Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Summer Break Wrap Up

Monday was a most gorgeous day for wrapping up summer break. The kids and I decided to be impulsive and spend the day outdoors, soaking up the sunshine and beauty. We're not big on agendas but really avoided having any on this day. We were rewarded for it.

We had a great summer. It didn't go as planned and I didn't come anywhere close to completing my long to-do list. Vanessa was excited about school but also very much enjoyed her freedom and flexibility from the game -- she felt mixed. It wasn't till the very end when I kind of felt like it was time for the kids to get back into our school year routine. I've been looking forward to getting back into a routine but I was also very sad for the change. Zane has handled Vanessa's return exceptionally well. He's ready to get back into some of his own schooling.

We visited the newest Metro Park, Rocky Fork. It was okay and a nice way to start the day. We then decided to swing by the south end of the Hoover Dam since it has been a few years since Zane and I visited. And then the kids wanted to play in the river, so we ran up to Highbanks.
 Zane was looking for another "crutch" for his "broken" leg.
 The kids explored the meadow all by themselves.
Without any leading or help Zane found where we were at on the park map. He said "I think we're on this pink line and we are getting close to water." He was exactly right!

 Zane: "I really love this tree fort so much! I wish we had this."
We were the only ones in the Highbanks' nature center and just so happened to come in when the fellow was preparing to release three new monarchs. He asked the kids if they would like to help. Zane decided to observe but Vanessa was delighted to do it once she observed me releasing one.
Zane's plays and performances are quite detailed and he's so good at narrating, animal noises and changing his voice to size and type of character. I could sit and watch all day . . .
He's also very strong and takes his time.