Peaceful Morning

I am loving the mornings that I do not have to bring Carter to school. He does not ride the bus (he could, but I am not ready for that) so we carpool with our dear friends the Stabenow's because their son is in Carter's class. It is so nice not to have to go to school twice a day. Two mornings a week they bring the boys to school and one morning Ty brings them. Griffin is still a late sleeper if we let him so I usually get some time to myself after Ty and Carter leave and before Griffy gets up. I get a lot done in that time. I feel so fortunate that we are able to drive him to school so he does not have to ride the bus if that is what we choose. I LOVE being home every day when Carter gets home from school and spending time with Griffin alone has been so nice. I know I have said this many times but it still holds so true, I am so happy that we made the decision that I would stay home at least while the kids are little, although going back to work at any time does not appeal to me. I am sure as life changes my desire will change as well but for right now, God is really blessing our family every day!

Last week a friend and I brought our little kids to this beautiful place called the Gem Gardens. It is referred to as "Eau Claire's best kept secret" and it is. It is 25 acres of beautiful landscaping with tons of flowers and greenery and water and rock formations. Very peaceful and it is free. The kids spent 2 1/2 hours just exploring. They have raspberries and veggies to pick and everything is on an "honor system" there is just a box for the money, nobody working. Now that is not something you see. I recommend everybody checking it out, the website is http://www.gemgardens.com/. Attached is a picture from there, the picture does not do it justice at all. Also attached is a picture of Carter playing soccer. This is the second time he has played and the difference this season versus last is amazing. At least now they know which goal to try and get the ball in. I like sports so much when they are little because it is all about the fun and no competition. I know competition is good but for 5-year-old this works just fine. (Not sure what happened with the font but I am liking it).

Enjoy this summer weather!