Closing in on Summer

I haven't posted anything since right after we returned from our trip to the states. Wow- another summer has come and gone, and school is right around the corner.

So begins the packing of lunches, early bedtimes, early wake ups, and homework! It is just so hard to believe that it is time again for another school year to begin. I am not sure where the time goes. It doesn't seem like that long ago that we watched Patrick go off to kindergarten. Now, Patrick is a big 3rd grader.

Matthew...our little preschooler. Ah- I love preschool. There is just something about the preschool days- so innocent, fun, and still so young! When I walk in to the school to pick up Matthew, I am still warmed by his huge smile and hug as he runs over to me and says, "MOMMY-your here." As if it is a surprise every day that I pick him up. I am secretly very happy that Matthew didn't make the cut off for kindergarten. I will cherish this last year. I know all too well that my little guy will go off to Kindergarten all too soon and will be starting 3rd grade like Patrick before we know it.

The start of this school year also marks the first time in 8 years that I don't have a little person with me at all throughout the day. Last year, Matthew only went to school two days a week. This year he will go five. I know I know, most moms are thinking- party!!! The kids are gone, and I finally have ME time. The truth is that I have enjoyed the time at home with my two boys. Playdates, pool days, beach days, backyard times, and cuddling up on the couch to read a book are some of the greatest moments! Sure, there are days when I wanted to pull my hair out. The Nowak boys can certainly have their moments- when all you hear about all day is Indiana Jones or Star Wars conversations, the day is a little long. Or, when the legos are covering my floors and they get stuck onto my feet when I walk. Or, when they both gang up on mom and say, "Your Mean" just because I won't let them have their 10th snack of the day. All in all though, I can't complain about these two little boys whose imaginations reach to the moon and back. They are so fun and creative and keep my days filled!

So, off to school it is. No more lazy mornings on the couch watching Discovery Channel and Animal Planet. For all of you with little ones at home or just starting out in Kindergarten or preschool, I wish you the best. Take kleenex with you, but don't stick around. They will be fine!