Ketchup

As in "catch up." As in I'm so very far behind.

I'm going to write very fast, because it is late and I need to go to the gym tomorrow. And while we're on the subject, I'm really tired of being the lone chub. And I'm not just saying this because it's a new year and I ate way to much over the holidays (past and present).
Ok, maybe I am.
Look, I'm not looking to be a size 4 or 6. I'm comfortable will a little softness. I need it, because, well lets just say my husband has none, and it helps with the hugging and such. But the softness has turned into pillowieness, uncomfortableness, higher blood pressure - greater at risk for other diseases-ness. I am repenting. I feel like the lone chub.
And that's all I'm going to say about that.

School. I've been meaning to write so much about our experience with "traditional" school this year. I could go on at great length of all the pros and cons. Great. length.
However, when I really stop to think about it, I can sum it all up pretty concisely:
***no, apparently I can't because I keep going back to add or change things in this list.**
+Sometimes I like them being in school.
- Sometimes I shake my head in worry.
+I really like all their teachers.
+Their job is just huge and I respect them immensely.
- I do NOT like the bureaucracy associated with certain programs.
+I smile when I see my kids playing with lots of other children from lots of different backgrounds.
- I cry a little when I hear of one of those children being mean to one of mine.
- I never thought I'd say this, but I miss Saxon math.
+ I can't help but feel proud when they get good grades (even though the whole thing goes against my core beliefs)
+I do feel like I can connect with the other moms in my ward and neighborhood more. Which I like.
- I miss connecting with other homeschool moms.
- I miss planning lessons and field trips. I thought I would do more of this still, but I don't.
- I miss having my kids around me all day.
+ I have enjoyed being involved in all my children's classes.
- I have also not enjoyed it sometimes.
- I have made up my mind to homeschool again next year.
+ And then I have changed it.

Some things I have learned that I would like to pass on:
*If we do homeschool again, I will NOT be so paranoid about my children's academics. I should have had more confidence in their own ability to learn. Plus, it's incredible how little time actually goes into academics during a "traditional" school day. Maybe 2 or 3 hours of actual intellectual connection being made. And there are whole days where it's nothing but a party. Still, so much of the traditional education comes in the form of being able to meet deadlines, being respectful to teachers, getting along with others, etc. I understand this and appreciate its importance. But really, all of that can be done at home with a diligent homeschool curriculum, extra curricular activities and a good homeschool network.

*To be a successful mother and teacher, you must remember to take care of yourself. It's so easy to neglect yourself and be so focused on your children, but you can only do that for so long before you start to run ragged and then burn out. Balance, balance, moderation and balance.

*If you have been homeschooling and then decide to go back to traditional school, get to know the teachers really well, and give them your respect and gratitude. After all, you know how hard their job is. Be patient, as it may take them a while to realize that you are on their side. Be enthusiastic and show them that you find as much joy in your children's education and they do (or should).

*Your children will thrive when you give them lots of attention and love no matter where they are. The question is, what situation will best allow for this, for each particular child and for your particular circumstance? Don't be a follower in this. You have to really study and ponder the decision. Talk it over with your spouse and make sure you are on the same page. If your children are old enough, include them in the discussion. If they are not, don't. It will only confuse them.

*I think it is wise to commit to an educational plan for at least a year. You may go back and forth, have good days and bad days, where you are tempted to pull up the stakes, but knowing you've made a commitment will help you get through and make it to the next good day.

*Volunteer! Be in the classroom and get to know the kids in your kids' classes. Plus, teachers just love help. They will even let you bring in your 3 year old, as long as she is not disruptive, which sometimes is the case.

All your schmoozing will come in handy when you tell your kids' teachers that your children will be missing a week of school to go to Hawaii.

Which is where Sam and Elise are right now.

My mom and dad surprised them with an extra special Christmas present this year.

I hope I can make it. I miss them so much and it hasn't even been a day. But I'm really excited for them. I called them when they landed (yes, you read that right. I tracked their flight and called them when they landed. Issues, remember?) and Sam said,
"Mom it was the most amazing thing! It was incredible! When we broke through the clouds, the sun was setting and the sky was red. The mountains were this beautiful green and the water was so blue."

Sigh....

I'm going to the gym tomorrow.