Soccer, banana splits, and a sad farewell…

"My friend asked me if I wanted a frozen banana. I said 'No, but I want a regular banana later, so… yeah.'"
-Mitch Hedberg

We unfortunately had to say goodbye to our first and oldest pet this week.  Nala was part of our family for nearly 17 years, the kids haven’t known a home without her.  They were saddened to see her go, but we’re glad they were able to spend some time with her before the end.

James had his first soccer game this weekend.  Their team lost, but they were a new team playing their first game against a well established team that has won prior tournaments.  Still, James played the entire game and had fun doing it.

This week the nation celebrated National Banana Split Day, and the Flinn household always honors these important events.  The kids got to make their banana splits with ice cream, chocolate syrup, and a cherry topping.

The first day of school under quarantine…

"I said school starts tomorrow. I didn’t say I was going to be there."
—Kim Harrison

The first day of school arrived, and the kids were excited to learn they were still getting the experience of waking up early, putting on coordinating outfits, and taking pictures outside.  I know it’s hard to see all the excitement in the masks, but it was totally there.  Super, super excited kids.

School started fairly rough.  Three kids all trying to connect and find their way to to the right meeting was tough, but they managed to figure it out with Mommy’s help.  Each day was a little better, but it’s already evident that home learning isn’t going to be easy with three young children.  Thanks corona!

Outside of school we continue to find ways to entertain ourselves under quarantine.  Board games and playing with the dog are favorites for James.  Isla finished reading her first full book and was very proud of her accomplishment.

Summer comes quietly to an end…

"Sigh… there goes another summer, Snoopy!"
–Charlie Brown

Summer is nearing it’s end for the kids and as hot as it was outside they found some inventive ways to stay entertained indoors.  The first thing they did was build a balloon fort with the balloons from Isla’s birthday.  They covered up Isla’s bed and buried themselves in it, at least until the cardboard wall fell and all the balloons fell out.

In quieter moments, playing with kittens can be a great way to pass some time.

Isla combined two of her favorite activities, digging into Mommy’s makeup without her knowing and painting rocks.  Both the rock and Isla’s face ended up being very stylish.

While James was at soccer camp Ashlyn wanted to help Isla with her bar skills.  Ashlyn was a great coach and Isla was very appreciative. 

Isla turns 6!

"Oh, this is what I always wanted!"
-Isla (said at almost every present)

Isla’s birthday was this week, James and Ashlyn teamed up to decorate when Isla was busy upstairs.  It was actually pretty sweet to watch them take it so seriously, they really wanted her to wake up with a good surprise for her birthday.

Isla started off her birthday with a donut breakfast.  This was followed by a scavenger hunt with clues and presents scattered all around the house as well as the yard.  Ashlyn read the clues, Isla chose where to look next, and James gave hints when Isla got stuck.  It was a lot of fun for Isla, even it it’s not a perfect replacement for a non-pandemic birthday.

We asked Isla if she wanted to try fishing at the pond and she enthusiastically said yes.  We dug up some worms from the garden, got out the fishing gear, and headed out for an adventure.  As it turned out, only one kid caught a fish and it just so happened to be the birthday girl.  It wasn’t a large fish, but Isla didn’t care.  She was happy which made the trip worth it.

A party wouldn’t be complete without a piñata.  Later in the afternoon Grandma and Grandpa came by to give Isla presents and watch the kids use a stick to beat a cardboard donut filled with candy.  Normally this would have been an event involving a line of kids, but since we couldn’t have a party the line was much shorter.  Once the candy started coming out the kids didn’t seem to mind.

Isla will get a real party next year with friends from gym and the new friends she’ll make in kindergarten.  Happy birthday Isla!