New School Year

 So, yeah...

I've debated deleting this blog, but I can't bear to do that. First and foremost, this space is for me to journal what we've been up to as a family. Even though the kids are 20, 17, and 10 (and I am now a single mom), there's no reason why I still can't do that. 

What better way to restart this blog by beginning with a new school year?

Let's start with my youngest kid, Jocelyn (aka Kai). They are 10 and a half now, going on 20 some days, thanks to the influence of teen siblings. Like most 5th graders, they are transitioning from little elementary school kid to big middle school adolescent. Its the time that kids struggle with finding their identity and place in the world. 

Best friends Kayla and Alba aren't in their class this year. That leaves Kai a bit ambivalent towards her 5th grade year. I'm hoping that they will add to their friendship circle instead of being sad they aren't with their besties. 

Jayce is SUPER pumped for his SENIOR year!! Last year of high school for my baby boy! (I was informed that I am not allowed to call him my "baby boy" any more) but shh.... don't tell! This semester Jayce has US Government, Honors Physics, Chorus, and English IV. 

Jayce drives himself to school, works 2-3 shifts a week at the local Subway restaurant, and is going to apply to Clemson, Wofford, USC Upstate, and FAU. He's quite the computer networker and is learning some programming languages. 

Jaina, 20 now, hasn't quite decided if she is going to return to college at some point or not. She currently runs two businesses from home: Finley and Friends Pet Sitting Services and Dizzy Doo Designs on Etsy. She's definitely a Staska... we may like being our own bosses!

Just FYI, that was a RARE pic of my oldest child smiling AND not covering her face! She absolutely hates pictures and dislikes having her image on Social Media. Glad she doesn't read my blog!

As for me, I'm about to enter my 4th year as a preschool teacher at First Presbyterian Weekday School. This year I'm working as a 2K teacher and I couldn't be more excited! Being a preschool teacher is such a wonderful feeling. It's definitely the occupation for me!

I'm also about to start my 12th year as a family photographer. WHAT??!!! 

More updates to come!