The boys started school today.  I got to go to Target alone and take my time (and time, I did take).  While debating whether or not to get my nails done, I went to Hastings to get a chai tea latte and muffin for breakfast.  Decided not to get my nails done, but to go to Home Depot’s garden center to see if something made me want to get my hands dirty.  No such luck, though I did get some ideas for fall/winter landscaping (remember, I’m in Texas LOL). Am now thinking about running out to enroll the boys in the Tae Kwon Do lessons that will be starting here shortly.  They’re definitely going to need activity since there aren’t any particularly active activities at school (unfortunately…).

Still need to drop off the boys’ immunization records and curriculum fees.  The school was a mad house this morning and parents all over were wide-eyed and shaking their heads.  It was so disorganized and the staff seemed ill-prepared.  The school was a private, faith-based school last year and was approved for Charter status over the summer (which also means no more faith teachings, sadly).  I know there will be bumps as they begin this journey, but I’m hoping the bumps are few and far between.  We really loved the school last year - the staff was all wonderful, save for one condescending individual who was easily dealt with (just smile and nod, Steph, just smile and nod…).  Unfortunately, that attitude seemed to be everywhere today as we were helping the boys get situated.  In fact, while inquiring as to where we should take our children (no signs, only adults shouting in a large, echoing gymnasium along with what sounded like a million children), one lady told us in an incredibly inappropriate tone that we would have learned that at the open house…did we go? No? Well, the date was posted on the website…”  Actually, ma’am, the date wasn’t posted on the website, I check the website weekly for updates, I did not encounter a “Meet and Greet” notice.  Nor did we receive a letter, an e-mail, a phone call, or any other form of communication with this information.  I don’t appreciate a raised eyebrow and a shrug as you turn away, thankyouverymuch.  Being one to “pick my battles,” I did not think this warranted a fight and I would have walked away to cool off and possibly bring it up with higher-level administration.  However, my far more tactful husband, pulled up the website on his iPhone and meekly asked her to please point us to the information we so clearly overlooked.  She tried.  About three times on that screen to find the info and couldn’t.  Why?  Because it’s not there.  Just as fast as the apology escaped her lips, she backtracked by saying, “Well…nearly everyone attended…”  That’s great, but I’d like to know how they were informed and we were not.

Let me state that it wasn’t a big deal to us at all until she treated us like we were stupid.  What made it more of a big deal was that it was in front of our children.  We make a point to be active in their education and we have high social standards for responsibility, accountability, and respect.  We humbly asked for direction so we could assume responsibility for getting our children to the places they needed to be (an intentional lesson taught to them via observation - there is no fear necessary when trying to be responsible for oneself) and she is illustrating to them exactly how people should not treat each other by taking a tone and attitude that, yes, a child would have immediately shut down upon receiving.   I’m just sad that the boys were gone by the time The Man got to illustrate to HER exactly how adults should treat each other.  He was so kind and so gentle about it and I walked away feeling validated by my husband’s gentle strength instead of angry and hurt and resentful and doubting (that would have lasted the rest of the day and then whenever I encountered this woman).  Well, I have to admit, I am a little doubtful after this morning, but I am hoping and praying for the best.  I know that we have options and that’s a good mental place to be in.

I’m also grateful that I was able to learn a lesson by observation this morning on how I should be standing up for myself.  I tend to “pick my battles” very carefully because I do realize I have a very strong and sometimes cutting personality that can sometimes make things worse if the conflicting personality is just as abrupt or less receptive than myself.  I like that I am blunt, don’t mince words, and people know where I stand.  I strive to do this in a matter-of-fact, void of extreme emotion, and respectful manner.  However, and I’m merely being honest, it is not worth my own time to try to gain the respect of someone who clearly judged me in an instant with their own lack of respect for whatever reason (and no, I wasn’t in my pajamas or sweats - I looked respectable with hair and makeup done and jewelry).  That my husband would seek to offer her some “enlightenment” after this means the world to me and he, truly, saved my day.  I get inwardly bent out of shape over these things.  Very anxious inside and disappointed with humanity and because of him, I’m enjoying my own little celebration day (celebration that I made it through the summer with both boys at home, locked INSIDE due to the ridiculous 100+ degree weather).  Love, love, love.

This year will be good regardless of what happens with that school.  Oh, and I don’t believe I’ve written about our updated plans for after military separation (which I imagine will probably be around January)!  That’s a whole other entry, but I will say…Tennessee has topped Alaska in our location choices…  :)  More on that later!  Lots new, unforeseen doors opening up and lots of excitement.