Full House

Casa Isonzo is hopping with hospitality this summer--33 days of it to be exact!  Thus the reason for sporadic and delayed postings here on the blog.  Upon returning from Croatia we had one week to plan, prepare, organize and work ahead before Jonathan's parents arrived from Michigan.  With a translation project of 300+ pages to complete and a house to pack up by the end of August, there is no time to sit and twiddle thumbs.  Add to the fact that it takes a lot of energy to keep three kids from driving each other up the wall.  Summer homework books are a welcomed distraction, but those didn't arrive until less than a week ago (and Luca's may not ever since the publisher is having printing issues).  So this mamma has had to create projects to do, a summer reading plan and chores to occupy time while my time is spent in the kitchen cooking, hanging laundry or packing boxes--and trying to relish time with family.  

Munga and Gramma have already passed the first 11 days of July with us.  Time has gone by so quickly already!  

Currently, there is a brief 4-day break in their visit as they take a side trip up to England.  We have been laying low for the most part with them and carrying on with our regular commitments while they recovered from jet lag and aches and pains.  Nothing super exciting but there is something to be said for just living with us in a normal rhythm of life.  The number of "Go Fish" games has exceeded my count and nothing beats lots of grandkid cuddle time and silliness.  We are so thankful for the time we get to share with them this summer and anticipate our remaining days together before they leave on the 20th.

Then we have a week to regroup before welcoming Noella's brother and family from Iraq.  They will be here for 2 weeks then head off for a one-week side trip before returning for a final couple of days and then depart on August 19.  That will then leave us with less than 2 weeks to finish packing up the house and repainting the new house before we move in on September 2.  Wow! Really?!  I'm tired just reading all of that--but I wouldn't trade it for any other way!