summer has (finally) arrived.

Last weekend we finally got a taste of summer. The weather was hot (like 95 degrees hot!), we had lots of family time together and headed outdoors to play. Anything involving water will entertain the kids for hours so simply pulling out the pool and filling it up kept them happy and giggling for most of the day.

 But, it was so hot we needed a break. After running a few errands we stopped at a local farmers market, bookstore and had an afternoon snack at our favorite froyo spot.

 The weekend was the perfect way to kick off summer. But....Carter still had 1 short day left of school! Ridiculous, I know. I don't remember ever getting out so late in June but with a few snow days to make up his last official day was on a Monday morning for 2 short hours. To say Carter had a fantastic year in first grade would be an understatement. He blew me out of the water. His handwriting improved, spelling was beyond my expectations, he now writes with much more confidence and clearly adores reading. He even became more detailed in his drawings, which tends to be his weakest area (or at least the subject with his least amount of confidence). He loved meeting new friends and having lunch, PE and longer recesses throughout the day. Can't wait to see what 2nd grade brings!

 Wasting no time we got a quick start on summer activities. We celebrated with a pizza dinner and then headed off for the kids first night of swim lessons. I love that they get to learn at an outdoor pool super close to home. It makes summer lessons feel more summery being outside, plus the nearby wading pool for Simon helps keep him busy while the big kids are in class. Win win for everyone!

The next morning was my birthday! Got up early to have a good workout, quiet time and coffee before being greeted by 3 (well, 4 if you count Matt) smiling faces and lots of hugs. Gifts galore and a quick breakfast before we headed out on a summer vacation. Summer is my absolute favorite season and this was the best way to kick it off!