What I've Learned This Summer

It is the last day of July, which around here means summer is coming to a close. Not weather-wise, of course. It'll be hot 'round here for another month or two.

But school is starting in 2 weeks, so we are soaking up our last days of summer!

Thought I'd join in with Emily (where we talk about the bigger things, but mostly the little things and the even more trivial things on these occasions) and highlight . . .

What I've Learned This Summer

 1. I've heard it before, but I've never tried it. Why? Not a clue. But we will never have another beach trip without bringing baby powder with us! That stuff takes off the sand faster than you can say "Yippee!" I know, because I did that with a squeal and some jumping up and down!!

2. And speaking of the beach, I posted this pic on Instagram about a little perspective I gained. . .

Way and I were bowled over by a wave. Just sitting on the beach. He tasted his first gulp of salt water and was quite stunned! But just as quickly as that wave left, he was smiling and saying and signing, "Go! Go!" because he was wanting more! He loves the ocean! Lord, when things interrupt our days and stun us, may we all learn to "roll with things" and bounce back easier like Way, thanks to You!!! 

 3. Something surprising I learned? I never thought a TV show could be truly inspirational and bonding. Don't get me wrong, I've seen and watch some great shows. Shows that are uplifting or teach me something about humanity in a couple of messages. But I wasn't prepared for family of 6 to gather around the TV in awe of so many amazing people. Do you watch American Ninja Warrior? I know it's been around for a few years, but our boys are just the age to be aware of it and we heard about it from friends at the finale of last year's season. We've been waiting with baited breath til the start of the new season this summer, and it hasn't disappointed! 

Our boys are outside every single day creating and attempting ANW courses to complete. They are obsessed with getting in shape and even more inspired to get a "6-pack!" And while we are thrilled with their interest in health, I'm even more touched by their hearts. They've been moved to pray for one of the families on the show! If you haven't seen American Ninja Warrior. Check it out. Family friendly and on prime-time. That's rare!

4.  We are blessed to have boys who like to read. Some more than others, but there's not a day that's gone by this summer, where they haven't been plopped down somewhere immersed in a book! This has been our first summer to record books they've read. They are excited to add a new book to the list as soon as they've reached The End! I had no idea a list to tally the books we've tackled could bring such a sense of accomplishment!

 I know there's more that I've learned, but I'll stick with these 4 for now!