The Long Days of Summer

 With school days behind us and the long days of summer before us, I take comfort in having all of my people residing under the same roof. Lazy days at the lake, camping, preparing for trips ahead, and visits from family while also preparing to send off three of these kids to college in the fall are what make up the most of my time. 

I cannot tell you how wonderful it truly is to have all of the kids at home. Each is doing his/her own things, but most nights all fall asleep with their heads on their pillows in their own bedrooms here at home. 

It has taken me a hot minute to make the transition from schooling to not schooling. 36 weeks is such a long time to have a routine that the shift to something completely different takes me a second or two to get used to, but I am finally finding some footing in this new rhythm. 

I look at each of my children and recognize in them that these truly are the days I will remember. Having them with me and with each other during these long days of summer are a gift. 

Sisters

After years and years of sharing a room, finally, this new house has afforded them both the luxury of having her own room, and yet this is how I find them more mornings than I would have ever guessed. One sound asleep on the other's bedroom floor. Best friends. Sisters. May they always be bound so tightly that being together is where they most want to be. 

 

Quiet Days

Late afternoon comes quietly. The heat of the day is felt, but only with the slightest of discomfort. Windows are still open, the wind blowing the curtains gently as the air makes its way into the heart of this home. I am grateful that June has arrived and the sweltering heat has not come with it. I know that it will eventually arrive, but the longer it stays away is alright by me. 

Now that our school year is over, the days feel lazy. I am okay with this too, as I know that the summer season is about to kick into high gear in just another couple of weeks. I cannot remember a time in recent years where the lazy days of summer have felt so good. While there are always things to be done, I know that I need this break in activities. My body and mind long for this lull in our daily life and things to do.