Monday through Wednesday, every week. 10-14 hour days spent doing activities from arts and crafts to pool days to relaxation days.

This has been my third summer watchi:

I have been lucky enough to have watched you since you were less than a year old. I have gotten to watch you as you learn to walk, through all of the eating and talking stages and through all of your clothing phases. Throughout all of those, you have taught me many things.

You taught me patience. From the poop spread on the walls, the makeup all over your face or the stubbornness when asked to let the dog in, you have taught to me to take a deep breath and be patient. Losing my temper won't help anything and because of you, I have had a lot of practice with it.

You taught me the value of imagination. With a creative mind, the world changes all around you. You can make the day into whatever you want and with your wonderfully unique mind, you have given me a renewed imagination.

You have taught me to think of everyone as a friend. This summer, your most common phrase has been, "I want to make everyone in the whole world my best friends. The good ones, the bad ones, the ones who don't want to play and everyone." You are the ideal example of a person and I cannot wait to see that idea stay in your mind as you grow older.

You truly are a beautiful little princess. Don't ever lose your spark and your shine. Wear your dresses, act wild and be smart. You are such a special child and you have a very special place in my heart.

To you, big man:

I have known you for so long now and I consider you to be one of my dear friends. We have had some good memories together. You never cease to blow my mind with your artwork and your growing talent. Your mind is full of intriguing thoughts and intelligence. You are also a unique child and I cannot wait to see what the big, bad world of middle school brings for you.

Instead of saying what you've taught me, I want to give you just a few pieces of advice.

Keep pushing through school and try to enjoy it. Trust me, I know that middle school and high school aren't a whole lot of fun. But just like anything, it is exactly what you make it. You are a smart, talented kid. I know you will do well. Make the best of it with a smile on your face and your days won't seem so long and you won't be dreading every single Monday.

Never doubt yourself. You are an extremely talented person. Your art and creativity is like I have never seen before. I don't know too many people my age that can do what you can do at nearly 12 years old (stop growing up). You can do anything you set your mind to. Keep working on that spelling and it will be easier every single word.

Thank you buddy, for one of the best summers ever. Every time I see a Pokemon, a "Walking Dead" commercial or the color pink, I always chuckle because I think of you.

I also want to say thank you to the parents who have raised these two. You are wonderful people to have raised such great children. I am thankful that I have had the opportunity to get to know your kids on this level and I truly appreciate the opportunity. You have given me another example on real life parenting and how I want my future children to behave. You guys are good-hearted, hard working people and still remain to be wonderful parents. The world needs more of you.

If you are ever looking for a summer job, I highly recommend babysitting or being a nanny. It changes your life and touches your heart forever. I couldn't think of a better job.