For Alice, today was all about the minuscule dusting of snow that happened early this morning, unfortunately it fell on solid ice which made for a slow journey to work for me.
Unsurprisingly many children didn't make it into school (most schools finished on Friday, but our doesn't finish until tomorrow - let's not start THAT discussion). Teaching the top class necessitated finishing some important topics for the term, so while other classes got to do some 'fun' things we were still completing written work and ICT presentations, but we did get to have some fun too - finding out about Christmas traditions and singing a great song for Christmas (that I'd never heard before - I'd share more details but I can only remember the building chorus!!)
After work I took advantage of Alice being taken care of and decided to battle the supermarket. It took me an hour, a full trolley, I ran out of ecobags but I got everything on the list - after I'd checked out I remembered other things, that we'll have to do without until Sunday!! It took a while to unload the car but Alice was delighted to help me carry things through the house to the kitchen, not usually such a chore but the weather meant it was safer to park in the garage and lug the shopping rather than parking closer to the kitchen.
Alice was very affectionate when I got home and was quick to tell me about her snowballs - she obviously had fun, especially as C finished school last week and so was able to play all day! Unpacking the shopping - mostly cold or frozen, took most of the time til bedtime, so we had an extra snuggle upstairs, but that didn't stop her screaming when I left. It seems to be the pattern of the last few nights, she screams hysterically for 1-2 minutes as I leave, but she calms quickly and then settles for the night, it's very hard to leave her like this (especially as this is so different to her previous bedtime habits) but she settles quickly.
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Monday, December 21, 2009
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
MIXED EMOTIONS
Sad. Sad that the weather is already autumnal, despite not really having much warm or sunny weather this summer. Sad that the summer holidays are over. Sad that Alice was still asleep when I left for work this morning. Sad that I got to spend less than 2 hours with my baby today.
Worried. Worried about Alice's new beginnings this week, worried how she'll cope, if she'll cry, how she'll manage a packed lunch. Worried about new situations. Worried about Little Sis, will it happen, will she have to wait long for us to hold her? Always worried.
Wondering. Wondering how this term will progress. Wondering how Alice will adapt. Wondering about Little Sis.
Relieved. Relieved that the first day of term is over. Relieved that introductions are complete. Relieved that plans have been made.
Grateful. Grateful to have someone so special that every moment apart is a moment missed. Grateful to hear, 'I love my Mummy!' and small feet running towards me (unprompted) as I close the front door coming home. Grateful for squeezy hugs and sloppy kisses. Grateful to have found such a welcoming environment for Alice's education. Grateful for my 4 legged friends love and devotion (and for keeping my feet warm!) Grateful to have a job in tough times. Grateful to have the opportunity to adopt again.
Worried. Worried about Alice's new beginnings this week, worried how she'll cope, if she'll cry, how she'll manage a packed lunch. Worried about new situations. Worried about Little Sis, will it happen, will she have to wait long for us to hold her? Always worried.
Wondering. Wondering how this term will progress. Wondering how Alice will adapt. Wondering about Little Sis.
Relieved. Relieved that the first day of term is over. Relieved that introductions are complete. Relieved that plans have been made.
Grateful. Grateful to have someone so special that every moment apart is a moment missed. Grateful to hear, 'I love my Mummy!' and small feet running towards me (unprompted) as I close the front door coming home. Grateful for squeezy hugs and sloppy kisses. Grateful to have found such a welcoming environment for Alice's education. Grateful for my 4 legged friends love and devotion (and for keeping my feet warm!) Grateful to have a job in tough times. Grateful to have the opportunity to adopt again.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
BUSY AGAIN!
Monday - popped to the neighbours, then the supermarket and we were at soft play by 10:30am - that's quite an achievement for us! Home for lunch, took Alice upstairs and then decided to reorganise my wardrobe while we were up there. Then a neighbour brought her new baby over for coffee and a chat before Nana arrived to look after Alice while I went to school for Parents' Evening. I didn't get home until after 7pm and then later in the evening GFW and AJ came over for coffee. I didn't stop all day but the bits that should have been were great fun!
We had a very quiet day on Tuesday.
Wednesday - we went to nursery for an open session first thing in the morning, I'd prepared Alice for it but she cried nearly the whole time and didn't really want to play. I had a quick look in her 'Splash Book' before we left early for T*ick T*ock. Time seemed to slip through our fingers when we got home - I caught up on some laundry and phonecalls and later on Nana popped in for some photocopying. With Nana in the house Alice wasn't going to bed without a struggle so she stayed up. Later in the afternoon we had to pop out, when I asked Alice to put on her shoes because we were going out she responded, 'Not today Mummy!' Unfortunately Mummy over-ruled, 5 minutes each way in the car but she was still asleep before we were halfway home!
Today was another busy, busy day. Alice declared in the car on the way this morning, 'No like ***' she knows how to press my buttons and did so repeatedly all the way there. I was asked last week to swap my days this week, so I worked today instead of tomorrow. Usually there are 2 teachers in my class but today I was solo, I did half a day's playground duty and then followed the school day with more parents' consultations before collecting Alice from nursery (she was happily playing the drum to 'Tommy Thumb' when I got there and she said that she'd had a good day - playing with A and playing outside.) Meanwhile Pud has been raiding the laundry piles and has been wicked this evening too.
Tonight I'm very excited about a special weekend. I'm not organised and I'm concerned that expectation will spoil the event.
We had a very quiet day on Tuesday.
Wednesday - we went to nursery for an open session first thing in the morning, I'd prepared Alice for it but she cried nearly the whole time and didn't really want to play. I had a quick look in her 'Splash Book' before we left early for T*ick T*ock. Time seemed to slip through our fingers when we got home - I caught up on some laundry and phonecalls and later on Nana popped in for some photocopying. With Nana in the house Alice wasn't going to bed without a struggle so she stayed up. Later in the afternoon we had to pop out, when I asked Alice to put on her shoes because we were going out she responded, 'Not today Mummy!' Unfortunately Mummy over-ruled, 5 minutes each way in the car but she was still asleep before we were halfway home!
Today was another busy, busy day. Alice declared in the car on the way this morning, 'No like ***' she knows how to press my buttons and did so repeatedly all the way there. I was asked last week to swap my days this week, so I worked today instead of tomorrow. Usually there are 2 teachers in my class but today I was solo, I did half a day's playground duty and then followed the school day with more parents' consultations before collecting Alice from nursery (she was happily playing the drum to 'Tommy Thumb' when I got there and she said that she'd had a good day - playing with A and playing outside.) Meanwhile Pud has been raiding the laundry piles and has been wicked this evening too.
Tonight I'm very excited about a special weekend. I'm not organised and I'm concerned that expectation will spoil the event.
Friday, March 13, 2009
A SANDWICH!
I felt rotten this morning but my digestion seemed better so I dragged myself up (Alice was up twice last night - her sleep is worse now than at any time in the first year home). Alice was awake early too.
I'd rung work yesterday to warn them that I was feeling pretty dreadful and might not make it in today, the message changed like Chinese Whispers so by this morning they weren't expecting me and were slightly surprised when I walked in! I kept to my bananas and plain biscuit diet at school and when I came home I found myself making a sandwich before I realised how much better I felt! Nana also commented how much better I was looking this afternoon, phew! Despite feeling like a different person to yesterday I've still curtailed my plans for this weekend, so my shopping spree will have to wait until next week and I hope that I'll have time to work on my letter to Thailand.
Meanwhile Alice was pretty grumpy this morning and Nana reported that she was quite clingy all morning - needing lots of cuddles and stories to keep her going. C (T's younger son and one of Alice's favourite people) was here when I got home from school and they were having great fun in the garden - on the swing and in her car, they play beautifully together.
I'd rung work yesterday to warn them that I was feeling pretty dreadful and might not make it in today, the message changed like Chinese Whispers so by this morning they weren't expecting me and were slightly surprised when I walked in! I kept to my bananas and plain biscuit diet at school and when I came home I found myself making a sandwich before I realised how much better I felt! Nana also commented how much better I was looking this afternoon, phew! Despite feeling like a different person to yesterday I've still curtailed my plans for this weekend, so my shopping spree will have to wait until next week and I hope that I'll have time to work on my letter to Thailand.
Meanwhile Alice was pretty grumpy this morning and Nana reported that she was quite clingy all morning - needing lots of cuddles and stories to keep her going. C (T's younger son and one of Alice's favourite people) was here when I got home from school and they were having great fun in the garden - on the swing and in her car, they play beautifully together.
Monday, November 03, 2008
MONDAY'S MUSINGS!
I had to work today - it was a training day. I don't usually like training days as they are so long-winded and remind me of all the trickiest bits of my job. Today wasn't as bad as I expected and we got some classroom time too! We had some good times to celebrate too so that made lunchtime fun as well.
Home - Alice had 3 accidents and 2 successes (but one was a double). OK but no improvement. I spoke to a HV friend of mine and she told me that Alice is still very young for this. I'm not convinced that it's going to work this time. I'm going to give it a day or 2 more and review again. Tomorrow we're going to our swimming class, I'm going to put Alice in the training Pull-ups (the ones that let her feel the accidents) for the time that we're out of the house - I think she thinks that the Pull-Ups are nappies.
My HV friend was telling me about 'Rapid Training', drinks every 30 minutes, potty 20 minutes later - do that all morning, repeat the drinks all afternoon but not reminding about the potty, if the child is ready to PT they'll start using the potty independently. I don't think Alice would PT that way, maybe that's a sign that she's not ready? But then again she knew that the Poo accident yesterday had happened and should have been in the potty, no discussion, she knew. Also she DEMANDED 'Nicks' yesterday. OTOH she doesn't name accidents and she can't tell me where the P* should go etc . . .?
Home - Alice had 3 accidents and 2 successes (but one was a double). OK but no improvement. I spoke to a HV friend of mine and she told me that Alice is still very young for this. I'm not convinced that it's going to work this time. I'm going to give it a day or 2 more and review again. Tomorrow we're going to our swimming class, I'm going to put Alice in the training Pull-ups (the ones that let her feel the accidents) for the time that we're out of the house - I think she thinks that the Pull-Ups are nappies.
My HV friend was telling me about 'Rapid Training', drinks every 30 minutes, potty 20 minutes later - do that all morning, repeat the drinks all afternoon but not reminding about the potty, if the child is ready to PT they'll start using the potty independently. I don't think Alice would PT that way, maybe that's a sign that she's not ready? But then again she knew that the Poo accident yesterday had happened and should have been in the potty, no discussion, she knew. Also she DEMANDED 'Nicks' yesterday. OTOH she doesn't name accidents and she can't tell me where the P* should go etc . . .?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
BUSY DAYS
Saturday - our local town's Food Fest, up and parked by 8:50 (a major achievement!). Got several errands completed before meeting D, D and A to browse the stalls. A fun day. Alice and A were very good, we got to see the whole thing, didn't buy much except lunch (which was overpriced and not that great, except for yummy BBQed corn on the cob). In the evening I was looking forward to the first S*tricly C*ome D*ancing of the series - I S*ky + it, luckily as I didn't manage to watch it!
Sunday - I left Alice with M next door and made it into the water for aqua aerobics - lots of new faces with hardly any friends there but the class was good, the exercise exhausting but necessary! Dashed home to feed Alice lunch and get her to bed for 1:30pm - but luckily M had already fed her! 1:30pm, Alice in bed ready for me to meet my new Social Worker (SW) T. New SW as the SW from Alice's adoption (or the process that led to her adoption) is off sick for another 8 weeks, maybe more. I was concerned about switching SWs as I got on so well with J (my original SW). Anyway the meeting with T went better than I could have hoped, I like him and I think we'll work well - there are several more meetings in the diary for Sunday lunchtimes and hope to have finished the face-to-face stuff by early November! This stage of the process is moving a lot quicker this time around (so far!)
Monday - we were due to go out for the morning, but visits and phone calls led to a last minute change of plan, instead I unearthed the bird table (Daisy used to raid the bird food - so it was put away many years ago) and my old F-P school and garage. Bird table, F-P toys and the water table all got a good cleanup before GFN arrived - he was expecting biscuits but was persuaded to stay for lunch! We had a quiet afternoon and Alice had an early supper - as M arrived just after 5pm so that I could go to work!!
(Work - after 5pm on a Monday? I was going to an outdoor pursuits centre to lend a hand for the evening. The oldest pupils go annually for a 3 night stay. I've been for the night most years - but now (with Alice home) I've compromised by going for the evening. I was an 'extra' for the evening, but only 2 of us had been with there before so I thought that I could be useful. Usually there's a chance to sit with the other staff while watching and interacting with the children - this year there was no chance to sit - I was there from 6pm to nearly 11pm and was on the go almost constantly - making beds, chatting to small groups of children, finding extra bed linen, doing the rounds of the dormitories, supervising phone calls, ringing parents, making hot drinks, all sorts - even organising a B*op-It championship! It was non-stop but it was also lovely to see the children in a different environment and to be really useful in a different way!)
Today - Alice woke earlier than I wanted (late night after work) and then we went swimming - Alice was as clingy and tearful as the past 2 weeks, but the instructor saw the giggles and silliness after the class so I think that she might be more forceful next week! This afternoon we had a quiet time at home - playing and pl*aydough!
Sunday - I left Alice with M next door and made it into the water for aqua aerobics - lots of new faces with hardly any friends there but the class was good, the exercise exhausting but necessary! Dashed home to feed Alice lunch and get her to bed for 1:30pm - but luckily M had already fed her! 1:30pm, Alice in bed ready for me to meet my new Social Worker (SW) T. New SW as the SW from Alice's adoption (or the process that led to her adoption) is off sick for another 8 weeks, maybe more. I was concerned about switching SWs as I got on so well with J (my original SW). Anyway the meeting with T went better than I could have hoped, I like him and I think we'll work well - there are several more meetings in the diary for Sunday lunchtimes and hope to have finished the face-to-face stuff by early November! This stage of the process is moving a lot quicker this time around (so far!)
Monday - we were due to go out for the morning, but visits and phone calls led to a last minute change of plan, instead I unearthed the bird table (Daisy used to raid the bird food - so it was put away many years ago) and my old F-P school and garage. Bird table, F-P toys and the water table all got a good cleanup before GFN arrived - he was expecting biscuits but was persuaded to stay for lunch! We had a quiet afternoon and Alice had an early supper - as M arrived just after 5pm so that I could go to work!!
(Work - after 5pm on a Monday? I was going to an outdoor pursuits centre to lend a hand for the evening. The oldest pupils go annually for a 3 night stay. I've been for the night most years - but now (with Alice home) I've compromised by going for the evening. I was an 'extra' for the evening, but only 2 of us had been with there before so I thought that I could be useful. Usually there's a chance to sit with the other staff while watching and interacting with the children - this year there was no chance to sit - I was there from 6pm to nearly 11pm and was on the go almost constantly - making beds, chatting to small groups of children, finding extra bed linen, doing the rounds of the dormitories, supervising phone calls, ringing parents, making hot drinks, all sorts - even organising a B*op-It championship! It was non-stop but it was also lovely to see the children in a different environment and to be really useful in a different way!)
Today - Alice woke earlier than I wanted (late night after work) and then we went swimming - Alice was as clingy and tearful as the past 2 weeks, but the instructor saw the giggles and silliness after the class so I think that she might be more forceful next week! This afternoon we had a quiet time at home - playing and pl*aydough!
Friday, September 19, 2008
IT'S NOT JUST ME THEN
. . . M (my neighbour who looks after Alice) was here all day today (I was at work). When I got home she said that Boo and Fuss had followed her around all day. I thought that they were even closer to me than usual . . . but then I didn't know whether my behaviour was encouraging it.
This evening they are still close and affectionate and I'm enjoying the change - it's not that they aren't usually close, I suppose D's absence allows them to get closer more easily and they're always affectionate.
I'd told a couple of people from work about D - I didn't want any fuss and I didn't want to talk or explain. Work were great. One colleague insisted on hugging without chatting, the others obviously knew but didn't enquire - it was just what I needed, the hug and the silence. One very good friend who just happens to be a colleague did ask more - she said she couldn't not and I completely understood, I said a bit and cried but it was good, I needed to off-load slightly and she was right to ask - it's how our friendship works.
Getting there slowly . . . now off to hug a dog or 2!
This evening they are still close and affectionate and I'm enjoying the change - it's not that they aren't usually close, I suppose D's absence allows them to get closer more easily and they're always affectionate.
I'd told a couple of people from work about D - I didn't want any fuss and I didn't want to talk or explain. Work were great. One colleague insisted on hugging without chatting, the others obviously knew but didn't enquire - it was just what I needed, the hug and the silence. One very good friend who just happens to be a colleague did ask more - she said she couldn't not and I completely understood, I said a bit and cried but it was good, I needed to off-load slightly and she was right to ask - it's how our friendship works.
Getting there slowly . . . now off to hug a dog or 2!
Friday, September 05, 2008
HARD DAY AND MILESTONES
First day back at work.
I woke 20 minutes before the alarm and so I was up before 6.30am - that's very early for me!! I crept downstairs and got things going, moping up some organisational bits for work, making my packed lunch, sorting out and tidying up. Just after 7am Alice started to squirm, I stayed downstairs and she was settled again within 2 minutes.
I went back upstairs, had a leisurely shower (quite a novelty) and got dressed. Alice slept so I went downstairs for breakfast. I twiddled my thumbs for a while until M came round to look after Alice. Alice began to wake just as I was leaving - at that point I decided to let M get her up as I thought that handing her over just as she woke would be harder on her, but not cuddling her, not telling her that Mummy was going to work, not waving goodbye, not knowing how she'd be without seeing me - was all VERY hard for me.
I try to leave home things at home when I'm working, that was harder than usual today. I don't normally ring, but today I had to know that she was OK. Of course she was fine! She was obviously pleased to see me when I got home and we had a lovely evening. She had a bubble bath tonight and had wonderful fun picking up the bubbles and blowing them away.
She's changing daily, particularly her speech and singing. She's showing more and more enjoyment of songs and singing and will increasingly join in with the words (especially the last word of the line and the verse!) Tonight she sang 'Happy Birthday to Grandpa' and gave his photo a kiss. Today, as everyday, I remember him and tell Alice about him and Granny - she finds their photos and blows kisses. Granny and Grandpa would love her so much and would be so happy to hear her sing and feel her cuddles.
Over the summer Alice outgrew her sleeping bags, even though I had the next size I hung back using them. Tonight Alice tried one of the new ones - cuddly pink jersey, it looked and felt very comfy. Once she was wearing it she lay back on the changing table and pretended to sleep - but got the giggles when Mummy snored for her!! Precious times.
We had lots of kisses and cuddles this evening - to make up for this morning. She knew 'Mummy work' (I had told her last night - which made this morning a little easier), tonight as we cuddled in front of the cot she told me 'Mummy work,' so the cuddles continued a little longer while I repeated several times that I had worked today but not tomorrow and that tomorrow was a Mummy and Alice Home Day. She's very happy at home with M and I enjoy the change of pace and feel refreshed at the time apart, but equally I hate leaving her and being apart from her, even though it's good for both of us!
I woke 20 minutes before the alarm and so I was up before 6.30am - that's very early for me!! I crept downstairs and got things going, moping up some organisational bits for work, making my packed lunch, sorting out and tidying up. Just after 7am Alice started to squirm, I stayed downstairs and she was settled again within 2 minutes.
I went back upstairs, had a leisurely shower (quite a novelty) and got dressed. Alice slept so I went downstairs for breakfast. I twiddled my thumbs for a while until M came round to look after Alice. Alice began to wake just as I was leaving - at that point I decided to let M get her up as I thought that handing her over just as she woke would be harder on her, but not cuddling her, not telling her that Mummy was going to work, not waving goodbye, not knowing how she'd be without seeing me - was all VERY hard for me.
I try to leave home things at home when I'm working, that was harder than usual today. I don't normally ring, but today I had to know that she was OK. Of course she was fine! She was obviously pleased to see me when I got home and we had a lovely evening. She had a bubble bath tonight and had wonderful fun picking up the bubbles and blowing them away.
She's changing daily, particularly her speech and singing. She's showing more and more enjoyment of songs and singing and will increasingly join in with the words (especially the last word of the line and the verse!) Tonight she sang 'Happy Birthday to Grandpa' and gave his photo a kiss. Today, as everyday, I remember him and tell Alice about him and Granny - she finds their photos and blows kisses. Granny and Grandpa would love her so much and would be so happy to hear her sing and feel her cuddles.
Over the summer Alice outgrew her sleeping bags, even though I had the next size I hung back using them. Tonight Alice tried one of the new ones - cuddly pink jersey, it looked and felt very comfy. Once she was wearing it she lay back on the changing table and pretended to sleep - but got the giggles when Mummy snored for her!! Precious times.
We had lots of kisses and cuddles this evening - to make up for this morning. She knew 'Mummy work' (I had told her last night - which made this morning a little easier), tonight as we cuddled in front of the cot she told me 'Mummy work,' so the cuddles continued a little longer while I repeated several times that I had worked today but not tomorrow and that tomorrow was a Mummy and Alice Home Day. She's very happy at home with M and I enjoy the change of pace and feel refreshed at the time apart, but equally I hate leaving her and being apart from her, even though it's good for both of us!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
CATCHING UP
Work - last week I worked Thursday am and all day Friday. Then I went in for the fete on Saturday. This week I worked all day Monday and Thursday am. So in 6 working days I worked more than half of them - it was too much and a fairly gentle way to confirm that my decision to return 1 day a week is sufficient, for now.
Alice - fab as usual but with a few nappy issues that you really don't want to know about.
Me - tired. Itchy hands - that I realised related to using lovely salon products in the shower - it proves that my perfume allergy is still very much present and very sensitive.
Dogs - fine, Daisy's ageing rapidly but still here for now, The Little Ones are great.
Home - messy but lovely, my bedroom's in need of some serious sorting.
So what have we been up to? Most of the usual Mummy and Alice activities, but no music as I've been in school on Thursday mornings. Swimming is going beautifully, Alice smiles and shrieks, such a change! Alice has been at home with M (whilst I'm out) for bits of 3 days this week - she continues to adore M, M is encouraging Alice to count to 5, ride her push trike, name colours and draw with coloured pencils. Alice particularly likes . . .3, 4 . . . yeh-low, buh-lue and back! I went to Uncle M's funeral yesterday but managed to get lost using SatNav between the chapel and the crematorium, oops - luckily as I am close to the family and I was able to contact them before that service started, I think that they forgave me but I still felt awful about it. Today we went to a Play Barn - filled with soft play style activities but almost all of them were too big for Alice, we won't be going back there for another 12-18 months - by then she'll be big enough to enjoy the main play area. We had lunch there before going into the local town for a stroll and a browse, Alice wouldn't nap but slept all the way home in the car before having an early night too!
Alice - fab as usual but with a few nappy issues that you really don't want to know about.
Me - tired. Itchy hands - that I realised related to using lovely salon products in the shower - it proves that my perfume allergy is still very much present and very sensitive.
Dogs - fine, Daisy's ageing rapidly but still here for now, The Little Ones are great.
Home - messy but lovely, my bedroom's in need of some serious sorting.
So what have we been up to? Most of the usual Mummy and Alice activities, but no music as I've been in school on Thursday mornings. Swimming is going beautifully, Alice smiles and shrieks, such a change! Alice has been at home with M (whilst I'm out) for bits of 3 days this week - she continues to adore M, M is encouraging Alice to count to 5, ride her push trike, name colours and draw with coloured pencils. Alice particularly likes . . .3, 4 . . . yeh-low, buh-lue and back! I went to Uncle M's funeral yesterday but managed to get lost using SatNav between the chapel and the crematorium, oops - luckily as I am close to the family and I was able to contact them before that service started, I think that they forgave me but I still felt awful about it. Today we went to a Play Barn - filled with soft play style activities but almost all of them were too big for Alice, we won't be going back there for another 12-18 months - by then she'll be big enough to enjoy the main play area. We had lunch there before going into the local town for a stroll and a browse, Alice wouldn't nap but slept all the way home in the car before having an early night too!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
WORK
I'm back at work. I started the week after half term (first week of June), for now I'm just working 1 day per week. Some people have laughed about it only being 1 day a week. I'm a single parent and with the bonding and attachment issues that can be associated with adoption I hadn't left Alice very often. Returning to work was a big step for me - the first time that I've had to leave Alice and haven't been able to control when I return. It went well - she's delighted to see M when it's a work day but she is also pleased to see me when I get home - the ideal situation.
Last week I worked an extra morning, I also took Alice to school for their fete yesterday.
This week I have a funeral on Friday, so I'm working tomorrow instead, I'm also doing an extra half-day. So in the 5 days from last Thursday I will have been in school for 4 days. For now that's too much, I'm tired (I've still got a day to do tomorrow) and I haven't spent enough time with Alice. I'm actually relieved that it's too much as I've worried that I was not challenging myself enough.
Last week I worked an extra morning, I also took Alice to school for their fete yesterday.
This week I have a funeral on Friday, so I'm working tomorrow instead, I'm also doing an extra half-day. So in the 5 days from last Thursday I will have been in school for 4 days. For now that's too much, I'm tired (I've still got a day to do tomorrow) and I haven't spent enough time with Alice. I'm actually relieved that it's too much as I've worried that I was not challenging myself enough.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
RETURNING TO WORK
I've been very lucky to have had over 11 months off work. I'm going back to work just one day per week for a while.
My first day back was on Friday. I didn't sleep well the night before.
Alice screeched with joy when our next door neighbour M walked in to look after her. I went to work knowing she was happy at home. I had a very good day, it was good to be back at work and feel like a grown up again. It was refreshing to talk to children who showed they understood what I said (I'm a teacher, my class are 8 & 9)!
Work was good. Coming home was great, until I found the house empty - they were in the garden, Alice had the good grace to screech loudly at my return and give me a kiss - she'd had fun without me but was pleased to see me. She'd played hard all day - mostly in the garden, lots of time on the swing, a little bit of water play and also they got the sand table up and running - I think Alice tasted quite a bit as well as smashing the shapes that were made!
Overall it was a refreshing day with good outcomes for both of us, what a relief!!
Unfortunately I had dreadful dreams on Friday - all about losing Alice at the shops or forgetting to take her with me as I moved between shops, no doubt all to do with leaving her for the first full day of work. I've left her before, I'd spent time in work before officially returning, but Friday was the first day when I couldn't have come home when I felt like it. Although I wasn't looking forward to time away from her, it's actually quite refreshing but I don't like handing control of Alice to others - it's not about trust it's about missing time with her.
My first day back was on Friday. I didn't sleep well the night before.
Alice screeched with joy when our next door neighbour M walked in to look after her. I went to work knowing she was happy at home. I had a very good day, it was good to be back at work and feel like a grown up again. It was refreshing to talk to children who showed they understood what I said (I'm a teacher, my class are 8 & 9)!
Work was good. Coming home was great, until I found the house empty - they were in the garden, Alice had the good grace to screech loudly at my return and give me a kiss - she'd had fun without me but was pleased to see me. She'd played hard all day - mostly in the garden, lots of time on the swing, a little bit of water play and also they got the sand table up and running - I think Alice tasted quite a bit as well as smashing the shapes that were made!
Overall it was a refreshing day with good outcomes for both of us, what a relief!!
Unfortunately I had dreadful dreams on Friday - all about losing Alice at the shops or forgetting to take her with me as I moved between shops, no doubt all to do with leaving her for the first full day of work. I've left her before, I'd spent time in work before officially returning, but Friday was the first day when I couldn't have come home when I felt like it. Although I wasn't looking forward to time away from her, it's actually quite refreshing but I don't like handing control of Alice to others - it's not about trust it's about missing time with her.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
TODAY'S NEWS!
I went back to work! For a pre-return-to-work-visit!
I spent the afternoon back at school. I was really nervous - mostly about leaving Alice but also a little about going back to work as there is a new headteacher.
Alice was almost fine - she developed a 'gunky' eye whilst I was away - I checked with the GP's surgery and we are seeing a doc tomorrow morning. In the meantime I'm bathing it with salty water - any other useful tips my bloggy readers??
School was great - the children instantly wanted to know where 'Baby Alice' was, but they were also pleased to see me. It was lovely to be back and I realised that I'd missed it. It was good to find out that it doesn't really change. I spent the afternoon smiling but also thought about Her Majesty very often!!
I'm LOOKING FORWARD to going back in on Friday (didn't think I'd be 'saying' that yet!) and I start properly after half-term - no details published yet as I'm not sure everyone who should knows the details at the moment.
I spent the afternoon back at school. I was really nervous - mostly about leaving Alice but also a little about going back to work as there is a new headteacher.
Alice was almost fine - she developed a 'gunky' eye whilst I was away - I checked with the GP's surgery and we are seeing a doc tomorrow morning. In the meantime I'm bathing it with salty water - any other useful tips my bloggy readers??
School was great - the children instantly wanted to know where 'Baby Alice' was, but they were also pleased to see me. It was lovely to be back and I realised that I'd missed it. It was good to find out that it doesn't really change. I spent the afternoon smiling but also thought about Her Majesty very often!!
I'm LOOKING FORWARD to going back in on Friday (didn't think I'd be 'saying' that yet!) and I start properly after half-term - no details published yet as I'm not sure everyone who should knows the details at the moment.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
FOR THE JUNIORS AT SCHOOL
I will be thinking of you during our journey home. I'm sorry that we will miss 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', break a leg and remember to follow the conductor, I know that it will be excellent and look forward to hearing all about it.
I hope that we will see you on Friday, I expect Alice will be quite grumpy as she will think it's bed-time!
I hope that we will see you on Friday, I expect Alice will be quite grumpy as she will think it's bed-time!
Monday, July 02, 2007
FOR YEAR 3
Thankyou for your message, it was lovely to know that you are thinking of us, I can't wait to introduce you to Alice next Friday (hopefully - as long as we aren't too jetlagged).
I will be posting some pictures of the streets in Kunming, I think it's fascinating to see how some things are the same on the other side of the world and other things are so different!
Please send any questions you have, it's lovely to hear from you!
With love from Miss S and Alice x
I will be posting some pictures of the streets in Kunming, I think it's fascinating to see how some things are the same on the other side of the world and other things are so different!
Please send any questions you have, it's lovely to hear from you!
With love from Miss S and Alice x
Friday, June 22, 2007
WHAT A DAY!
My last day at school, for a while and MAJOR technology problems.
The interactive whiteboard (in the classroom) crashed on me twice before I gave up and went back to old fashioned technology (photocopier!). I then spent 2 hours (and a 40 minute round trip back to the store) for them to tell me the diagram was misleading (took them 20 minutes or so to work that out!), near crash on the way home and now my email etc won't work on my desktop (but the laptop, using the same wireless technology is fine at the moment!!) After that I checked one of my Yahoo groups (after a chat with a friend and reference to emails that I haven't received!) to find that my membership is on hold as my email address is bouncing.
I'm stuck, I don't know how to resolve the desktop problem or the Yahoo Groups problem.
I'm giving up and going to bed, avoiding all technology on the way!!
One positive note - my ITT arrived today, it's official, I can go to China and get my little girl.
The interactive whiteboard (in the classroom) crashed on me twice before I gave up and went back to old fashioned technology (photocopier!). I then spent 2 hours (and a 40 minute round trip back to the store) for them to tell me the diagram was misleading (took them 20 minutes or so to work that out!), near crash on the way home and now my email etc won't work on my desktop (but the laptop, using the same wireless technology is fine at the moment!!) After that I checked one of my Yahoo groups (after a chat with a friend and reference to emails that I haven't received!) to find that my membership is on hold as my email address is bouncing.
I'm stuck, I don't know how to resolve the desktop problem or the Yahoo Groups problem.
I'm giving up and going to bed, avoiding all technology on the way!!
One positive note - my ITT arrived today, it's official, I can go to China and get my little girl.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
TELLING THE PUPILS
. . . earlier this week the children at school were finally told that I would be leaving this week and going to China to adopt my daughter.
Today I had the opportunity to tell them about Whatshername, names and my trip to China. They had lots of thoughtful questions and suggestions for names - they even took a vote, if Year 3 were to choose my daughter would be called Milly!
Today I had the opportunity to tell them about Whatshername, names and my trip to China. They had lots of thoughtful questions and suggestions for names - they even took a vote, if Year 3 were to choose my daughter would be called Milly!
ITTs, AN EXPLANATION!
. . . for those readers in foreign lands:
An ITT is an Invitation To Travel - it's the same as a TA (I think). The ITT permits us to get a visa (though I got mine with a copy of the acceptance letter) and allows the adoption process to happen in China.
It's a great relief to know that it will be in my hands tomorrow. Tomorrow is also my last day in school for a while, I think it could be quite an emotional day!
An ITT is an Invitation To Travel - it's the same as a TA (I think). The ITT permits us to get a visa (though I got mine with a copy of the acceptance letter) and allows the adoption process to happen in China.
It's a great relief to know that it will be in my hands tomorrow. Tomorrow is also my last day in school for a while, I think it could be quite an emotional day!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
11 DAYS
. . . 11 days ago was the day that the cotbed was delivered and assembled, the day I bought the car seat. No time at all.
. . . in 11 days time I will meet my daughter! Butterflies are starting to flutter.
Today was a school day. The children in my class were only told yesterday about the adoption and that I would be leaving on Friday. Today was also my playground duty day - the girls swarmed round me, beaming, they didn't want to 'talk' just to be close, it was very sweet. I've told the whole class that I'll take the photos in tomorrow and tell them all about her, as soon as I started talking about it they had lots of questions! It was lovely to know that they knew - I've been waiting to tell them ever since I knew about Whatshername!
I finish work on Friday. 2 more days to go.
Thinking about what's going to happen in China. I turn up, present a special piece of paper and my passport and they give me my daughter. Then we're together, forever. There's more paperwork to do after that, but Whatshername will be with me for all of that. It will take about 9 days to complete all the paperwork and then we'll be on our way home.
Meantime, 21 days til we're home. 3 weeks to go. 3 weeks ago was half term, a busy day with lunch with friends (D & A - Whatshername's first friend) and supper with other friends. Even 3 weeks doesn't seem that long ago - I think the next 3 weeks will seem a lot longer!
. . . in 11 days time I will meet my daughter! Butterflies are starting to flutter.
Today was a school day. The children in my class were only told yesterday about the adoption and that I would be leaving on Friday. Today was also my playground duty day - the girls swarmed round me, beaming, they didn't want to 'talk' just to be close, it was very sweet. I've told the whole class that I'll take the photos in tomorrow and tell them all about her, as soon as I started talking about it they had lots of questions! It was lovely to know that they knew - I've been waiting to tell them ever since I knew about Whatshername!
I finish work on Friday. 2 more days to go.
Thinking about what's going to happen in China. I turn up, present a special piece of paper and my passport and they give me my daughter. Then we're together, forever. There's more paperwork to do after that, but Whatshername will be with me for all of that. It will take about 9 days to complete all the paperwork and then we'll be on our way home.
Meantime, 21 days til we're home. 3 weeks to go. 3 weeks ago was half term, a busy day with lunch with friends (D & A - Whatshername's first friend) and supper with other friends. Even 3 weeks doesn't seem that long ago - I think the next 3 weeks will seem a lot longer!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
THE ADDED BONUS
The last day of term is a Monday.
We're going to have 3 additional twilight sessions (2 hours each) to make up for the day - so term will finish on the Friday.
I don't work on a Monday. I won't be at work by the end of term.
So surely I shouldn't have to attend the twilight sessions, for a day that I don't work at a time when I'll be on leave? AND on the day I become a Mummy.
Dream on!
Didn't leave school til 6pm.
Life's not fair, do I mind? Nah, it doesn't really seem important!!
We're going to have 3 additional twilight sessions (2 hours each) to make up for the day - so term will finish on the Friday.
I don't work on a Monday. I won't be at work by the end of term.
So surely I shouldn't have to attend the twilight sessions, for a day that I don't work at a time when I'll be on leave? AND on the day I become a Mummy.
Dream on!
Didn't leave school til 6pm.
Life's not fair, do I mind? Nah, it doesn't really seem important!!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
1st MARCH
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