Dregs of Society

For all of you law abiding citizens, I thought give you a glimpse of what it is like to be a hardened criminal. I have recently experienced the underbelly of society - truancy court.

Tim had some tardies last September. He started out the year riding his bike to school - and was evidently 1 and 2 minutes late because of a bike lock issue 4 times. Of'course, once I realized the problem, I began driving him.

Again in September - like, as in 6 months ago - we pulled him out 45 minutes early one friday, to go out of town. Lastly, on election day, I checked him out as his lunch period began so that he could go with me to vote (he was excited after studying about the process in school - y'know, i was trying to reinforce what he had learned and bring life to that education - silly me) I checked him back in before his lunch period ended.

So - to summarize, 4 tardies totaling 4 minutes and 2 check outs totaling roughly 65 minutes.

I received this letter in the mail from the Justice of the Peace - me, not Tommy, as if Tim has only one parent!

I know, it's small to read - it says The State of Texas vs. Jennifer Wright

Note, how it reads - no shorts, tank tops or flip flops allowed in courtroom. I came very close to wearing my cupcakes and slippers. I felt like a ridiculous court appearance called for a ridiculous outfit.

We arrived and found a room full of other slacker parents waiting for their trial too.

Ironically, the judge was tardy (very late actually) and kept us waiting!

He summoned us up to the bench and looked over Tim's case. He noted that his report card showed him to be a straight A student and added that certainly such a smart boy must have gotten those brains from one of his parents - he wondered which one of us wasn't smart enough to get him to school on time. Yes, by the way - I was offended!
Remember - the tardies were 6 long months ago and he hasn't been late since.

Anyway, Tim and I were given probation for 6 months and we were made to pay the $80 court costs. SO DUMB! - according to the judge, much like me!

So if you ever find yourself facing truancy court - don't be nervous, just call me - I am now an evildoer on probation. So is my 9 year old, for that matter - we will be glad to show you the ropes in court!