I should be finished with that by tomorrow morning, and then I can pick up the house and take of laundry...and all those other "fun" things that are waiting for me!

Where did October go?

I can't believe we are in the last week of October...this time next week will be November!  I feel like October has just absolutely flown by.  It could be because the month began very warm and summer-like, and now it is almost early winter-like.  I felt like September drug on forever, and now October has flown!

Definitely not the answer

I have been attempting to make healthier choices.  One of the biggest changes I feel I could make that would be helpful is to stop drinking so many soft drinks.   I pack one each day that I have to work at the school.  I know it isn't overly healthy, but I really don't like water.  Finally this week, I saw numbers on the scale that don't make me very happy at all.  I remember being in high school, and my best friend's family always had seltzer water on hand.  I liked it at that time.  I did some research and it seemed to be a good compromise.  I thought maybe this would be the solution I wanted.

It is not.  At least, not the kind I tried.  I stood at the grocery earlier in the week and looked over the various selections.  I decided to give a go to the most popular brand name, although it wasn't the one I knew from my high school days.  Next I needed to chose a flavor.  This proved far more challenging.  I don't care for citrus flavors, and those were predominant.  I'm a much bigger fan of fruity flavors, so I finally settled on cran-raspberry. 

I took a can out of the fridge this morning and put it in my lunch bag.  First, having them in cans is a problem because they can't be closed up again.  That also means once I open it, it has to remain on my desk because I can't put it back in my lunch bag, and of course that means it is also going to get warm.  So, I need to keep looking for another packaging solution.  In the meantime, I opened the can and it smelled wonderful.  Unfortunately, it most certainly does not taste wonderful.  In fact, I kind of feel that it tastes like medicine.  I'll manage to find a way to drink this and the seven remaining cans that I've paid for, but clearly this is not the answer I was looking for!

We aren't going to be billionaires

Yesterday I had several errands to run after I was done subbing at the school, and I also had to go spend some time at the church at that job.  I was pretty exhausted during the day, so I stopped and grabbed a cup of coffee at a convenience store.  Since I was there, I decided to grab a Mega Millions ticket.  I know the odds, but $2 was worth the 24 hours of dreaming.  I wasn't even overly interested in winning the entire jackpot, but felt as though $100,000 would allow us to replace the van, take an ocean vacation, and still replenish our savings.

Alas, we don't live in South Carolina (where the winning ticket was sold), and we woke up this morning having not joined the billionaire club!

Visiting with Robert

Last evening we were able to FaceTime with Robert.  I'll be honest, it was really nice to be able to do that.  We text often, and Thursday evening he and I even chatted on the phone, I enjoyed being able to see him.  At the same time, he looks so tired that it is very worrisome.  I'm sure he is fine, it's just as a mom it is my job to worry.  Thomas and Catherine especially enjoyed being able to chat with him.  It was only about 20 minutes, but we were able to see the room he is in, and just communicate together as a family for a few minutes.  I understand this is our new normal, but it makes me miss the family times with all five of us.  At the same time, so many of the times with Robert living under our roof were less than great, and this is better for all of us.  Most importantly, he is exactly where he wants to be right now, and I'm very grateful for that.

It was brutally windy.

Today Catherine and Thomas had a band competition where our dear friends live.  We decided to venture to dinner with them and then attend the competition.  Our friends even came to the competition with us.  It's chilly out...in the mid-40's when the band took the field.  The wind was unlike anything I've experienced...maybe ever.  There was trash blowing everywhere, and even props were falling over.  It was crazy.  I feel terrible for Catherine.  I know she had to be miserable.  She suffers a great deal in the cold and we are fairly certain there is a medical condition that causes it.  I can't imagine sitting in the wind another couple of hours.  It was brutal...just brutal.

On the upside, we thought the band looked pretty good.  I'm not sure if they placed anywhere or won any awards, but we enjoyed watching them.  Hopefully they weren't penalized too much by the wind which was beyond their control!

A quiet and early Saturday morning

Catherine had to work at 8AM this morning.  We were up at 7AM in order to get her there on time.  Thankfully, last evening no one had to be at the football game, so I was able to be in bed at a reasonable hour.  I don't love being up that early on a Saturday, but I did enjoy the peace and quiet that came along with it.  Catherine needs picked up at noon, and she and Thomas have to be at the high school at 2:00.  We will leave later to head to dinner with friends, then we are heading to the kids' band competition.  It's cold and rainy, but I am grateful for fall Saturdays!

It will be different this year

I officially learned yesterday that Robert won't be able to be here for Thanksgiving.  Once we found out his training was moving forward and that he would be over 1200 miles away, we were pretty sure that would be the case.  I'll be honest though, the fact that the holiday will be spent without all of my kids sitting with me at the table gives me pause.  I've always known this was a probability, but yesterday, the confirmation made it very, very real.  We are still hopeful that my in-laws will come for the holiday, as we don't want them spending the first holiday without my brother-in-law alone.  The logistics of it are challenging, and there is a possibility we will just go there, but it is't what we're planning.  Perhaps "planning" is overstating it though, because Andrew and his mother haven't really discussed it.

And then comes Christmas.  This holiday is really up in the air.  At this point, Robert is hoping to be here for a couple of days, although we aren't exactly sure when.  We know all of the family is going to want to see him, which would mean getting his parents back here again, but since we don't know when, we don't know what to plan, and there is both my mom's and dad's sides we also need to plan.  For someone who likes to be a planner, this is stressful, but I know it will all work out.  As I say about so many things, "Just because it has always been done that way, isn't a reason to keep doing it that way."  This is part of having our kids grow up!

A tough way to end the season

This week was the end of middle school football.  Neither Andrew nor myself are particularly sad about that.  Unfortunately, the season ended on a tough note.  For the last two weeks, they've only 15-16 players able to play.  Honestly, Andrew was against playing both a 7th grade game and an 8th grade game.  They just didn't feel is was safe for the few players they had to be playing so much.  However, the athletic director insisted, and this week was especially awful.  The other team ran the score up on the so badly that the Varsity coach of the other team actually came over and apologized to our coaches and stated he wasn't planning on them returning next year.  While my husband was talking to his team after the game, a parent came and basically threw a temper tantrum.  My husband was pretty irritated when he got home Wednesday evening, and learned yesterday that the wife of this guy was having a meeting with the principal yesterday.  We can only assume it is an attempt to make sure Andrew and the other coaches aren't rehired.  For this family, it is literally all about winning.  The child played quite a bit so they can't be complaining about playing time...they just are ridiculous about this.  It would be comical if it wasn't so sad.  It's sad for the young man who is their son, because he isn't learning how to handle things the right way, and he wasn't able to play football with his friends when he was younger because his father couldn't get along with anyone.  It's also sad for the coaches who have given so much of themselves, and taken so much away from their families.  Andrew was contemplating not returning next year, and this kind of encourages that.  He won't make a decision anytime soon, but I understand his feelings right now.  It was tough enough that the season ended with such a rough loss in a game that shouldn't even have been played, but to have a parent behave this way makes it so much worse.

We enjoyed our long weekend

It was so nice not to have any school Friday.  Thursday evening Andrew had to work at a soccer game, so he brought the kids home from band practice.  We hung out and watched some Modern Family, our family's current binge preference.  Friday morning we slept in, then Andrew and I headed to my hometown to sign some legal papers.  That evening we all attended the very wet football game.  Of course it rained, it was senior night after all!  We were getting blown out so I sat in the press box with Andrew and left after half time.  When everyone came home, we again binged watched TV.

Saturday morning was the league cross country meet.  Andrew had to work, and I wanted to watch the high school races.  I had so much fun.  Our runners did awesome, and frankly, our girls dominated.  Our lady runners came in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 10th to capture the league title.  Our boys team came in second overall, but our friends' son won that race.  It was a great morning!  Catherine worked in the afternoon, then we had no more driving!  We were invited to our neighbor's house for a bonfire, but came home to eat dinner with the kids and more binge watching.

Sunday was church and Sunday School, and Catherine had to work again.  I was able to get a lot of things done around the house, and we ate a family dinner together.  Those are rare, and are going to get rarer with swim starting soon. 

I really enjoyed our weekend.  Sometimes I feel guilty that my kids don't have more of a social life, but I so enjoy hanging out at home together!

It's still really green

We are half way through the month, my favorite month of the year, but it is still way too green around here!  We are starting to see some lighter green and a touch of yellow, but still mostly green!  Since our summer heat just ended last week, the trees had trouble getting the message that it was time to get colorful.  This week we are well below average with temps, and our lows at night are actually getting close (way too close) to freezing.  The meteorologists are saying we may not get much color this year because of the weather patterns.  It's disappointing, but I still love this weather!

It's been a frustrating day

This day has been so frustrating!!!  I had to take the day off work because the windshield in one of our cars needed fixing.  It's lovely that they will come to the house and fix it, but not so lovely that the appointment frames are either all of the morning or all of the afternoon.  I took a morning appointment knowing that it should give me some time in the afternoon to get other things done.  The guy was here, it took a little over an hour, and by 11:00 I was out the door to run some errands.

One thing I needed to do was renew my driver's license.  I had decided that even though I hate flying and would avoid it at all costs, with Robert in the military and living all over, I should have a new compliant driver's license.  I had heard it was super challenging to get in our state because everything had to be official, but I was thrilled when I found our certified marriage license.  My birth certificate also had an official seal, and I was pleased to be all prepared.  Except of course I wasn't.  They wouldn't accept my birth certificate because it was issued by the hospital and not the county.  I pointed out it had an official seal, and they said it still wasn't an official county birth certificate.  GRRRR!  I had to just take the non-compliant license, and I'll have to work on getting the correct documentation and eventually replacing my license...which of course will cost money.

As I was driving to the license bureau, the plastic and rubber moldings on the new windshield began coming apart.  Well that's not good.  I was pleased however, that the company we used was out of the town to which I was headed, and drove straight there after the DMV...except that it isn't really there.  It's really just a storefront address, and there isn't actually a presence there.  Of course not!  I made a phone call, was told the technician would call me, and after 2-1/2 hours called again and was told the same thing.

This has proven to be so frustrating.  I'm grateful I'm getting some things done around the house, but it is so frustrating that everything has been such a hassle!

Maybe it is a little too much togetherness

This week, I have worked in my husband's classroom wing on Monday, Tuesday, and today.  Monday and today I am right next door, and Tuesday I was across the hall.  I've been able to eat lunch with him each of these days, and we appreciate that.  Today and Monday, I've been able to have Thomas in class.  In fact, it is the exact same period during which Catherine is a student assistant in Andrew's class.  We laugh about the fact that all four of us are literally within 100 yards of each other during that time.

I am thinking though, that perhaps it is a little too much togetherness.  I don't think that Thomas particularly loves me being his teacher.  Andrew seems a little annoyed that I sometimes walk into his room to borrow something I might need.  And I am incredibly annoyed at a phone call I just received.  Apparently Catherine is refusing to go to the nurse to have her vision and hearing checked.  Now I have to spend my plan period getting her out of class and escorting her to the nurse.  This infuriates me!  I don't understand why she won't just get it done.  Perhaps this is just too much togetherness at school this week!

I am so looking forward to this weekend

Today is Thursday, but because of fall break, there is no school tomorrow.  I am so incredibly excited!  We have an appointment in my home town, but we still get to sleep in at least three hours from today.  Andrew and I both need it, and I'm sure the kids do as well!

We all need to attend the home football tomorrow evening because I have some band responsibilities.  Saturday morning Andrew and I will attend the league cross country meet and Catherine will work that afternoon.  We have nowhere to be that evening though, and since Ohio St and Notre Dame both play in the afternoon, I am planning a fun evening of Modern Family for the evening.  We haven't been able to do this in over a month and I'm so looking forward to it.  Because the temps are dropping rapidly (Saturday will be 30 degrees cooler than Tuesday) we might even be able to have a fire in the fireplace Saturday evening or Sunday.  This is exactly what I've been hoping to happen for a while!

It doesn't feel like Wednesday

Today very much feels like a Thursday, and yesterday very much felt like a Wednesday.  The good news is because there is NO SCHOOL on Friday.  So even though today is only Wednesday, it is kind of a Thursday in our world.  I am looking forward to a little extra sleep on Friday!

It is such a relief!

Yesterday at the end of the school day, I received word from Robert...and it was very good news!  All of his paperwork has come through, and he is able to continue his training!  We are more relieved than I can put into words, and he is so excited that he gets to continue moving forward.  He will be in Texas for the next several weeks, then we aren't exactly sure what comes next.  Please know I will continue to be rather vague when it comes to Robert and his experiences, but I wanted to share this very good news!

It's a little overwhelming

We are in a tired and tough season of life right now.  I think we get this way pretty much every early October.  It doesn't help that the days get shorter, but it's just a little tough.  I know no one cares, but here is a run-down of our week...

Yesterday all four of us came to school together.  Right after school Thomas and I ran an errand, and Andrew went to football practice.  Early evening, right after Andrew arrived home,  I dropped Catherine and Thomas off at band practice and then went to do my weekly grocery shopping.  I came to work on band reports and Andrew was grading.  I picked the kids up from band and returned to continue to band work.  Thomas had a lot of homework and had to stay up working on that.

Today we are all again at school together.  The kids have a meeting right after school, and I have some band errands to run.  Andrew will have football practice, and then needs to head back to the high school for an assistant a/d responsibility.  The kids have the swim pre-season meeting this evening, and I will have to miss a meeting in order to transport.

Tomorrow we are all going to be at school again.  Andrew has an away football game so it is going to be pretty late before he gets home.  Catherine begins her new job tomorrow afternoon, and I am hoping I am able to get some church work accomplished.  I have a band meeting tomorrow evening.

On Thursday we will all return to school yet again.  Andrew will again have football practice, and then needs to get back to the high school for another assistant a/d function.  The kids have band practice, and I am cautiously optimistic Andrew might be able to bring them home so that I don't have to get them.

Friday we get to sleep in since there is no school!  We do, however, have a morning legal appointment in my hometown so we'll still have to get up and moving.  I also need to get some band things done, and that evening is a home football game.  It is senior night, so I have responsibilities as well.  The kids will march and do their show, and Andrew will help keep stats.

Saturday Andrew has to work at the league cross country meet, and I am hoping to attend as well.  Catherine will work in the afternoon, but then I plan a blissful evening of nothing!

On Sunday, I am both the nursery volunteer during church, and the Sunday School volunteer after.  Catherine will work in the afternoon again, and the kids have youth group that evening...and then we get to start all over again.

All of this though, pretty much pales in comparison to the swim schedule I just saw.  Those practices are starting even earlier this year, and because marching band's season is one week longer, there are two full weeks of overlap.  UGH!!!!!!!!