Colorado bound

At the end of May, they took a long weekend and headed up to the mountains.  They were both in search of a relaxed pace, lots of outdoor fun and time together.  It is amazing what a little time with one parent can do for a kid.  Our girl needed some one-on-one time away from the distractions of school, siblings and friends.  Thankfully, the weekend opened up her mind and her soul to the beauty of uncomplicated things and experiences centered around nature.

Mountain hikes were part of their daily routine.  New animals were discovered along the way.

Horseback riding over streams and alongside mountains was her favorite despite a pesky horse who wanted to eat grass the whole time.  

A nifty mosaic was created with her inventive hands in the art studio.

They both returned home refreshed by the time away from the daily distractions and duties that keep us all so busy.  It was a great experience for both of them.  Together they grew closer and that is never a bad thing.  

*They visited and stayed at YMCA of the Rockies.  It is a wonderful place that is centered around family and nature.  It is also one of the most reasonable places to stay in Rocky Mountain National Park.  Lodging for these two was cheaper than a one-night stay at some hotels in this town.*

Literary Classics at Target!

I am not that fond of the cheap plastic toys and nick nacks at Target in the Dollar Spot but today I was delighted to find a slew of literary classics.  There was a wonderful selection of classics for kids for a dollar each! I bought one of each title for my little readers to devour and their momma to enjoy reading. The cute cover designs remind me of the pricer hardback Penguin versions sold at Anthropologie.  They are a great addition to our summer reading library.  

Bastille Day!

Happy Bastille Day!

Today is the perfect day to traverse town to visit a favorite French bakery. 

Of course, we were in search of exquisite macaroons.

Blueberry mint, strawberry basil, rose, lavender and pistachio almond orange were some of the delectable flavors on today's menu.

We look forward to this 14th day of July every summer. It is the day we enjoy celebrating French independence and some yummy macaroons too!

Viva la France!

watercolor days

Watercolor reminds me of the beauty of summertime: no definite lines, colors washing and blending and lots of carefree relaxed moments.  All these images were made using this fun app for my phone.  Have some fun turning some of your summer moments in to watercolors.

breakfast at our favorite local bakery

riding a cow at a fun dinner and ice cream spot

lots of frozen yogurt with sweet friends

a hike in the mountains

the timeless fun of an old fashioned carousel ride

vanishing summer days

It's hard to believe midsummer has passed.  The days are like firecrackers: bright, loud and quick.  With these boisterous days always comes some sweet memories of carefree summertime.  Hope you are enjoying some sweet memories this summer too!

floating in the ocean - peeking down from a favorite playground - mowing adventures with Daddy - healthy well-checks with sad goodbyes - lots of birthday celebrating - our little mermaid - fancy drinks on the beach - peeking out at the vast ocean with Daddy - piano lessons - balloons and flowers at a favorite store - 3 sisters enjoying a slow summer morning

summer tomatoes

The summer tomatoes have finally arrived!  They hang heavy on the vine just waiting to be plucked by anxious hands.  We eat ours right away while they are still warm from the summer sun.  Washed, sliced and doused with a bit of sea salt is our preferred method of devouring these lovely summer gems.

Happy July to you!

daddy

He is calm when I am flustered.  He always has time for them no matter how busy we get.  He cares about how they experience the world, what they watch and who influences them.  He is involved in every aspect of their lives.  He makes an effort to be there when they are sick, for recitals, school performances, soccer games, piano lessons and dinner as a family each night.  He can foresee problems before they arise and extinguish a fire before it begins to blaze.  He balances us all perfectly on the tiny tightrope of life.

He is wonderful and was created especially to father these girls.

We are endlessly grateful for you!

Happy Father's Day!