Back to School

Would it be bad to say that it has been a REALLY long summer and I am so glad the kids are all back in school?!  Seriously, I don't know how homeschoolers do it.  Those moms (and dads) must love their kids a whole lot because they are giving up so much (like two naps a day, grocery shopping alone, quiet time, etc) to be at home all day everyday with the kids.  I personally need a break from all the whining, asking for a million snacks throughout the day, and all the little messes that they leave behind everywhere.

Mario started working shift work this month, so although he will be working overnight several times a month, he will have off about 15 or 16 days a month.  So we will have a lot more time to spend together during the days.  Today was our first day without the kids.  Yesterday, the three younger ones went back but it was only 3 hours.    As much as I love and adore Mario, I was a little anxious for just some "me" time and do whatever I want today.  But in all fairness, he helped me clean and grocery shop.  He has to work all night tonight, so tomorrow I will get some quiet time while he's sleeping.  I think I'll feel guilty taking naps and watching the morning news and talk shows while he's home with me.  He doesn't like wasting time.  He doesn't care if I waste time but I know I'll feel guilty if he's getting things done while I relax. It will be an adjustment for me, but I am excited that we can do lots more together during the days.   The most exciting is going to the Temple on Friday mornings when he's home.  We home to go on the Friday mornings that he doesn't have to work or sleep.  What a blessing to have a Temple so close.

Here are pictures from the first day of school.  Erin is in the "I'm not photogenic phase" and so she wouldn't cooperate for pictures.  She's still beautiful even when she is pouting.  At least Eric is back to cooperating for pictures.