Packed up and ready to go. At the office, doing final things, and Boss and I will be leaving the office early this afternoon to head to the next show - Hamilton.
Got home from meeting last night, and The R-man (bless his heart) had cleaned up the kitchen for me.
Hubby and boys got to city for fMRI appointment okay last night, despite the doom-and-gloom weather report. When I spoke with hubby after my meeting, he and the boys were in the pool area, so I guess they were having fun.
Off again!!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Extreme weather
This morning my computer informed me that we are under a severe WIND WARNING. Who gets wind warnings? We have the weather dropping from +4 to -7, and the weather network is worried about the wind? Yeah, what about the FREEZING on the roads, etc??!! Maybe they are worried that the wind will push our cars around on the icy roads...
Had sushi with Dar last night. We had made plans for it, but I got my days all mixed up, and was so glad she sent me an email asking if we were still on. It was really good, and I'm lucky enough to have left-overs that will serve as a very nice lunch today!
Due to the weather, all busses in our county are cancelled - so S gets to stay at home with the A-man today. They are leaving tonight for London - S has his fMRI tomorrow - so he is going to have a very short week, it would seem. I will be leaving tomorrow afternoon for our show in Hamilton.
Actually, I'm supposed to be going to an ADHD information meeting tonight, but I may give it a miss if the weather continues to act goofy. I have a bunch of other things that I need to do to get ready a) the business trip b) our holiday and c) the conference and d) work on the ADHD stragegic plan. I will make that call tonight when I get home from work, and have a better understand of where I stand there, but right now, I'm leaning towards staying home.
Not much else to update on. The A-man is enjoying his week off, and S said they only listened to speeches all day yesterday, and he didn't have any homework. Looking forward to our holiday, and that about sums it up!
Had sushi with Dar last night. We had made plans for it, but I got my days all mixed up, and was so glad she sent me an email asking if we were still on. It was really good, and I'm lucky enough to have left-overs that will serve as a very nice lunch today!
Due to the weather, all busses in our county are cancelled - so S gets to stay at home with the A-man today. They are leaving tonight for London - S has his fMRI tomorrow - so he is going to have a very short week, it would seem. I will be leaving tomorrow afternoon for our show in Hamilton.
Actually, I'm supposed to be going to an ADHD information meeting tonight, but I may give it a miss if the weather continues to act goofy. I have a bunch of other things that I need to do to get ready a) the business trip b) our holiday and c) the conference and d) work on the ADHD stragegic plan. I will make that call tonight when I get home from work, and have a better understand of where I stand there, but right now, I'm leaning towards staying home.
Not much else to update on. The A-man is enjoying his week off, and S said they only listened to speeches all day yesterday, and he didn't have any homework. Looking forward to our holiday, and that about sums it up!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Looking forward to holiday...
Hubby and I have booked an ATV off-road tour for the Sunday of our holiday! It just sounds like a GREAT day - and a wonderful way to really get to see the area. I think the other tour that we are going to try and take is a Volcano Tour, but I think we will wait until we get to Mexico to book that one.
Looked at the long range forecast for that area of Mexico... lows of 23 or 24, highs of 29 or 30....sunny every day. Yes, the next week and a half will not go by fast enough for this girl, I will admit.
Cuz - in answer to your comment on my last post - Thank you. I hadn't even thought about the fact that working with the doctor could prove our case even further. I was just upset about the news that we couldn't get a new EA. You made a very valid point, and, if she is successful in working with the doctor, either way, S will come out ahead. And, yes, only one more year...
Unfortunately, the current principal will not be remaining at our school. He will find out from the superintendent today when he is going to be replaced with our 'permanent' principal. He told me that he has told the board what type of person our school requires, and that we need someone that will be consistant, a member of the community...that sort of thing. I just hope the current acting principal will share details about S's history with whomever replaces him.
It's possible he will remain until the end of the school year, but at this point, he just doesn't know what is going to happen. He was slated to leave at the end of January, but since that is Thursday, I don't think that will be happening... What a bloody mess...
Anyway, S had to work on his Science test-revision last night for homework. He did very poorly on the test, as I figured he would. He did not study at all, and I know he probably tried to rush right through it to simply be done. He spent a fair bit of time on the homework, though - he was required to use the text book to find the correct answers to the questions.
As I was helping him through it, our financial advisor arrived for our appointment, and so I left S to his own devices in the dining room, while we met in the kitchen. After a little while, the A-man wandered into the dining room and helped S with reading the parts of the text book that were confusing him. He can be nice to his little brother - sometimes.
S hasn't been able to bring his laptop home since there has been a new 'error' on it. I asked about it at the meeting, but the principal didn't know when the request for repair would be finalized. I will let it go until Monday. S is off on Thursday for his appointment, and the SERT is back to the school then. I will follow up when I return from the show.
Looked at the long range forecast for that area of Mexico... lows of 23 or 24, highs of 29 or 30....sunny every day. Yes, the next week and a half will not go by fast enough for this girl, I will admit.
Cuz - in answer to your comment on my last post - Thank you. I hadn't even thought about the fact that working with the doctor could prove our case even further. I was just upset about the news that we couldn't get a new EA. You made a very valid point, and, if she is successful in working with the doctor, either way, S will come out ahead. And, yes, only one more year...
Unfortunately, the current principal will not be remaining at our school. He will find out from the superintendent today when he is going to be replaced with our 'permanent' principal. He told me that he has told the board what type of person our school requires, and that we need someone that will be consistant, a member of the community...that sort of thing. I just hope the current acting principal will share details about S's history with whomever replaces him.
It's possible he will remain until the end of the school year, but at this point, he just doesn't know what is going to happen. He was slated to leave at the end of January, but since that is Thursday, I don't think that will be happening... What a bloody mess...
Anyway, S had to work on his Science test-revision last night for homework. He did very poorly on the test, as I figured he would. He did not study at all, and I know he probably tried to rush right through it to simply be done. He spent a fair bit of time on the homework, though - he was required to use the text book to find the correct answers to the questions.
As I was helping him through it, our financial advisor arrived for our appointment, and so I left S to his own devices in the dining room, while we met in the kitchen. After a little while, the A-man wandered into the dining room and helped S with reading the parts of the text book that were confusing him. He can be nice to his little brother - sometimes.
S hasn't been able to bring his laptop home since there has been a new 'error' on it. I asked about it at the meeting, but the principal didn't know when the request for repair would be finalized. I will let it go until Monday. S is off on Thursday for his appointment, and the SERT is back to the school then. I will follow up when I return from the show.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Good News/Bad News
The Good News - it would appear that terrible principal will not be returning! Yeah!!!!
The Bad News - we won't be able to get another EA assigned to S for this school year.
There simply isn't an EA on staff that has the qualifications that were recommended by the doctor, and the acting Principal simply doesn't know if there are any within the hiring pool that will have these qualifications. Now, that said, he will request it for next year, but he can make no promises. I sort of figured that.
On the up side, he has requested that the current EA have a chance to meet with myself and the doctor, along with the classroom teacher, to see if some of the concerns/issues can be addressed that way. And again, we are getting toward the end of a school year, and the baby steps are so small, I sometimes wonder if we are moving ahead at all. I think we are - just far slower than what I would like to see. Of course, we are dealing with government bureaucracy, so I must expect things to move this slowly, right?
It just drives me insane sometimes - I hate playing the game. I know I can do it - I just don't like doing it.
The Bad News - we won't be able to get another EA assigned to S for this school year.
There simply isn't an EA on staff that has the qualifications that were recommended by the doctor, and the acting Principal simply doesn't know if there are any within the hiring pool that will have these qualifications. Now, that said, he will request it for next year, but he can make no promises. I sort of figured that.
On the up side, he has requested that the current EA have a chance to meet with myself and the doctor, along with the classroom teacher, to see if some of the concerns/issues can be addressed that way. And again, we are getting toward the end of a school year, and the baby steps are so small, I sometimes wonder if we are moving ahead at all. I think we are - just far slower than what I would like to see. Of course, we are dealing with government bureaucracy, so I must expect things to move this slowly, right?
It just drives me insane sometimes - I hate playing the game. I know I can do it - I just don't like doing it.
Ready to rumble?
I have a meeting this morning with the principal to discuss hubby and I's concerns about the EA - the lack of training, professionalism, etc., etc., etc.... I hope it will go well. I know the SERT has issued her concerns as well, but I really don't know what to expect out of today's discussion.
S had a laptop issue the other day. Apparently the SERT has put in a request for it to be repaired, but that always seems to take forever to come through. How is it that a piece of equipment can be deemed ESSENTIAL, but yet still need weeks before being repaired? I will ask about that at the meeting today, too. How am I going to keep track of all of this stuff??
Finally got all the Christmas things away yesterday. I realize it's a month past the holiday, but since I have been working full-tilt, well, it just didn't get done until this past weekend. At least we didn't get in to February...
We went to my parents yesterday. It was a lot of fun. Mom and I went through her clothes to see what I could borrow for Mexico, and to see what she was now able to fit in to again since she lost 20 pounds. She is going to Australia for over 3 weeks, and leaves the day I get home from Mexico. I was able to help her put together an outfit for the opera, and another for a day trip that has been planned. For a women with so many clothes, she really isn't very good at pairing up new items. I even got a couple new pairs of pants that I will be able to use at the conference.
The A-man is looking forward to being a lazy butt this week, but I have told him his room has to be done by the time I return home from work on Wednesday. He didn't like that idea, but I knew if I didn't give him a specific time, it would be next Sunday before he even started to think about it.
Hubby and the boys will be leaving here on Wednesday night, and actually staying in the same hotel I was at last week. S will have his fMRI on Thursday morning. I will be leaving for the next show on Thursday afternoon... soon the crazy schedule will be over...
S had a laptop issue the other day. Apparently the SERT has put in a request for it to be repaired, but that always seems to take forever to come through. How is it that a piece of equipment can be deemed ESSENTIAL, but yet still need weeks before being repaired? I will ask about that at the meeting today, too. How am I going to keep track of all of this stuff??
Finally got all the Christmas things away yesterday. I realize it's a month past the holiday, but since I have been working full-tilt, well, it just didn't get done until this past weekend. At least we didn't get in to February...
We went to my parents yesterday. It was a lot of fun. Mom and I went through her clothes to see what I could borrow for Mexico, and to see what she was now able to fit in to again since she lost 20 pounds. She is going to Australia for over 3 weeks, and leaves the day I get home from Mexico. I was able to help her put together an outfit for the opera, and another for a day trip that has been planned. For a women with so many clothes, she really isn't very good at pairing up new items. I even got a couple new pairs of pants that I will be able to use at the conference.
The A-man is looking forward to being a lazy butt this week, but I have told him his room has to be done by the time I return home from work on Wednesday. He didn't like that idea, but I knew if I didn't give him a specific time, it would be next Sunday before he even started to think about it.
Hubby and the boys will be leaving here on Wednesday night, and actually staying in the same hotel I was at last week. S will have his fMRI on Thursday morning. I will be leaving for the next show on Thursday afternoon... soon the crazy schedule will be over...
Saturday, January 26, 2008
...and, rest....
Last night, I went to a card making party with Sammy. I haven't seen her since before Christmas when she and her hubby came for roclette. We didn't actually get a lot of time to chat with each other about many things, but it was still nice to see her. It really bugs me that I have been out of the loop with both Sam and Suz for the past little while, but I think we are all in such different points of our lives. I know they are true friends, and even if I haven't talked to them in a long time, if I were to call either of them and say "I need you", I know they would be there. Same goes for me. But, still, I just wish I was able to be more up to date on the daily happenings in their lives. Life continues to get in the way of living...
Anyway, at the card making thing - I had such a great time. I used to really enjoy doing the whole scrapbooking thing, but with all the craziness in my life when I returned back to work, I've never really been able to get back in to it. I have all kinds of neat devices, etc., just not a lot of desire to haul it all out and then put it all back away at the end of the night. Maybe I will have to set a certain night of the week aside to spend some time doing that. You know, after I finally get all the Christmas decorations put away...
Booked my flight and hotel accomodations for the Governor's conference yesterday. Although it's just another 'thing to do' for me, I am actually really looking forward to it. I have not really travelled a great deal, and now that our client base is growing, and boss has told me that he wants me to more or less become the 'client account mananger', I may get more opportunity to travel in the future. Now, if only I could get my golf game to a 'not terrible' level, I would be a bigger asset to the company...
I got to sleep in today - it was so nice. The A-man was such a sweetheart, he even made my coffee for me this morning! So now I am MSN'ing with Cuz, and catching up with others through Facebook, and just got off the phone with Jazzy's mom - we are going to have lunch and then go for pedicures! Total pamper day. (Well, before lunch I will be doing dishes and cleaning out the fridge, but at least I will be moving at my own pace and schedule. No exhibitors hasseling me, or radio calls....that will be next weekend!)
Hubby had to go in to work today, but we have no plans for this evening, and some time tomorrow we are going to visit my parents... it will be a nice change of pace. MUCH more family time, which I think I am in need of.
Anyway, at the card making thing - I had such a great time. I used to really enjoy doing the whole scrapbooking thing, but with all the craziness in my life when I returned back to work, I've never really been able to get back in to it. I have all kinds of neat devices, etc., just not a lot of desire to haul it all out and then put it all back away at the end of the night. Maybe I will have to set a certain night of the week aside to spend some time doing that. You know, after I finally get all the Christmas decorations put away...
Booked my flight and hotel accomodations for the Governor's conference yesterday. Although it's just another 'thing to do' for me, I am actually really looking forward to it. I have not really travelled a great deal, and now that our client base is growing, and boss has told me that he wants me to more or less become the 'client account mananger', I may get more opportunity to travel in the future. Now, if only I could get my golf game to a 'not terrible' level, I would be a bigger asset to the company...
I got to sleep in today - it was so nice. The A-man was such a sweetheart, he even made my coffee for me this morning! So now I am MSN'ing with Cuz, and catching up with others through Facebook, and just got off the phone with Jazzy's mom - we are going to have lunch and then go for pedicures! Total pamper day. (Well, before lunch I will be doing dishes and cleaning out the fridge, but at least I will be moving at my own pace and schedule. No exhibitors hasseling me, or radio calls....that will be next weekend!)
Hubby had to go in to work today, but we have no plans for this evening, and some time tomorrow we are going to visit my parents... it will be a nice change of pace. MUCH more family time, which I think I am in need of.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Another week down
Truthfully, I am looking forward to this weekend. We have no plans. Well, Saturday afternoon I am going to have a pedicure with Jazzy's mom, but other than that, nothing!
Yesterday I surprised the A-man with a celebratory lunch. I thought it would be nice to celebrate the end of a great semester, and to congratulate him on completing his first exam. He told me he finished it in an hour - it was mostly multiple choice, he said.
S is very excited this morning. It is "Hawaiian" day at school, and kids that dress up will receive spirit points for their team. He had me cutting up a garbage bag for a grass skirt shortly after 7 this morning. He has been doing the 'hola' around the kitchen since. It's always funny to see how excited he gets over such small, simple things. He has been 'planning' today since he heard that it was a spirit day on Tuesday.
I worked about an extra hour last night. Could have worked more, but then boss' wife came in...it was time to go.
Oh - and I am going to the Governor's conference in Jackson, Mississippi on Feb. 17. Another new part of the state I am going to get to see!
Yesterday I surprised the A-man with a celebratory lunch. I thought it would be nice to celebrate the end of a great semester, and to congratulate him on completing his first exam. He told me he finished it in an hour - it was mostly multiple choice, he said.
S is very excited this morning. It is "Hawaiian" day at school, and kids that dress up will receive spirit points for their team. He had me cutting up a garbage bag for a grass skirt shortly after 7 this morning. He has been doing the 'hola' around the kitchen since. It's always funny to see how excited he gets over such small, simple things. He has been 'planning' today since he heard that it was a spirit day on Tuesday.
I worked about an extra hour last night. Could have worked more, but then boss' wife came in...it was time to go.
Oh - and I am going to the Governor's conference in Jackson, Mississippi on Feb. 17. Another new part of the state I am going to get to see!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Updates
A few new things have been developing...
The A-man has his first exam day today. He has opted to write his Science exam in the resource room, which means he will be allowed up to double the 'normal' time for the exam. He probably won't need that much time, but I'm sure he will just feel more relaxed in the resource room. He only has an exam today and then tomorrow - will be off for all of next week. Brat. ;o)
I asked him what he was going to do after he was done writing the exam. He will have about 5 hours of free time before he will need to catch the bus. He said he was going to my parents house. This surprised me - I figured he would go downtown and do stuff with his friends. Apparently he doesn't "know the town" and is a little hesitant to do anything in case he misses his bus. Since I grew up in that town, I never really thought about the fact that we moved here to the country when he was only 6 - so he really doesn't know that town! I will have to take him on a brief walking tour sometime.
Made arrangements with the principal to discuss Hubby and my concerns about the EA. We will meet on Monday.
The SERT sent me an email telling me that S will receive a couple of new programs on his laptop - which will be a GREAT benefit, and which I thought he was going to be getting originally. They should be installed soon.
The SERT also shared some information with me with respect to the EA - she has voiced some concerns to the principal that perhaps she isn't the best qualified to be working with S. Interesting...
I should find out today if I will be going to the Governor's conference in mid-February. I had to finished all the client billing, and boss was going to input in to the budget to see if we have some extra $$ for my flight and accommodations, should I go. I have the feeling he will find the funds - he really wants me to start taking over as the account manager. We have picked up a couple of new (big) accounts, and he really does need to start delegating more. It will mean a bit more travel for me, but since the boys are at this age, I think it will be fine.
Oh - and one more piece of news - the A-man gets his braces off on March 18. He is very happy about that, and I am looking forward to seeing his REAL smile again - no more of that closed-lip-over-the-teeth 'smile'!
The A-man has his first exam day today. He has opted to write his Science exam in the resource room, which means he will be allowed up to double the 'normal' time for the exam. He probably won't need that much time, but I'm sure he will just feel more relaxed in the resource room. He only has an exam today and then tomorrow - will be off for all of next week. Brat. ;o)
I asked him what he was going to do after he was done writing the exam. He will have about 5 hours of free time before he will need to catch the bus. He said he was going to my parents house. This surprised me - I figured he would go downtown and do stuff with his friends. Apparently he doesn't "know the town" and is a little hesitant to do anything in case he misses his bus. Since I grew up in that town, I never really thought about the fact that we moved here to the country when he was only 6 - so he really doesn't know that town! I will have to take him on a brief walking tour sometime.
Made arrangements with the principal to discuss Hubby and my concerns about the EA. We will meet on Monday.
The SERT sent me an email telling me that S will receive a couple of new programs on his laptop - which will be a GREAT benefit, and which I thought he was going to be getting originally. They should be installed soon.
The SERT also shared some information with me with respect to the EA - she has voiced some concerns to the principal that perhaps she isn't the best qualified to be working with S. Interesting...
I should find out today if I will be going to the Governor's conference in mid-February. I had to finished all the client billing, and boss was going to input in to the budget to see if we have some extra $$ for my flight and accommodations, should I go. I have the feeling he will find the funds - he really wants me to start taking over as the account manager. We have picked up a couple of new (big) accounts, and he really does need to start delegating more. It will mean a bit more travel for me, but since the boys are at this age, I think it will be fine.
Oh - and one more piece of news - the A-man gets his braces off on March 18. He is very happy about that, and I am looking forward to seeing his REAL smile again - no more of that closed-lip-over-the-teeth 'smile'!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Frustrated today
I am getting more and more frustrated with the lack of professionalism from S's EA. I look in his agenda, and in yesterday's Science block, she has written "Test". Gee - any idea what he is supposed to be studying? Then, I look in his science notes - there is nothing there. Did he bring the Science text book home to study from? No - he forgot it.
Geography...he knows he has a test, but he isn't sure if it's today or tomorrow - and again, he doesn't know WHAT the test is on!
"SHORT WORKING MEMORY" people - he won't remember if it's not written down! Clinically proven. Doctor diagnosed! I left a "not so nice" note in his agenda, and I will be having my follow up meeting with the Principal very soon. This is getting beyond ridiculous.
Had S's re-entry meeting yesterday morning. It appears S had a very rough week all the way around last week. I was never advised of this - at all. Again....why not?
S was working on training his laptop's voice recognition last night. He was required to read the same sentence over and over again until the computer 'got' his speech patterns. He was very frustrated after saying the same thing for about 5 full minutes. I could see why. I think we will work on it a bit more tonight - when he is not tired from studying geography.
The A-man had his final exams in Learning Strategies yesterday. His final mark for the course - 95%. He is SO proud of himself, and I must say, when I read the final essay he wrote, I was pretty darn proud of him too! Just proves that he can do it - when he applies himself. I think he sees that now. It also helps that he is not being pre-judged by the teachers in the school, I think.
The show went well. I was beat, beat, beat on Monday afternoon, and JUST starting to feel somewhat normal now. Next show - Hamilton in just over a week. The day I leave for Hamilton is the day S has his fMRI.
...and, back to the grind...
Geography...he knows he has a test, but he isn't sure if it's today or tomorrow - and again, he doesn't know WHAT the test is on!
"SHORT WORKING MEMORY" people - he won't remember if it's not written down! Clinically proven. Doctor diagnosed! I left a "not so nice" note in his agenda, and I will be having my follow up meeting with the Principal very soon. This is getting beyond ridiculous.
Had S's re-entry meeting yesterday morning. It appears S had a very rough week all the way around last week. I was never advised of this - at all. Again....why not?
S was working on training his laptop's voice recognition last night. He was required to read the same sentence over and over again until the computer 'got' his speech patterns. He was very frustrated after saying the same thing for about 5 full minutes. I could see why. I think we will work on it a bit more tonight - when he is not tired from studying geography.
The A-man had his final exams in Learning Strategies yesterday. His final mark for the course - 95%. He is SO proud of himself, and I must say, when I read the final essay he wrote, I was pretty darn proud of him too! Just proves that he can do it - when he applies himself. I think he sees that now. It also helps that he is not being pre-judged by the teachers in the school, I think.
The show went well. I was beat, beat, beat on Monday afternoon, and JUST starting to feel somewhat normal now. Next show - Hamilton in just over a week. The day I leave for Hamilton is the day S has his fMRI.
...and, back to the grind...
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Award
My Singapore Connection's wee princess has granted me a new award. I feel very honoured. Thank you, Princess.
I would like to share this award with Cuz, Looney, KD and Bear. I love you all.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Show 1 almost done
Yesterday is a blur.
I woke up before 5 am, thinking about things that needed to be done when I returned to the show office. At 5, I sat up and started making notes about said things. Laid back down at 5:20. Back up at 5:45 and stayed there. (I am NOT a morning person, for those that aren't aware.)
Met boss in hotel lobby at 7:20 - was at the Centre for 8, and didn't actually have a chance to sit again until about 3:30. Turned my radio off and closed the door of my office - until an exhibitor came in.
6:30 - exhibitor reception. 8pm - dinner with clients, and potential new clients. Back to room for 11pm. I am meeting boss in lobby for 8:30 this morning, so I got a GOOD sleep last night.
We will be driving back home tomorrow, but I am going to hope that he won't rush the departure. A good, long sleep-in would be wonderful.
Hubby called me yesterday. S had some difficulties on Friday - Gramma had to come and get him from school, and either hubby or I need to bring him to school on Monday am to discuss. Neither hubby nor I can be there, so I guess I will be contacting the principal when I get back home - early afternoon. Don't really know the details at this point.
Okay - off for another day! Guess this will be the same in two weekends, but then I will be going on vacation!!
I woke up before 5 am, thinking about things that needed to be done when I returned to the show office. At 5, I sat up and started making notes about said things. Laid back down at 5:20. Back up at 5:45 and stayed there. (I am NOT a morning person, for those that aren't aware.)
Met boss in hotel lobby at 7:20 - was at the Centre for 8, and didn't actually have a chance to sit again until about 3:30. Turned my radio off and closed the door of my office - until an exhibitor came in.
6:30 - exhibitor reception. 8pm - dinner with clients, and potential new clients. Back to room for 11pm. I am meeting boss in lobby for 8:30 this morning, so I got a GOOD sleep last night.
We will be driving back home tomorrow, but I am going to hope that he won't rush the departure. A good, long sleep-in would be wonderful.
Hubby called me yesterday. S had some difficulties on Friday - Gramma had to come and get him from school, and either hubby or I need to bring him to school on Monday am to discuss. Neither hubby nor I can be there, so I guess I will be contacting the principal when I get back home - early afternoon. Don't really know the details at this point.
Okay - off for another day! Guess this will be the same in two weekends, but then I will be going on vacation!!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Wake up call
Hmpf. Not a good start to my day...
Sleeping, quite comfy cosy in my bed, here in the hotel room..... 12:30am, phone rings. It's the front desk - wanting to know who I am. (Hello? It's 12:30...I'm SLEEPING, is who I am...)
The system didn't show anyone in this room, and they had just registered guests - who had tried to come in, but thank GOODNESS I fliped that security bar! (I will ALWAYS make sure I flip that bar from now on. I usually do, but I now I know I always will.)
I had also requested a 7am wake up call. Yeah, didn't get one. So, I'm moving a wee bit behind, but not too bad. Boss will be meeting myself and co-worker in the lobby for 7:45 to head over to the Centre.
Time to start the move in process. Okay... and we're off!
Sleeping, quite comfy cosy in my bed, here in the hotel room..... 12:30am, phone rings. It's the front desk - wanting to know who I am. (Hello? It's 12:30...I'm SLEEPING, is who I am...)
The system didn't show anyone in this room, and they had just registered guests - who had tried to come in, but thank GOODNESS I fliped that security bar! (I will ALWAYS make sure I flip that bar from now on. I usually do, but I now I know I always will.)
I had also requested a 7am wake up call. Yeah, didn't get one. So, I'm moving a wee bit behind, but not too bad. Boss will be meeting myself and co-worker in the lobby for 7:45 to head over to the Centre.
Time to start the move in process. Okay... and we're off!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
On the road again...
This morning went by in a total blur. I had to finish my packing for my business trip, make sure both of the boys had the things they needed for their two nights at the grandma's house's (the A-man is at my mom's - S is at Hubby's...), and make sure all the other things that we do in a morning were done. Add in things like cleaning out litter boxes, making sure laundry loads were completed...yeah, I didn't really have a chance to blog.
I am here in London, now. The entire show office is packed in the back of boss' vehicle. We had a nice dinner at a local steakhouse, and now I am just taking the chance to catch up on emails, Facebook updates, and I'm avoiding working on the Powerpoint presentation I need to finish.
On the school front - I sent a follow up email to the principal today regarding the letter I had sent prior to Christmas. I told him that I would be out of town a fair bit in the next little while, but asked if we would be able to arrange for a follow up meeting. S had a fill-in EA last week, and what a difference. His agenda was filled in daily. He brought home way more homework than normal...and I could see where she had actually taken the time to assist him in getting started on certain parts of work. She even took the time to send a note home at the end of the week with a bit of a progress report about how S's week back to school went. Yeah - never seen a note from the full-time EA before. I will have to see how the meeting with the principal goes, I guess. I have saved the hand-written note, and will take the agenda for back-up support.
I did also contact the SERT the other day about the lack of assistance S is receiving with respect to organizing things. She couldn't remember off the top of her head what the IEP says, but she was going to check on that and get back to me. She also told me that if it didn't say something about that (which I know it does) she would ensure that it was addressed.
The A-man has his exams in a couple of weeks, but he has actually already written two of them! His drama and his learning strategies - he will be presenting a play in drama for his final 'practical' part of the exam. Which means when it comes down to actual 'exam time', he only has two test days...then a full week off school. He is really looking forward to that. I told him he can use that week to clean his room - he will need it.
On Wednesday, the lady from the humane society dropped off the cat box that was used when they picked up the strays. There were only three left - did I mention in an earlier post that one was hit by a car on New Year's Eve? Yes, that is what spurred me to finally call the shelter for the poor wee things. Anyway, a week after they were picked up, two of the three remaining kittens had been adopted. We were all very happy to hear that. The momma cat hasn't returned - I think she decided our backyard was too full when she had her new litter. If she shows up again, I will be calling the shelter sooner.
Oh - and remember the other day how I commented that our cats have taken to sleeping with the R-man? Well, last night his girlfriend stayed over, and they closed the door on my cats. Boy - were their noses every out of joint over THAT particular slight! (I can't wait to bug him about that one.) Both Abby and Lily slept with me last night, but it just wasn't the same knowing I was 'second fiddle' ... (lol...) Now I will be away for 4 nights - let them see how it feels!
Okay - time to sit in the bed and read for a bit. Tomorrow will be a 7am - 10pm day...just the start of the show season.... bring it on!
I am here in London, now. The entire show office is packed in the back of boss' vehicle. We had a nice dinner at a local steakhouse, and now I am just taking the chance to catch up on emails, Facebook updates, and I'm avoiding working on the Powerpoint presentation I need to finish.
On the school front - I sent a follow up email to the principal today regarding the letter I had sent prior to Christmas. I told him that I would be out of town a fair bit in the next little while, but asked if we would be able to arrange for a follow up meeting. S had a fill-in EA last week, and what a difference. His agenda was filled in daily. He brought home way more homework than normal...and I could see where she had actually taken the time to assist him in getting started on certain parts of work. She even took the time to send a note home at the end of the week with a bit of a progress report about how S's week back to school went. Yeah - never seen a note from the full-time EA before. I will have to see how the meeting with the principal goes, I guess. I have saved the hand-written note, and will take the agenda for back-up support.
I did also contact the SERT the other day about the lack of assistance S is receiving with respect to organizing things. She couldn't remember off the top of her head what the IEP says, but she was going to check on that and get back to me. She also told me that if it didn't say something about that (which I know it does) she would ensure that it was addressed.
The A-man has his exams in a couple of weeks, but he has actually already written two of them! His drama and his learning strategies - he will be presenting a play in drama for his final 'practical' part of the exam. Which means when it comes down to actual 'exam time', he only has two test days...then a full week off school. He is really looking forward to that. I told him he can use that week to clean his room - he will need it.
On Wednesday, the lady from the humane society dropped off the cat box that was used when they picked up the strays. There were only three left - did I mention in an earlier post that one was hit by a car on New Year's Eve? Yes, that is what spurred me to finally call the shelter for the poor wee things. Anyway, a week after they were picked up, two of the three remaining kittens had been adopted. We were all very happy to hear that. The momma cat hasn't returned - I think she decided our backyard was too full when she had her new litter. If she shows up again, I will be calling the shelter sooner.
Oh - and remember the other day how I commented that our cats have taken to sleeping with the R-man? Well, last night his girlfriend stayed over, and they closed the door on my cats. Boy - were their noses every out of joint over THAT particular slight! (I can't wait to bug him about that one.) Both Abby and Lily slept with me last night, but it just wasn't the same knowing I was 'second fiddle' ... (lol...) Now I will be away for 4 nights - let them see how it feels!
Okay - time to sit in the bed and read for a bit. Tomorrow will be a 7am - 10pm day...just the start of the show season.... bring it on!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Been sick
Sunday was a busy day of laundry, housework, grocery shopping - that sort of thing.
That afternoon, as I was colouring the grey, and whitening my teeth, and waxing my eyebrows, I had a realization - I am a total fraud! Fake nails, hair colour - now cosmetically enhanced white teeth and altered eyebrows! Is there anything as a natural beauty anymore? Well, when you are a few months off of your 40th birthday, I guess a little help is allowed. And needed.
Sunday night we had barbequed steak and baked potatoes. I was in the mood for that, and it was SO good. The R-man allowed me to twist his arm in to joining us for dinner. He said it was rough, but he would manage.
That night, around 3 in the morning, I guess, I woke up feeling terrible. I guess I developed a bit of a stomach bug. I didn't get back out of bed again until Tuesday morning. Well, I got out of bed, but only for short trips...
The R-man was kind enough to make dinner for the boys, and the boys came in and checked on me periodically. They would bring me tea, and S even made me a tea and toast tray - I could only eat two bites.
Boss was not happy that I was unable to come in to the office on Monday, but I think he knows my work ethic enough by now to realize that I must have felt like I was on death's door to not come in on the Monday before a show. I went to work yesterday feeling a bit shaky, but I can honestly say I am back to normal today. Still a bit hesitant to eat much solid food, but I can manage with the body reserves, I'm sure!
S was angry with me this morning because he forgot to study for his Science test today. And he didn't do his math or geography homework. Somehow that was my fault. I'm still not sure how that is my fault, but I told him that he needs to start taking more responsiblity for ensuring he gets things done. He just snarled at me - I ignored that.
I think the three of us are going to have to have a condensed family meeting tonight - both of them have gotten very lax in doing their daily chores, etc., and that just will not do. I leave tomorrow afternoon for London. I will be gone until Monday afternoon, and if they are going to sit around and just play games and watch TV, the house will be a wreck by the time I return.
Tonight, before I pack for my trip - we will make a plan. They will have a couple of days reprive since they will both be staying at Grandparents', but I will chart it, and then Hubby can make sure it gets done over the weekend.
Off to work - should be another fun-filled crazy day!
That afternoon, as I was colouring the grey, and whitening my teeth, and waxing my eyebrows, I had a realization - I am a total fraud! Fake nails, hair colour - now cosmetically enhanced white teeth and altered eyebrows! Is there anything as a natural beauty anymore? Well, when you are a few months off of your 40th birthday, I guess a little help is allowed. And needed.
Sunday night we had barbequed steak and baked potatoes. I was in the mood for that, and it was SO good. The R-man allowed me to twist his arm in to joining us for dinner. He said it was rough, but he would manage.
That night, around 3 in the morning, I guess, I woke up feeling terrible. I guess I developed a bit of a stomach bug. I didn't get back out of bed again until Tuesday morning. Well, I got out of bed, but only for short trips...
The R-man was kind enough to make dinner for the boys, and the boys came in and checked on me periodically. They would bring me tea, and S even made me a tea and toast tray - I could only eat two bites.
Boss was not happy that I was unable to come in to the office on Monday, but I think he knows my work ethic enough by now to realize that I must have felt like I was on death's door to not come in on the Monday before a show. I went to work yesterday feeling a bit shaky, but I can honestly say I am back to normal today. Still a bit hesitant to eat much solid food, but I can manage with the body reserves, I'm sure!
S was angry with me this morning because he forgot to study for his Science test today. And he didn't do his math or geography homework. Somehow that was my fault. I'm still not sure how that is my fault, but I told him that he needs to start taking more responsiblity for ensuring he gets things done. He just snarled at me - I ignored that.
I think the three of us are going to have to have a condensed family meeting tonight - both of them have gotten very lax in doing their daily chores, etc., and that just will not do. I leave tomorrow afternoon for London. I will be gone until Monday afternoon, and if they are going to sit around and just play games and watch TV, the house will be a wreck by the time I return.
Tonight, before I pack for my trip - we will make a plan. They will have a couple of days reprive since they will both be staying at Grandparents', but I will chart it, and then Hubby can make sure it gets done over the weekend.
Off to work - should be another fun-filled crazy day!
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Update
I had a board meeting on Friday night. After such a long and busy week, it was really the very last thing I wanted to be doing, but trying to get a strategic plan in place IS important. It went a bit later than I was hoping, but these things do happen.
I have good news for the Board. The doctor I asked to sit on the board in an advisory capacity has agreed. This is a very big step for a small organization.
I am not working this weekend at all, but I did have to field a call from Boss yesterday. It wasn't a hard one, though. He just needed a file off my computer, and when I told him where to look, he did make the comment that it was filed quite logically, so I'm sure if he had thought about it, he would have managed without calling me. No biggie.
We went over to friend's last night for a 'cheese and port' night. Look at us getting all fancy schmancy....port and cheese. It was quite a fun night, to tell the truth.
I have good news for the Board. The doctor I asked to sit on the board in an advisory capacity has agreed. This is a very big step for a small organization.
I am not working this weekend at all, but I did have to field a call from Boss yesterday. It wasn't a hard one, though. He just needed a file off my computer, and when I told him where to look, he did make the comment that it was filed quite logically, so I'm sure if he had thought about it, he would have managed without calling me. No biggie.
We went over to friend's last night for a 'cheese and port' night. Look at us getting all fancy schmancy....port and cheese. It was quite a fun night, to tell the truth.
Friday, January 11, 2008
A confession
Ever since we got them, the cats have always slept by my feet. Neither of them are big cuddle bunnies when sleeping - which is a good thing - but I can usually feel them either by my feet or knees in the middle of the night.
Little Lily often comes and goes. She really liked to sleep under the Christmas tree for a while there. I think she thought she was a lion or something. But, without fail, Abby has always slept with me.
Since the R-man has moved in, she has started to sleep with him. My confession - my feelings are hurt. I mean, he's only been here for less than a week! No fair, no fair, no fair! ;o)
(just kidding)
The A-man did amazing with his Science project! I am simply so surprised at the level of maturity he has attained in such a short period of time. I think the switch of schools has been an incredible boost for him in so many ways. Yippee.
Had a big problem at work yesterday - about 20 minutes before the end of the day. I did what I could to remedy it, but I will have a post-mordom review today, I suppose. I was telling the R-man last night - you can have checklists out the whazzo, and have everything prepared, but you still have to be ready for the element of human error. Fun, fun times. But, on the up side - in a month I will be in Mexico!!
Little Lily often comes and goes. She really liked to sleep under the Christmas tree for a while there. I think she thought she was a lion or something. But, without fail, Abby has always slept with me.
Since the R-man has moved in, she has started to sleep with him. My confession - my feelings are hurt. I mean, he's only been here for less than a week! No fair, no fair, no fair! ;o)
(just kidding)
The A-man did amazing with his Science project! I am simply so surprised at the level of maturity he has attained in such a short period of time. I think the switch of schools has been an incredible boost for him in so many ways. Yippee.
Had a big problem at work yesterday - about 20 minutes before the end of the day. I did what I could to remedy it, but I will have a post-mordom review today, I suppose. I was telling the R-man last night - you can have checklists out the whazzo, and have everything prepared, but you still have to be ready for the element of human error. Fun, fun times. But, on the up side - in a month I will be in Mexico!!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Crazy Days
I was a terrible, horrible, bad, bad mother last night.
I didn't get home until just after six, and then I was back out the door for 6:30 and didn't return back home until almost 10. Poor neglected children of mine. Of course, I had made chicken stew in the morning - S just popped it in the oven when he got home from school, and we ate when I got home, so at least I fed them. The R-man was here for the evening, and therefore they weren't alone. Huh - I guess I'm not that terrible after all... but S didn't do his homework. I suppose there are worse things in life.
Okay - let me back track a wee bit to Tuesday evening. S had both History and Geography homework - quite a bit, actually. When I read his agenda, I discovered that some of the geography had been assigned prior to the holidays, but S didn't know where his finished work ended up. I started to look through his binder, and discovered more and more mess and disorganization. I asked him about the work maybe being in his desk. "You have never seen my desk, Mom. Trust me - you can't find anything in there," is what I was told. Perfect. I am going to discuss this with the SERT - S is supposed to receive additional support with respect to organization. Obviously this has not been happening. We plowed through the homework, and he was actually pretty good about getting it all done, and about the amount of time it took to ensure it was all finished.
The A-man has a science project due on Friday. Monday night he didn't bring home his Science binder. Tuesday night, he actually brought up the project over dinner, and asked for suggestions on how he might approach it. Everyone around the table - including the R-man - offered suggestions. The A-man had been working on Geography when I got home from work, and after dinner, I'm pretty sure he was getting down to business with respect to Science. He told me yesterday at dinner that he isn't as stressed about the Science since he has actually started working on it. When I got home from work yesterday, he had been working on it as well.
Oh - quick, funny story. I think the A-man 'grew' over the holidays. He school uniform pants are fitting much more tightly around the waist than they were pre-Christmas. He wore his khakis on Monday, and they were really tight. He has worn the dress pants for the remainder of the week - I told him I thought the waist was a bit bigger on them. I guess I will have to order some new ones. Poor kid - he's got both Mom and Dad's quick ability to gain weight.
Had a board meeting last night. Actually, was a co-operative board meeting between the ADHD board, and the LD board. We are looking to see if we can possibly pool some resources to assist in developing and growing both organizations. It was a good meeting, but after so many long hours, my mind wasn't really all there. Soon, the craziness will be done at work.
And finally, some good news. Hubby has booked a trip for he and I to Manzanillo, Mexico for February 8! One week, all inclusive resort, right on the Pacific Ocean. Sun and sand... it will be heaven. I am really looking forward to that.
Hubby doesn't know it yet, but Boss informed me yesterday that my presence may be required at this year's Governor's Conference in Mississippi - which would mean I will be getting home from Mexico on the Friday, then leaving for Biloxi on the Sunday! Nothing has been confirmed yet, so I won't be saying anything about that until I know one way or the other. Shhh - it's our secret.
I didn't get home until just after six, and then I was back out the door for 6:30 and didn't return back home until almost 10. Poor neglected children of mine. Of course, I had made chicken stew in the morning - S just popped it in the oven when he got home from school, and we ate when I got home, so at least I fed them. The R-man was here for the evening, and therefore they weren't alone. Huh - I guess I'm not that terrible after all... but S didn't do his homework. I suppose there are worse things in life.
Okay - let me back track a wee bit to Tuesday evening. S had both History and Geography homework - quite a bit, actually. When I read his agenda, I discovered that some of the geography had been assigned prior to the holidays, but S didn't know where his finished work ended up. I started to look through his binder, and discovered more and more mess and disorganization. I asked him about the work maybe being in his desk. "You have never seen my desk, Mom. Trust me - you can't find anything in there," is what I was told. Perfect. I am going to discuss this with the SERT - S is supposed to receive additional support with respect to organization. Obviously this has not been happening. We plowed through the homework, and he was actually pretty good about getting it all done, and about the amount of time it took to ensure it was all finished.
The A-man has a science project due on Friday. Monday night he didn't bring home his Science binder. Tuesday night, he actually brought up the project over dinner, and asked for suggestions on how he might approach it. Everyone around the table - including the R-man - offered suggestions. The A-man had been working on Geography when I got home from work, and after dinner, I'm pretty sure he was getting down to business with respect to Science. He told me yesterday at dinner that he isn't as stressed about the Science since he has actually started working on it. When I got home from work yesterday, he had been working on it as well.
Oh - quick, funny story. I think the A-man 'grew' over the holidays. He school uniform pants are fitting much more tightly around the waist than they were pre-Christmas. He wore his khakis on Monday, and they were really tight. He has worn the dress pants for the remainder of the week - I told him I thought the waist was a bit bigger on them. I guess I will have to order some new ones. Poor kid - he's got both Mom and Dad's quick ability to gain weight.
Had a board meeting last night. Actually, was a co-operative board meeting between the ADHD board, and the LD board. We are looking to see if we can possibly pool some resources to assist in developing and growing both organizations. It was a good meeting, but after so many long hours, my mind wasn't really all there. Soon, the craziness will be done at work.
And finally, some good news. Hubby has booked a trip for he and I to Manzanillo, Mexico for February 8! One week, all inclusive resort, right on the Pacific Ocean. Sun and sand... it will be heaven. I am really looking forward to that.
Hubby doesn't know it yet, but Boss informed me yesterday that my presence may be required at this year's Governor's Conference in Mississippi - which would mean I will be getting home from Mexico on the Friday, then leaving for Biloxi on the Sunday! Nothing has been confirmed yet, so I won't be saying anything about that until I know one way or the other. Shhh - it's our secret.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Short on time
I only have a few moments before I have to run out the door to head to work. But, I try to update every morning, so here I am.
Had lots of homework to help with yesterday. Have interesting observations regarding S's EA. The A-man has grown. Work - still crazy.
Okay. That will do for now - will actually remind me of what I really want to blog about when I get home from my 'strategic planning' session for the Board tonight!
Had lots of homework to help with yesterday. Have interesting observations regarding S's EA. The A-man has grown. Work - still crazy.
Okay. That will do for now - will actually remind me of what I really want to blog about when I get home from my 'strategic planning' session for the Board tonight!
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Truly back to normal
When I got home from work last night, both boys were downstairs watching TV, or playing video games. One of the two. The R-man was putting his grocceries away. Hubby is on afternoons for the next two weeks.
I got dinner ready, and we all discussed the days events over dinner. Of course, after clearning the table, both boys tried to take off back downstairs, but I hauled them back up to work on homework. The A-man has a Science project due on Friday. He has known about it since the beginning of the school year. We even discussed it over the course of the two week holiday. Yeah, he didn't bring his Science stuff home last night. I was ever so impressed.
Monday - as in just under a week from now - will bring his Drama written exam. He did sit down last night and complete his study sheet, which was fairly detailed. I guess they do the written exam, then have a full week and a half of rehersals for the performance exam. But, that is completed before exam week, so when it actually comes down to the week of exams, he gets a day off. Meaning, at the end of January, he will have one exam on the Monday, then the rest of the week off. I will be totally swamped with our second show, as it is the first weekend in February, so I won't even be able to do anything fun with him that week.
When I first got home, I realized S hadn't brought his laptop home. He told me that he didn't need it for his Science homework, because he just "had to draw lines." I was confused, but more hungry, so I figured I would review after we had dinner. In a way, he was correct - he simply had to draw a line from the scientific term to the proper definition of the term.
While he was doing this, I took that time to go through his binder, and his agenda. As I was doing this, I realized that he is going to need a LOT more hands-on assistance with organizing his notes, etc. He has papers all over the place - most of them not in the proper subject sections. My thoughts are that this could be part of the EA's job - you know, "assisting with organization" as is written in his IEP - but I could be wrong. I will be asking for clarification from either the principal or the SERT.
When I went through his agenda, I noticed that he also had religion homework. I asked him about that, and that is when he started to hit himself in the head because he forgot the laptop. Apparently he had started that homework on the computer. I'm thinking he thought he was going to get out of that homework, but since he was just required to paraphrase verses 1-12 of Matthew 2, I was able to pull out the bible, read the verse to him, then he sat down and typed up the paragraph. Of course, it took him quite a bit longer than it would have if he'd had his school computer, but maybe he will realize that NOT having the computer isn't going to get him out of doing the work.
I am such a mean mother.
I got dinner ready, and we all discussed the days events over dinner. Of course, after clearning the table, both boys tried to take off back downstairs, but I hauled them back up to work on homework. The A-man has a Science project due on Friday. He has known about it since the beginning of the school year. We even discussed it over the course of the two week holiday. Yeah, he didn't bring his Science stuff home last night. I was ever so impressed.
Monday - as in just under a week from now - will bring his Drama written exam. He did sit down last night and complete his study sheet, which was fairly detailed. I guess they do the written exam, then have a full week and a half of rehersals for the performance exam. But, that is completed before exam week, so when it actually comes down to the week of exams, he gets a day off. Meaning, at the end of January, he will have one exam on the Monday, then the rest of the week off. I will be totally swamped with our second show, as it is the first weekend in February, so I won't even be able to do anything fun with him that week.
When I first got home, I realized S hadn't brought his laptop home. He told me that he didn't need it for his Science homework, because he just "had to draw lines." I was confused, but more hungry, so I figured I would review after we had dinner. In a way, he was correct - he simply had to draw a line from the scientific term to the proper definition of the term.
While he was doing this, I took that time to go through his binder, and his agenda. As I was doing this, I realized that he is going to need a LOT more hands-on assistance with organizing his notes, etc. He has papers all over the place - most of them not in the proper subject sections. My thoughts are that this could be part of the EA's job - you know, "assisting with organization" as is written in his IEP - but I could be wrong. I will be asking for clarification from either the principal or the SERT.
When I went through his agenda, I noticed that he also had religion homework. I asked him about that, and that is when he started to hit himself in the head because he forgot the laptop. Apparently he had started that homework on the computer. I'm thinking he thought he was going to get out of that homework, but since he was just required to paraphrase verses 1-12 of Matthew 2, I was able to pull out the bible, read the verse to him, then he sat down and typed up the paragraph. Of course, it took him quite a bit longer than it would have if he'd had his school computer, but maybe he will realize that NOT having the computer isn't going to get him out of doing the work.
I am such a mean mother.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Back to 'normal'
Yes, the holidays have finally come to an official end. The boys are back to school today. Truth be told, I think the A-man is excited about the idea of going back. He was up before 7, having breakfast and getting in to the shower. He was dressed, and ready to go by the time I was just getting myself going.
Cuz's son - who I will call R-man - moved in yesterday. I am thinking he is going to have quite a hard time adjusting from living in a house by himself to living with a family of 4, but, he is a great guy, and I'm sure he will manage. It will be interesting for the first little while, I think, to see the boys having to adjust to the idea of another 'adult' popping in to the house at various times.
I worked on both Saturday and Sunday - for about 5 hours each day - but I have the feeling that I was able to get a bunch of little things done and started, and I know I won't likely have to repeat that next weekend. The following weekend I will be at our first show, so that will be a very LONG week.
I heard through the grapevine that our 'regular' principal is not going to be returning for the start of the year. No one knows how long she is going to be off. I am not complaining.
And, the days begin again...
Cuz's son - who I will call R-man - moved in yesterday. I am thinking he is going to have quite a hard time adjusting from living in a house by himself to living with a family of 4, but, he is a great guy, and I'm sure he will manage. It will be interesting for the first little while, I think, to see the boys having to adjust to the idea of another 'adult' popping in to the house at various times.
I worked on both Saturday and Sunday - for about 5 hours each day - but I have the feeling that I was able to get a bunch of little things done and started, and I know I won't likely have to repeat that next weekend. The following weekend I will be at our first show, so that will be a very LONG week.
I heard through the grapevine that our 'regular' principal is not going to be returning for the start of the year. No one knows how long she is going to be off. I am not complaining.
And, the days begin again...
Friday, January 4, 2008
fMRI
I have been very remiss in keeping this blog updated over the past few days. I guess the main reason is because things have been INSANE at work, and also because the day-to-day life with the boys hasn’t quite got in to full swing yet, since they aren’t back to school until Monday. That, however, doesn’t mean there haven’t been all kinds of things going on!
Wednesday was “back to work” day for Hubby and I. That afternoon, S had a doctor’s appointment with his specialist. I was surprised that it was so late in the day – 4:45 pm – but it actually worked out better for me, so I wasn’t complaining. The appointment was about a full hour, and it was in anticipation of the upcoming fMRI that will be happening at the end of the month. I was very happy to have this meeting, as I really didn’t have much information about what this test was, or what it was hoping to achieve. Now I know.
An fMRI is a functional MRI. As you know, an MRI is basically a ‘brain scan’ that lets the doctors look at the brain. This test is actually going to monitor how S’s brain ‘fires’ its signals. Although S won’t be able to speak or move for the hour he is being scanned, the doctors will talk to him, flash various pictures, etc., across a screen on his eyes, and ask him to think about certain things. As he thinks about what they ask, they will be able to see how his brain sends the signals. How cool is that?
After they have this base-line ‘test’, the doctors will then create a specialized therapy to assist with any deficits (or mis-firings) they may find. Of course, the doctor wasn’t able to say what type of therapies they may use, because they don’t currently know where his signals are lacking, but it could be a chemical imbalance that could benefit with medication, or they may find that treating with this therapy and that therapy could assist his thought patterns, that sort of thing. Then, after about 6 months or so of following a treatment plan, S will under go another test, to see if the various therapies have been beneficial to him.
This is all very new. S’s doctor, and the doctor’s at the University hospital are going to be doing this with about 50 or 60 patients, only. S’s results will be compared to those of average twelve year olds, so this will also let us know what are typical actions/reactions/behaviour of a child this age, and what is a direct result of his brain’s ‘hard wiring.’ They are then going to see if various therapies will assist with certain deficiets, etc.
Yeah, S is going to be a bit of guinea pig, with respect to this testing, but Hubby and I figure that if we have a better understanding of how S’s brain fires, we can only benefit, right? If the therapies, etc., work, all the better. If not, no harm done. There are no chemical injections, or radiation, etc. It is a very harmless test, and it will actually help us, and the specialist, have a stronger foothold when we approach things. Right now we are only going on ‘theories’ – after this test, we will be going on an actual brain scan.
I, personally, am glad we are on the entry level of this new testing. I am looking forward to learning more about this. Google it – it’s quite fascinating!
Wednesday was “back to work” day for Hubby and I. That afternoon, S had a doctor’s appointment with his specialist. I was surprised that it was so late in the day – 4:45 pm – but it actually worked out better for me, so I wasn’t complaining. The appointment was about a full hour, and it was in anticipation of the upcoming fMRI that will be happening at the end of the month. I was very happy to have this meeting, as I really didn’t have much information about what this test was, or what it was hoping to achieve. Now I know.
An fMRI is a functional MRI. As you know, an MRI is basically a ‘brain scan’ that lets the doctors look at the brain. This test is actually going to monitor how S’s brain ‘fires’ its signals. Although S won’t be able to speak or move for the hour he is being scanned, the doctors will talk to him, flash various pictures, etc., across a screen on his eyes, and ask him to think about certain things. As he thinks about what they ask, they will be able to see how his brain sends the signals. How cool is that?
After they have this base-line ‘test’, the doctors will then create a specialized therapy to assist with any deficits (or mis-firings) they may find. Of course, the doctor wasn’t able to say what type of therapies they may use, because they don’t currently know where his signals are lacking, but it could be a chemical imbalance that could benefit with medication, or they may find that treating with this therapy and that therapy could assist his thought patterns, that sort of thing. Then, after about 6 months or so of following a treatment plan, S will under go another test, to see if the various therapies have been beneficial to him.
This is all very new. S’s doctor, and the doctor’s at the University hospital are going to be doing this with about 50 or 60 patients, only. S’s results will be compared to those of average twelve year olds, so this will also let us know what are typical actions/reactions/behaviour of a child this age, and what is a direct result of his brain’s ‘hard wiring.’ They are then going to see if various therapies will assist with certain deficiets, etc.
Yeah, S is going to be a bit of guinea pig, with respect to this testing, but Hubby and I figure that if we have a better understanding of how S’s brain fires, we can only benefit, right? If the therapies, etc., work, all the better. If not, no harm done. There are no chemical injections, or radiation, etc. It is a very harmless test, and it will actually help us, and the specialist, have a stronger foothold when we approach things. Right now we are only going on ‘theories’ – after this test, we will be going on an actual brain scan.
I, personally, am glad we are on the entry level of this new testing. I am looking forward to learning more about this. Google it – it’s quite fascinating!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Back to it...
I had to drag myself out of that bed this morning, and yet, here I am at 12:24 am, playing on the computer. My darn old 'restless legs' are acting up. I love that. Oh, yeah, makes for a fun morning.
When I got to work this morning, I was amazed at the sheer volume of STUFF on my desk. I was starting to panic a wee bit, trying to figure out where to even start. Boss and I had a brief meeting to establish timelines and deadlines fr a few things, and we called in assistant to ensure he was on the same page for some of it. I have informed Boss that I will be around, and available, for the next two weekends, as the first trade show will begin in three weekends. Yikes. But, that said, in about 6 weeks, the panic will be over.
Oh, and have I mentioned that Cuz's son is moving in to our house this weekend? Well, not forever or anything - I don't think he would like that much! Just until he finds a house in the city that he just took a job in. Of course, the area that I have deemed 'his' is actaully very full of stuff that is mine...I will have to modify that before he arrives sometime on Sunday... Double yikes...
Okay, legs seem to have calmed a bit - let's give this another shot...
When I got to work this morning, I was amazed at the sheer volume of STUFF on my desk. I was starting to panic a wee bit, trying to figure out where to even start. Boss and I had a brief meeting to establish timelines and deadlines fr a few things, and we called in assistant to ensure he was on the same page for some of it. I have informed Boss that I will be around, and available, for the next two weekends, as the first trade show will begin in three weekends. Yikes. But, that said, in about 6 weeks, the panic will be over.
Oh, and have I mentioned that Cuz's son is moving in to our house this weekend? Well, not forever or anything - I don't think he would like that much! Just until he finds a house in the city that he just took a job in. Of course, the area that I have deemed 'his' is actaully very full of stuff that is mine...I will have to modify that before he arrives sometime on Sunday... Double yikes...
Okay, legs seem to have calmed a bit - let's give this another shot...
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Happy 2008!
After a whirl-wind of gatherings over the past week, I must admit, it will be nice to have a bit of quiet time with respect to that end of things. I am just plain tired.
Work-wise, I will be gearing up for an extremely busy show season. I have been checking my work emails daily, so I don't have very much to do that way when I get back to the office tomorrow, but our first show is in just under 3 weeks, so I will be typing the old fingers to the bone making sure all is done on time.
We had a New Year's party last night. I would say there were almost as many kids as adults, and it was very nice to see them come up with fun things to do. Besides the older ones taking over the video games, the younger ones played scrabble, trivial pursuit and boogle. Then the younger ones were able to hook up their dance mat to the video game, and the older kids played some type of card game. Some of the adults even got in the action on the dance mat. Must say, that does look pretty fun - will have to talk the A-man and S in to maybe getting that one!
Happy New Year, everyone. May 2008 be our year of dreams.
Work-wise, I will be gearing up for an extremely busy show season. I have been checking my work emails daily, so I don't have very much to do that way when I get back to the office tomorrow, but our first show is in just under 3 weeks, so I will be typing the old fingers to the bone making sure all is done on time.
We had a New Year's party last night. I would say there were almost as many kids as adults, and it was very nice to see them come up with fun things to do. Besides the older ones taking over the video games, the younger ones played scrabble, trivial pursuit and boogle. Then the younger ones were able to hook up their dance mat to the video game, and the older kids played some type of card game. Some of the adults even got in the action on the dance mat. Must say, that does look pretty fun - will have to talk the A-man and S in to maybe getting that one!
Happy New Year, everyone. May 2008 be our year of dreams.
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