New Beginnings

I know I am cheating by posting so many entries in one day, but hey if I don't do it now, it will never happen.

We are wrapping up our summer activities around here. The older girls have less than a week left of play rehearsals before opening night next Thursday. They have enjoyed themselves immensely, but I am ready for this to end. We are spending more time in the car than at home. It is very hard to plan dinner when they have to be there at 6 and don't get done until 9. I just want some normalcy I suppose, whatever that is.

After this we are taking at least a 3 month, much needed, break from any new activities. The little girls will continue with Karate, and all three older girls will go to youth group in the fall, but nothing new. I need a break. Doing this by myself isn't easy and I know the kids need more time at home too. Especially at night. I can make it one more week. Right?

Belt Tests

Today Midge and Boo had their Karate Belt Test. They both enjoy Karate class so much It's a lot of fun to watch them too. I am so proud of everything they have learned so far and excited for what is to come!
Midge is now an orange belt and Boo is right behind her with her yellow belt. Congrats to both girls!

Lucky Number 7

Of all of the kids Tea has changed the most this year. On Tuesday she turned 7! Wow. She is getting so big. One thing has remained the same. She is an artist at heart. Her desire to create is a powerful one. She is almost always coloring, painting, drawing, or molding something. She got a pottery wheel for her birthday and I can't wait to set it up and see what she makes! We love you TT! Just don't grow up too fast!

Boo Turns 4

Saturday my baby girl turned 4! We have been crazy busy celebrating her birthday then Tea's birthday and all of the other busy summer fun stuff so I'm playing catch up now!
She is all about Karate right now. She catches on to things so quickly it never ceases to amaze me. She is a talker and will talk the ear off of anyone who will listen.

I love you Karate girl! I can't believe you're 4. Slow down!

Party X 2

With two birthdays so close together, the same family and friends, and the fact that it's summertime we decided on a joint party for Tea and Boo this year. They wanted cookie cakes and the King and I made them ourselves. Not bad for complete novices.

The kids played on this water slide for 2 straight hours. There were a total of 18 kids and no problems. They loved it! What a great day!

Progress

I've been enjoying the slow pace of summer. The late nights and sleeping in. The pool days, camping trips, and late night walks. It's been great, but I know that all good things will eventually come to an end. In that spirit I have been spending my late nights planning for our upcoming school year. I would say I am about 85% ready. Just a few more odds and ends here and there and we'll be good. At least for now.

I went back and forth over where I really thought the kids would do the majority of their written school work. I didn't really see the need for a "school room" and we don't really have the space anyway. Finally I decided to convert the unused section of the master bedroom into a school area. It was just wasted space before and they'll only use it in the mornings. I spent a good part of this afternoon rearranging and setting up some of their things. I am very pleased with the way it turned out and will share pictures very soon when it's all done!

Reality

The worst part of almost any vacation or time away is returning to normalcy. This time has been no exception. With piles of laundry, kids that never stop moving, and a full schedule I am missing the peace and quiet of the mountains. I forgot to share that right before we left, Boo got a haircut. I love it and so does she. In this picture you can see how cute the back looks curled under.

Buster is due for another trim as well. His hair grows so fast and it's very thick. If I can fit it in this weekend I think I will take him. We have 3 birthday parties to go to and are having 1. Should be a good time though!