I Can Do It!

I never graduated from college.  I did take a few classes at a local community college when I lived in New York, but I never did get a degree.  Looking back, I wish I had finished, but it just wasn't meant to be for me.  I think about going back to school sometimes, but then the thought of having to fit classes, and homework, and writing papers into my already busy schedule makes me think twice about it.

I am sure I could do it, though, if I really wanted to.  I mean, I have done so many things I didn't think I would ever do in the past year and a half, (like getting a job, driving, being a single mom who does it all!) why shouldn't I attempt to go back to school?  I mean, my kids are old enough that they do not need constant supervision, though Brandi still can not stay home alone.  I find time most days to be on Facebook and pinterest, so who is to say that I couldn't find time to do homework? Attending classes might be a challenge, but they offer so many courses online these days, I am sure I could find time for that, too.

I was never good at writing papers, though,  I would hate to have someone else write custom term papers for me, but if it's acceptable, why not?  We could all use a little help every now and again.

My mom was about my age when she went back to school and became a nurse.  My sister, who works full time and has two small children, is currently in school.  If they can do it, I'm sure I can, too.

Back To School Time

My kids go back to school in about a month, and I have already started searching the stores for their school supplies.  Last night I bought a few things for Brandi. For some reason, the closer it gets to school starting, the harder it is to find composition notebooks.  I remember one year waiting until the last minute to get the kids supplies, and we could not find composition notebooks anywhere.  I finally ended up buying them at a grocery store for about $3 each, which was crazy.  So, last night, when I saw them at Walmart for fifty cents, I bought a bunch of them.

My kids are older now, so their supply lists have changed.  I no longer have to supply their classrooms with baggies and tissues.  Those things have been replaced with scientific calculators and three ring binders, which happen to be way more expensive.  I don't remember having to buy so many supplies when I was in school.  All I needed was a pen and a notebook for each class and I was set.

Ryan is taking drivers education first semester, which is going to cost me some money.  He's also going to be going to the trade school again second semester.  I'm not sure exactly what he is taking there, though I am pretty sure it has something to do with cars. I wish he was taking the construction course, because that class actually builds a house, complete with composite shutters and vinyl siding.  They have the kids do all the electrical work, too.  When the house is complete, they are able to sell it.  Pretty cool, right?

What I Stress About

So, I know the kids haven't been out of school for too long, but I am already stressing them going back.  I don't know yet what I am going to do with Brandi between her getting out of school and the older kids getting home.  She has made a few friends in the complex, so I might see if I can get one of the mom's to keep her for that hour.  They also have a few after school programs I am going to look into.  I just need to find one that isn't very expensive.  Free would be perfect, but we all know that these days, nothing is free.

I am also worried about getting all their school supplies.  I am doing good paying my bills every month, but all the extras have been cut out, and unfortunately, there is no extra money for anything.  I know I can find coupons online which can help with the cost of some things, and I love the Savings.com deals.  I asked the kids dad to buy their book bags, so that is one less thing I will have to worry about.  My mom also offered to help me a little bit.  I am so lucky to have such supportive family around me.