September 11, 2010...hard to believe nine years have past. I always think of my Aunt Amy and Uncle Frank on this date and the many friends, loved ones, they lost. The fact that I haven't blogged since May, my house is a mess, I have yet to mail long overdue baby gifts, I haven't read or graded my students first essay and at least 12 people passed me on my morning run...all of which seems very insignificant on this day. The blog is being posted (finally), my house will be straightened- probably not cleaned, I will eventually make calls and send presents, the papers will be graded (maybe not this weekend, but definitely this week) and they passed me...so what?? I did make it two times around the lake (12 miles!)---next Sunday I will not be fast, graceful or pretty but I am ready. So after a day of some reflecting, I am going to continue on not sweating the small stuff, try to be better about keeping in touch with friends and family (many whom I REALLY miss) and completely enjoy my boys, my new group of 32 sixth graders and the many moments that make up my busy days. It has been a wonderful summer and although I am amazed that we are already 11 days into September, I am thankful for the wonderful moments of our lazy summer days...Owen going down the slide by himself at the pool, Joey scootering down the street to go hang out at a friend's house, spending late nights (not worrying that it's a school night) talking with Joe and watching movies. Loving all the "Wow" moments...fantastic "Milestone" birthday blasts...days of fun with Findlay, Patrick and Chris... first Triathlon (998 women competing!)...demolition of our sunroom...visits to the zoo...crossing the finishline with my brother during my 2nd Triathlon (amazed that I didn't drown in that freezing bay)...waking to the sounds of Loons at the lovely Cowan cottage...cheering on Joey as he sang "Sweet Home Carolina" @Cove Karaoke...running alongside Owen in his first 25 meter race and screaming for Joey as he crossed the finishline in his first mile long race. So...although summer-to-fall is always a tough transition for me, I am excited about many more moments to come as Joey enters 4th grade, LV football season revs up, Owen is @ his most-favorite-school everyday, EAGLES games with Joe, gearing up for a half marathon next weekend followed by a 150 mile bike race in 2 weeks and all of the much-loved-fun-fall-holidays. Lots to look forward to...