Well, as you can tell, the kids are home. I've added a few pictures on the photo pages, but more will be coming. These are from Taylor's digital. We still have to get their disposables developed. And I'm hoping my sister Clare will be sending more. hint, hint. Anyone else have some?
As I said previously, they had a GREAT time, and were quite tired when they arrived. But I don't believe they missed us as much as we missed them. Next year Taylor wants to stay for a month! Right. Thanks again to all of you who made it such a memorable experience for them. And especially to my Mom. I'm so grateful that they have this chance to develop a great relationship with you. And thanks for bringing them home. Mom and Joe arrived at the football field with two bleary eyed kids, as they left at 4:00 am but Nick put on his gear and out he went. The coach "surprised" us with the news that the older boys (5th and 6th grade), will have an additional practice each week on Thursday nights. Coach Stroede was thrilled. But he's fine. Just has a ton of sidejobs to complete and now he just lost one weeknight he could have worked. His family comes first for him though. I so love my hubby.
We enjoyed the little time we had with Mom and Joe. We had Saturday afternoon/evening and Sunday morning together, as Mom was eager to get on the road and win big at the Casinos! Actually, she wanted us to have alone time, but I was thinking about that. We live 4 hours away from the closest family member, and 40 minutes from our friends. How much more alone time do we need? :-) But while they were here, we toured the Winter dam, showed them the flowage, had a firepit, and enjoyed some great music and conversation. We had a picnic/hiking planned at Black Lake for Sunday, but they decided to get on their way. Let us know how the rest of your trip was when you have a chance.
We easily got back into our routine all together. It's nice, because for the first few days home, the kids settle back into their rooms with their stuff and they appreciate it all over again. But then those few days pass and reality sets in. ;-) Today is Thursday and I have the next 2 days off. WOOHOO!!!! It is our traditional summer last hurrah. Today is school supply shopping, picnicking, football practice and Middle School orientation. Tomorrow it's off to the library, the music store in Rice Lake to repair Tay's saxophone she borrowed from Aunt Cindy, and probably roller skating. Shhhh... that part is a surprise.
As far as the weekend? More football practice, and probably working in the yard. This autumn weather really energizes me, but I start to anticipate the winter. All my flowers are pretty fried. Joe and Mom got to see just how burnt Sawyer County is. We've had very little rain all summer, but plenty of scorching heat.
Our satellite will be turned on soon, and we are very eager for the Packer football games to begin. The kids are excited to see cartoons and their shows again, but I enjoy the peace without it. It does wonders for a family's communication. Don't let me kid you though, I'm looking forward to this season of "Lost", "American Dreams" and "West Wing". Those cliffhangers really get me.... (sucker). And what's really funny? Since staying with my Mom, my kids have become game show fanatics. Nick asked me the other day what channel the game show network will be on! Michael and I cracked up. Mom - you are too cool.
