Even though I saw the kids less this week than usual, I am exhausted! They went to horse riding camp for Thursday, Friday and Saturday. They came back every day happy but tired. Now when Arley complains about sweeping under the dining room table every night (his job), I let him know that I watched him shovel horse poo for half an hour, three days in a row - I know he can sweep for five minutes. It doesn't stop him from complaining though!
The kids also spent a day with their Lolo, and they spent today at PEAK holiday care. They were super happy to go today because there was a petting zoo there. So, I have had lots of kid-free time, which I have put to good use. I have started the paintings for my 2020 show, but sadly I am way behind already. My deadline is really tight, but I'm trying not to stress.
On Monday I took the kids for a play at Narrawallee with their friends Willow and Finn. All four kids were emotional and off in their own way, but the play ended well with an exploration of the inlet and all four being friends. It was amazingly beautiful there, and it's always good to see Kylie.
Arley has been back to his old tricks, quite oppositional and ornery. I think it is because his whole schedule has been shaken up due to school holidays. It is amazing how his defiance can throw our whole household into turmoil. It is 100% not his fault, and I completely understand that it is all a stress response, but that doesn't make it much easier when you are living it. I feel terrible for him, because he must be feeling pretty awful when he acts that way. He has been pretty calm today, and I was really surprised when one of the PEAK teachers, who I'd never met, came up to me and asked if I was Arley's mum. He proceeded to tell me what an amazing listener Arley had been today, and how great he had been all day, and how impressed he was with him. I told him that we'd been having such a tough week, and he said he didn't even know Arley is autistic, he was just telling me because Arley stood out among all the kids. So, there is hope!
Carmie is really coming into her own lately. She is developing a sense of humour and quick wit, and she is being really helpful around the house. She is such a quirky little thing, always with her nose in a book. I have noticed that her speech disorder is quite apparent, and I'll be following up next week with the speech therapist. The kids start their social skills class on Tuesday, as well as tennis lessons. I can't wait to get them into a regular routine again.
Also, the AP is coming tomorrow to reregister us for homeschooling. I'm hoping to get a two year registration, so fingers crossed!
Carmie and Percy
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