Squeezing the Juicebox on Summer

Denver proudly displays his ability to
carry his big brother!

It still feels like summer; but the boys' friends started back to school today, and we'll begin our academic work on Monday. Everywhere we go, adults ask the boys, "Are you ready for school?"

And if the boys answer truthfully, the answer is "No." Who wants to wake up early and do math after breakfast? Who wants to write book reports?

I'm the teacher, and the truth is . . . I understand! The boys have been sleeping late and staying up late. They've been having sleepovers and learning all kinds of things this summer. John Robert has been exploring science and Shakespeare, as well as swimming non-stop. Spencer has been reading everything he can get his hands on regarding the middle ages and learning to break boards in karate. Denver . . . well, Denver is learning lots of things I'm sure. They've all become enamored of a very creative and challenging video game called Minecraft. They enjoy my reading to them in the evenings. They've been learning about car repair, cooking, lawn maintenance, and laundry. They've been spending lots of time with friends and swimming at our pool. Who in their right mind would want this to end?

But the new textbooks are purchased and shining brightly at me as they lie stacked on my desk. The boys' new three ring binders are filled with paper and ready to go. We have wonderful things to learn this year: physics, Latin, History, writing, reading, math. Numerous field trips fill the calendar. It's time to begin a new school year.

Denver made his own armor.

Maybe the truth is that each school year makes me realize how quickly they are growing up. And although each day is wonderful and I don't want to miss a moment of it-- I'm still sad to see that yesterday is gone. My babies and toddlers are gone; replaced by opinionated, energetic boys with skills, interests, and appetites that amaze me.

Another summer is drawing to a close . . . but we'll have a few more juiceboxes by the pool; and if you squeeze them real hard, you can get the last little bit.

Denver and Alex enjoy the Swim Team
end of season picnic.