Summer.

Tonight we got out the summer calendar and began to add things to it.  It started with an "arrive in Canada" date (June 20th), as well as a "leave for Kuwait" date (August 13th).  This provided the framework for how much time we had at home and what we could and couldn't do.  It really did seem like a fairly good chunk of time in the beginning.  Seven weeks.  Most people would be ecstatic with a summer holiday of that duration.  But then we added some weddings, reunions with friends and family, and other special occasions and the whole summer already looked GONE.  We hadn't even fit everyone in yet and I began to get overwhelmed and STRESSED OUT.  Then I remembered having the exact same feeling when making plans for last summer.  And the summer before that.  And (most likely!) the summer before that.  It came to my attention that this pattern of anxiety-filled summers should NOT be the case.  The summer should be fun and relaxing and rejuvenating and good-memory-filled.  Shouldn't it?  The thing is, in order for that to happen, a few other things have got to happen too (and I apologize in advance if this comes off as offensive or insensitive!):

1)  We need to accept the fact that nobody is going to think they've had enough time with us.  (For the record, the feeling is mutual.  We love you all so much!)

2)  We need to do what's best for the three of us.  Sometimes that means time for JUST the three of us.  Sometimes that means quick visits.  Sometimes that means longer visits. Sometimes that means we can do something.  Sometimes that means we can't do something.  Please know that nothing we plan or don't plan is meant to upset any of you!

3)  We also need to do some of the things we WANT to do.  These might not always correspond with the things that others want us to do.  I'm sorry for that, too.

I hope I haven't given you the impression that we want to be hermits all summer.  Or that we don't miss the heck out of you 10 months a year.  Or that we have become the world's most serious snobs.  Can you please try to see things from our 7-weeks-in-Canada-ONLY perspective? We want the summer to be an enjoyable one and, although we know we are bound to disappoint some of you, please know that we are trying our best to make the most of an impossible situation!

Here's to a stress-free summer vacation in Canada (or so we hope!!!).  Our new little home is definitely open for visitors if you're in the area or willing to make the trek!  We would love to make some memories there with you :)

XOXO