It's hard to get a break from being a wife and mother. I won't lie, I enjoyed my days of no worries. No laundry, no dishes, no whining, no diapers, no baths, just me. A bit lonely at times, but I was usually busy enough with class and assignments to not be too concerned about home.

Stepping back into my old shoes (wife, mother, hiney-wiper, etc.) has been an adjustment. I guess I won't get another three-week break like that for many years to come. My only regret? I didn't take ANY pictures while I was in summer school of my new friends and living quarters. My husband didn't take any of the kids while I was gone either. Guess that's just a chunk in time to remember in my head. Hmmm... .

I haven't seen my family since June 7th, and it's getting to me. I don't miss the daily housekeeping, laundry, and diaper changes, but I do miss the smiles, hugs, and songs they sing to me. Sending a hug and kiss their way!

Hadley said "clean dipey" which is what I say when we're getting on clean diapers each day (I actually have a song...don't ask!). Harper said "my puppy" yesterday (and it wasn't her puppy, it was Hunter's). I can't believe how all of a sudden they're talking! They do Baby Signs for a few things, but now I think they're talking more than signing.

Harper got two more teeth, and Hadley's trying to get hers to work their way through. Then they'll both have 12 teeth. Just as they're getting their teeth IN, Hunter is going to start losing his. I dread the "loose tooth" stage! Teeth just gross me out! I think my idea of Hell is something involving me and other peoples' teeth!!!

Hunter is still very anxious about Big Nick coming down the street in the parade (in four days). I wonder if we're even going to get him out of the house! Prayers requested!

I gave my presentation yesterday in Young Adult Literature--the semester's officially over! Summer school starts June 1, and I have to be in Ada May 31st...that's coming up soon (I'm dreading that more than the teeth issue!). Hopefully it's a smooth three weeks for my whole family!

Hunter is very worried that since May comes after April, and Mommy is leaving in May (for a three-week summer school event), that Mommy is leaving any day now! I'm having a hard time convincing him that May 31st is not for a while...not too easy for a new five-year-old to grasp!

He's got a pathological fear of an inflatable (larger-than-lifesize) fireman named "Big Nick." He is on a float in the annual Pioneer Days parade (riding on the lead fire engine, no less). I've already had to promise him that he and I will go into Dollar General until Big Nick passes by...then we'll go back outside to grab up some candy and treats! Anyone have suggestions on helping with pathological fears??? I'm out of things to try! *sigh*

The girls are now 17 months old--and into everything! They're growing out of the 12 month clothes (which is good because most of their summer wardrobe is 18 month size).

I'm working on getting my masters degree in education with a library media specialty. I'm done about a year from now (after I make it through the summer program living in the dorms again for three weeks).

I just heard my old classroom from last year will be vacant again (I would love to go back to work, but who would watch the kids, pay for their medical insurance, and have enough energy to play with them in the evenings?). I wonder who'll be there in the fall...