Summer Lovin'

Our summer is winding to a close, as school starts next Wednesday.

Looking back on the last six weeks, the kids really haven't done 'anything' this summer.  Unless you count staying up a little later, playing outside until the sun goes down, swimming at the public pool, swimming at the lake (which we plan to do A LOT more of), reading tons of books, playing restaurant, designing houses/hospitals/restaurants/buildings out of Legos, and eating lots of watermelon.

Come to think of it, they HAVE done a lot this summer - they've gotten to enjoy being kids.

A friend of mine posted on Facebook that she only has 15 more summers with her oldest daughter, who's 3 - that really put things into perspective for me.  Our summer is very short - usually only one month long - and I want to make the most out of it for the kids, even if I am at work during most of it.  But 'making the most of it' doesn't necessarily mean going on trips, spending money, or checking off a list - it's about relaxing, enjoying what we have, visiting nearby (free) attractions, and just being a kid.  I'm slowing learning that, and knowing that in just a few short years (one or two) my oldest daughter won't enjoy playing outside with her siblings until the sun goes down, she won't enjoy playing restaurant and legos with them, she'll have different ideas of fun things to do.  It makes me tear up a bit, but that's just part of her growing up. 

We may not have an adventure filled summer, or one full of lavish vacations, but if we can all have time to unwind and relax as a family - then I'm content with that - knowing that our summers together as a whole family are quickly coming to a close - my oldest turns 10 next month.. yes, 10.. can't believe it.

Those of you enjoying another month of summer, make sure you relax, spend time in each moment, and don't get caught up in the crazy mix of summer to-do's.  Your summer's are numbered, hold each one as close as you can.