While Matt was away

Matt took a group of 19 students to Costa Rica for 15 days. They had some awesome adventures and also did a little "home stay" with kids from a local school down there. It sounded like they had a blast. But I wouldn't know because I was left a single mother for those long and tortuous 15 days. I mean I was living life like most people whose husbands still have to work in the summer. I had to keep all 5 fed, cleaned and entertained all by myself. Not cool. I like having Matt around during the summer days to be the awesome parent who all the kids want to be with all the time. I've worked hard to be the nagging parent who makes kids do chores and schoolwork so that they'd leave me alone and follow Matt around. Sadly it came back to bite me. The kids asked when Matt would be home about 839 times, and I was told how much more fun he is than I am once or twice. I only took 2 pictures during those two weeks. I didn't get pictures of us at baseball practices and games, Dairy Queen, the library, the park, swimming lessons, Dairy Queen (sometimes you just need a blizzard), and me locked in my room. We had a little fun at the pool while he was gone.

And everyone was super excited to see Matt at the airport. Even at 11:00 at night.

Sweet Yankee Dreams

Once again I was amused during my nightly rounds.

Bubbly Fun

Nearly every time we take our kids to spend their money, we shake our heads at their decisions. It's usually on cheap toys or candy that they eat in the car on the way home, with the wrappers left crumbled on the floor. We are hoping that over time they will learn to be wise with their money. I think Nina made a good choice this time. Her purchase was still intact when we arrived at home, AND she kept everyone entertained. Entertained outside. Yes, I would say I approved.