the garden

We are now getting into the swing of things...performing that tricky balancing act between work/school and home once again. As we are well into getting used to schedules, practices and homework and loving the start of the new school year, there are things that I miss about summer break...the biggest one being time in the garden. It is in full bloom right now and realize I miss getting in it everyday. This weekend I took full advantage of the time and enjoyed every minute.

Getting away...

just for a moment...

I am just madly in love with these 3.

Steamboat

We spent a lovely few days camping in this beautiful space to achieve a goal Jeff and I set out to complete. We finished our first (sprint) triathlon. So proud and feeling very grateful that my body allowed me to cross the finish line smiling...although I wasn't smiling the entire time!
After the race there was some time for swimming, fishing, canoeing and gunnel bobbing!

Beautiful goal setting weekend!

Michigan...three

As if that wasn't enough fun...we though we should continue the holiday with mini golfing, go karts, floating boats at Fallasburg Park, swimming at Jean-Jeans pool, the botanic gardens, and another day at the beach (Grand Haven) walking and jumping the pier!

Along with the activities we "fit" in eating and drinking our way through...an amazing memorable trip once again. Thanks for having us...love you mom and dad!

Michigan...two

We were then headed up to Manistee for Christmas in July...really the highlight of it all! The one time of the year I have both brothers, their families and my mom and dad in arguably one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. We exchanged homemade gifts (both kids were a part of it for the first time!), played on the beach, took walks, entertained ourselves thoroughly in the rain, played games and spent much needed family time. One of my most favorite times of the year~

Thanks mom and dad for making the magic happen!

Michigan...one

We kicked off the our Michigan vacation with The fourth of July at the cottage with family. It was so fun to watch the cousins play, celebrate a birthday, and try our hand at water skiing/surfing.

So glad to have the time with everyone...thank you!