Ambivalent

The Pinks go back to school tomorrow.

While I'm happy that their education will continue, I'm sad to see this summer end. They're at great ages, much more fun than work.

The summer's highlights included:

• Last night's concert in the park with three other families.
• Dinner with the extended family at my SIL's house and then ours. This is the only picture I have of me with my two SILs. 
• The bathtub-warm swimming pool, perfect for laps for this wimp.
• The cooler-than-usual-days, providing lots of outside playtime without fear of dehydration.
• Pajama time with the kids.
• My parents' garden in the spot formerly occupied by their pool, and my own success at growing tomatoes.
• Driving up the Central Coast with Dave and the littlest Pinks.
• Celebrating Dennis' 50th and boating with my other SIL and nieces up at Tahoe.
• Helping promote Rachel Simmons' talk here on Sept. 13.
• Volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, Children's Hospital, Wardrobe for Opportunity, Tri Valley Haven and Hospice of Contra Costa County.

I am savoring every last minute before the kids head out tomorrow morning.