Our Independence Day weekend could not have been better. It was just so enjoyable visiting our good friends. The food ... the conversation ... the fireworks -- all outstanding.
The memories, in no particular order:
- Marty enjoying a Kettler trike (or as he called it "mine race car") in the back yard
- excellent views of fireworks from our friends' backyard; we could see nine or ten displays along the lake (depending on how tall you are.)
- kids running "randomly" (as Helen put it) through the yard each lit by several glow stick bands.
- a cool night, a hot fire pit, the sounds of the wind, the water and Keb Mo.
- a local parade that felt like those of my childhood
- the girls so happy to go visiting at the home of our friends while Marty and I napped
- Helen's first time sailing. Though she became ashen and slumped against my shoulder most of the time she reports that she "loved" the experience
- finding treasures along the beach
- kids soaking themselves in the water and sand; digging and building and just being so happy
- delicious food, both at our friend's home and at Three Birds -- just we grown-ups -- with plenty of wine and lively conversation. Oh how I needed that.
Even a serious traffic delay on the way home yesterday could not mar the experience. These are the memories of a quintessential summer break.
I did take lots of people pictures, but I'll share just a couple favorite mood shots.
[Lake Erie sunset, taken through my sunglasses]
There was some talk over the weekend about how as an adult summer seems to be coming to an end after the fourth of July. Maybe it's because I'm fortunate to be at home with the kids and enjoying their schedule, but to me it seems that with this trip our summer actually commenced and we are looking forward to a couple of family visits in weeks ahead.
Kind of a big work week planned for me, plus lots of laundry and household organizing needing my attention. So I'm off ...
I hope you all enjoyed a happy weekend as well.
