Happy Tuesday!

Today started off with a meeting and in that meeting I won a $100 gift card to Wal-Mart! Hello awesome!

Then we had the dreaded 2 hour early dismissal day (we have them all week...). Students who are constantly surrounded by chaos really attach to routine. My kids could tell you our schedule in their sleep. I drill it in them, so they are always aware of what the day entails. Never a day goes by that I do not discuss our schedule in Morning Meeting. On days that there are changes, we discuss it at least 7,909 times. They are usually okay with it when I give them ample warning. For a week now, we have talked about how this week is going to be a little different, as we are leaving school 2 hours early. I even asked for their input on what we should do and when (of course, I made it seem like they were in control-- I really was.).

I thought they were totally ready for the change in schedule. Turns out, they weren't. The number of times I heard, "This is NOT what we do now!" or "What are we doing next?" and just plain tears? Approximately 9,873.

So now? I'm going to continue drilling in the new schedule in hopes that by Friday we'll accept the changes. Of course, that will be when we have to get ready to go back to our regular schedule.

And through this? I've learned that no matter how hard you try and prepare yourself for something new, it's always a little tough getting used to a "new normal". As much as I think I can't relate to my kids. I totally can. I'm getting used to a new normal. And sometimes? I want to scream and cry. But, being a responsible adult, I have to put on my big girl panties and accept the changes, accept the new normal, and take it all in stride, with a smile on my face and lots and lots of patience.