Friday, August 24, 2007

Back to School, Back to Reality

I have been dreading this day all summer. I love having no homework, a break from preschool, swimming, camping and just general freedom from a set schedule. Yes, it's true, the kids are driving me nuts with their fighting and messing up the house. But, the biggest reason I didn't want summer to end was that I had to send my precious boy to the arpit of the earth....Jr. High. I can't believe he is that old. I don't feel old enough to have a kid in Jr. High. I still feel like I'm 20, just starting out my family. Of course, he lost his schedule (boys! I had mine highlighed and placed securely in the front of my trapper keeper!), so I had to go with him on the first day to make sure he got another one and knew where to go etc. As I walked with him toward the locker hall I said "I guess you probably don't want me to go down there with you." he said "If you need to Mom, you can come." I guess he doesn't hate me quite yet. I left with my eyes filling up with tears. I almost couldn't leave him there. I'm worried about so many things--8 classes to keep track of, bad influences, girls, drugs, teachers teaching wierd things, etc. Todd gave him a really nice blessing which actually helped calm me down a little too. Anyway, I went straight to my running which really helped. I had my music and I tried to concentrate on my breathing as to not burst into hystarical crying. It's just that the world is so scary these days and I can't be with my kids every second anymore to protect them. Hopefully they make good choices and talk to us about things that go on in school. Also, people have told me to volunteer at the school so I feel like I know what is going on. Nonetheless, Jordan is loving it so far and he is already getting better organized.



I am also a little concerned about Katy's teacher. He is kind of weird and just got moved up from P.E. specialist to 4th grade a week before school started. He called her "Katy bug" in P.E. and it made her embarassed, so I told her to let me know if anything happens to make her feel uncomfortable and I will switch her to another class. So far she is liking school, but I will be keeping a very close eye!



I guess I'm sounding a little "dooms day" about Jordan and Katy. Jillian, on the other hand, is loving 1st grade. She loves her teacher and was excited to be the first "Star Student" and pick a prize out of the box. Lunch is, of course, her favorite part of the day. It's been weird to have her gone all day, but Allyson and I are having a blast with each other. Sept. 4th preschool starts and Allyson will finally get to go to school too. She can't wait to have all her friends over at once! So the new year is underway and it's back to gride kidios! And back to the grind for Me too!



9 comments:

Emily said...

What cute kiddies, as always. I am a little teary thinking about Jordan in Jr. High as well. I was in 4th grade when he was born after all. Where is Allyson's school picture? I'm sure the kids will do great at school.

Lili and Jeff said...

OMG, I just can't even believe your kids are getting so grown up! It makes me feel ridiculously old, as Jordan was born when I was 5. But I am sure your kids will be just fine as they grow old. They have awesome parents who help them keep their feet on the ground. They know what is important in life, and aren't going to just accidentally slip up. Not to mention you have such a close relationship with your kids (which I am sure is influenced form the closeness that we share with ours, and how life is so much better because of that.) So there you go. It is super cute and everything that they are off to school now! Of course Jillian is the shining star. She is going to grow up to be a little Melody! Ha ha! Not that that is a bad thing! It is a very good thing!

Cluff Family said...

I was ok until I read your blog! Now I feel old, and I am in a panic!

Melissa said...

Ok, Katy does look quite tall. Maybe it is the angle of the picture but I thought she looked as tall as Jordan. I too think Jordan will be ok. But it is way scary. I can't imagine how scary the teenage years are when the kids can do their own thing and you can't tell them what to do anymore. He is so cute too. Give them all a big hug for me. I miss them. I want to come visit again soon.

stacia said...

Wow... your kids have grown up a lot! they look so cute and ready for school! i agree though, that jr. high is the armpit of the world... i dread the day. although jordan is a great kid and will be fine i'm sure!

melody said...

Jordan seems to like jr high so far, right? He is such a good kid - a little silly (where in the world did he pick that up?)- but a great boy. I am so glad I will get to see your kids at least three days a week this school year!

Cami said...

Oh, your kids are such posers! That Jillian!! Man, I hate Jr. High. I hope Jordan does well. I'm sure he will, the stud that he is.

I'm glad I got to see the kids, and someday we may get my kids together with yours!!!!

sara said...

Amber, you are so funny! The armpit of the world immediately made me think of my jr. high days... but isn't our whole life like 7th grade? We spend all our time trying to figure everything out and when we do, it's over.

afhsptsa said...

Hey Amber-you are not alone in your feelings. I have always believed that school was too intrusive upon home life...hence, homeschooling. I am concerned too about the school society these days. Kids need us more than we think. Parents need to be more bold and outspoken. This year I have volunteered even at the high school level to be PTA pres. I will have greater peace of mind just being there and knowing what goes on more.