Mommy is not...

I think I have a problem.  To start, the feminist inside me is screaming that I've gone wrong.  This morning while the Babe was getting ready for school, I asked her to pick up a tissue next to her garbage can and throw it out.  She said, "No, that's your job.".  No!  "Moms are maids".  No!!!!  She repeated this.  If she was a little bit older and bigger, all services provided by this mom would come to a screeching halt.  However, child services would come knocking on my door.  And I can't stop caring for my child, no matter how wrong and obnoxious her statement might be.  As my sister helpfully suggested, the bucket and rag needs to come out.  A little Cinderella time?  Or perhaps a reality check.  New season, new school year, new chores.  Let's start with making her own bed, putting away any clothes lying around, clearing the dinner table, and picking up her play room.  She does these things sometimes, but not always.  Well, Mommy the Maid is also Mommy the Boss.  The Boss is making a list. 

School Days

We're just finishing off our second week of first grade.  There are definitely differences from first grade.  The Babe is adjusting to the change in classmates.  I haven't been in the classroom yet to volunteer, so I haven't met many of the kids, and unable to observe the personalities like I was able to last year.  I hear about various kids, and suspect I know who she most dislikes and most likes.  There are still some new names I hear about randomly.  All in all, she seems to be doing well.

One thing I'm proud of is she's learning to advocate for herself.  This week they had class pictures taken.  She observed those ahead of her, and when it was her turn, she asked the photographer not to touch her since she has allergies.  Good for her.  This person probably touched dozens of kids, and who knows what else, before it was the Babe's turn. 

And while there is a lot the Babe misses out on or must avoid, one benefit this year is lunch in the library.  She's been allowed to pick a different classmate each day who has brought their lunch from home to join her in the library for lunch.  They can observe the librarian or the computer specialist teaching, or have the library all to themselves.  Its a unique experience.  Thus far its been very positive.  The ones who have joined us seem to enjoy themselves.  Its a nice change from the lunchroom that is very loud and distracting. 

While I hoped to pursue some form of employment outside the home this year, I realize it would be a challenge since I'm constantly running back and forth from school.  Another year, but in the meantime, I get to know the school staff better, and forge better relationships that improve the Babe's situation.  Hopefully when she's older she'll look back and appreciate our special time together.