These Are the Easy Days

Well it’s the dog days of summer.

I have no idea what that means.

But I do know that I look around and think wowweeee I’m blessed. Not only because I have this rowdy fun family. But also because our seemingly overwhelming days of nonstop whining and tantrums are paired with blissful afternoons playing at the park, in the pool, reading books, and rushing off exactly no where. Except to catch that baby who insists on trying to emulate his naughty brother.

(I do find myself repeatedly exclaiming “do not encourage bad behavior” because the big kids cheer him on whenever he’s being ambitious, shall we say.)

The kids are taking greater risks and presumably experiencing more joyous rewards? I was on the phone in the Library when I heard a strange grunting noise. I had no child in eyesight (probably a real classy mom move there, novice nell) but when I stepped into the Entrance Hall, I beheld a car seat that had previously been stationed in the Dining Room, a whole room away mind you, now parked in front of the mail table that centers itself in the Hall. With an occupant.

And a chauffer. Let’s just say he was elated and I was chagrined.

How she dragged him + the base + the carseat I have no clue. Real buff girl here.

Best part of summer? We had all the cousins together for a special event.

The kids mauled their littlest cousin. I mean, there were outright scuffles on who could hold him and how. Let’s just say SweetPea exhibited a ferocity toward motherhood we all found delightful and frightening. They also tried to go after their second littlest with their intense affection. Let’s just say little miss J held her own, even against my big biting tot.

The two oldest explored hard at the Lodge and consequently experienced matching slivers. And had to soak their paws. With much protestation.

We attempted a full cousin photo on the couch. You can see how this went.

He modeled my bonnet that needed the ties adjusted. Very lovely, n’est-ce pas? She is, certainly! Molly, eternally young!

The biggest and best reason to all be together was to celebrate our oldest sister’s almost two-decade long relationship with our newest in-law, former out-law! The ceremony was simple and perfect. And a reason to make banana cream pie from scratch!

I hope your dog days are behaving. Whatever that means for you.