Appointments Galore, and Some Milestones

In the last week I have facilitated 6 medical/dental appointments in addition to the usual driving of kids to activities, and it makes me very happy that my calendar for the coming week is virtually empty. I’m going to enjoy it while I can — I already have at least 5 new appointments I need to block in for February.

There was also a very welcome email from the state letting us know that we are FINALLY an officially licensed foster family. We began working on this process last summer, and it has dragged on months longer than we anticipated, largely due to the tedious nature of bureaucracy; but at last all the labor and waiting has born fruit. Pray with us that with this license, God may allow us to share our hands, hearts, hugs, and home with whatever children He brings into our lives.

Over the weekend, I engaged in what was no doubt the oddest activity to date in my life as a homeschooling mom. I went to an open house at our parish school, Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral School, to investigate sending our youngest little guy there for pre-school in the fall. We had planned, Paul and I, to attend together, because obviously, changing our entire educational paradigm is a big decision that we need to make together. However, due to a last minute, unforeseen scheduling glitch, Paul was unable to join me, and so I had to take on this task alone. Walking through that gate, I felt out of my depth, unsure yet if traditional schooling was the way to go, but willing to at least do some reconnaissance.

I was immediately and warmly welcomed, and it turned out to be a delightful visit. Junior and I spent some time in the classroom, he exploring the learning stations, while I got the chance to talk with the Pre-K teacher, and I got in on a few minutes of a presentation on financial aid as well before I had to run off to mass.

I have come to the conclusion that it will be a wonderful and stimulating environment for him, and I’m excited to start him on this road. It helped that both Laurent and Megan, as after-care assistants at the school, were acquainted with the teachers, and were campaigning strongly for the school. It also helped that I had 5 excellent years of parochial school experience at Oak Grove Lutheran School to draw on as I weighed the pros and cons. I have no doubt that, if accepted (and I hope we find out soon), he will make lifelong memories and friendships, as he is gaining a solidly Catholic foundation and education. And I will begin a whole new phase of motherhood heretofore unexplored — daily schedules, homework, packing lunches, and more!

Lord, give me strength.