The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Mother

For the last year, since acquiring her driver's permit, all Savannah has talked about was getting a car when she turned 16. John said he would try, but let's get real, although every parent may want to meet their child's heart's desire, it isn't always possible or in their best interest. Her argument has been that Bailey got a car. My argument, he was 17 not 16, and my dad gave it to him, not me and John. Argument null and void! Lorelei had the idea we could still get her a "car". It is certainly a "car" but maybe just not what Savannah had in mind. She woke to the traditionally decorated table and family room, ready to open her "gift"! John had the added idea to wrap a set of keys. As funny and clever as we thought we were, Savannah was NOT amused! After the initial disappointment, she did admit to it being a little funny and she would definitely laugh about it later in life, looking back on her Sweet 16. Savannah was

The first week of summer is complete. It began with a true milestone event, Bailey's high school graduation. He had rehearsal first thing Monday morning. He went with friends. They grabbed breakfast, headed downtown and then back to a friend's house after to hang out for a bit. He called for ride home, since he had carpooled and hadn't driven himself. He wanted some downtime before the actual ceremony. Around 4:00 o'clock (mind you, we had to leave at 5:00 to get downtown), Bailey announced he wasn't going to his graduation. I'm not sure what changed or happened, but what I do know about Bailey is this: he hates crowds, he hates being the center of attention, he hates ceremonial traditions just for the sake of traditions. I was still shocked! I told him had he asked me two weeks ago if he could skip it, I might have been able to deal a bit better...but waiting till an hour before? After lots of talking, a bit of mommy guilt and some tears, he decided to go. He w

I still can't exactly wrap my head around the idea that another school year is done. I know for sure I can wrap my head around the fact that the last Boyen is leaving Carson Elementary, and I will be all alone next year. For the past 10 years at least one (usually more), of my own children have been at school with me. Today was the Promotion Ceremony for Lorelei as a student, and me as a teacher. Planning this ceremony stresses me out just a bit, but it came together beautifully again this year. The 5th grade festivities actually began last Friday, June 1 with an amazing Carnival. Promotion rehearsal with Bailey. He accompanied our music teacher and the students, on viola. It was a nice, personal touch. Jonas got to skip his last day to be part of Lorelei's special day. We stopped for a morning treat at Starbucks of course! Savannah couldn't join us because she had finals. I missed Lorelei walking up! I was too busy being a teacher, not so much in th