Nice post, Sarah. The fact that you are wondering, I think, shows that you are a good mom.

Laura, you're doing a fine job and keep it up. I still have to remind my ten and seven year old. Many times they remember with other people, just not with me. I remember both my kids taking a breather from politeness during their third years. I think they were testing their limits (and mine). Good luck!

Great post, Florinda. I like to vary my volunteering. Sometimes I'm in charge of something and sometimes I volunteer to be a worker bee. Both positions give me perspective and ideas. I honestly don't know if all my volunteering will help me get a job when and if I re-enter the work force, but I feel enriched by doing it and my kids love when they get to see me at school. If I ever feel put upon be a certain position, I can step back or ask for help. I'm glad you helped out on this project. It's more beneficial to you and the group when you volunteer for something you are actually interested in. Thanks for the link by the way.

Excellent post, Kim! I often find my anger buttons pushed more easily when I am sleep deprived. Thank you for this. It's a nice reminder. May you always have unblemished walls in your new home.

April, You are teaching your children well. It's too bad that the counselor did not think of the long term consequences, but wonderful that you do, everyday, in your active parenting. It's exhausting on all levels, but so well worth it. Great post.

Ciaran - Nice, honest post. I consider myself an optimist. I am East Coast born and bred. I had a hard time saying "no" long before I stepped forth on California soil (20 years ago). It's just part of my personality. I also make it a point to honor my commitments. Again, part of my personality. I have been the victim of a California "flake off" on occasion, though and I definitely see the value of kvetching. It's like little earthquakes. We need them to stave off a big one from occurring.

Nice post, Florinda.

Thanks, Karen. It was fun to write.

As a mother of a ten year-old boy, I get where you are coming from on this. I don't think the ability to judge character is quite "there" at this age and parental guiding, if not steering, is par for the course. If our children understand our values and what we hope (not necessarily want) for them, they will consider them as they age and make their choices. My mom never came out and told me she disliked a friend of mine, but she definitely gave off a vibe. That vibe certainly helped me assess character as I grew up. Nice post, Melissa.

Great post, Kim. So true and a good reminder.

Laura, You've articulated so well on paper what I've felt in my heart and thought in my head. Thank you. Great post.

Thank you Alexandra.

Hey I could have written this post...I was a paragraph in when I realized I was the sister you referred to in the second sentence. I feel fortunate that I can see the television from the kitchen and can monitor what is being watched fairly easily. I'm lucky that my kids gravitate toward the funny rather than the violence (even if it is cartoon violence, it's still violence). The whole Tom & Jerry attraction thing is strange to me however. I just don't get it.

Thanks so much, Lori.

So true, Laura. Santa Barbara is definitely one of my favorite California cities.

Great post, Stacy!

Me too, Erin.

April, Our school has a read-a-thon which is an awesome fundraiser. The PTA also provides a buy-out option on the Sees Candy Fundraiser since some families just want to donate. They also have held a very successful Family-Fun Night which includes a silent auction, carnival games, cake walk, basket raffle, and a bail your teacher out of jail event. It was a lot of fun...but also a lot of work. Thanks for the comment. Teresa

Well said, Carrie!

I think that you are running a vegetable garden at the school is fantastic, Melissa. Thanks for your thoughts.

Thanks, Florinda.

I read your link Deborah and your post is excellent. The banning is just such a bone of contention to me for several different reasons. I also agree that there are plenty of alternatives to get the kids more active AT school.

Erin, I took over as library chair of our PTA last year when it was announced that our district librarians would be let go...because a school library IS essential. I was prepared to give up a lot to run it as a volunteer. Luckily, I was only a bench warmer and our librarian was hired back for most of her original hours three weeks into the school year. I hope that they won't get laid off again this year. Great post.