11, 6 and 4

The grades my boys are in. My oldest was raring to go this morning. His schedule(after a few tense hours last week) is what he needs with a little of what he wants.

My middle was excited about his new Middle school. He was actually disappointed they didn't do any work today. I told him to wait until tomorrow.

My youngest is in the same grade I teach. He is very pleased we ride to school alone, just the two of us. He said tonight he loves his class and his teacher. Ü Fourth grade rules!

I am one grateful mom. My boys all have teachers I like and respect. All of them were excited this morning to go start the new year. All of them came home this afternoon happy and still excited.

I am one. grateful. mom.

Keeping my mouth shut

It's easier that way and it keeps you out of trouble. Except, when the person that told you something in confidence then tells someone else and the "story" gets out. I have had this happen 2 times in recent history and I know that it wasn't me that repeated the "story". It wasn't me. If there is one thing I am it is loyal and if I tell you I won't repeat it, I won't. End. of. discussion.

I have put a lot of time and careful thought about what it means to keep a confidence. Keeping a confidence is part of my professional job. A big part. It is also a part of my daily life and one that I take seriously. It amazes me to listen to people repeat hurtful things about others. It's amazing because they are often said in such a way that it doesn't really matter if the discussion is hurtful or not it's just exciting/fun/makesmefeelimportant/I don't know why else and it's going to be repeated.

I am again vowing to keep my mouth shut(I know I did and I know it wasn't me that spread the gossip). I am also going to start leaving when people start the whole "did you hear" conversation. That way, ignorance and knowing that I REALLY KEPT MY MOUTH SHUT can be my bliss.

Are you Ready? Are you Ready?

I have been asked this question for the past few days EVERYWHERE I go! And, I am pleased to report .... Why yes, I am! Actually not only do I feel ready, I am excited!

I dreaded the start of last year and this year, I couldn't be more excited. I know that I can do anything after the year I had last year. Any. Thing.

Are you ready?

How Do You Handle Disappointment?

When things don't go your way, how do you cope? If you want something and don't get it, what do you do to push on? Do you drink? Eat? Rage? Sleep? Sigh and go on? Figure out how to get revenge(if possible)? Pray? Pout?

I think that toddlers have the right idea about dealing with disappointment. A toddler can throw back their head and wail and scream and kick their feet and throw themselves down on the ground until they get their way or get tired of being upset.

As adults, we are expected to act like nothing is wrong or "it's all okay" and go on with our business. Well maybe this time, I don't want to. Maybe this time I want to scream and cry and throw myself down on the ground.