Ridenour Ranch: Summer where did you go?

Oh, hi, you're still here! But school does start next week, so whether or not it is still technically summer, summer is officially OVER in my book! BUMMER!

I thought in May, "Oh man, summer is here! I will have so much time! I will read books, do some sewing, play with the kids, sleep in, make good food, work outside, go swimming, workout and look fabulous, blog, and be all ready for the new school year by August 1..."

I thought August 1, "Oh man, summer is over! I had not time! I did not finish my book, I did not get my sewing projects done, I want to play more with the kids, I've gained 8 pounds, I only blogged twice, okay so I did do some sleeping in and plenty of working outside, but I didn't make all the good food or go swimming enough!"

Where does the time go? I was contemplating that today because all week I have been taking the kids to the new babysitter (loving her and Cora didn't cry yesterday!) and working at school. Today I stayed home while Gil had to go in to Briar Cliff for the first time. I got so much done at school. Even with interruptions from my coworkers who I haven't seen all summer, I have my entire room ready and felt very productive. Even when I got home I would get things done. Then today, the day I thought I had "all to myself" I have felt the least productive (but look at me, I am blogging!). It is CRAZY how two kids are like a complete time suck. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to be doing anythings else (okay, sometimes peace and quiet and doing what I want sounds good!). But man, do they require time and energy. So I am feeling a little better about not accomplishing all of my summer goals because really the only goal that mattered was that I was here for my kids. And I WAS here for my kids!!!
Right now Cora is on her second nap and Jude is watching Bambi...I am checking email and blogging...not folding the clothes on the couch or emptying the dishwasher or working on more school plans. Sometimes I gotta do the fun stuff!

So as many of you know we recently took a road trip to San Antonio, TX in the mini with the kids and Gil's parents to see his sisters that live in Texas and to celebrate our niece's 1st birthday. We had a blast. While I do not recommend driving to Texas EVER unless it is a must (this was a must!), we managed very well and survived to tell about it. Thanks so much to the Herrick's for putting up with us and showing us a good old Texas time! The highlight was of course seeing everyone and the birthday, but other than that we went to Sea World which was really cool.

We also got in a day at the Dixon County Fair before we left. The petting zoo and the rides were the hands down favorite. Jude wonders where the fair went every time we drive by.