"plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose"—"the more it changes, the more it's the same thing", usually translated as "the more things change, the more they stay the same," (Les Guêpes, January 1849) -Alphonse Karr

So much has changed, so much is the same. I am now officially someone who is on the "paid labor" side of things. That's right, bringing home the bacon, albeit a little on the slim side:) The boys attend the 1/2 day program at their preschool and we are feeling the pressure of having to puzzle piece our childcare pick-ups while I attend some day training for my night job. It feels good to be a part of the paid working world, but I miss my little boys too, wonder about their day and if they have their forty cents for milk, if Eli is adjusting alright or if I will get a "with prompting" comment on his social skills report. I have been learning the art of phlebotomy and other lab skills. It is difficult to be the new girl and to have to learn new girl stuff, but it is also a challenge and I enjoy those, too. The holidays are swooping in and for me I have always looked forward to and loved them, having my kids has just intensified that love. I am truly grateful. We are going to have a big whopping Christmas at Nana and Papa's house and the kids are truly beside themselves with excitement. They are feeling the magic of the season and it is contagious. We are hoping to build our finances and to move in the spring, perhaps a larger place? Our boys certainly do not lack any of the important stuff and they have a large community here. I keep telling myself money is not everything, but it helps. Stay tuned for the next installment, until then stay warm.