Wednesday, September 03, 2008

And, They're Off...

This morning went amazingly smooth. Both kids woke up in good enough moods, we synchronized the eating with a new episode of "Curious George" - and -gasp- there was no fighting between the two of them. I praised Brayden over and over for his part in starting the day with a good attitude - what a difference that makes for all of us.

While they were eating, I suggested to Brayden that because he is currently seated next to one of his best friends, he'll really need to work on focusing - and if he finds that difficult to be "pro-active" with the teacher and ask to be moved. (Not because of the other student, but because it's just too much temptation to have one of his best buddies next to him and not mess around). I explained the meaning of pro-active and I think Brayden got it.

Later, as we stood out front and took the obligatory "first day of school" photos, I asked Brayden what he was supposed to do if he found that he wasn't able to pay attention with Tanner sitting next to him. He yelled out, "I'm supposed to be radio-active!". It stumped me for a second until I realized he was being genuine - "No, not RADIO-active, PRO-active!" What a goof ball....and I'm so pleased I caught that with the videocamera (thanks Heather, I've been using my camera now as a videocamera as well - it's because of your advice that we'll have video memories in the future!).


Mikayla settled right into first grade and Brayden was fine to take off to the 4th grade wing on his own. Unfortunately, one boy who adores Brayden linked onto him as soon as he saw him, virtually mauling him with his affection. This is a boy that I just shake my head to, a sweet heart, but not an easy route in life which leads to some poor decision making in class and in behavior. When asked why he wasn't invited last year to Brayden's party, Brayden point-blank responded, "because my mom says you're a bad influence" (I was horrified!), but this boy's response was, "your mom is right". So, we'll see how it goes this year - how well Brayden can extend love to him without getting too immersed in the friendship.


As for me, I'm actually doing okay. As with so many things, the dread was worse than the reality. I'm willing to admit publicly that August's "break from exercising and watching what I ate" resulted in ten extra pounds (and no, I'm not exaggerating) - so it was helpful this morning to go straight from the school to the gym and exert some energy in that direction. The "break" was a lotta fun, though - I gotta admit. I was also able to visit two grocery stores without anyone asking for a doughnut, a treat, or a special sugar cereal. Yes, this new era will take some adjusting, but there are some definite positives to the whole thing.....

6 comments:

Colie said...

Mikayla looks like such a little teacher:-). I think she may take after you and Michele:-). Well, congratulations and good luck! This is very exciting. I'll be excited to see how you fill your time. I don't think it will be a struggle! Michele and I were just talking about how great it would be to be in your shoes. You'll have to let me know the realities:-).

HollieHobbie said...

Emma was seated next to a good friend of hers last year and when she told me that I said "if you and Kasi do not get any reminders because of each other then I will take you both for dinner and a movie." We went for dinner and a movie. Yay!
I know, I know I did the bribery thing and you explaining pro-active will result in a better character trait down the road.
And I am still laughing from Radio-active!
Hi Linda! Thanks, Steph for introducing us! How fun!

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear it went well and you enjoyed the kid-free shopping! The last time all my kids were gone I went to Fred Meyer and stood in front of the face products for like an hour, reading all the ingredients, etc...employees kept walking by to check me out because I must have looked like a shoplifter!

The downside is, I usually spend a lot more money when I shop without them.

Stephietoo said...

Way to make me cry! Your last post and this one just kill me. You're right, where did the time go? Wasn't I just at the hospital at 2:00 a.m. holding K-Bear in my arms??? So, are you going to have another one? Please?? For me?? I promise I'll babysit....... Love you!

Growin' With It said...

the grins on their faces were priceless. does it say anything about their personalities?

and brayden...love his honesty!!

congrats on making it thru. and off exercising already...i hang my head in shame. good for you girl.

StephieAnne said...

Regarding those grins - Brayden was trying to do the "bunny ear" thing next to Mikayla and finally stopped as I snapped the picture - hence the balled fist.... And yes, very representative of their personalities!