Back to School...Back to Reality!

And just like that it seems like Spring Break is over!! It’s been 175 days since these kids stepped inside a classroom and this time they return as a 2nd and 1st grader .

This school year will be whatever we make it. This family is choosing joy, gratitude, and hope .

This mama is full of all the overwhelming emotions today and is currently riding a mix of waves of relief, excitement, gratitude and straight sorrow that time goes so fast.

Don’t get me wrong, thankful is a freaking understatement that “normal” is returning in some form. We know their school has already worked so hard to navigate this pandemic and successfully get our kids back with their teachers and friends . Could not be happier or more full of appreciation!

Is it 2:45 yet?? LJ and I miss the bigs and this house is way too quiet without the chaos.

So those were the words I shared on September 2nd....with MORE than 5 weeks of in person class now behind us, I am even more thankful for this time that our kids have been able to be in the classroom in person.

Heading in for drop off...the whole family!

Drop off looks a little different, but there are smiles under those masks.

Meanwhile, back at home, this one questioned where MEME and BRO BRO were all day!  It brought a few tears to me too.

Friday Funday with E!  While the bigs are away, we had a little fun too!

Surprise...Aunt Becky was in town for the weekend!

This is a FRAMER!!!

Oh baby...you aren't a baby anymore.

More sunny weather means more fun outside!

Sunday crafts from virtual Sunday School.

And then out painting was done and our room was together.  YES, we have an adult space!

Friday night dinner with FRIENDS! 

Adventure Day!  One of Millie's besties moved to Whidbey, so we packed up and headed out for a day of fun.

Look who joined us....Miss BROWN!!!!

Within 10 minutes...the kids were in the hot tub and having a blast.

All smiles and snuggles for Miss Brown.

The troops having lunch.

Millie and Jordan.

And then some more outdoor fun!

I mean....someday this will probably be a reality.

This too!

Millie was a little nervous in the beginning, but was so excited to do this!

The giant SLIDE.

Just kids with lots of space to run, sticks and fun!!!!

Morning smiles from the girls.

Time to harvest!!!!

The perks of Rich working from home more...

Off to celebrate Rich's birthday!

First stop, cocktails and dessert at the Cottage.

Next stop, dinner at Como in Kirkland!

Virtual Church and dance parties...a theme at our house.

When you find a SECRET park.....

Special Sunday afternoon with Mommy and Meme.

Mom, it has pockets!!!

The REAL birthday....and special surprises at Julio's for Rich.

Back home for Cake and Cuddles!

Thankful for the BIG shower...these maniacs!

Projects with Mommy.  With school back in, this little lady needs a little extra one on one time with mama and I will take it every chance I get.

The weather was changing but we are still getting outside as much as possible.  A little rain never hurt anyone.

Fall clean up time....

Getting fancy for family pictures....

And this is why we only do pictures ONE time a year.  hahah!!!

These were before...and the ones Chantel captured ARE amazing!!! Stay tuned, I will share them soon.

That's a wrap SEPTEMBER! We are all finding our new groove with school back in session, less time together, more demands on all...but diving in to quiet moments together will always FILL my cup back up. Diving into the fruits of the spirit and finding a little quiet is good for my heart

Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Galatians 6:9