Welcome back!
Seven year olds are shining this week. First I shared Eco-Warrior, Luka, with wise words about saving our environment. Today, my own daughter is up with life saving words for the spirit.
You see, last night I learned that my husband’s teaching job is not “ready” for him yet. He was to come back on board next week as a science teacher with IQ Academy, an excellent, free, virtual academy for grades 6 – 12 through Evergreen School District in Washington state. He had a great time working with them last semester teaching Biology and Forensic Science, and has eagerly anticipated meeting the kids joining up for this school year.
Granted, the half-time position he was offered last month started with 100 students, but we knew that his work and benefits would increase as more students join up.
Turns out that enrollments are happening, but with other contracted teachers in line ahead of him, he has just……are you ready?……
TWO students at the moment.
Yes, this is enough to begin supplementary work, but not enough for the half-time contract we were anticipating. And the paychecks for local substitute teaching and tutoring work in September are slated for the end of October. So there might not by any paycheck at all for October.
Did I mention we just made a major household move and I haven’t had time to get my new counseling practice in Chelan off the ground yet?
What’s a mama to do?
I slept a bit, woke up early, and had a hard time convincing myself to get out of bed. When I did, I decided to fess up to my kids, especially my seven year old. I decided she needed to know why I am moody, and that it isn’t because of her.
I explained that I was sad, and scared, because the job we were counting on for Daddy wasn’t quite there yet. I told her we will make it through somehow, but that this feels difficult right now. And as she was sitting up above me on the arm of the sofa, I ignored all my internal rules about not turning to my children for comfort, laid my head on her lap….and cried.
And this child of mine, whose very birth sent me into postpartum depression, said this:
Believe in yourself.
Believe in God.
Know the good things will happen.
It may take a few days, or a few weeks, or even a few months, but it will happen.
And Mommy, you just need to put yourself inside other people who have lots of money, and imagine that for you.
When I told her I didn’t know how she got to be so smart, she said, I just imagined in my head what will help, and it came to me.
And then she prayed.
So for all of you who are having a rough time right now, listen to my daughter.
You just have to believe, and it will happen. And imagine yourself inside someone who is having the experience you want to have.
Please know, if you are going through postpartum depression, the very child whose birth triggered your hormonal and emotional storm could be giving you magnificent advice one day, not too long from now.
Also, if you have a Middle or High School student in Washington state (or know someone who does), encourage them to sign up with IQ Academy, get a free laptop, and ask for a science class with Mr. Wentz.
Finally, if you have words of wisdom from children in your life, do share by commenting on this blog. I may include them in a future post as a junior guest blogger 
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What a stunningly beautiful girl you have! Its so easy to underestimate childrens’ wisdom and sense of what’s right in the world. I’ve always been afraid of appearing too vulnerable in front of Luca, but you have shown me that I should not try and ‘box’ it up and keep a stiff upper-lip. Kids know when things aren’t right anyway and by showing them how you feel, it doesn’t mean you’re asking them to solve the problem. Thank you for giving me the inspiration to be more honest in front of my child.
So grateful if our situation can help you in any way! This level of honesty may not work for everyone, but it’s what I needed to do to be in integrity with myself and my children.
Hugs,
Christy
Great site, how do I subscribe?
Hi Kelli, Thanks for your comment! You can subscribe by clicking on the “sign up” link right underneath the title of blog post at the top of the home page. Let me know if you have any trouble with it and I’ll guide you through.
Warmly, Christy