How Does Survival Look?

For all intents and purposes, we have survived the first 3 weeks of my return to graduate school. Whew. Now only 13 semesters, 12 weeks to go! This week went better than the first two. Week One was simple as far as classes went. I had to do nothing except show up. The kids took it hard, though, despite our working on preparing them for the transition. And Brian had some struggles. Being with the kids and wholly responsible for their supper/evening play/bedtime routine was a bit tough on him.

The second week was a bit more difficult. I wasn't able to get all of my reading and written responses done, which wasn't the way I wanted to start. I actually told Brian at one point that I'm not sure this is a good idea, though we both agree that it is. I know that it's the best choice, but convincing myself of that can be difficult.

Week 3 was better - not stellar, but better. There are a few issues still to work out. First, the University of Louisville uses a system called blackboard, that I'm assuming most schools probably use in one form or another now. Professors can post readings there, rather than requiring texts. I don't like it. For starters, if I'm going to read 5 chapters of a book, I'd rather just buy the book. (I suppose one way to solve this problem is to ask professors about it at the beginning of class, since the readings aren't really marked on the syllabus to say the source.) Plus, some of the readings are images scanned, which is horrible for trying to print at home on an ink jet printer, which means I need to go to the library and pay to make copies. I'm back to wanting just to buy the book - easier, and in all cases, not more expensive.

Second is that Brian and I have to get things together more when it comes to week night meals. This isn't all a school issue. Kate has gymnastics on Monday; both have dance on Tuesday; Jayden has soccer on Friday. We're just really, freakin' busy. We've been eating out too much, which we can't afford now that I'm in school, and we've been eating too many convenience foods.

The third problem I want to work on this week is making sure I have a clear plan for each day, especially when it comes to the kids' activities. We're having too much downtime, which for Jayden translates into meltdowns. For Kate it means messes. I mean, if there's nothing to do, why not fill the bathroom sink with water and make an ocean?