May has a reputation, some say it’s the new December and this just might be the first year I really felt it. From school events and sports practices to new routines and fresh adventures, this month had it all.

We kicked things off with some fantastic PRs at track meets, setting a positive tone for the month ahead. Right alongside those victories came a new fridge, a major highlight in my book. I’m still salty about the last one breaking down right after I spent an entire day meal prepping. The betrayal! But, silver lining: this new fridge finally fits all of our food without playing Tetris every time we unload groceries.

School is wrapping up with a whirlwind of events, including Adrien’s Wax Museum project. While most kids went with well known figures like Walt Disney, Clara Barton, or Neil Armstrong, our sweet Adrien chose Wallace Amos, the founder of Famous Amos cookies. He researched, wrote a speech, and fully committed to the role. I couldn’t have been prouder!

Both boys also took part in the “Play Like a Raven” football camp in Towson, hosted by the Baltimore Ravens and their coaches. Adrien left excited to try flag football in the fall, and I’m so glad we signed Charles up this year. It gave him the chance to reconnect with a close friend he hasn’t shared a classroom with since second grade.

Charles had some major personal wins this month too. He was selected to represent his school at the 4th and 5th Grade County Track Meet where he won the 800m, the longest event offered. It might just be his favorite running accomplishment yet (and that’s saying something!). He also tested into the County History Bee again, an academic competition for 3rd–5th graders. He made it to round two and narrowly missed round three after a tie-breaker. Still, an incredible achievement!

At home, we’ve been deep into yard work. Between the never ending shrubs and high-maintenance flowers, I’ve found myself dreaming of ripping it all out and just planting wildflowers. Simpler and more my style. Charles has taken over mowing duties (earning a few bucks in the process), while Adrien is still our dedicated pooper scooper. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Looking ahead, we’re excited to enjoy more time close to home…exploring around Maryland and West Virginia, hitting the trails, and hopefully squeezing in a few road trips. Summer break never feels long enough, especially when we don’t want to miss out on pool days and swim team fun. We have plans for Boston in August and Michigan in September, and while it may not be as far-flung as last year’s Iceland/Ireland adventure, we’re firm believers that you can make anything feel grand when you’re together. ( so cute, I know)

Here’s to new memories, and a slower summer pace.

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram