ANOTHER SCHOOL DAY. ANOTHER LUNCHBOX PACKED.

First day at Kinder. First day in Year 2.

What?

Yep. Here we are. The first day of many school days, lunchboxes, pick ups and drop offs, reading hours, spelling bees, homework, bag packing, money in little envelopes, crazy mornings, and "have you packed your bag yet?"

Madison was nervous. He always is. He likes to be sure that we say goodbye, that he receives that farewell cuddle and kiss. But he's come into his own. He's a class clown. He's half of the Dodgy Brothers (yes, that's what his last year's teacher called him!), and his favourite subject is recess and lunch. Oh, and sport.

Noah couldn't wait to get to kinder. He's been waiting for a whole year, it seems. And when his introductory hour was over, he shouted, "Nooooo! I haven't done everything yet!" So, we stayed an extra 15 minutes to finish his work of art, and then made it quite clear that I wasn't to stay for the whole time ever again (it's okay, every parent was there - we were allowed). No problems adjusting to kinder life, I suspect.

And if you're keen to compare the last two year's worth of school for Madison, look no further than here. I'm not going to say how quickly life whips by. I'm not.

How did your kids go at their first day at school?

ONE GLORIOUS SUMMER.

It's hardly over. In fact, it's well into its prime: a delightful, steamy summer. Those long, hot days begging for a dive into salty water, icy poles dying to be licked, and adventures waiting to be had.

I've decided that blogging isn't a summer sport. Why, I've totally ignored this space while we have been jumping rocks, reading books, squishing our toes in the sand, and devouring the sights and smells of this beautiful season. (Oh, and doing a bit of renovating and building too.)

Things return to 'normal' tomorrow. I'm sad. I'm happy. School and work always brings mixed emotions. I want that eternal feeling of relax, I want to dwell in the mess with my children, and not give a damn. I also can't wait for rhythms of routine and structure. I can't wait to clear out the snowstorm in each room, and clear my mind and the rooms of holiday mess.

This much I know: so far we have made new memories, experienced new things, pushed ourselves to new levels. And the summer so far brings the taste of something wonderful that may remain sweet on our tongues for the rest of the year.

Are you bittersweet about school starting this week, and the holidays being over?

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A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.

Noah: Australia Day means blowing up water balloons and throwing them. Often.

Madison: If you plan to have water gun fights for seven hours straight,

the only way to eat is on the run.

Linking in with Jodi @ Practising Simplicity

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3/52

A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.

Madison: It's been a hot summer so far, and there's been a LOT of water fights.

This one was particularly memorable.

Noah: He opted out of this water fight, but still received the odd squirt, much to his delight.

Linking in with Jodi @ Practising Simplicity

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2/52

A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.

Noah: "Mummy, I picked this flower for you."

Madison: "Mum, take a picture of me too. I'll even smile nicely."

Linking in with Jodi @ Practising Simplicity

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1/52

 A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.

Noah: Going against the strong ocean winds.
Madison: His ears tuning in to his father's call.

Leah: She's a renovator, just like her Dad. She even has "renovator's hair".

Linking in with Jodi @ Practising Simplicity

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