The best summer in a long time has come to an end

So here we are.  August 1st as I write this post.  School starts for me next week and my sweet angels are flying back to California tomorrow to be with their mom and start school next week as well.

The summer began with confirmation from LSUHSC SoN that I am accepted.  YES!

The girls flew out two weeks late because I had some military obligations during the first 2 weeks of June.  They have told me that next year they want to come as soon as possible no matter what my obligations are.  We began our fantastic summer in grand style on the evening of June 15th.  They arrived as scheduled and after the requisite hugs (required for me) we went on to our traditional Coffee and Beignets for the summer kick off.  We spent lazy days at the pool and active days at the park or going to visit family in nearby suburbs.

The girls enjoyed arts and crafts at the local Michael's and spent a week learning the finer points of working as a Soda Jerk in an Ice Cream Parlor.  We took a weekend trip to Alabama to visit in-laws and do some more swimming, fishing and relaxing in general.  We did not want to leave the country setting so we made plans to return next summer and even for Thanksgiving.  Upon our return to the NOLA area we jumped back into the pool routine (when it wasn't raining).  Took a day trip to the aquarium, rode the street car from City Park to the river and today is a trip to Audubon Zoo.

Right now the younger angel is trying to maintain denial and avoid packing while the young teen angel can't wait to get back to her friends in CA so she is packing with a purpose.  Tonight we will have more family in for a farewell to summer evening as their older sister comes to visit with her beau.

This summer has been the best summer I have ever spent with family.  The time off that I have enjoyed with the little angels has been complemented by some very special time with my wife, my father, my mother and my sisters; as well as our in-laws on both sides.

Soon we will be wrapped into our professional and educational pursuits looking forward to the next wonderful family time we have.  Until then, I will hold the memories of our smiles and hugs dear and faithfully push forward to our next embrace.

I love the little cupcakes dearly and I will miss them immensely.  I am blessed, though, to share this empty nest with the best wife a man could have.

The Summer Ends