Just the way it is

Well hello!

Sam has his penultimate driving lesson today, and I have been given permission to use his computer while he is out. Isn't that kind of him? I have been having terrible trouble with computers - old and new - lately. I've also had a kind of blog block. I expect it's a lot to do with not being able to get on here regularly. I've been frustrated in my attempts to comment on yours too; it's a very hit and miss affair commenting via my phone. Anyway, c'est la vie. Or something like that.

We are in our last week of the school holiday. Not surprisingly, it is raining here today. The rain has punctuated our summer, and has curtailed camping adventures, day trips and playing out of doors. The town has been incredibly busy, but is starting to regain it's composure once more. I stepped outside this morning, and noticed the first real nip in the air. I watched two blackbirds eating the plums from the tree. I have made three jars of plum jam, so the birds and the insects are welcome to the rest (I've noticed that Red Admirals are fond of a plum too).

As I sat down to enjoy my early morning cup of tea, it occurred to me that we have enjoyed a very normal school summer holiday. In fact it has been very similar to the ones I remember from my own childhood. Nothing fancy. The boys have amused themselves. But we have also had mini adventures, and lots of fun too. It is probably the first holiday that I haven't felt stressed out to my eyeballs. Or guilt ridden that I'm not giving them the time of their lives. I've been very relaxed about time in front of the television or games console, and noticed that it has all balanced itself out in the end.

Some highlights have included a long weekend in Poole, Olly scootering in the skate park, Rosewall adventures, insect watching in the garden, baking, making and learning to crochet, visiting family, day trips to places of interest, beach play, relaxing with friends and laid back family time. This week feels a little different. Not least because we are gearing up for the return to school. And as you know there are changes afoot with Sam leaving for University. Marc and I are taking him to New York next Friday (eek!) for a week. His 18th birthday present, and also a belated 40th birthday celebration for Marc and I. Or that's what I've told myself to justify the expense of it all.......

This evening book club resumes. And today sees me out and about buying the last bits of school uniform, stationary and other miscellaneous items that are required for the start of a school year. Olly has asked to make a cake, so the butter is out of the fridge in anticipation. Apart from that we truck on. Quietly and unassuming. Just as it should be.

I hope all is well with you and yours. 

Leanne xx