Miss me?

I know, I know - bad girl, no bloggie. Sorry, it's summer and I'm hanging with the kids!

I'm not even sure where to start ...

William is now 6.
Alexander is growing taller still.
Andrew is seriously looking at colleges.
Thomas is exercising regularly.
I'm letting my hair grow (simply because NJ salons scare me).

We are getting the most out of summer on the 'shore' - lots of beach club, lots of BBQs, lots of burger and dogs - it's great fun. The kids rotate from beach-pool-cabana and back - all that fresh air and sunshine (don't worry 70SPF) affords long, deep sleeps. My favorite thing is when Thomas arrives in his work clothes (I just never tire of that visual), promptly changes and with beer in hand, strolls to the ocean with the boys. It's an instant de-stresser! This Friday is Luau Night, followed by Sleepover Night. I'll hang for the hula and help pitch the tent, but the sleepover part sounds like male bonding time to me!

The kids are in camp from M-F from 8:30-11:30 at one of our local parks - sports, crafts, and friends galore - it's been awesome and gives me a little time in the morning to do whatever, or not!

Andrew's working at Sickles and Crew started last week - so he's busy and beat. Today was a highlight, he rowed the single to Red Bank (a 6 mile round trip). He and I will be making a trek upstate NY to see a few colleges; and perhaps a few in PA. My gut says he'll end up on the West Coast, but I don't want him to close off his options.

We closed on our house last week. And boy do they do things differently here, I learned so much. I would like to give a shout out to my lender, Mark Junod at MetLife Home Loans in Capitola, CA. The whole lending world has changed, as you know, and these guys kept on top of what's what, totally anticipated the Underwriter's concerns, were super-organized, worked great with the NJ law firm. I was really impressed. If you're looking to refinance or make a purchase, consider these guys, seriously!

And one more Massive Thank You - to my dear friend Susan Sweeley who without fail has 'got my back' from the California side. I can't thank you enough!

My BFF from Half Moon Bay came for a visit this past week - how cool is that? We walked, talked, ate (not too much), did the speed driving tour, initiated her on the Friday Night Beach Club action, just had such a great time. We concluded that cramming 6 months worth of 'drive-by' visits into one long visit was really a gift. We had never spent that much time together and we've known each other for over 20 years. Yeah, it was awesome! Thanks Jeanne.

I'm sure I'm forgetting stuff - but enough for now. Hope this finds you all healthy and happy.

xoxo
P