A Summer Like None Other

For the working mothers out there I strongly recommend having a baby in the summer.  Maternity leave in July, August, September is much more fun than Oct, Dec, Jan and Feb.  I feel like I have been given a glimpse into a life that I don't typically experience.  

Although most weeks I have had the "big kids" in childcare of some form, the past week we have been 3 kids under 5 vs. mommy 1 on 1.  I was really enjoying myself the first 3 days but I seem to be running out of steam for breaking up fights and entertaining this crew with an infant in tow.  This long weekend and a slightly injured hubby has me looking forward to the official start of our school year and Baby E and I having some time just to ourselves again tomorrow.  

That being said, I have gotten to have a number of experiences with and without my kiddos I wouldn't have otherwise or would have packed into a quick Saturday along with grocery shopping, laundry, and other errands.  I have made memories with them that they will likely forget but I will cherish.

Pools, parks, rivers and bikes have been our favorites along with a super fun visit from our West Coast cousins.  We have taken so many trips to the pool that the kids are sick of it and prefer the library!!!! Some of our experiences aren't elaborate they are just moments in our home watching B and C be themselves making forts, pretending we are driving a fire engine, talking endlessly about birthday parties, backyard camping, holding B's hands as he settles for his nap, planning(perhaps not executing) more elaborate dinners than we typically enjoy, hanging out in the bathroom with B(I think we have finally nailed the potty use), watching the kids shriek with joy when their sister holds their finger and taking time to fix C's hair each morning.

  

I am not forgetting the precious moments I am having with Baby E; at 2 months she is smiling and cooing at us now which we all delight in.  It is just that these moments with the "big kids" are not ones I typically get to enjoy in such frequency and I am soaking up watching them enjoy and explore their outdoor world.  I have about 4 weeks before heading back to the rat race; I think I'll be emotionally ready when it comes but either way I am extremely grateful for more things than I can list here; healthy children, a roof over my head, a beautiful city to enjoy, this time with my children,  a wonderful husband, and the grace of God that will forgive me in what my earthly mind will see as my personal shortcomings in the months ahead. 

Happy Labor Day!