Swim, Sprinkler and Stuff

Joe
We seem to always have a lot of news about Samuel (but not much on us anymore) so I thought I would share some news about Joe.  As most of you know, he went back to school this week (without kids – they will start after Labor Day.) It has been a bit of a transition for him (given he has been off since January) but he has also been looking forward to getting back to the classroom.

The big "Joe" news this week is that he officially took a position as the co-head swim coach for the Southridge H.S. swim team. He has been off for a couple of years (coaching) and felt like if the right opportunity presented itself, he would like to get back into it again. Southridge is very close to the elementary school he teaches at, so it should work well.  He also knew he could only sign up for a high school team vs. club team (too much time commitment with club, year round…)

Jill & Samuel
I had the day off today (thanks LSI!) so Samuel and I spent it together (yes, he played hooky!) We had to go to the “approved” civil surgeon immigration doctor this morning to get his paperwork done for the USCIS appointment later this month. It has been a nightmare (times 10) with immunizations and getting our doctor and this doctor to agree on what is required. SIGH… but we finally have the SEALED ENVELOPE in hand and he said that we are good to go.

Samuel has been pretty "defiant" lately… not sure if we can chalk that up to the terrible “two’s” or maybe it is the school transition, but regardless, it has been a tough pill to swallow (physically and mentally.) He always has a good heart, in the end… but he is pushing back on everything and just being really difficult. It’s hard on my heart.

So I got creative today – thinking about doing something that would make him happy (coloring, reading, going on a walk were NOT a hit today.) It is 88 today, so I got out the sprinkler and put him in his pool clothes. AH, SWEET SUCCESS!!!  This kept him happy and content for about 2 hours (until Joe finally got home – whew…)

So here are some captured moments of our afternoon… ENJOY.
Happy Labor Day to everyone!