The Best Is Yet To Come

slm6002

@Tiggermad, I actually saw the neighbour from when I moved here this evening and mentioned the building and the parking situation.  I am sure the current neighbours would too, but they haven't been here for the 10 years as yet, although it probably isn't too far off. 

Just home from a Christmas Craft evening at the local church where I used to take the kids to playgroup.  I still have friends that go, and knowing how much I love Christmas and craft they invited me along.  I thought it was in the diary but I had completely forgotten about it and was 15 min late once DD1 had reminded me of where I was supposed to have been.  It was great fun, simple crafts that we could all do, and puddings.  What is there not to like.

DS had another good shift at his new job, although had to get DD1 to collect him as I was busy doing crafts.  Just watching the end of the film DD2 was watching while I was out and then

dawnybabes

A full time college course is only 3 days - catches a lot of parents out …..

LadyWithAPlan

Your Xmas craft evening sounds lovely though it still feels a bit early! Glad your son is enjoying his gaming - hopefully the work experience works out

Crazycatlady2

Check with child benefit but I'm sure they have to go over 12 hours for it to count and still get it 

slm6002

Thanks everyone, it is the child benefit that I was wondering about.  I will be loosing benefits and money from XH for DD1 come Sept and will need to cover the costs of the school bus to college, so curious if I would still get anything for DS.  I might be able to receive help with the cost of travel but I know I am going to be close to the threshold after pay rises etc.  I'd rather budget for it just in case. It works out roughly £290 per term.  Not sure about free meals either,  DD1 is still in the same school even though 6th form and just carried on with her meals.  Not sure of the college - another question to put on the list for nearer the time.  Anyway plenty of time to think about things and find the answers.  Might get him to apply today so that would be 1 job off the list.

Other jobs for today
* Paint kitchen island panel - ready for uncles visit
* Paint woodwork in the downstairs toilet - ready for uncles visit
* Washing
* Homework
* Clear hallway
* Sort / weed outside as it is currently sunny
* Sort out what is for dinner
* Encourage DD2 to sort her room out

That is plenty to keep me going, especially as I am still in my PJ's.  Happy Saturday

Honeysucklelou2

Colleges do have bursaries that you can apply for which can give either free transport or subsidised costs. I think I used to pay about £130 a term for DD1 and then DD2. This time round I am close to the threshold and have found it easier to get the £50 a month College travel  ticket that is open to everyone. It’s less for me to find in one go but also gives DD4 unlimited travel around the county which is quite useful for her.

slm6002

I will have a look and see if there is something similar around here.  In theory I could have DD1 going to uni in 1 direction and DS going in the other direction each day.  I guess we will know a little better in a few months time. By then DD1 may have completely different plans as things change weekly with her

slm6002

4 years ago today XH told me he was leaving me.  Although at the time I was devastated, we have achieved so much and are all much happier.  The kids are happy, the house is maintained and improved and the money is stable.  The kids don't miss him and younger tolerate his fortnightly trips out for now - cant see that continuing much longer.  I have also changed and value myself so much more.  Not being put down on a daily basis has certainly helped.

I got quite a few jobs done today.  Still need to finish painting kitchen island - did 3 coats but it needs another.  Need to do the weeding as well as get the kids to finish their homework.

joedenise

You've done amazingly well in the time you have been on your own with the kids.  Your house sounds much more how you want it to be and you have been very good about not getting yourself into debt by doing it but saving up first and waiting until you have the money.

Well done.

Honeysucklelou2

Well done on all that you have achieved. Looking back helps us to see how far we have come on.