We've been conscious in raising our children of sharing and giving back and being part of a community bigger than ourselves. We've worked with Special Olympics and I (co)run the summer youth programs at our parish. My girls are natural born helpers who actively get triple the required number of service hours required for sacraments; they like to help with their brothers' Scouting Dens, etc. The older one received a scholarship for her first year of high school that we hope will be renewable. The younger one just finished the application for a scholarship that her sister is on the wait list for. I am fairly confident in her ability to be an actual recipient in that she is a bit stronger in her faith life and academics.

Anyhow, we were at Welcome Night for the younger one who will be a freshman at my alma mater and the school her sister is a freshman at. The sticker shock of a cost of one year rattled her chain a bit; I don't think she realized that is costs $9,600 for one year (for her sister with scholarships and grants we paid $5,000). The principal discussed the work study option available in the summer to defray tuition costs.

Both of my daughters thought this would be a good idea. And they hope to earn $500 toward their tuition (each). They heard DH and I talking about him possibly switching to a position within our Diocese that would pay somewhat less, but would also bring the tuition for each daughter down an additional $1,000. This might be also conducive to his return to school for the diaconate. To work and attend classes at the same place is a good thing.

I'm also thinking about talking to the school to see about any teachers' aide positions that might be available.

Anyhow, I was proud. And I am no longer a Nervous Nellie about change. I've concluded that change is good. Sometimes uncomfortable, but mostly good.