Growing Up

If you've read any posts from the past year, you probably know that I had many frustrations surrounding Lauren's behavior. I do believe that my little girl is growing up before my very eyes. First grade is doing wonders for her. I always love watching how excited she is about school. Either that or turning six has suddenly changed her overall demeanor. Believe me, Lauren is still just as dramatic and spirited as ever, but she seems to have a different attitude. She still thinks that life is "all about her" (John would say she gets that from her mother lol), but she has a calmer, sensitive nature about her. I wish I could view life from her eyes for just one day and can't wait to see what the future holds for her.

Good Citizen

I was so incredibly proud when I received a phone call from Zack's teacher, Mrs. King, letting me know that he had been selected for the Outstanding Citizenship Award for the 2010-2011 school year. I couldn't tell him, however, because it was going to be revealed at the annual awards assembly. I didn't even tell him that I would be attending the assembly, so I wasn't surprised when he gave me a funny look upon entering the gymnasium and noticing not only me but Grandma Converse, Grandma Grisham and Bud. Aunt Patty, Uncle Rich, Bryan, Brooke and Camryn were there as well since Hayden was awarded the same honor for his class. Zack kept staring back at us; not sure what was going through his mind. Haha The moment for announcing outstanding citizenship awards finally came. The look on his face was absolutely priceless when they called his name. He was truly shocked! The best part was watching him interact with his classmates after sitting back down. He was smiling ear-to-ear showing off his certificate and pin. It was a great day for a very proud Mom! :)

Could the Phase Be Over?

I had conferences Thursday night for both Zack and Lauren. It was so nice to hear that the teachers love them! The best part was hearing from Lauren's teacher that she has officially turned the corner. I've noticed major improvement at home, but I'm so glad to hear that it's the same story at school. I pray this phase is over! She seems so much happier and well-behaved. :-)

Catching Up

Well it's been a few months since I last posted anything. Life has been busy!

I started a new job as Controller at Freedom Motors USA. Check out the website to see what my new career entails. I thought about leaving Plante Moran several times throughout my 13 years there, but until this job offer it always overwhelmed me. I knew that this job was meant to be when leaving was such an easy decision. While any job has its challenges, I can happily report that I LOVE it. As if enjoying my new position wasn't enough, I met the most amazing friend in the process. I thank God daily for bringing Danielle into my life!

Zack is same as always... a great boy with a good heart. I don't know what I would do without his quiet support. He always seems to know when I need some lovin' and seldomly causes trouble. He has been riding on cloud 9 lately as he was the only (and yes he will repeat "only" a few times haha) child in his class to get a 100% on the science test earlier this week.

Lauren is as strong-willed as ever. I keep meaning to plan a trip to Barnes & Noble in order to buy a book that I have researched to help me parent her. Since she was too young to comprehend our divorce two years ago, she is finally doing so now. It is so difficult to explain why Daddy and I are not getting back together. I refuse to bad-mouth her Daddy in any way and feel she deserves to form her own opinion of him. Until she is old enough to understand, I just have to wipe away the tears and remind her how much she is loved regardless of the situation. Besides the divorce, she seems to be struggling with overcoming her strong-willed attitude since starting school. I think it is primarily due to exhaustion. She gets worn out and turns evil come evening. That may be a bit of an exaggeration... but not much. Haha I can only hope that this is a phase!