thanks so much for your reply rawfirstimer. (I have an 8 yr. old too!)
let me ask you this, so far, what days have been the worst for you? i want to start ASAP, but want to make sure i get the worst out of the way without it interfering with any major plans with our children. from some, i have heard that the 1st day and maybe the 4th were the hardest but by the time you get to where you are, it gets easier.