Can't Take Them Anyhere

We went down to the temporary overlook by the lake for a snack and a break. The kids decided they needed to take some selfies.

The Covidcut

Ryan finally gave in and let us cut his hair. It had been months. However, we didn't totally grasp how much he'd connected with this longer version style. He was really disappointed in the look of the new cut, despite the fact its pretty much how he usually keeps his hair. In the few months he's been growing it out (and all in quarantine mode) we've forgotten our old lives a bit.

Kids Chillin at the Pool

We've been a little worried about the pool during this pandemic. However, most of the times we've gone we find very few people there. A few times we've gone and its been crowded, but the kids seem to have a knack for clearing out the pool when they arrive. Today there were plenty of chairs for everyone to lay out and lounge a bit after a swim.

This Is 44

Brooke wanted to make something special for my birthday. She also wanted to make something SHE would like. Thus, sprinkled donuts! They actually turned out pretty good, and required no grease/frying. There are sprinkles on the INSIDE not just the outside ... of course.

We also had to have cake. It's not quite the same having a birthday during a pandemic, but when you have cake it at least feels like a birthday.

Driving

Someone (not me) let her drive the golf cart today 

Fathers Day!

Had Grandpa and Grandma up for the day. Had lunch, went to play a little basketball and had dinner. Finished up our day back at the new fire table. The kids were wrapped in Roblox and barely noticed we were there.

So Much S'Mores

Last Day of 3rd Grade

Ryan wrapped up the school year with a short Zoom call. His teacher played a video with a lot of photos, which seemed to have lots of good memories judging from the giggles. And then, it was done. What a crazy year, and such an anti-climactic ending. We now officially begin Summer, something I dont think any of us really quite understands how to manage at this point.

Baseball Practice

Practice looks a little different this year ... but the kids are all doing the same things :)

Pool!

Picnic Lunch

After most of the dune collapsed into the lake, we thought out lake views were long gone. But they built a new seating area with a beautiful view (and a little sand box area) and today we enjoyed a perfect lunch there. We were all overjoyed at the opportunity to sit outside and hang out a little. All three kids played in the sand while the grownups hung out and watched the boats cross the water. I think this is an experience we need to repeat many more times in the future.

8/11 Ice Cream Winner

8/11

Smores Night

He Said

Luke: I wish I could have fruit salad. But only the fruits I like. Oranges without the white stuff, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries and banana bread.

Cinnamon Bun Mugs

Brooke had big plans for this morning. She woke up and told us all we cannot come in the kitchen. She made a surprise - a Cinnamon Bun Mug for each of us. Recipe from TikTok.

Last Day Catherine Cook

Well, its over. Our virtual learning experience has come to an end ... at least for THIS school year. The kids are dressed in their virtual learning best - pajamas. These rainbow pants of Brookes have participated in a ton of distance learning the past few months.

We are glad to be done, but sad to miss out on the structure of school and the connection with friends and teachers. The summer and our future in general are pretty confusing given the state of this pandemic. All of the kids actually did pretty great at the virtual learning concept, Brooke seemed to thrive. So at least we end the year without a lot of regret and angst. Looking forward to seeing what the future will bring.

Lukes class ended with a Zoom, where they got to bring their own treat to have during class. What a strange feeling to end Kindergarten without the hugs and goodbyes.  

Lukes Scrambled Eggs

Luke has become a pro at making scrambled eggs. In fact, according to Luke, he makes them better than anyone else.