What a special time we’ve had so far here in Nashville with the Vanhook family! My sister lives just 3 doors down, and I think all of us have been grateful for the arrangement – for different reasons. Here are a few:

• Tennis everyday
• Paletas on the corner
• Hugs, kisses and giggles from Oz & Otis
• Great food, wine, and conversation
• Late night bars for late-night talks right around the corner
• Having his own room and space (Gabe)

It really has been wonderful. We all juggle the mess of life with work, play, food, naps, and cleaning. It’s nice to have extra hands all the way around.

Because our family really prioritizes athletics, music, and learning practical skills, we usually sign up our kids for a handful of activities each season. Since we homeschool, it does not feel unmanageable for each kid to have a few commitments in the afternoon. We, like most every other parent at our stage of life, are a shuttle service from 4:30-7 every night. We really don’t mind it. Great conversation with kids, sometimes business phone calls, or audio books fill the minutes on the road.

Gabe was fortunate enough to find a high jump coach here – can you believe it? – and has already been practicing 3 times a week, learning new techniques and mindsets. All three kids are playing soccer in a Rec league. It’s so low-key, really just a way for them to keep exercising, competing, and meeting new kids in the area. Jadyn got to join a team with the daughter of one of two of dear college friends, Beth and Manuel Cruz, so we get to hang with them at least twice a week, too! And all three kids joined the Tennis Program at Sequoia Club, again to meet new kids and keep practicing a sport they love.

We tend to really “buckle down” at the start of a school year, and all kids are transitioning into our academic routines. Once they get the ball rolling, they manage their daily and weekly tasks well. I love watching them get in the zone! And they are all motivated to finish early enough to head over to the Vanhooks to play with their cousins and spend time with their aunt. We’ve had many dinners together or late night conversations over wine. It really has been wonderful! Looking forward to a full fall season!