Summer on the Lake 2012

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Lake effect

Annie and Joanna look for land.

Oscar navigates us to safety—sharp right!

One of the good things about moving to a valley: man-made lakes! My parents and sister's family retreated from the grueling pace of western Connecticut and coastal Georgia and converged on Smith Mountain Lake, only 45 minutes from Roanoke. Oscar and Annie were delighted to spend time with their aunt and cousins from the south and to be appreciated (read=spoiled) by Nana and Granbob. We also played host to their dog Kaiser for a few nights. Annie and Oscar were delighted and took his walks very seriously, making sure each got equal possession of the leash. Mason the cat, however, had other opinions regarding his stay, the details of which I am obliged by law not to discuss. Lawyers can be so difficult. We pray for an amicable settlement. Back at the lake, we got to take a ride on a boat, fish with a homemade net (plastic netting salvaged from a bag of lemons attached to a stick... I don't know why it didn't work either!) and celebrate the twins' foray into double digits. I remember that tenth year fondly as it was the time when I was finally allowed to get pierced ears. I had never been so happy to have metal shot through my skin as on that day.

The celebration of Ben and Riley turning 10 (observed). Oscar is lifted by the happy spirits and the insanely large helium Mylar balloon.

But, back to the kids... Other summer activities have included our membership at a local pool club from which Annie and Oscar have enjoyed many an hour in the water and many a Popsicle from the snack bar. And between my workout schedule (aka "justifiable me time") and their camps, the caregivers at the Y now shout out Oscar's name whenever he comes into a room (think "Norm!" from Cheers). Jay and I also continue our house hunt, which I'm confident will be completed by the time the kids are in college (fingers crossed). Most recently, Jay celebrated his 37th birthday with coconut cream pie and balloons (much to the cats enjoyment—floating strings!). Thus, as you can imagine, we've been pretty busy. 

In a few weeks, our infamous surrogate grandparents, Beverly and Al will be visiting, also drawn to a house rental on Smith Mountain Lake (a gal could get used to this). So, while I'm applying sunblock and choosing which floatation device has the best neck support and most cup holders, just rest assured, I'll be thinking of all the things I should be doing (lest I become too complacent). Happy summer, all!