Family Fun

It's been such a busy summer already! In June, I taught summer school, so we weren't able to do a lot. Then the last weekend in June, I had my class reunion. Great times! I really enjoyed myself, and I think the kids had fun too. I like being able to juggle both kid time and mommy time, although I feel guilty taking mommy time when I have the kids. That weekend, though, it balanced out I think pretty well.

This weekend was the first weekend I've had to just enjoy my kids. And enjoy them I did. We went home for the 4th of July and spent the weekend with my friend and her family, as we have done for several years now. On Friday, we went to the waterpark. It was a blast! I was a little worried because I'm not a huge water slide person and also because it was rather chilly that day (I think it may have touched 80 degrees), but it turned out to be a perfect day. The lines were short, the water cold, but not cold enough air temp that we couldn't have fun. I didn't bring my camera (boo, me!) but you'll have to take my word for it that a good time was had by all. And Andrew and I only got a little sunburnt!

The big kids spent a lot of the day off with my friend's kids, and I went down quite a few slides with Rachel. We also did a couple with everyone. I can't even describe the happiness I felt!! There is nothing like watching your kids have fun to know you are blessed! That, and Rachel said to me SEVERAL times, "Mom, you're the best mom ever. This is so much fun. Thank you." Melt my heart!

Later that night, we went to a baseball game. (Minor league, I think). The Waterloo Bucks played okay, and managed to pull off a win in overtime with a stunning score. Again, so much fun. My kids LOVE all sports, and so to be able to watch their faces was priceless. Here are a couple pictures.

There were fireworks after the game, too. Gotta love it!!

The next day, Saturday, was the 4th. We went shopping for awhile in the afternoon (after sleeping in most of the morning). It was so nice to shop at a mall. Although, it also makes me realize yet again why I can't afford to move back home!

We then joined our friends for a bbq (mmmm, steak.....) and then off to see the fireworks. I love these people, and I love my kids. The 4th is my all time favorite holiday, so I was a happy camper all weekend long. (oh, and I didn't even have to camp! That makes me a very very happy camper, ha!) Thanks friends, for the great time!

Today, I'm sad because my kids have left to spend 2 weeks with Tim's family. But you know what? It's okay. Their dad may not like me much, but at least he doesn't beat his kids. I'm so thankful that I don't have to worry about their physical safety while they are gone. (Except for the usual parent worries about car crashes and roller coaster failures, that is!)

Until next time!

~Missy, a very thankful mom