shifting seasons
Happy Summer!
I think we might have been the last school district in the union to finish school on June 12th. Do you know anyone who finished later? We’ve gone a bit underground, adjusting to a new rhythm after coming off a flurry of events:
- eldest son (AJ)’s church confirmation
- middle son (NT)’s promotion to middle school
- youngest daughter (KN)’s promotion to upper elementary (yes, a ceremony for everything–sheesh!)
- KN’s dance recitals (yes plural) a two day extravaganza of costume changes, little ballerinas in makeup (yikes!) and breathtaking artistry from the advanced dancers
- G’s parents from Minnesota visiting to experience it all
This was complicated by:
- My father’s quick recovery from a heart attack in May, after which he drove across Texas for a wedding, followed by
- A pacemaker implantation last week. He’s doing well now, but the long distance navigation is tough for me (I’m in Michigan, they’re in New Mexico). Thanks for lots of prayers and support from friends and family during that time. He’s a trooper.
So now, I’m looking forward to:
- relaxing at a pool we joined this summer
- finding time to write (at the pool during swim practice? or not)
- learning about Japanese language and culture with my 13 year old, who is going to Hikone this fall
- visiting family in New Mexico and Wisconsin
It’s a new season, and with it, we’re working out new routines and a new family rhythm to make sure the important things come first. No answers today, just experimentation to see what works best. My goal is to hang on to good, relaxed family time. And get some stuff done. Wish me luck.
How’s your summer going so far?
Sounds like summer for the Stouts is as busy as usual – just changing modes & locations! LOL (by the way, you’re right about Dad being a “trooper” – Mom too!)
We’re pretty lucky to have them for parents!
Kent Simpson’s last blog post..Lots & Land For Sale On Mount Lemmon – Tucson’s Summer Getaway
Sounds like you’ve had lots to keep you busy! And wow, I am sorry to hear about your dad’s heart troubles. Be extra kind to him this Father’s Day. Give him a big hug.
My son is off on his own, having moved into his own place in Chicago recently. Now we’re caught up in getting my FIL ready to move into assisted living. Not easy, but it will be the best for him and my MIL.
Cindy L’s last blog post..Real women, real vacations
Our kids have been out of school since May 29. The hardest part has been trying to mesh work with their summer schedules. But so far it’s working. I do something I call renaissance rhythm…one hour divided into 3: 20 minutes of reading, 20 minutes of writing, and 20 minutes of music or art. It keeps them intellectually engaged. The rest of the day they can hang out at the pool or whatever.
charrette’s last blog post..Flung into Surrogate Parenthood: Not One of Them is Forgotten
Kent: I’m so glad you were able to visit and give hands-on support to Mom and Dad during that time. Can’t wait to see all of you in a couple of weeks!
Cindy: The seasons do keep shifting, don’t they? Hope your in-laws’ transition goes peacefully and smoothly.
Charrette: Love the renaissance rhythm concept — I’ll have to give that a try.
Oh my goodness, we are not the last school in the country to break for summer. Poor San Bernadino, CA had to go an extra 34 days: School beaurocracy mess
My daughters last day of 2nd grade is tomorrow! It’s funny how it has to be a difficult thing to do- hang onto fun family time isn’t it? Hope you’re having some of it.
starrlife’s last blog post..Blue Day aka There Goes My Arm