Mama Byrd

We celebrated our last week of summer this week with a trip to the zoo, several visits to the neighborhood pool, and Phillip’s first dentist appointment.
Phillip had a wonderful visit, despite the fact that he promised us over breakfast that he would not open his mouth for anyone.  His successful visit was thanks in large part to my friend, T.K. Crabtree, who has the patience of Job and somehow convinces all three of my kids that a teeth cleaning is more fun than a ride at Disney World.

We took our second trip to the Little Rock Zoo (in 9 months) this week. Compared to the Memphis Zoo (which we visited at least 2-3 times a month while we lived in Memphis), it is a big disappointment; however, the visiting bird show was almost worth the price of admission. I’ll admit, the kids and I were both awed and terrified of the hawks and vultures that tapped our ears with the tips of their wings as they flew past our heads.

We didn’t sleep in as much as I wanted this summer, but we definitely visited the neighborhood pool more times than I can count. This may be the first time I’ve had an authentic (read non-tanning bed and non-tanning cream) tan since I was in middle school. The highlight of the summer for me came when Phillip learned to swim by himself (with his lifesaving vest), so that I could move from wrestling with him IN the pool to sitting on the side of the pool, thereby allowing my legs to see the light of day (at least from the knee up).

I am looking forward to starting our third (!) year of homeschooling on Monday, but I will miss the easy pace of summer. We’ve all gotten bored a time or two, but it has been a nice change.

Filed under: Homeschooling, Little Rock, Memphis, Phillip, hot weather, kids on August 14th, 2009