Summer's in Full Swing!

Summer is officially in full swing at the Hoekstras. This week and last have been just short of crazy. As the mom, I take full responsibility, and although no one has complained (yet!) I think all 3 of us are looking forward to a few of those "lazy days of summer" soon! Our days have been starting with the kids each doing 2 chores and 2 learning type things. Next, they fill their snack jars ... 3 snacks go into the jar each morning and when they're gone, they're gone! Last week Ella had all 3 gone by 11am one day, but the next day she was more careful! :)

Last week's schedule included Noah's basketball camp, Ella's gymnastics, Ella's cheer camp, & a few afternoons by South Side Pool. This week hasn't been any slower paced; Noah's been at Hope Soccer Camp from 9-3 each day, while Ella is still doing gymnastics and has added swimming lessons. We had my family over last night for dinner (Happy Father's Day Dad!) and playgroup at the park this afternoon. We're hosting a "Yea! It's finally Summer!" party Friday night with a group of friends and their kids. Saturday will be fun too ... the annual badmitton tournament at the Linns. Paul and I have been up late many a night this week strategizing on how we can get that trophy BACK into Hoekstra hands :) This Sunday has officially been declared "Boat Day!!" and I think Paul already has the beer on ice. We're planning to meet a group of friends out on the beach, but I don't dare tell Paul the forecast doesn't look so great ... if it rains I'm taking a nap!

Noah couldn't be more excited about Little League this year. The A's had their final game on Monday night. The coach announced that Noah was 1 of 2 players from his team to make the All Star Team. He'll be playing in that much-anticipated game on the 27th.

Summer is such a fun time; especially with Noah and Ella. I've probably scheduled way too much and have made a mental note for next year. BUT, they're such good kids and really seem to be enjoying everything. They have so much energy and so many interests. It's fun to watch them learn new things, grow in areas they already have an interest in, make new friends, thrive in new social settings, and enjoy this new routine. It's not hard to remember the looong days of winter, so we're going to take advantage all we can of these long summer days!