Monday, July 14, 2008

Dog days of summer


Well, the summer has gotten away with me. Time sure does go by fast now a days. I can't believe it is already the middle of July, and the stores are starting to stock back to school supplies already. Next thing you know it will be the holiday season again.
I have tried to keep the kids somewhat busy this summer with different activities. We have a pool within walking distance from our house, so we have gone there a few times. Jack isn't sure what to think of his first swimming experience. We have also gone kayaking with Liz and Brian a few times. We spent one day tye dying shirts, and Mackenzie has spent a few days making friendship bracelets. Both she and J.T. made one each for Jackson.
We have tried to keep them somewhat engaged in learning this summer so they both work in some educational workbooks a few days each week, and they both read. They take turns reading to Jackson, and he enjoys it as much as they do.
Jackson turned 4 months old today, and he had his 4 month check up. He now weighs 17.8 lbs and is 27 3/4 inches long. (he is very tall) He also got another round of shots.(ouch)He also started to roll over this week. He did it once a few days ago, but today he rolled over 4 times already. I can't believe how fast they grow. He still barf's a lot, but the doctor said he can start a little solid food any time,because of his size, and it should help to ease up on the reflux. I hope so, I am kind of tired of going thru 2 or 3 outfits a day, on both me and Jackson. Kenzie has had the experience also.
Last week J.T. had cub camp. He really had a great time. The theme this year was space and planets. His group was Mars. All of their crafts revolved around space themed items, but they also did the usual archery and bb guns and all that fun boy stuff.John spent the day with the boys on Thursday, and other than being exhausted when he came home, he said it was fun.
Mackenzie has been attending summer band practices. She started with the drums in band last year, and really does a great job. She will be starting in the 6th grade this fall, and they have special practices for the 6th grade band. She can also try out for the 6th grade jazz band if she wants to. Mackenzie also has a little pet sitting business going on this summer. She has watched pets for 3 of our neighbors and has earned a good amount of money. She gets $5 a day from each family, that quickly adds up.The kids have also been earning an allowance, and extra money if they help John and I lose weight and be healthy. They will get $1 per pound from each of us, and the last 2 weeks they got $20 each from the weight loss, and $5 for their chores. They are both being very smart, and want to go to the bank and open a savings account.
The family got the new Rock Band video game for the wii. (John was the driving force in that) We play in the band together. We sing, and play the drums or guitar. It is pretty fun. Our band name is the Graham Crackers (of course)we can get fans, and unlock more songs and customize our players and all that. I don't play many video games, but this one is pretty fun. Jackson cries when we sing too loud.
Well I have to go for now. Enjoy your summer.