The Benifits of Kids

I really am enjoying having older kids. I think I have at least 1 (so far) who has inherited Trent's ability to figure out the mechanics of things, and fix things. (unfortunately he has also has a lazy streak so his projects are seldom finished, or cleaned up). The other day, I asked him to put my pictures onto the computer. Unfortunately I can't find them now, so I hope he remembers where he put them. I have a daughter also, who has become pretty responsible. and I feel confident that she can care for a couple of kids if I have to run an errand. Unfortunaly a few other people have also discovered this, and I don't see her very often anymore.
I am also not a big fan of spring. I know, not a very popular feeling. Spring to me, means yard work, hot, lots of birthdays, and Trent being gone. First off I don't mind yard work. I like it less and less as the years go on, one because there is just no time to keep the inside clean, the outside clean and take care of the kids. Also, our house was empty for 3 years, so it was really bad by the time we got here. We did all of the inexpensive parts, now we would need to put money into it to do much more than we have. Or to make it what I really want.  Then the birthday part. All but 2 of my kids have summer/spring birthdays. That's a lot of work. Especially the week where there are 3 in 4 days. or the day with 2. Then it's a little hard on me when everyone gets a year older. My oldest will be 14. We only really have 4 more summers together. Not that she will never be around, but kids priorities change as they turn 16, 17, 18. The twins will be 3 in a few weeks. I miss them being tiny. Then there is the fact that summer means Trent is gone. A lot. last year, we had to cram a quick family trip in, because his free time and vacation time was taken by his calling. So summer means he will be doing scout camp, high adventure camp, youth conference. I am way jealous of high adventure camp this year. He is taking the older scouts to Capitol Reef for an entire week to bike and hike. But, I do get to go on trek with him, so that just may be our 'away' trip for us.
I feel like our summer is already filled. It gets worse and worse every year. Well, worse isn't the right word. Busier is a better word. But since I like uncomplicated and unbusy, worse may be appropriate. I am hoping to cram at least one Yellowstone trip in there with the family.
I know it will go by quick, then before we know it, we will be starting a new school year. That's a whole different ordeal.