Sweet Betty I am struggling to keep up with life as we round the bend toward the end of summer.
Kindergarten hasn’t even begun yet and I am already worn out by it. Seriously what the hell is up with school supplies? How is it possible that my child does NOT need pencils for school, but she DOES need paper plates, plastic baggies (two sizes) and baby wipes. Sounds more like a meth lab than a classroom. I bought the pencils anyway, because even a meth lab needs good writing utensils to track production and purchase orders. That’s how you buy drugs, right? Fill out a purchase order?
We went to a kindergarten kick-off play date the other night and I naively told the PTA president that I might be interested in joining. I don’t know what’s gotten into me, but I think it might be my new Mom Hair.
Speaking of which, I gave my family the big middle finger and got another haircut tonight. That’s right, bishes. CUT IT MOAR. This version is actually shorter than the first one. So short, in fact, that my stylist had to shave my neck, which I swore I would never again allow. Bzzzz. My husband and daughter have both already made negative comments about it, so I think I’ll return tomorrow and get the sides shaved. Bzzzz. DO NOT PROVOKE ME.
I am actually looking forward to the structure and routine that kindergarten will bring to our lives. Don’t tell anyone, but for the past year and a half, I have not set my alarm clock. Not once. And it has been the greatest year of my life. Not just because of the alarm clock thing (although c’mon, that’s been rad). It’s been amazing to spend this time with my kids and just live life day by day.
I’ve discovered that I’m pretty good at living in the moment. When I had a crazy job with high demands, I often assumed I was a Type A personality. Because that’s what it takes to live that lifestyle. Go go go!
But as it turns out, I think I am more of a B-/C+ personality. I don’t really mind if I don’t shower. I enjoy wearing the same two outfits all week. No stress! I rarely have a plan for the day when I wake up. Many days I don’t even know what I’m making for dinner until 4:30. As my husband can attest, it shows.
I have been riding the wave and loving it, but I must admit that I’m ready for a bit more discipline in my life again. So I’ve been on an organizational bender, buying new calendars, storage bins, and alas – using my alarm clock again. I’m learning how to pack lunches (how many PB&J’s can a child eat in a week before she OD’s?) and heaven forbid, I even made a casserole earlier this week AND FROZE AN EXTRA ONE FOR LATER. BAM! Suck it, Martha.
I have no doubt that I will crash and burn by the end of Week 1 once school starts. But at least I’m going into with some momentum and a hairstyle that says, “My child is an honor student.” Or maybe, “I have 50 cats under my bed.” Whatever. I need to stop blogging now – only 6 hours until my alarm goes off!
Banana Wheels 
I used to be a teacher- and the whole hoopla over school supplies is insane. Over here- I barely heard a peep about back to school- nothing with supplies, no commercials, and come to think of it I didn’t even see a display. Makes you wonder who is pushing all of that stuff…. and good luck to you! Routines are so hard to get back into. Getting the crew back to school hasn’t been easy- but I find that they actually go to bed at night- and stay there. well, at least more than they did over the summer 🙂
Back to school is definitely a racket. It’s like the unofficial 5th season of the year.
You’re lucky your kid goes to a school where they allow peanut butter. The official OD numbers on sunbutter are higher. Three SB&J a week, tops.
I have purchased a PB alternative just in case. Then I can alternate between PB and SB and tell myself she is getting a variety.
Variety and protein and fat and calcium and…couple of different jams and honey, you have lunches for the whole year and won’t feel bad.
Sliced cheese and hummus is a big favorite over here. Similarly easy, similarly protein-laden.
Baaahahaha! This post made me laugh so hard 🙂 I always thought I was ridiculously type a so would hate staying home as a mom…turns out I’m more type a-. Still a, but chill enough to love the days at home with her beyond reason 🙂
I still have occasional Type A tendencies. I think at this point I’ve just realized they are futile when I’m home with two kids who don’t give a hoot about my agenda. 🙂
I was SO meant to be a lady of leisure, never setting an alarm clock, going with the flow. My husband doesn’t quite see it that way.
Lady of Leisure. I’m going to put that on my Linked In profile.
We are THE SAME PERSON. I’m having fantasies about doing all the laundry on the weekend and planning out everyone’s outfits for the week so there’s no arguing or digging through laundry baskets. I give it a week.
Separated at birth.
I think I’m in love with you already… and I’ve only read this single post! The kicker, “Talk to me, Goose.” I can’t wait to snoop around your blog… I didn’t even see the mom hair yet…
I don’t even know who you are anymore. An alarm clock? This is getting serious.
Also…GO! MOM! HAIR!
P.S. Please help me bring mom jeans back.
Wait. Are mom jeans not in style? Crap.
My husband kept wondering what was wrong with me when I’d snort or giggle out loud while reading this post. You’re freaking hilarious. I love your blog so much I nominated you for an award! You can see it here: http://www.happyasjustamom.com/im-shinin/
I just helped take my grandson to kindergarten, and after shopping for supplies, was given an additional list by the teacher. Wow, there is no more glue in my town! I cannot believe how much stuff the kids need, either. At least he needed pencils.