Reality

Tonight we went to our Elementary School's open house so John and Dan could meet their teachers and see the school.  I've known this day was coming all summer, but the reality of it just hit me.  My two older sweet boys are about to leave my side and venture out on their own for more than 7 hours every day.  7 hours!  School doesn't start until next Tuesday and my heart is already aching to have them back.  And to have summer back.  Backyard water parks, sandy feet, lazy mornings, movies in the basement with homemade kettle corn and picnic lunches.  Oh how I have loved summer.  And this has one of the best.

The kids are at such fun ages right now.  Pete's mom has always said that 3 kids at home (and not in school yet) is one of the hardest times as a mother.  The kids are still very high maintenance, no one can do much on their own, and it can be a challenge to keep everyone entertained and busy day in and day out.  I think we may be just over that hump.  Our family dynamics have changed a lot in the last year or two.  John and Dan are beginning to be more and more independent, can make their own beds, unload the dishwasher, watch Will when he's outside, pour their own cereal and take their own showers.  And they don't need to be entertained by me quite as much as they used to.  More and more they are coming up with their own things to play and are entertaining both Joe and Will while they're at it.  Last week John got hold of the tin foil and made shields, helmets and swords for himself, Dan and Joe and they went around immersed in battle.  Joe recently learned how to ride his bike, so him Dan and John will often head out together to ride bikes up and down the street.  There's never a day without hitting, name calling, crying and fighting, but there's also never a day without laughing, playing, smiling, hugs and kisses.  It's a joyful time.

The "twin brothers," as they were calling themselves.

FHE at Matthai Botanical Gardens

 

Hike to Donut Falls up Big Cottonwood Canyon in Utah

Dexter Blueberry Farm

Hiking to the river

Roasting marshmallows up Lambs Canyon in Utah

Playing on the back porch... many, many hours spent out here

Pete's 31st birthday celebration at Pickerel Lake, one of our favorite swimming holes

Matthai Botanical Gardens (Pete & Will)