Back to School

So Elvis goes back to school this Monday and Tuesday for some campus planning activities (I think that's just Principal Code for "More time away from your families"), and then the following Monday for real. I have to say that this summer has been WAY too short. Last summer was so bizarre time-wise, between the week in the hospital and then adjusting to life with a newborn, that it seemed to last forever. But this year, I feel like summer school JUST ended, and I've only had a few days to spend with my beloved boys. I guess that's because we've done a lot of little activities. We went to the zoo; we visited my favorite aunt in Houston; Elvis spent a weekend with my dad out at my parents' ranch; we've gone swimming at least 3 times a week. We rearranged our apartment; we've cultivated some wonderful new friendships. We've written stories, and danced, and painted, and made up an album's worth of songs. We've cooked; we've gardened; we've slept in, and we've cheered on our Olympic heroes in London. Elvis and I even got to see a movie one weekend (One of only 2 since Henry was born)! But between all that activity, I don't feel like we've had any time to hang out and be bums. Maybe our hanging-out-and-being-bums days are behind us now. Huh. What a tragic thought.
Anyway, today was the first day of Back to School practice and I just did not feel like I was ready. I did manage to get everyone to bed at a reasonable hour last night (difficult indeed with my night-owl husband), and get the coffee pot pre-loaded. So we got up at 6:15 this morning (BOOOO!) and Elvis hopped in the shower while I walked the dog, made coffee and put his lunch together. Then he left and since Henry was still asleep I had - for the first time in weeks - time to myself! I had to use it to search for my house keys so I could run to the store this afternoon, but still. I'd forgotten how nice it could be to be alone for a few minutes.
We're more than halfway through our first practice day now, and it's been excellent. I really really love being able to stay at home with Henry, and make sure that he's getting the food, attention, clean diapers, and mental stimulation he needs. It's difficult to be "alone" all day, and in charge of the running of the household, but it's also so ridiculously rewarding. And even though I miss some of the little luxuries that 2 incomes provided, I would not give up this time with my son for all the money in the world.