The Countdown Has Begun!

Well, we return to work next Thursday, August 14th. As of this writing, we only have four days left until we are forced to return to work. I must admit, the summer break is NOT the reason I became a teacher, but it is probably my favorite perk of being a teacher. It is nice to spend all day every day with my family. It is something precious that not too many people get to experience and I am really grateful that Jessica and I get to share the summer months with Kierin and Connor.

So, how do we spend these long summer Alaskan days? Inside, because it has rained so frickin' much this summer! Seriously though, we have spent a great deal of time this summer trying to buy a new house. The latest news is that the re-inspection turned up a few things the seller had not done or had done incorrectly, so we were not able to close on Friday. So now, our realtor sent a handyman in to finish the work and our closing is set for Monday at 1:00. So we will be moving boxes shortly thereafter. I hope to have EVERYTHING over to the new house by Tuesday night and then Jessica can unpack at the new house and I will be over here at the old house painting the kids' rooms and cleaning the carpet. FUN!

Anyway, we have found some time recently to enjoy ourselves. To begin with, Jessica turned 29 (again) on July 23rd and we celebrated by giving her presents and cheesecake. My parents took us to dinner and took the kids for awhile (The BEST present-peace and quiet!).


In addition, we were able to find time to relax at home. Here Jessica and Nudge, or "Nutty" as Connor calls him, relaxing on the couch and watching a little TV.


I was able to play a lot of hockey this summer. Sorry about the poor quality of the picture, but it was very dark in the ice rink and I had to adjust it a little. Check out my brand new white hockey pads!


Finally, Connor tried his hand at his new hobby-ART!