Springtime Joy

I really enjoy all seasons. I was going to boldly claim that springtime was my favorite – a new time with new growth, new leaves – a new beginning. As soon as my fingers started walking to the letters, my brain reminded me that every season could be my favorite. One of my favorite parts of living in the midwest is the experience of all four seasons. It’s a true pleasure. There is something magical about all the new life – we’ve had deer return to our yard which is certainly an exciting morning surprise in our household. I did get a garden down this year, so we’ll see how that ends up. I have learned two things: 1. my plants are very overcrowded. 2. My soil is too dense. So far, I don’t think either of those things are going to be prohibitive in terms of some growth. It has been suggested to me to enlist the help of pvc pipe to create a drainage system down to the depths of the soil. I may end up doing that this weekend, but haven’t yet.

The big kids have a graduation in about 20 days – it’s difficult to believe I will soon have two kindergarten students. I’ve been getting them used to the idea of uniforms, but for two children who are so particular about what they wear, it’s definitely going to be a transition. I brought home highlighted examples of the things they can wear and they enjoy visual reference materials, so hopefully the hype will continue into the late summer/early fall transition into a new school. They’re going to attend a Vacation Bible School in June at their new school in order to [hopefully] get used to the school so that they can feel more comfortable in the fall. Not sure if that’s projection or not, but it’s something that helps me to feel comfortable – time and acclimation to the space. One of their friends at their current school will be going to their new school, so I’m thankful for that, as well. I’ve started preparing them for their impending separation which I believe hurts me more than them. They keep saying “maybe” they’ll be in the same class, but I continue to reinforce that they won’t. It’s something most schools do – separate twins. At least in the areas with which I’m familiar. It’s interesting because I understand the “why,” but research doesn’t necessarily support that “why.” Anyway, I know the feelings that come along with kindergarten are likely experienced by every mother, universally. It’s like a whole large part of your heart is growing up which feels like a vice grip squeezing that very important organ until it forces the tears up from your ducts. Don’t worry – I know they’re only 5. They will have so much fun and I’m excited to see them learn more.

Our lives are assuredly both filled with springtime joy and chaos. If you’re looking for a quiet space, best to not visit us. It’s loud, here. They’ve been helping me with the garden and always love to assist me in cooking. Never ending laundry, not so much. Justin and I’s 10-year wedding anniversary is next week and we’re getting away for a couple nights thanks to our parents. This year was the year I eclipsed more than half of my life with him (18 years), but the 10-year marriage mark seemed like it came quicker than expected. Things aren’t very easy right now, but we’re looking forward to a few days with a little bit of quiet. ❤ Pictures below of recent activities.