Already midway through August.  This is the first year I haven't been truly excited about returning to school - it's probably due to the fact that I have no new challenge for teaching this year.   On the plus side, I'm teaching English again spread over 2,3 & 4 - which I've taught before.   My classroom is the oldest in the school but that's okay because I'm happy to have a classroom.  Will see if I still have a computer and phone when I go in tomorrow.

Anthony and I have had some close moments - the summer went quickly but I think he is ready for the move to Austin.  College life will be a new challenge for him which he is excited about.  We both know it's going to take some adapting - my baby is leaving home - but there's a lot of joy about everything he has to experience in the next few years.   I have seen him mature this summer - working at Starbucks really helped him hugely with developing some responsibility and pride in doing a good job.   Not to mention some financial independence.

This weekend will be fun as Rich will be here for a paintball tourney - so it will be a full house with his friend Cozy coming also.

We finally are at the last stage for the blueprints - having met with the engineer for the drawing of the slab and retaining wall.  It's very exciting as Bob and I can both visualize what the house will look like.  Most of the color scheme (exterior and interior) we have agreed upon already and selected tile, carpet, cabinetry, hardware etc.

We are both saving hard to make it possible to build. 

Fitnesswise, I have renewed my determination to make progress in getting fit and losing weight.   Good progress with several pounds lost.   In a month I hope to buy a kayak to practise and increase my fitness.  We had a blast using Guy's kayak at the lake.

My Masters studies recommence in a couple of weeks and it will be very intense.   Just what I need to keep me busy. When I'm not studying I'll be finishing repairs to the townhome.  The tile is looking great that we laid inside.  There's plenty to keep me occupied for the next year.

Richard commences his final year at college - how the years have flown by!   He's very excited about having his own apartment with Divina (no more student accommodation).

Our lives are full of blessings

Now if only the tropical storm will keep away (Erin).