Goodbye Summer! Welcome, 7th Grade!

We ended our summer with an extended weekend at the beach.  It was hard to leave. I heard Labor Day was was the last vacation until Thanksgiving.  I guess that means it's all labor until Thanksgiving, huh?  That thought was somewhat overwhelming.  Then last week, we started 7th grade and I came across a homeschool message about inhabiting your happiness.  I always love those reminders: don't rush to another moment, live in the present, don't live for Fridays or weekends or holidays but take in every minute God has granted and live, live fully!    Part of that message involves gratitude and being thankful.  As I look around at many who are suffering with illness, just giving thanks more often for being healthy is big step in living in fullness.

It's back to work for us but I'm excited that I get to enjoy my kids at home and immerse myself in what they are learning.  We have enjoyed a summer with fewer responsibilities and we are refreshed and ready to tackle 7th grade and preschool.  

I'm thankful that God gives us the seasons to enjoy, times to work and times to play.  I'm partial to summer but there's something wonderful about all four of seasons! As we transition to another season, I'm "working" on living in fullness:-)

Photo from Holly's R&F party this summer

Fall means more football!
(Jamboree in Greensboro)

Jackson 5  @ QB

Andrew and Sawyer swinging in Troy

Someone wants to share his snack

This baby is only a day old here

Science outside of our kitchen window

Walking at CB State Park

Hanging out on a branch

Jackson, Bailey and Sawyer

Backpacking:-)

Last evening of summer vacation- Fort Fisher

I love this picture!  It looks like Sawyer has a magic wand, swirling the sky with his finger.

Butterfly exhibit at Fort Fisher Aquarium

Sawyer has a butterfly on his back

Jackson doing his best shark face impression

Cousins at the State game
(Thanks Aunt Holly for game photos:)

Sawyer