Sand Between Toes and Freckles on the Nose

We've been in "PureMichigan" for over five weeks, and we're now soaking up our final two days.  The littles don't remember visiting Lake Michigan in the past, but now it's unlikely that they will forget. We went to Silver Lake for the Mac Dune rides and a dip in the greatest of lakes.

I mean, COME ON! Does it get any better than this?!

Clare loved the dune ride, and I loved watching her love it. This summer has given me a glimpse of the upcoming tween years.  My daughter is no longer a little girl, although she is still little.  Still just a girl.  Her personality is developing faster than I can keep up with, and by the time I seem to catch up she is already donning a new pre-tween characteristic: wit, sarcasm, eye-rolling, independence, and charm to name a few.

One of Isaac's highlights of the summer was meeting a new buddy who could have been his brother. They spent every allowable minute together, and I have never seen a bond so quick or natural.  And to be honest, it isn't usually about Isaac.  In true middle-child fashion, it's usually about the oldest or the youngest.  He tags along with big sister or gets dragged along according to the needs of little brother.  But this was his alone.  His buddy.  His playmate.  His inside jokes.  I'm sad that Isaac has to say goodby to this connection but convicted that I have to create more open doors for him to have such connections at home.  

And then there's Myles.  Oh Myles.  My heart can hardly handle the magnitude of his mighty vim and vigor.  He is ALL out ALL the time, and I am enamored with him.  I fully admit to letting him get away with more than he should, and more than the older two ever did, but I tell myself that it will all work out.  I have convinced myself that letting his personality emerge will not do any of us any permanent damage.  Every cuddle, hug, and squeeze from him feels like he's doing it for the first or last time.  He gives actual "thumbs up" rather than saying yes.  Every time.  He runs rather than walks.  He hugs without letting go.  He is funny beyond his years; and while I know that I'm partial, I think he is just awesome.

The following picture conjures up all kinds of feelings connected to this summer: beautiful Michigan, playful children, running with my sister.  Ahh...that.  Running with my sister.  We put in more miles this summer than we have in the past several summers combined.  Truly a highlight of my summer.  Running next to my sister, catching up, and wishing that we could do it year round.

My parents are amazing for hosting us for 5.5 weeks.  We take over their tidy home, schedule, and life with mess, chaos, and noise.  But there are none more gracious than my parents, and they welcome us with open arms, full cupboards, and a home away from home. 

The Mac Dune ride was amazing.  I intend to post about several other amazing highlights of the summer, but this was the most recent upload of pictures...so there you have it.

Ninnie is one of a kind.  She is full of engaging science experiments, interactive games, physical activities, body airplanes, trampoline bounces, and endless hugs.  I am pretty sure that my kids know they have a good thing, but I am confident that they don't know how good.

The consolation "funny picture" because they tire of smiling for the camera.  

Our first three weeks were nearly perfect...but they missed the one thing (person) who pulls it all together.  Phil has been in Michigan the past two weeks, and it has truly been perfect.  Our happy place.