Must get better at this blogging thing...

My new job didn't turn out to be what it was supposed to be, so I have some free time on my hands. (But I have a job, Praise the Lord!) Let's see if I can provide a quick summary of things since my last post.

Both boys are heading to middle school in about 10 days. They are ready! The summer sort of flew by, but they are getting bored. I have been providing them with some math, reading, and writing work, just to review and get their brains out of any "mushiness". They don't fuss too much about it. They are really good kids.

V. is 13. And... well.... HE'S THIRTEEN. Those of you familiar with the typical 13-year-old boy know what I'm talking about. He's trying to find out who he is, what he's about.... all at record speed. He is showing more signs of responsibility and was thrilled to start soccer practices this week. (Note: Yes, he played football last year, but no more!! Cam and I put the kibosh on that. Too much time, too little playing time, too much intrusion on our family. When we told him we wouldn't allow him to play anymore, he pitched a fit for all of about 10 minutes. Ever since, he's been all about soccer.)

S. is 11. He is 5'2" tall. He wears a size 10 (men's) shoe. And he is a bottomless pit when it comes to food. That said, he is trying to keep up with his brother in all things and would be happiest without the math and spelling I've been giving him and just be allowed to play video games and watch TV. We don't watch TV that much, since we don't have cable. We watch movies, and have watched some of the Olympics online. Anyway, he also started soccer this week and is keeping up with piano. Man, he is going to be some piano player. He has a great musical ear. He also did swimming for a few months and got pretty good at it. The first time I saw him dive off the block at a meet, I got goosebumps!!

Cam has been teaching lessons most of the summer and also had band camp for a few weeks. Fun gig for him. Hopefully he is well-rested and raring to go, because he officially begins next week. He has, however, been going to school pretty regularly to get ready.

The boys are healthy and helpful around the house. They've been our little cleaning elves! Our house isn't spotless, but they certainly get the job done. (With a little whining, but only sometimes.)

On a neighborly note, the wonderful family with whom we shared a backyard has moved. (BIG SAD FACE) They found the home of their dreams, though, and will not be far away. I will miss them dearly, however. Thank goodness our other good friends/neighbors who had been planning to move about 6 miles away (still seemed like light years to me) have decided to stay. (BIG SMILEY FACE) This glorious family has saved us many times - and that is no exaggeration. We love them dearly and are relieved to find that they will still be just around the corner.

My brother and family are back from Italy and are settling into the DC area, if only for a year before moving again. It's good to have all of us on US soil again.