Even though I have a degree in Elementary Education, I never have enjoyed a work-free summer. Perhaps that is why I have very little interest in my children having the summer off? Maybe it is because the disruption to our routine is hard to endure. Maybe it is because we don’t take family vacations or spend weeks at the beach. Whatever it might be, I am not a fan of summer break.

In spite of my own opinions, however, my kids do enjoy the break. They have all had a chance to escape from me for at least a little while. Mia went first, spending a week at my parents’ house. She stayed there with my sister, Susan, who came in expressly to help Mia complete her summer coursework.

Shortly after Mia returned home, Louisa left us. As she has done almost every year since she was 2, Louisa spent time with my sister, Colleen. Their time together has evolved over the years. Initially, Louisa got to be spoiled by Auntie C. Now, Louisa (while still spoiled) gets to babysit while Colleen’s grandkids are visiting. As has happened many times over the years, Louisa was at Colleen’s for her birthday. She managed to get two separate dinner/celebrations and will get a third with us shortly.

Finally, while Louisa was away, August left. Along with my sister-in-law, Jennifer, and my nephew, TJ, August is on a mission trip to Nicaragua. While there, they are helping with the set up of a school, working with the kids, and doing various projects as needed. It is pretty much always hot and humid there, so most of my updates from August have been that they are constantly sweaty.

Once August returns, we will have a belated celebration of Louisa’s birthday, and then quickly move on to Mia and August’s birthdays. Mia has asked to go to the zoo for her 16th birthday. August has yet to decide.

The birthdays will wrap up with just a few days left and then it’s back to school for the kids on August 24! (my mom’s birthday!) That’s only 32 days from now, in case anyone is wondering. Muah ha ha haaaaaaaaaaaa

I hope you are all enjoying your summer, whether you get a break or not. I do enjoy being able to walk outside until late into the evening. I also enjoy that my garden is currently producing all sorts of goodies, including cucumbers, green beans and tomatoes.

And today marks one year since my gastric bypass, so that is an exciting milestone for me. 365 days, 80 lbs and 10 dress sizes. I am a new person with new energy and new vision for where things may lead!

Please, comment with  your summer activities! I want to hear from you!!!