Finally, the weekend.

No matter what my week is like- amazing or LONG.... the weekend is a long overdue relief, isn't it? Even if it is just a relief to get more work done. :) Today, had a productive day. My dear husband was in the zone first thing this morning and began cleaning like a mad man. We got lots accomplished, including the kids doing their chores, laundry, and a few bathrooms. Then the kids went outside and entertained each other on the swings for a good 45 minutes. It's my favorite thing to watch through the window and see them swinging, laughing, and playing.

It's pure joy.

Then we went out, grabbed lunch, let the kids play and then came home for a rest. While they rested, Jer and I tackled the lawn, weeds, and garden and began on cleaning the garage....(that will have to be finished on another day). Then tonight, Jer went to play poker with some buddies. I have begun to look forward to his poker nights. It's a nice time when I can get some time with just the kids, and then some alone time later. When he's here, I don't want to spend my time on the computer, or doing things- because I want to spend it with him. But if I can't be with him- then I'm kinda forced to have me time- which I need/want desperately anyway. So it works out. Tonight the kids and I made pumpkins. I can't believe how fast they are growing. Libby doesn't want me to rock her anymore. (althought I only did it for 60 seconds or so, while we blew the butterflies above her rocker...) She just wants to wiggle it out in her crib alone. How can she be almost 15 months? Wasn't I just begging Jer to have her last week? She is finally back to full commission- and happy again, after the dreadful run of croup. She's not really talking much- but she is into everything.

Luke is turning that remarkable corner at age 4, where so much finally starts to "click", and he is blossoming. Which makes me so happy, since he must often feel "not old enough" or shooed away...When he's not testing his new found "big boy" attitude, he is maturing into a smart, loving boy.

Ian obviously gets some intelligence genes from his dad. He learns things so quickly. I bring things home from school and he loves to do them. I'll try to teach him something one day (he brushes me off, whatev.- like counting by 5's or something) then the next day, he seems to know how to do it perfectly. .... He stutters a lot. I've talked with my SLP at school for suggestions. I'm not worried too much- but it sure takes a lot of patience waiting for him to say some things.

BTW- Anyone watch Parenthood? My new found love. :)

School. :sigh: I've been very anxious to talk about school, but just haven't had the time. I have a wonderful class. I have a few big challenges, including one boy with severe autism, but I already love him like a son. Some days, I think, "I think I've figured him out...." then a few days later I am humbled by a rough day. His parents have been the most influential factor. He is so blessed to have such a strong support system. But I am really trying to balance- him and the rest of the class. I am not doing him any favors by letting him continue behaviors that he can control, yet I can't let the entire class sit and wait through power struggles all day. Some day it's purely e.x.h.a.u.s.t.i.n.g. Other days- I love teaching. They are so engaged, so interested and with the direction that education is going- it is right in my realm of creativity and enthusiasm.

It's with a divided heart that I think about next year and the possibility of not teaching. I will miss it so much, yet I know my family needs me more. I continue to pray that God will place me wherever he wants me and give me what I need to make it. (and obviously provide for us financially)

Anyway. I'm blessed. I have an amazing family, an incredible husband, a job that I feel called to (for now) and I serve a God that is mighty and just. Now, if only I could have a few hours alone every week.......