The girls have settled (somewhat) into the new school routine. It has been a crazy month with both girls going to the same school, some new job responsibilities at my job and myself being enrolled in an online course. It is all good...but tiring!!!
Alyssa LOVES kindergarten and has adjusted beautifully. I like her teacher a lot and Alyssa LOVES her! Emily started 3rd grade....what can I say??? The work isn't super challenging for her, but she is a bit stressed with the added emphasis on the "do it yourself" mentality. The academics have moved up a notch or two or three this year and I am happy about that. She can use the challenge. She is not used to having to really "work" so homework has been a bit of a challenge....to say the least. Lots of moaning and groaning, but once she sits down to do it, it's done in a flash. I have mixed feelings about the push this year....I really think it is way too much pressure for 8 year olds, it's a huge culture shock for them. There doesn't seem like there was any "transition" from being little 2nd graders to the independent 3rd graders they are expected to be. With these growing pains will come enthusiastic learners....I hope! :-) Thankfully she loves school and enjoys learning new things!!
I am knee deep in my course that will lead to a certification...that hopefully will lead to my becoming a BCBA. It wasn't really my choice to go back to school at this point, but it's all good and I am sure to grow professionally with the knowledge that I gain by taking the courses. The biggest challenge is the COMPUTER. The course is online and I have had some problems navigating this. The course work is also very time consuming and while being able to do it in my own home is convenient, the amount of time that it takes to complete the work each week is overwhelming. I too will conquer this. Emily and I together are having some growing pains, I guess LOL. One course at a time..that is my current motto.
Both of the girls are enjoying dance. They are both thrilled that their cousin, Hannah is in their class this year. It worked out great to have all three girls in the same class. Alyssa LOVES soccer and the season started again in August. The team this year is amazing. A big jump with abilities from the 4 year old to the 5 year old group!!
I am VERY EXCITED about the *possibility* that I may be traveling with one of my most favorite Charitable Foundations on an Education Training trip to China in February. It is not 100% worked out, but I am hoping that it will be. If it works out, I will travel with a team of professionals to train staff that work in a school unit of an orphange. The goal will be to increase their knowledge for working with children with special needs. The teachers have specifically asked for training in this area as there is little focus on this in the Teacher Training in Chinese University. This has been a dream of mine since I walked through Emily's orphange! I KNEW I would return one day for either a Mission trip or to help train staff. I am BEYOND EXCITED and hoping and praying that it works out. I just want more clarification as to what the expectations of me will be. My wonderful Mom has agreed to watch my kidlets for the week. My heart is hurting already thinking about leaving them for an entire week, but really I NEED to do this trip. And I have a feeling if I go on THIS trip......it won't be my last!!! I will keep you posted....in the meantime, please pray that it works out the way it is supposed to. My prayer is that it works out the way *I* want it to LOLOL
Check out LWB. If you are ever at a loss of a foundation to donate to, here is one that I stand by.....there are lots of others out there too!
http://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/
So long for now...Michele
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