popsicles

Our ice-cream-man seems to have disappeared this summer.  My girl still remembers the sweet treats he brings in his truck and often talks about the next time he will arrive.  The other day, my girl grabbed her "ice-cream money jar" and we walked up to the corner store.  We found the exact popsicle we normally get from the ice-cream truck for a fraction of the price.  This turned into a great learning experience for my girl when she only had to pay 75 cents at the register rather than the $2.00 she normally pays when the ice-cream truck pulls up.  We happily headed home and shared a little sweet treat on a hot summer morning.  She is already planning a return trip with her savings.

all in good time

I fretted that you wouldn't ever take the plunge.  I worried that I pushed too much.  I worried that I had crushed your little swimming spirit.

You trusted a new teacher.  You set aside your fears.  You enjoyed being somewhere familiar.  You didn't want to get out of the pool.  You begged to go back.

You took the plunge toward endless swimming fun and we are so proud.

Momma note: A wise family member always tells me, "she will do all things when SHE is ready."  "Don't push her."  Boy, is this true.

the 4th

Have a most-happy fourth of July!

a new scent

Little hearts and minds see beyond the label that reads "shampoo" and instead they see a beautifully decorated bottle, just the right size for perfume.  Thank you for the new bottle of  "waterproof perfume," dear girl.

simple summer: tomato basil salad

During the summer, I love quick, easy and healthy meals.  When I find something I like, I eat it a lot.  This simple salad is a summer staple at our dinner table.  It is so fresh and tasty.  Even my picky little eaters eat it.  The ingredients are few and it is super quick to make.

Ingredients:
Cucumber -- peeled
Grape or cheery tomatoes -- halved
Red wine vinegar
Olive oil
Basil -- shredded
Sea salt
Pepper

Add the chopped cucumbers and tomatoes to a bowl.  Douse with olive oil and vinegar.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Top with basil.

celebrating you

She carefully wrote a little message on a place-mat for you.

She patiently shopped for your favorite treats at the market for you.

She drew large circles on your cheeks because that meant that you were happy and smiled a lot.

She excitedly grabbed your favorite beverages from the little fridge in the garage and placed them on the table for you.

She, so sweetly, wished you a Happy Birthday everyday that week except on your real birthday, when she was utterly exhausted from the day's events.

We are so excited to celebrate you.  You, most definitely, hung the moon.

Midsummer

Today marks the longest day of the year--summer solstice.  

Sunlight, warmth and celebration of summer highlight this day in my mind each year.  

Here's to enjoying all the long warm days of summer!