Update

Here is an update to Where do I go from here?

I'm actually hesitant to put this in writing as I know once I do, I'm somehow going to be jinxed or something.

Things are definitely improving...I can actually see a small sliver of light at the end of the tunnel.  Of course the tunnel is a gazillion miles long, but there is a small shimmer of hope peaking around the bend.

My stepson has made some major strides this week.  None of his accomplishments have gone unnoticed.  We have received letters from a couple of his teachers that he has been asking about extra credit and permission to turn in missing assignments.  (I'm so grateful to his teachers and the school for working with us on this).  He has also not had a single absence or tardy all week long....and even better, he has been waking up to his alarm and the morning routine has greatly improved.  He is bringing homework home almost every night and has been turning in the assignments when due.  He got his haircut last week but we are still working on his 'black' clothing.  Baby steps....

He is still without a TV, cell phone, etc. and I feel bad, but it's going to take more than 7 days of behaving for me to give him all of his freedom back.  To be honest...I'm convinced that one of the major reasons for him waking up to his alarm in the morning is due to the fact that he 'doesn't' have TV or cell phone.  I can't tell you how many nights we have to fight with him to HANG UP THE PHONE AND GO TO BED....and I just know that he was staying up extra late watching TV and then too tired to wake up in the morning.  I have a feeling that when the time comes we will be setting up new boundaries for him in both of these areas.

We have a meeting next week with the private school and I am looking forward to it.  I will keep you all posted about the outcome.

Here are a couple comments he has made to us this past week:

• After getting his haircut..."I can SEE.  I didn't realize how badly my hair was hanging in my eyes".  Yes, dear son...I told you so!
• After a successful morning routine..."It really makes a difference when I wake up in time to get ready and have breakfast before I leave for school".  Yes, dear son...I told you so!
• After successfully turning in all assignments for one school day..."I can't believe I actually thought this stuff was hard.  All you have to do is pay attention in class".  Yes, dear son...I told you so!
• After a nice family night consisting of eating dinner together and then a movie..."It really is better when I behave.  Everyone seems happy tonight".  Yes, dear son...I told you so!

These are baby steps in the grand scheme of things....but, these baby steps have proved to me that he is capable of all the things I knew he was!

Here's hoping for another successful week ahead!