Saturday, 27 April 2013

28 April 2013

A few weeks since the last post; and once again busy weeks have been and busy weeks ahead.  Visits to Dr for vaccinations, school and assignment deadlines, homework and outings with parents, friend engagements and housework seem to fill up the time.

The weather has been wonderful here over the last few weeks, too.  Sunny Autumn days and chilly nights have set in; with a toll on health and well-being.  The change just creeped in and took us off guard for a day or two.  Diabetes levels are now back on track... it is hard to ask a teenager to get rugged up, put on socks and slippers in the house to protect against cold wooden floors; however a trip to St Vincent de Paul did help as a used leather jacket was acquired.  It looks very good; vintage and warm.  A pleasing purchase.

This term an English novel is being read - a classic - The Outsiders by SE Hinton.  Great story for boys.  Pony-boy, my favourite character I hope will enlighten the reader in this instance to plights that challenge the young at heart to follow their heart.  The assignment, which is still on its way, will engage conversation at home I hope.  I look forward to literary conversation with my children and have commenced with the daughter - who at the moment is reading (the play) "Hating Alison Ashley" - another "classic" by "Robin Klein".  I also remember reading this book (for fun in my day; now it is studied!)

Although school marks were on par with what was being rewarded last year, at the recent interviews with teachers, and as a mother, I was a little upset.  More attention in the future will be given to the presentation of assignment work, to boost communication marks and scores.  The sight of the previous mathematics assignment was not pretty, and yes, understandably a "C" standard... so the obvious response to our question "How can we transfer the grades to an "A" standard" included:  writing neatly, crossing out errors as shown in class, present in a nice folder, readable working and markings that look like breakfast was spilled on the submission need not be present.   Reprint the task sheet and rewrite your work if necessary.  I was pleased to learn that manners are in check and homework is being done.

On a more personal note I feel bad - music is the highlight and the world at the moment; and one that I should embrace... I think I may have to invest in singing lessons.  I won't say anymore.  Guitar playing is exceptional; and improving out of sight.  Music classes are being rewarded with the A's.

Not quite military; but the bedroom is tidier each morning the threat of cleaning charge has worked!!! OK the bed is roughly made and things are in their place.... I am able to organise a vacuum if necessary.  Organisation and preparation for the next day is on the agenda over the next few weeks.  Although there is no excuse in timing, it is just a matter of checking...

1440 x 16 days = 23.040

best moment: "Thanks Mum" after acquiring gorgeous leather jacket from St Vinnies
aha moment:  Mum, I could write songs instead of play them ...
teaching time:  Song writing would be a wonderful job; look into it and see who has been successful.  The Voice has brought many conversations like this into our home over the last two weeks.  Thank you. 


1, 951 200  - 23, 040 = 1 928 160 minutes.

Thursday, 11 April 2013

12 April 2013

What a month - finishing off assignments, studying for tests and exams, and we are now at the end of the two week holiday break.  A nice beginning to the study ahead for next term.

School is out - holidays begin and what to do.  The first few days relaxing - BNE weather was not really kind for outdoor kids; so it was screen viewing (iCarly mainly) - which is not only entertaining, but I guess it provides both the children with some laughs and humour.  I don't mind in between house jobs walking past and seeing the antics of iCarly's brother, Spencer; who, when asking the children at dinner one night I learned was their favourite character, too.

Ukulele and Guitar practice of all kinds, acoustic, electric, electric acoustic and bass has been occurring.  Reading music pages from the newspaper has been occurring and so has watching a bit of MTV.  The Voice - Australia's talent show has begun too; and thank goodness we are able to tape it and this can be the viewing on weekends during the term.

Not alot of movie choices these school holidays - and there has been a movie date with Dad - which is nice to see and hear about.  GI Joe?

The school reports came home too over the holidays and we are all pleased with efforts this term.  There has not been any slipping down; and yes, there is annoyance from the teenager that I am intending to speak with the Maths and English teachers.  Well.... he wants an "A" and is getting B+'s.  What does he need to do to reach the A Level?  That is my only question; and it is important that all stakeholders hear the response of the teacher.

We have a special birthday this weekend - a toddler little sister who is 2.  Our little miracle and wonderful companion on this journey.  Someone to remind us all what life is all about.  Wishing a wonderful weekend on us all; and the coming term to be just as eventful and full of surprise; and expectations.

1440 x 35 days = 50,400

best moment:  Relaxing at home after a long, hard working term
aha moment:  Reading the newspaper and it is really interesting
teaching time:  OK - a messy teenage boy room is not nice to see; until I mentioned that I will be charging $20 per hour to clean - now it is GREAT!  


2,001,600  - 50,400 = 1 951 200 minutes.