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| We took the kids to see the Manti Temple, where we were married almost 8 years ago! |
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| We had a cousin sleepover. Uriah's face says it all! |
While some parents may dread days off of school, I usually enjoy them. Last week I didn't have to drag children out of bed in the morning. I didn't have to shuttle kids to and home from school three to four times a day. I didn't have to wake Uriah up from his nap to pick up RJ from school (just to give you an idea of how grumpy Uriah is when he is awakened and then put in the car, imagine yourself trying to buckle a raccoon into a car seat).
Of course, the noise volume was higher last week, going anywhere had more whining (I usually run my errands while 2 kids are at school), and there were a few "I'm bored" declarations. But, overall, I enjoyed the break from school. I am so ready for summer.
Over spring break I went through the kids' clothes to see what didn't fit anymore. I was looking at their shoes and I noticed how beat up RJ's school shoes look. RJ's school has a dress code, so he has to have a particular color and style of shoe. The toes are very worn and I have already had to color them in with a black marker. One of the shoes is also bent in the back because RJ doesn't always make sure his heel is firmly in the bottom of the shoe before he's off and running.
It may seem like buying a new pair of shoes is no big deal. Maybe they are only $10 at Payless. Maybe I could get them during a buy one, get one 1/2 off deal. But can one put a price on dignity? Isn't there some value in enduring to the end?! For some reason I must make these shoes last. I tell myself, "There's not that many days left of school! If I buy new shoes, they won't fit him after the summer and then I'll just have to buy more for the next school year!"
That's when it hit me: I am like this worn out pair of shoes! I am so done with monitoring homework, driving to and from schools, planning school parties (as RJ's room parent), and all that jazz. I need a break and next year I promise I will take it a little more easy. If this pair of beat up black shoes can make it...so can I! Mission: Make Uniform Shoes Last is in effect!
Now don't get me wrong, it has been a great school year. I've had fun being so involved. RJ has really learned a lot. He is a great speller, reads at a 4th grade level, and seems to pick up math concepts easily. And Graham has learned a lot at preschool. He has studied the letters, worked on his temper (he can get a little frustrated when things don't go his way), and made new friends. It's not really about school, it's just nice to not have a schedule sometimes.
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| RJ and I at the 1st grade Valentine's Dance. I love his huge smile, because we really did have a blast! |
So, there are now only 31 days of school left. Several of these days will be free dress days where RJ can wear non-uniform shoes. Armed with a Sharpie (and Dr. Pepper), we will see if these shoes (and I) can last.
Because I have big plans for the summer...
