Summer Days

It's hard for me to believe that it is already the end of August. School is starting, it's 56 degrees out in the morning, there are finally books back on the shelves at the library and summer is almost over. I thought that I would take a few minutes to update the blog with some fun highlights of the summer, as I have only written a few times in the last few months.

This summer was a few months of soul searching for me. There were some hard things going on with a few family issues, relationships and other situations I won't bore you with. But, through it all, I have a really deep appreciation for my husband and kids. I think I have taken our little family for granted in the past, and I hope to not do this in the future. I have one of the most amazing, dedicated, loyal, Godly, kind, gracious husbands imaginable and he made a really great summer for this family. I also realized how thankful I am to be able to spend the summer with my kids. I have had a great time taking them to parks, pools, splash areas, the zoo, and play dates.  Ryan and I agreed that the kids are at a great age now for doing family outings. Sheldon can walk now and I am not breastfeeding every few hours. Here are some of our recent highlights:

Coranelle starts preschool next Monday. She has met her new teacher and most of the kids in her class. Her teacher is awesome and she and Coranelle hit it off right away. Her teacher has a daughter with a spirited personality much like C's. This was a relief to me as I know that her teacher will understand Coranelle and some of her triggers, some of her strengths and some areas that will require more patience. I think the year will be great for us all.

This is a picture of Coranelle at her "meet and greet". I think Sheldon wants to go to her class too!

Another highlight of the summer has been to watch the relationship unfold between Coranelle and Sheldon. They ADORE each other and it is one of my favorite things to watch as a parent. They fight, of course, but Sheldon copies everything C does. Coranelle is really protective of Sheldon and makes sure other kids are treating him well. She'll say, "That's my buddy's toy. Can he play with it and then you can take a turn." They make each other laugh and giggle all the time. I hope they continue to be really great friends.

Above, Coranelle is sharing the cup of free ice cream that she earned from the library reading program.

We recently took the training wheels off of Coranelle's bike. We probably should have taken them off sooner, because she is doing amazingly well. She can ride for blocks on her own. We are working on starting and stopping now, and I think she'll master it pretty soon. Preschool, a two wheel bicycle, swimming on her own- next stop... college! Yikes!

I have also gotten braver taking the kids places on my own. We have made trips to pools, the Bay, the library, and the zoo. I have had a really good time with the kids and think that they are at an age where these field trips are fun for everyone!

 Coranelle being our tour guide at the zoo

 Watching the bears

 The elephant show

The Bay!

Sheldon will start a gymnastics class this fall while his sister is in preschool. I am excited to have some fun things planned with him. I am also training for a triathlon in September. My mom and another friend are doing it with me and I am excited about it. I have enjoyed the time that I get to be on my road bike and do some swimming. It's a good goal to work towards.

I have had a great summer and I am so thankful for the time I've had to spend with family and friends. I am very blessed and am excited for all the adventures the fall will bring.