Here we go again...

The last year has been a struggle for Three.  Middle school has not been kind to him, and while I understand that it isn't really kind to most kids, it was worse for him.  He was lost, he developed anxiety, and an eating disorder.  He talked of killing himself multiple times a week.  I'm eternally thankful that he came to us and talked about it so openly and bravely, as I know far too many families aren't that lucky.  He wouldn't/couldn't pinpoint what it IS about middle school that made his whole existence so terrible but it never wavered.  He hates it there and it was sucking away the beautiful soul we all knew.  

A month ago, I took a promotion at work that changed my shift.  Three's issues weren't my sole motivation, but it was high on the list of reasons for the change (they've been asking me to take this position for years, literally.)  Changing shifts allows me to be home during the day (although, sleeping a good chunk of it) and keep my teaching job.  Two weeks ago, when my training on my normal shift was finished I pulled Three from school.  It's not going to be an easy road, but we collectively feel like it's the necessary move to save our boy.  I'm happy to have the support of my family, and my friends as we rejoin the homeschool community that I've missed for the last 3 1/2 years.  

Yesterday, I dug through his sister's old textbooks which I'm grateful my packrat self had held on to!  Upon examination, I found most of what I will need to complete 7th grade.  I ordered science, math and new maps.  Don't really think I'll need much else.  Ideally, when I come home from work I'll assign him his work (he is 13 for the love of God, he should be capable of independent work!) and then nap.  When I wake up to go get his brother from school, we will go over what he did and handle questions, etc during that time.  That's the idea...we will see how it pans out in reality.  I'll keep you updated!

It's going to be hard, but I'm sure it will be worth it.  The number one goal is a happy healthy boy, and a sane mama.  Let's get it.