THE CUMMINS BLOG: July 2014

As I reflect on the end of my summer, I realize how lucky I am...

Lucky to be married to my best friend Steve. Who like no other loves me as me.
Lucky to have 6 happy and healthy children. And a daughter-in-law.
Lucky to have both sides of parents still living and able to live independently.
Lucky to live in a free country.
Lucky to be able to worship my God.

I have said this before but will say it again. I love my life. Its not always easy (and I am often the first to complain) but I do love my life. Tomorrow I must return to the college for 8 days with students. My end of summer is here despite the fact that faculty don't need to return until August 18th, mine is over out of necessity to prepare for fall more or less. I am lucky, Steve is home with the kids so I have the luxury of doing so.

This summer was busy like no other. Once June 20th hit we have either had guests from out of town, been at a swim meet, or been on vacation. Each and every day we have been busy. The saying that "the grass does not grow under the Cummins feet" is particularly fitting. We are lucky to have enjoyed this busy life. Would we have it any other way? Probably not.

We also took a wonderful vacation. In Cariyana's unsolicited words "It was even better than last years vacation!" There is no replacement for family time. Nick and Angie were able to join us out East for our vacation this year. Lucky. We traveled to Landenburg, PA and utilized my sister and brother-in-laws residence as our home base and day tripped out of their location. The days were filled with driving and tourist sights and the evenings with great food, refreshments, and conversation with family. Lucky. There are always a few tense moments with family togetherness but it was a great time. What we did not get much of, was sleep. All in the name of family vacation. Lucky.

Jersey Shore--Sea Isle City Beach