Wrapping up Summer

Summer is quickly coming to end.  It technically has wrapped up for the girls.  They have been back at school since Feb.4.  Graham will start back on Feb 25.  One of the disadvantages of going to different schools is different calendars.  Technically this summer break is also only their mid term break in school so I have had to be much more diligent is keeping their minds "academic" so they do not lose ground heading back into 2nd and 4th grade.  I think we did a good job balancing school work and fun.  But I am sure if you ask the kids they would disagree.

Both sets of grandparents came for a visit.  What a blessing to explore Peru with them.  The rest of our summer was hanging with friends, going to the beach, summer camp, the start of horseback riding for the girls and football camp for Graham.

The girls celebrated Valentine's Day as well as the 100th day of school on Feb. 14!  So of course, Bryce wanted to dress up pink and Layne wanted to go to school as a 100 year old lady.  They compliment each other very well.

We very much enjoyed our relaxing summer, but this momma is ready for some routine and structure in our daily lives.  One week left and then it will be back to business as usual!

Grandparents/Parents Round 2

Summer vacation in Lima would not be complete without visits from the Grandparents.  We were so lucky to have Brian's parents come at Christmas and then to have my parents spend 2 weeks in January and February with us as well.  Traveling to Peru is definitely easier than traveling to Singapore.  

With my parents we opted to see the sights of Lima.  The kids had not yet experienced the cultural history this city has to offer.  So we headed to cathedrals, museums, catacombs and threw in a trip to the beach as well.

 My mom and dad enjoyed the warm weather on our balcony with the kids.  We spent lots of time sipping coffee and soaking in the sun's rays. 

Bryce and Grandad

Nona and Layne

 Of course, we also visited Miraflores to see the cliffs meeting the Pacific Ocean.  We were also entertained to see all the parasailers in the sky.

One day we took a day tour to the historic buildings and cathedrals in Lima.  I had to entice the children with a visit to the catacombs at the end of the tour.  Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take pictures there but the kids were fascinated by the 1000s of bones they saw.

Being silly at Parque del Amor

 Summer would not be complete without a quick trip to the beach.  The beach is about 35 minutes from our house.  So it is an easy drive.  We get up early and stay just a few hours and are home by 3:00  Perfect for our little family.  The beaches get VERY crowded after lunch time so we tend to pack it up as soon as the crowds get big.

CROWDED!

 A day at the museum turned out to be pleasantly wonderful.  It was on beautiful grounds.  I am always surprised how beautiful places are here.  I cannot get over how everything is behind walls, but once you get beyond the walls most places are landscaped meticulously and vibrant.

Heading into the museum.

 We were also so very lucky to celebrate my dad's birthday while he was visiting us.  It was such a treat as it has been many years since we were together for his birthday!

The 2 weeks went by fast and we are already looking forward to the next time we see family in July!