Independence Day Weekend...

The first month of summer is almost over.
I am not sure if that should make me feel super anxious or excited.
But, I do feel both- strongly, at the same time.

I am back in the land of 10,000 lakes for a short few weeks.
It will fly on by- trying to be realistic.

I sure do love it here this time of year.
This coming weekend is one of my favorites.
I am sure I will have to work some, but will still be able to go out
and enjoy the pleasure of being well over 21.

The added excitement is, of course, that another sister will be in town for the weekend.
We travel in packs.
I really like Cat's friends.
Its fun to go out with them.
Its difficult to believe that almost a decade separates us.
I am so mature for my age (cough cough)...
Perhaps an old soul, but there is a reason I enjoy teaching 7-9th graders.

The actual 4th of July is a week away and my tiny little town is picking up momentum with full force. Which, honestly, is most of the fun. Who wants to see a bunch of people they already know?
Okay- so that is fun too.
Overall, summer is good... I am trying very hard to just enjoy every moment.

I wish I could think of the motivational lines Cat would whip out right now... Shoot, where's a sister when you need one?

Things are a'happening

Well, I am back in the land of Oz.
It has been hot.
Not normal hot,
HOT hot.
I am told I will adjust-
not grow comfortable, but adjust to it.

The past few days have been very productive.
I have spend quality time with my nephew (going on 2.5 weeks straight)
and sisters.
Always a good time.

Also-
have a place to live in August!
Yeah, no longer homeless.

I have this terrible thing-
things just kinda fall into place for me.
I have challenges, do not get me wrong...
I have made terrible decisions, but right now,
it seems as though things are going to be okay.

Back to Minnesota tomorrow-
now that the subaru is fixed and up for the ride!

Being an auntie

In the past couple of weeks I have been able to see all of my nieces and nephews.

I LOVE that time.

The oldest, Jackson, is going to be a senior in high school.
She amazes me.
Ranked in the top 10% of her class (or would that be 5%)
Is so very kind.
Making it through those issues of high school.
One more year and then she is, hopefully, off to Minneapolis to the University of Minnesota.
Or so the whole family hopes!

Then, Ry.
I can remember the summer I met Ry.
I hope to never forget.
He was the goofiest 8 year old boy I had ever met.
I loved him instantly.
So sweet and such a boy at the same time.
Preparing for a summer of hockey camps and working with my brother....

Then, Rik.
I ran over to their house before leaving for Kansas...
She had printed out practice math worksheets.
For fun, she was completing multiplication tables.
I wanted to hug her.
As a middle-schooler, it is a time of change.
But again, she will stay sweet.

The last time I saw my California niece, she was a little under the weather.
She wanted to nap through dinner and was able to turn down french fries.
That’s an indication of how ill she was.
Who can turn down fries?
I am hoping to see them again soon,
but with the move to Kansas I know I am limiting it a bit.

And, of course, the toddler I had not seen for 5 weeks.
He walks.
I expected he would take some steps.
Not love to be chased throughout the house.
Minnesota family prepare- a little tornado is on his way!
He talks.
He eats toast for breakfast...

I would, for nothing in the world, give up my nieces and nephews.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE being an aunt.

It's the end of the world

It's the end of the world as I know it.

Many things are working against me right now...

I am jobless.
I hate the idea of no income coming in
Makes me feel incredibly anxious and nauseous.

I am homeless.
For the past few nights I stayed with my best friend.
But now?
Back with ma and pa.

I know I will be moving again soon...
That adds to this ulcer inducing state of mind I am currently in.

BUT-
I know things will work out.
I will find a summer job.
I will find an apartment in Olathe that I can afford.
I will enjoy my new job.

Breathe.
Breathe.
Breathe.

But, you know what?
I get to see my sisters tomorrow.
I get to hang out with Vic on her birthday.
I get to give the baby a million kisses.

For some reason, that makes me feel so much better...

It just takes some time, little girl you're in the middle of the ride.
Everything will be just fine, everything will be alright.