august.

It's a good thing I live in the desert because I am boycotting the end of summer. I am ignoring all the cute fall crafts and pumpkin recipes. There will be no discussing Halloween costumes. I will not partake in fall scented candles or autumn wreaths on my front door. If I am needed, I will be by the pool with a book and an iced drink every weekend until further notice. It all just went by too fast.

 

But...as much as I fight it, we are officially back to school and back to the routine of life, and I guess that's a good thing. August was a good month. I tagged along with Matt to Denver for one last trip before school started.

 

It was especially nice because it was on his birthday. For his birthday dinner, we went to my favorite place in Denver, El Diablo's. Oh my goodness. It was so good, as always. You have to love a man that chooses YOUR favorite place on HIS birthday.

This guy has lost about thirty pounds over the last 5 months.He looks great, but I believe we will have to get him some new clothes before winter.  His clothes are literally hanging on him.

I surprised him with some birthday balloons in the hotel room. He was really excited and thanked me over and over again. There were a few on the hotel door to greet him and he walked into the room with the biggest, sweetest smile on his face.

 

 

A few days after Matt's birthday, his sweet daughter, Madi, turned into a teenager. I seriously can't believe how grown up she is, especially after spending a week with her in Buffalo this summer.

 

 She is a beautiful girl, inside and out. She is talented and really special. Did I mention she is absolutely crazy and so much fun to be around?  Madi, we hope your 13th year is your best yet!

  

While Jeb is still busy with tennis, Griff has started rock climbing. He climbs at an indoor center for two hours a week and really enjoys it.
 

 He comes home sweaty and sore, which is a beautiful thing. Griff has made a commitment to losing weight and has stuck  with a diet and exercise program better than most adults. His face looks thinner and his clothes are fitting better. I am really proud of him.

I have officially submitted my application for the RN program and I am patiently anxiously awaiting an acceptance letter in the mail.

 

While I wait, I am taking classes towards my BSN and working. Hopefully, if all  goes well I will start the program in January.

 

 

 

 

The first day of school was super smooth. I officially have a 7th grader and a 5th grader.

 

 

 They're pretty cute, too.

 

After school we had our traditional catch up over cookies. It was a nice treat (especially for a household that has been treat- less for a while now! However, these were low cal and vegan.)

 

 I found out all about their teachers, their favorite classes and what all their friends did over the summer. I want to freeze these special times forever.

 

So that's August. I'm still clinging to the last little bits of summer. Summer doesn't officially end until, like Spetember 22nd or something, right?

 

 Happy Labor Day!