Studying

When Madeline was a freshman in high school, I knew how important it was for her to develop good study skills. I know how difficult it is when your surroundings distract you from the task at hand.

A few weekends before final exams, she and I would go to Panera Bread so she could study. It removed her from an environment where she is distracted by her IPod, phone and computer. It put her in a situation where she could focus only on her school work.

Of course, the tradition has been passed on to Andrew. The two of them studied together this morning. The goal is to do well in school, however the bonus is spending time together.

Reality

I am having such a difficult time coming back to reality. I knew I needed some time away from home, but being away just validated I waited too long.

My Feet Hit the Floor

Reality is slowly setting in. I guess my feet hit the floor. When I look out my window I see the still forest, and not the bright lights and movement of the city.

To be fair, my heart and head do appreciate stillness in my surroundings. I need the peacefulness and tranquility in my life. What I forgot about for all these years is how much I love the vibrant, artistic qualities of a city.

For a few days, I remembered. I remembered, I need both to feel alive.

Middle of Nowhere

no·where: state of nonexistence or seeming nonexistence.

Today, Benjamin had his final Quiz Bowl tournament of the season. The first match was a regular match with standard questions counting toward the team's points for the season.

However, the second match did not count as points and was just for fun. This type of match includes silly questions where there is no right or wrong answer.

Usually the audience is to remain quiet during the rounds, but this is the one time where words escaped my mouth before I could stop them.

It went something like this:

Facilitator: "Where is the middle of nowhere?"
Me: "Hartland."

Andrew was sitting next to me, and as soon as I said it, our eyes locked and we both started laughing.

I think I spent too much time in New York City.

Back to Reality

Today was my first day back home from my whirlwind trip to New York City. Reality set in as I unpacked my suitcases.

Brighton and Hartland are nothing like New York City.

Heart and Brain Agree

Last night we went to the top of the Empire State Building. As we rode the elevator to the top, I thought about what it would look like seeing the city from so high up.

When I walked out onto the observation deck, I was breathless. The lights twinkled in the city and I was overwhelmed at the view. At that moment, I felt my heart and brain both agree. I love New York City.

New York City Education

The girls make me laugh so much. Just to watch them and see their youthfulness makes me smile. They have learned so much on this trip including how to bargain to buy illegal handbags, how to hail a cab and how to get the check in a restaurant.

What a learning experience.