It's been awhile...

since I've had a moment to post anything at all. I have kept up with reading a couple of blogs, but haven't had time to comment on them or to write anything here. Many thoughts - no time.

The kids are fine. We had a couple of lousy parent/teacher interviews. 4, it turns out is the worst behaved child inher class. She is bright, but cannot sit still or remain attentive at group time. Took her to the doctor to have a hearing test, and to talk about her allergies. Mentioned that she is having much difficulty at school. Acedemically? he asked. "No problem there". "it's probably boredom" was his response. Still, she is on a course of claritin (daytime) and benadryl (nightly) to see if her perpetual stuffiness is cleared. It seems to be working. The day after the teacher and I sat with her to discuss what was required of her in class, she decided to kiss one of the boys at group time. Repeatedly. More trouble. I told her it was time she got to be known for her intelligence and her personality, and until then, she would attend school in sweats and a t-shirt. No cute outfits. And if the behaviour continued, I would pull her out of school. Since schooling is not mandatory until age 6, I have some leverage with this threat. She loves school and doesn not want to miss it. She is already at a Grade one level, so no loss there. She has had one week of perfect behaviour.

My interview with 6's teacher lasted 5 minutes. Since 4's teacher was running late, I lost time with the 2nd grade teacher. Again, she is academically great. I was warned that she has severe social problems. Apparently I have a huge challenge on my hands. The example cited was ridiculous! At lunchtime, she opened her mouth with food in it - as a joke. This is not acceptable behaviour from children. It indicates severe social deficiets. (I wonder how they would feel about my 42 year old friend who still thinks this is funny?!) Basically, I left with a bit of grief in my heart, and the distinct impression that my square peg just doesn't fit. "She hasn't found her niche", said her teacher. How could she? I asked. This is a classroom full of girly girls. She is not likely to find her niche here!

So my dysfunctional children and I continue on. Christmas is coming. We have baked cookies, held a craft party for 8 of their friends, made gifts, shopped and are close to being ready for the big day. I am loooking so forward to the time between Christmas and January 9th when I can have some holiday time with them, The skating rink is progressing well and it looks like it will be ready for Christmas eve skating. We have a couple of plays we want to see and the thought of 15 days off mean we will have some leisure time as well.

In case I don't have another opportunity to post anytime soon, I wish you all a happy holiday season!