Summer closing up

I scheduled back to back vacations this summer, right before heading back to work full time for the school corporation, working part time for Menards and going back to school part-time to get my RN degree. I spent less time at the lake, more time with my kids and other people who are important in my life.  I took care of Nadia and myself financially on my own.  Added bonus, I was able to see more of my older kids than I ever have.  I also worked more than I ever have; working 2 jobs this summer.  

Lots of feelings of sadness about saying goodbye to summer and going back to work.  However, I will be beginning a new chapter of my life.  I'm going back to school, Nadia will be driving soon, starting her sophomore year at BHSS, Skylar will be starting his sophomore  year in college, and Natalya and Josh are looking for new jobs and educational opportunities, and making it on their own.

Sky and Josh have done a good job of helping me out this summer.  They have helped me move and remove appliances, replace the battery in my car, drop off old appliances to be recycled and offer to spend time with Nadia.  Natalya has stayed with the cats and Nadia while I have been on vacation.  I am so proud of my older children and thankful for their willingness to check on, and help out their mom.

Although summer break is over, there is still a lot of nice weather ahead.  And that is a good thing.  I will need some good weather to prepare for the half marathon I am going to do with Karen and Mabel in October.  I am committed to running and walking several days a week to get ready.

My good friend Julia has moved back to Bloomington.  What a gift!  She is one of the most amazing people I have ever met.  She has seen me through a lot of life's struggles, and celebrated the achievements however small or large.  I will enjoy reconnecting with her this fall.

Karen and I took 2 vacations in Illinois; biking hiking and walking.  We never stopped moving while we were in Illinois.  Do you know how good that feels?  Amazing.  We saw an Indians game and Cubs vs. Cards game.  We swam at the lake and in the pool.  WE rode our bikes A LOT! She is also the one who talked me into signing up of for the half marathon.  It's good for me to have someone who pushes me to keep moving.  I need it.  And she rocks!

Nadia went to Chicago to spend a week with her dad for the first time in a  long time.  She had a great time and didn't call me once with a complaint.  It was nice to hear that they could get along.  Nadia will begin her sophomore year with an IEP and a contract.  We meet with Mr. Doyle on Tuesday to discuss the terms of both.  She is willing to give it a try.

Lots of things to be happy about and thankful for.