I’m just gonna say it… summer is hard.

In years past, “Summer Vacation” didn’t really feel any different than any other season.  Sure, we were able to take a few extra day trips here and there, and having mid-day playdates was awesome.  But we learned the hard way that it was best to keep the boys on their early-to-bed/early-to-rise schedule, which meant no rest for the weary.This summer was a stark contrast to any other year.  We still had plenty of day trips and mid-day playdates, and LOTS of time to swim.  But this year we took a more relaxed approach to bedtime, which meant wake-up time was often delayed.  (Yay for sleeping in for the first time in nearly 7 years.  And by “sleeping in” I mean 7:30.)

The most challenging part for me this year was the bickering.   Evan is no longer the little tag-along who happily does whatever his big brother wants to do.  He has his own opinions (which he feels incredibly passionate about!), and will not settle for second choices.  And Ryder is a bossy perfectionist strong leader who knows exactly what he wants and how he wants it.  There were many times this summer where I needed a mic to drop from the ceiling so I could proclaim, “Llllllllllets get ready to RUMBLLLLLLLLE!”

Seriously.  At least one of the three of us may not have survived another week away from the safety of the school-year routine.  These two crazy monkeys kept us on our toes, forcing us to change discipline strategies many times… and on our knees, praying for guidance, patience, and peace.  A period of growth and refinement for all of us!  We are a day and a half into the 2015-16 school year, and suddenly peace has been restored.  My family thrives on structure and predictable routines… and a few hours away from each other each day… and constant activity.  I might be singing a different tune in a couple of weeks because we’re in a bit of uncharted territory.  This year we have two kids playing soccer instead of just one.  And when you add gymnastics, Aviators (our church’s version of Awanas), occupational therapy, three days a week with our personal trainer and homework into the mix, things might get a little hairy.

So if you see me shuffling around with a glazed look on my face (similar to the one I wore toward the end of the summer), just hand me a cup of coffee and point me toward my car because that’s where I’ll be spending most of my time.  🙂