Spring Break 2017 is in the books, and we all survived! I truly believe this was due to the visit of Grandma, who helped entertain children, change diapers, rock little man to sleep, cook dinners, and generally keep the house running in a sane manner. Why is life SO MUCH easier with Grandma around? It really is, no doubt! An extra hand for the kids, always shooing me out the door so that I can get some of that much needed quiet time. I know Nick was truly grateful for the time, as well. He has been busy every day, with his new course and all the homework that accompanies it!
So what did we do while Grandma was here?
We hit the beach! First time this year! It was also the first time I have really walked the beach since arriving on this side of the world. I have to say, it is very different from the beaches of Okinawa. Any guesses on which one I like better? Kayla had a blast digging around the sand, hunting for pretty stones and shark teeth. Thomas enjoyed just sitting around and silently observing, per the norm.
Grandma, Kayla and I went to explore the local farmer's market on opening day. It was on the small side, but the local vendors did have some neat wares for sale! We enjoyed putzing around there, and then we were off to Lowe's to get started on the garden!
After much deliberation and wandering, Grandma and I picked out the flowers and plants for the front, and I finished up shopping for Kayla's fairy garden. Between the 3 ladies and Nick, it still took all afternoon to get the planting done. But we love how it turned out! Here is to hoping I keep it alive. I am far from a green thumb.
We wanted to get out and explore a bit, so after Grandma snapped some family pictures on Sunday, we loaded up the car and headed toward Wilmington. It turned out to be just the type of city I love. It reminded me of Charleston and Savannah. Old, bits of history, the waterfront... My type of place!
Parking ended up being a disaster, since the Azalea festival happened to be going on (note to self: research if events are happening in advance, next time). Eventually we found a little lot and started the walk toward the waterfront. The old houses, the landscaping, the churches were beautiful! The festival itself was crazy busy, and we did not spend too much time with the vendors. Maybe next year?
To be honest, my favorite day was our laziest day! After spending a morning walking to the "big construction park" and playing, we spent the rest of the day outdoors in the gorgeous sunshine! Kayla played in the sprinkler for hours, running around the yard, jumping on the trampoline and playing with friends. Thomas loved padding around in his walker on the back porch, watching his sister play and soaking up the sunshine. I know Grandma and I enjoyed the relaxation and kids laughter, as well.
The week with Grandma went by way too fast. Kayla was absolutely heartbroken when we had to drop her off at the airport. The whole way home was filled with tears, and comments that broke my heart. She loves her Michigan family so much, and we wish more than anything she could see everyone more often. I think this is the 1st time where I am seeing how hard it really can be, to be the child of someone in military.
Nick and I had not planned on going home this summer. In fact, we were kind of dead set against it. But with all of Kayla's sadness and comments, I think we will be trying to head that way at some point. I know she will love Michigan in the summer, she has not had that since our 1st year in Okinawa. And I am sure Thomas will love it it as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment