Good News Abounds

First:  Parenting, FOR THE WIN: 

A's mommy contacted me via email.

That's right! let me type that again.

A's mommy contacted me via email.

I was a bit surprised to see that she is actually civil and willing to communicate like adults.  I guess I's mommy poisoned the well so to speak so I made some unfair assumptions about A's mommy based upon how I's mom acts.  That's not particularly fair and I've definitely learned a valuable lesson--you can't assume one person will treat you/behave one way just because another person treats you or behaves in that way. I owe her a public apology for those assumptions so here it is: I am truly sorry for making unfair assumptions about you.

I knew that A seemed to be well cared for and loved where she is now.  Her mom does send Kenneth photos, which is more than I can say for I's mom.  But despite that, I still had it in my head that she was probably every bit as spiteful, self-absorbed, and vindictive as the other woman I have to deal with. 

It looks like she's not.  She actually nice and very mature.  She is concerned with what is best for A and she is trying to navigate this maze of communication with me instead of against me.  That's nice and I appreciate it.

I'm sure there will be bumps in the road at some point, but I'm also sure that when/if all three of us come to those bumps, A's mommy will be willing to handle them like a grown up.  That's a relief. Kenneth and I are both really grateful for that. 

I'm glad to know that A is the primary concern for all of us.  Having all the adults in her life work together for her sake is absolutely what is best for A, so parenting--for the win--for all of us!

Second: Writing, FOR THE WIN:

I have some good "write news."  I'm not sure how much I'm allowed to share and far be it for me to spill all the beans too early, so forgive the somewhat cryptic nature of what I'm about to say and just be happy for me.  I've been asked to be a part of a short story anthology collaboration with Shelly Picarella and some other really talented writers.  I think this project is going to be amazing and I am honored to be a part of it.  I can't wait to dig in and really get started on my short story. 

Lastly:  Grad School, FOR THE WIN:
I designed a class for first generation and minority college undergraduates that will enable these students to apply for grad school (with in class assistance) and to learn how to bridge the giant cultural divide between their world and the world of higher education.  I am a first generation college graduate, and this class is near and dear to my heart.  I just found out it goes live next semester.  I am so excited about it, and even more excited to get to speak to the students this class will be helping. 

I'm also doing pretty well in all of my grad classes thus far, and I should be able to wrap up my degree (maybe even both of them) next fall.  I've got the beginnings of an idea for my thesis, and I'll be heading to the library later to get that research started full force.

I'm ready to finish up and begin a new chapter of my life, which seems as if it too may include more grad school (lol).  More on that later!