I am trying to decide if I am selfish or what? Last month we drove up to meet our daughter for her 36th birthday. She wanted to go to the "Old Country Buffet", so that is where we went. Her father and his wife, my husband and I all sat at a table together. The group had three tables pulled together as it turned out.

Our daughter sat clear at the other end of the three table and barely spoke to any of us. The four of us wondered why we had even bothered to go. We did enjoy visiting with each other, as we don't get together too much anymore. Maybe the four of us should have just gone alone.

Don't get me wrong... I am glad she has friends and that they celebrate her life. But I just wish we would have known that there were going to be so many other people there. The four of us thought it was going to be a nice family dinner together. Oh well, guess we are just getting old.

At least Billy was able to yell enough to communicate with her. He was so excited about the idea of spending some time with his Mom. Oh well, maybe another time.

There you have it, my bitch session... I need them every now and again.
Thanks,
Granny

I talked with Branden last night. He is in hot water. But at least this time he admitted that it was his own mouth that got him in trouble. I guess that is something to be happy about.. It is new to have him admit things. They have a point system there. If they do not earn enough points, or lose their points they have to wear green coveralls. Everyone knows what they mean. So no one really wants to wear them. I wonder how fast he will earn his points back to get out of them???

I have to make a trip down on the 17th for an IEP meeting. I could do it by phone, but I would rather deal with his education in person. Besides he will be there and I can get in a little extra visit.

We have been going down once a week for a visit. We get only 2 hours to visit a week. I call him at least twice a week, plus I write to him. He loves the contact and honestly he needs it. I don't ever want him to feel like a throw away kid like so many of the others where he is.

Billy went and spent the night at his father's on Saturday. It was the first time in 2 and a 1/2 years. This would have never happened if Billy hadn't have wanted to go face his father at his court hearing. Pretty smart move kid!!!

Well, I hear from Terri that her apartment got flooded by the apartment above. NICE!!! So they have been moved into another apartment. What a mess. But all are well and no one was injuried, but everything got a bit wet. Broken toilets do that...

Well, that is it for this one. I am out of news.
Stay warm and healthy,
Granny

It is difficult to understand or to believe. Branden has moved into his regular cottage now. There are 25 other boys in there. He has his own room as do the others. He is still very content and calm. He actually seems happy. I am happy that he is settling in and going along with the program. It will make the next few months easier for him.

Billy spent last night with his father. The one that had fallen off the face of the earth for the last 2 and 1/2 years! I am hoping it will work out good for Billy. He needs that connection and I am praying That it will help turn him back around. You can help too.

We received a letter from the High School on Saturday. I am perturbed!!! And that is putting it mildly!! They are scolding us for all the "UNX" that is Unexcused absences on his attendance. Well excuse me!! We put him on his bus and he arrives at school everyday. IF THEY can not keep the students under control, that is not my problem. I am doing everything I can on this end to keep Billy in class, it is time they do their job. First, Get rid of the smoking trails around the school. Second stop the students from leaving school in LARGE groups to go off campus. Yes, I am angry!!! I intend to raise a bit of and over this one!!!

Pray for me. I am going to need it.
Granny

Life is sure different. My 40 year old son, Ray, has been visiting since last Thursday. It has turned out to be a good thing for all of us.

He has connected with Billy and the two of them have really been doing some good talking. I just hope that Billy can get some good from their talks. Ray threatened to take him down a peg or two tonight for using language that I totally disapprove of anytime. Ray blasted him for being disrespectful. YAHOO!!! Billy seems to be listening. Being that Ray is younger than we are, just could have a bearing.

Then, Billy's father called. Total shock! It has only been two and a half years, What is the hurry. Anyway Billy is happy and is going to spend some time with him on Saturday. I just pray good come from this too.

Keep a good thought for us all,
Granny

I am not sure what is going on, but Branden is so calm and relaxed lately. The wild flighty person seems to be not there anymore. This is a good thing. For the last two visits he has been almost a different person.

We make a point of going to visit every weekend, either on Saturday or Sunday. We prefer Saturday because we get home earlier and can get something done. He prefers Sunday so he can sleep in. So sorry Charlie!!! He can get up and be happy to see us. But I am happy he is settling in and not fighting the system.

I call him every other day also. We have been able to talk for an average of half an hour. I was told that the calls are supposed to be about 10 minutes, but IF they are a good contact with family they get to visit longer. Family involvement is considered very important. But for me, it is just good to hear about his day, or what he is thinking , or just feel connected.

Tonight he was very excited. You see he is a reader. He has been reading a LOT. They have the AR program there. (accelerated readers) Well he has already read enough to have gained a credit. He was awarded a new dictionary of his own. I think he is very proud. I know I am. At least if he is reading and concentrating on school work, he would be getting in trouble.

Well, that is the news for today. I think I will hit the shower and off to bed. Needless to say today was a good day.

Granny