Summer Begins

The kids and I had an opportunity to join The Seymours for some fun at The Pryors' house on Lake Martin for a quick overnight before Memorial Day Weekend. We packed a whole lot of fun into just over 24 hours, and the kids enjoyed many "firsts". First speed boat ride, first time swimming in a lake, sleeping in bunk beds, and Sophie even caught her first fish!

Jack didn't quite know what hit him as we sat in the front of the boat for a speedy ride soon after we arrived. As soon as my grip on him loosened up a bit, he would immediately pull my arms tightly around him, saying "Don't let go Mommy!" He was also very concerned about everyone else's safety, making sure we were all seated properly and holding on tightly.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect of them embarking on this new experience, but much to my surprise, both kids were pretty fearless when it came time to swim in the lake, and everything else that came along with it. They truly had a blast!

Truth be told, I was relieved that Eric wasn't around to worry about all of the potential "what if's" that crossed our path. In particular, watching Jen supervising all 6 kids while trying to hook worms onto their fishing poles stands out!

After a full afternoon of boating and lunch literally "in" the lake, the kids enjoyed time at the house with bubbles galore, and a tasty dinner that was topped off with s'mores at the firepit. This, all while poor Liz was dealing with a flat tire - not a first for her, but it meant that I had to man the grill which was most definitely a first for me!

The next morning Liz and I were serenaded by our 4 kids (who shared a room with 2 bunk beds) at the wee hour of 5:45 Alabama time. Despite having gone to be well after 9pm the night before, they were ready to go. Jack even declared somewhat happily that he had woken up at one point to find himself on the floor and he got right back in the bed.

Luckily Jen's cousin Zac, who is a recent med school grad and just so happens to love kids, was not too annoyed that his slumber on the air mattress downstairs came to a screeching halt, and he graciously poured cereal for the kids...which was the first of about 3 breakfasts that morning before it was time to actually start the day. We enjoyed more time on the boat and in the water. Sophie loved jumping off the back of the boat into the lake while Jack was a little more cautious in the more mirky water where we ended up. At one point I caught him talking to himself, saying, "Oh my gosh, my feet are so dirty...Oh my gosh".

It's amazing how such a short little get away can create an experience and memory that will last a lifetime. I will never forget this first trip to "The Lake Party", as Jack likes to call it. And Jennifer, hopefully if you're reading this you will know that we don't want it to be our last! Thanks for a great time!!