A New School Year Begins ...

      The kids went back to school on Tuesday, September 4th after a fun-filled summer.  This year Austin went into 5th grade and Cameron into 2nd.  Andrew is in his 2nd year of preschool, which he just loves.  All of the boys were really excited for school to begin.  I am loving the fact that our school district went back to neighborhood schools because both boys are in the same building this year.  Austin joined the Pony Express club (aka. Cross Walk Guard).  It's a club that the school takes very seriously.  The members get special privileges, awards, and parties for fulfilling their role.  At the end of summer I told the boys that I had some new expectations for them.  They are to set their own alarm for the morning, get up and dressed, and brush their teeth all on their own.  I will then meet them downstairs for breakfast.  To my surprise, they actually do it!  Our morning routine has been running so smoothly, it's just fantastic.  Our only set back so far has been Cameron's morning anxiety about walking into school.  I think he's a bit thrown off by our new schedule because I'm working this month which isn't our normal routine.  I drop him off on my way to work and have been picking him up after school on my way home.  I don't know why me working would bother him since I have the same schedule as he does, but that is the only thing I can come up with.  He says he misses me and gets all worked up about being away.  I think in the last couple of days we have finally turned a new corner and all seems to be well.  I met with Austin & Cameron's teacher last week at parent night and I am impressed with them.  I hope to volunteer in both classes this year while enjoying my free time while Andrew is at preschool.