Wrapping up summer...

We just returned from our beach week in Hilton Head and I must say, it feels good. I have enjoyed our busy, vacationing summer, but I am tired and ready to stay put! Summer still calls our name with it's hot days and afternoon showers, but as it always does, the air changes and the colors start to transform. I have been such a ball of emotions lately. So many things changing this fall. Both girls will be in pre-school. I am not worried about it as I know they are going to be in wonderful hands. It is just that, well, one is now five and the other is going to leave me two mornings a week. I am not really sure I am ready for it. She is. Our Bean has been ready for a long time. And I am so happy with our decision to keep the Bear in pre-school one more year before starting school. She and her sister will only be one year apart in school this way and I like that as well. We grow. We move up and we let go. All of it is bittersweet. But wonderful as well....




****************************


We had a splashin' good time on our beach trip this year. From Birthday celebrations to new babies and all the sun and fun packed in between. Another year of memories and love all wrapped up in one short week.





We have our lemonade stand birthday party this weekend. Two little girls are very excited about that. A fun trip to The Hands On Museum with friends tomorrow awaits and that wraps things up for us. Down time and quality time while working on our bedtime and school morning routines.




I hope your summer has been fun, full filling and packed with great memories! I know ours has been and we have been blessed beyond measure!



Good Night!

Summer Ramblings

Once again, I have let the time get away from me. Almost a month since I have been here. In all fairness though....It has been one fun filled month!


*********************

We took a weekend trip away without Andy. The first time I have ever been anywhere overnight with my kids by myself. I was a little nervous, but accompanied by the pro herself. Our first trip to an indoor water park in Pigeon Forge. Wonderful friends. Late nights. Early morning giggles. And feeling like a piece that we have been missing was filled. We have missed Tanya and her famiy. It was a wonderful treat to spend the weekend with them.






















Just getting back from a long weekend in Maryland visiting family and being part of a new baby's baptism. It was so precious. Cousins together once again. A new house with a new pool. No need for anything but swim suits and sunblock. One little big girl is a swimmer. No floats, no fear. Jumping off diving boards and swimming like crazy! Another little girl is not far behind her. All water bugs. Even sweet Audrey was in her element at 10 weeks old. I guess that is the McDonald in all of them.




























It ended with hugs and huge smiles, because this time, we only wait two more weeks to see them on our annual beach trip to Hilton Head. I can't wait on one hand, but on the other, that will wrap up our summer. The true bang will be when my Bear turns "5". I am not sure how we got here or where on earth five years have gone, but I am pretty sure I want the next five to slow down. We have a lemonade stand party full of yellows and pinks planned when we get back from vacation! Celebrating sweet summer style.

As I type this both girls are sleeping. I am refueled after a fun evening with my sweet, dear friend and I am so thankful for a husband that knows me. So completely. Giving me these breaks that come just at the right time. A rainy week has been just what the doctor ordered for us too. Inside days, lots of snuggles and together time. The hot sun returns this weekend and we will march on.

Hope your weekend is full of fun and you are enjoying your summer as much as we are!

All Love

This morning started out rocky. The kind of morning where you try and try and no matter what you do...It just isn't good enough. Two girls were hard to please this morning. I find that to be the hardest part of this whole stay at home thing. While I want to cater to their every need, I also acknowledge the need to teach them patience, independence and being fair.



Our day got better, then it got worse. Oh my. A very trying day. The good news...It ended GREAT! While Daddy headed to a meeting at church, we built circus tents, perfected the perfect airplane stance and watched a puppy play some serious soccer. Sweet smiles and no effort to please. They were just..happy. I know I try too hard sometimes. Making them happy is so simple, really. I am trying to get that. Luckily I have a wonderful husband that reminds me on a regular basis. He is my biggest support. Always there to tell me what a great job I am doing. Making things easier any time he can.


All Love.....













this dog is hilarious



Happiness is when Daddy comes home..


A fun weekend awaits with our dear Ms. Tanya and part of her family. We are so excited!! And just around the corner is a long weekend with my family in Maryland. A new little girl that just joined our family will be the center of attention and we are so blessed to be a part of her Christening. Good Stuff!




Happy Week!