finishing the list.

I'm in denial school is about to start in 2 weeks. I came to the realization the other night that there are 2 types of moms. (Okay, so there are a million types of moms but in this situation I'm placing everyone in to 2 categories). Those moms who love summer vacation with their kids and those moms who are now, at this point in August, ready for their kids to return to school. I'm in the first group. Don't get me wrong, there are days when I'm exhausted and frustrated and need a break. But, I genuinely love spending time with these crazy children of mine and miss them terribly when they are at school ALL day long! So, soaking in these last few days is good for all of us. 

We've been squeezing in play dates with friends, beach days, naps anywhere we can find them, family adventures, baking special treats and switching around the house before the normal school routine begins. And luckily, we've been having fun doing it all.

 A trip to one of our favorite beaches meant finding more sea creatures, digging in the sand and climbing on old driftwood. Simple, exploratory play is usually our favorite way to spend the day. And yes, Simon crashed in the car afterwards.

 Remember all those blackberries we picked?! It resulted in 5 jars of homemade jam, a giant crisp and mini big hand pies. Yum!

 Another beach day, this time to a little island nearby. We met up with some school friends, took the walking ferry over and spent the day playing in the sand. Such a fun time with all these kids and moms!

 And then...Simon crashed in the car ride home. Again.

 Swim lessons ended last week and all 3 kids did awesome! Carter was encouraged to join the race class next summer, Lucy is a legit swimmer and master cannon baller and Simon learned how to use a kick board. Success!

 We were able to take advantage of our free passes to Wild Waves (thank you summer library reading program) and spent the entire day going down the raging river, riding roller coasters and circling round the carousel. And, once again, Simon crashed afterwards. Haha!! Poor guy is such a trooper.

 The next day it was back to play in the water but this time at a nearby spray park with more friends. 8 kids, 4 parents, lots of snacks and a few hours to catch up and cool off.

 And finally, a new change at the house. The boys are officially in a room together, complete with bunk beds. It's a mix of nervous excitement for everyone as we transition. During the day they love climbing up and down the ladder and laying on the beds. But at night Simon is still adjusting to a big kid bed and takes a while to actually lay down and fall asleep. This means a TON of patience for an incredibly nice big brother. I think a few more days and we'll have the new, normal routine down. It's pretty cute to see the boys playing and sleeping together though. I know there is a short window of time that both of them will like sharing a space so I hope it's a great way to strengthen their bond.

 And finally, a quick and easy summer lunch for all those playdates we've been having. Muffin tin lunches are so simple, healthy and fun for everyone to just grab and go. Plus, beet berry popsicles taste pretty delicious too!