Back to School...

Joe was the first to go back to school.  While we had a pretty good summer I think it was a little underwhelming for Joe.  I could tell he was really excited to go back to school.  And frankly, I was excited too.  He is a lot to handle 24/7.  Its nice to have a break from him during the day so the rest of us can get some things done uninterrupted.  We are thankful to have the same life skills teacher as Joe had last year.  We are looking forward continued progress toward Joe's goals throughout this school year.

Christine returned to developmental preschool a couple days after Joe.  Its nice that she has the same teacher and therapists that Joe had in devprek.  I'd be a lot more uneasy if it wasn't for the familiar faces. Christine is doing well in her class. Although she definitely seems ready to see me when she gets home.  This is the first time we've had her ride the bus.  Its a little bittersweet for me... she's my baby! 

Nate and I have taken advantage of a little time alone with a few fun outings to kick off the school year.  We have started to make a tradition of going shopping to pick out a "back to school outfit".  Its a stereotypical thing to do for most kids... except that he's homeschooled... and we're going to Goodwill.  ;-)  We've tackled Chuck-E-Cheese, gone hiking at the 100 Acres nature park at the IMA, the library, and had a lunch playdate at the park with some friends. 


For me there are mixed feelings about getting back into the routine of the school year.  While there are a certain amount of freedom available in summer that we'll miss there is also a bit of comfort in the routine that we will soon settle into.  We were pretty relaxed this summer, lots of late breakfasts and lazy days around the house... getting up and moving bright and early is proving to be a challenge for me.  I'm going to have to start adjusting my bedtime.

On the upside, I'm hoping the time alone with Nate will allow us to do some fun things together and tackle our new curriculum.  Nate can be tricky sometimes.  While he is very intelligent, he flip flops between being frustrated at something being too easy and then being frustrated when something is even a little challenging.  He is very critical of himself and gets down if he struggles with learning or remembering anything.  Which makes things hard on both of us at times.  One of many things we will be working on together this year.

Proverbs 3:5-6  -  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.