A different kind of summer fades into a different kind of fall

 As summer winded down, work continued to ramp up but we fit in plenty of fun. There were cousin sleepovers and last-minute mini-vacations to visit family and water. We held Mary Cate's front yard 4th birthday party a little early to see some family and friends before school started.

On a couple of trips to Pam's, we packed in swimming and synchronized swim performances, walks, delicious dinners on the grill, boat rides, bike rides, kayaking, and more. We also spent a few days in the U.P. for some safe-distance visits with John. We discovered the best coffee shop, the best Lake Superior beach, and the quietest sort of vacation we've had in a long time. It was peaceful and lovely.

Then, finally, it was back to school. After so many months of planning and preparing and wondering, the first day of school actually came. We're so happy to be back and everyone's adjusting just fine to masks and distancing and a block schedule!

As Nellie prepares to go back to school, thus marking the real end of summer break for the Wernet family, I asked everyone the (probably dreaded) question--What was the highlight of your summer? Here's what they had to say.

Kevin: Going up north to his dad's.

Nellie: The first time she jumped in the water at Aunt Pam's house after she got her boot off and her leg didn't hurt!

Annie: Trips to Aunt Pam's.

DJ: Learning to jump off the deep part of the dock without a noodle or float and jumping off the diving board at Otto's house.

Eddie: Jumping off of the dock and Aunt Pam's.

Mary Cate: Building with blocks, snuggling with Mommy and with her blankie.

We love summer life, but we're ready to welcome fall in all it's glory!