The end of summer...

Where has the time gone? Wasn't it just yesterday that summer started? My little man starts school after Labor Day, but I start back tomorrow. Sigh. I can't believe how quickly my break flew by. I had such a long to-do list, some of which was done, and some of which will have to wait until, well, who knows when.

The past two weeks for me has been a cram fest of trying to squeeze in fun days with the kiddoes and getting school/fall clothes and school supplies. We've spent the past few days doing fun family outings, squeezing the last drops out of summer. Yesterday we packed a picnic lunch and went on nature hike up to a lighthouse. We had a wonderful time and the scenery was breathtakingly beautiful. It was a great way to end the summer and hopefully create a fun memory for the kids.

I'm starting my final year of nursing school (done in May, thank GOD!) and my intention is to do a better job of setting quality time aside each week for something fun with the kids. The last two years I've been a little over my head and didn't do the best job of balancing school and home. This year will be differet. It has to be different. I can see the light at the end of the proverbial tunnel and I realize how the unimportant things will still be there when I'm done - my house will be clean and organized again come May. But, enjoying time with my kids and staying connected is much more important - they can not wait. I'm feeling optimistic, I think (hope) I can keep my priorities in check.

Although I'm sad to see summer end, I look forward to starting school again, since the sooner I start, the sooner I finish. I also LOVE everything that autumn brings....pumpkins, hayrides, scarecrows, Halloween, apple cider, bon fires, crisp air, jumping in leaves and humidity free weather (ahhhh, good hair days).

So, now that I'm diving, head first, into school, it'll be rare for me to post until next year. But in the meantime, I hope you are finding ways to stay connected with your loved ones and finding fun ways to create lasting memories.