The End: Weeks 8, 9, and 10

Dearest Boys,

The past 3 weeks have sped by in a blur and now we're here at the end.  The end of summer vacation.  The end of sleeping in, staying undressed until noon, swimming multiple times per week, mid-day play dates with friends, careless nights, and late bedtimes (just to name a few).  While I'm having trouble wrapping my brain around these past few weeks, I know they've been filled with birthdays, laughter, and even a few tears.

The few pictures I managed to find are helpful for my memory though...

There was a trip to the Arboretum with these friends.  Y'all ran around the Children's Garden and just enjoyed being boys.

 

There was also a visit (our first ever) to Hawaiian Falls, courtesy of Grandma.  She took us there with her tickets and even tubed the Hawaiian Halfpipe with us!

Then the tears came...on August 7th, when we said goodbye to Stephy.  Mommy and Daddy made a last minute decision to send you to preschool this year, Colt.  So on her last (of 4) summer days, I sent the 2 of you to spend one last day with Steph.  I couldn't even find the words to tell her that we were leaving and sobbed on her shoulder instead.  Steph has been an integral part of our lives for 5 years now and she had a big part in helping to shape the both of you.  I'm not sure how much you boys will remember her in the years to come, but I will never forget her patient heart, soothing voice, or nurturing spirit.

 This week we took you to your well-check appointment where we were reminded that you top the charts!  You weigh 46 lbs. and you're 42 inches tall!  The doctor (who is new to the practice) complemented you on your social skills and asked, "Are you always so happy?"  : )

Jax, we had another fun first this week!  Your school rewarded you for reading by giving you a free ticket to Six Flags so we went yesterday with Michelle & Brody.  We had great weather, a great low-crowd level, and great friends to ride rides with...so it was a GREAT first trip! 

 And now we're in full "Back to School" mode...bring on the new clothes, school supplies, and Meet the Teacher nights.  **fingers crossed**