Race to Nowhere

This is a film about the stress and pressure kids today have on them. They are stressed because testing, homework, pressure to perform, sleep deprivation, and then of course the usual fitting in. I strongly encourage everyone to see this film. You can find out more information on www.facebook.com/RaceToNowhere

Running around

Today was such a full day - as usual! I did my usual light housework before going to the "real" job (I mean the one that pays!) Then I ran straight to the elementary school to catch up on some PTA work. I then had just enough time to swing by the middle school to pick up my son. The two of us talked about the day as we went to pick up my daughter from a friends house. As soon as we got home, I shoved food down their throats so I could make a 7pm parent orientation meeting at the high school. I am finally home from work at 8:30pm! I am ready to collapse, but there is always more to do! I will look over the homework, make lunches for tomorrow, maybe do a load or two of laundry before actually turning in for the night. Then tomorrow I will do it all over again! G'night!

who takes care of mom when she's sick?

As mothers we are always taking care of the people around us, putting ourselves last. Every now and then we should stop everything and just take a break. As much as I believe this, I too am guilty of not taking time for me. Unfortunately it has taken the flu to stop me in my tracks. As sick as I feel, I am really enjoying watching movies all day in bed and having my family take care of me. It takes something drastic for me to get some rest. While this is not an ideal situation, it does have it's advantages. My body told me enough is enough and now I'm listening. It's also nice to see that my family is able to pick up the slack without complaints. I've taught them well and now I can sit back and make ME a priority!

so proud!

Well we found out today that our son got an 80 on his midterm in the subject that he wasn't doing well in. I gave him the praise he deserved for working and studying hard but I also had to mention that he could have done better had he put forth this effort all along! I didn't want to burst his bubble but I need him to know that we have faith in him and to point out to him that hard work pays off. I don't want spoiled children that think everything comes easy even when it sometimes does. For example, he can succeed in subject matter that interests him with little effort - but I still want him to give his all. I figure, you just have to know your child. I knew his weakness was time management, not the content. Taking away the electronics and putting the focus on school brought his grades up, but it's still a long process on getting him to be able to budget his own time. I get worried because high school is just around the corner!

midterms, homework and snow days - oh my!

What a crazy winter this is in the East! I've never doubted the Farmers Almanac until now! This was supposed to be a mild winter but we are experiencing a substantial snow storm every week! The kids think it's great but I'm already juggling work and activities and helping my 13 year old get back on track with his school work. Every time there is a delayed opening, early dismissal or full day school closure, it disrupts the constant flow I'm trying to maintain. How are parents supposed to run out of work at a moments notice because all of a sudden the school decides to send the kids home early? Most companies don't close because of snow so it leaves us employees stuck. To make matters worse, since I'm a part-time employee, I don't get paid when I don't work. I don't get personal, vacation or sick days to use for school dismissal emergencies. What is a parent to do?

What to do when your child....

I am struggling with my 13 year old in teaching time management. He is a very smart kid, has the potential to be a straight A student - but only when he cares enough to put effort into his work. This is his last year of middle school and he's blowing it. I have taken away all electronics and limited after school activities and then he starts to do well again. After some time of consistent effort shown, I will slowly give back privileges. My problem is that I hate is that punishment only seems to temporarily solve the problem, what he needs is to learn balance. He needs to learn how to prioritize and to make school top priority. Any suggestions?

Struggling Marriage...

With the kids getting older and demanding more of your time, it's hard to put much focus on your marriage. Many couples resort to date nights, where they get a night out without any interruptions. I'm curious if these date nights actually work being that it's scheduled and repetitive. I would think more spontaneity would be more welcome in a family where the kids' schedules dictate your lives. Who knows?