End of Summer

I know that it is still, technically, July.  I know that the days are still hot, and my work won't really start for a few more weeks.  But now we are in the part of summer, the end of summer, where the last days of open activity need to be scheduled and planned, as there are not a seemingly infinite number of days on our calendar anymore.  The plans to spend a couple days in the city, and family visiting, and trips to Indiana...all must now be assigned days and times, to ensure they actually happen now.

The last chunk of time has been spent mostly at home, taking each day and trying to find activities and peaceful times.  There have been some days where these little girls have tested every one's patience and been nipping at each other.  For the most part, though, when they have open spaces and things to keep them occupied, it has been quite enjoyable.  

While some strive to take-on major journeys and travels and experiences throughout the summer, we have embraced the daily adventures and finding enjoyment in the small stuff around home.  Trips to the store and getting a sticker from the cashier.  Enjoying our favorite juice with straws.  Running the dog in the field or walking around the block and saying hi to neighbors.  Visiting a neighboring suburb and feeding ducks.  Sometimes the small adventures are the ones that lead to something bigger.  I hope that the end of summer leads us to a larger avenue of sorts full of new experiences and learning opportunities.

Visiting the bell tower in Naperville, IL.

Naperville, IL.

Feeding the ducks along the Riverwalk in Naperville.

Enjoying a break by a fountain in downtown Naperville.

Mmmmmmmm, ice cream break!

Violet at a splashpad in Romeoville.

Violet and her bubble blaster.  

Violet having lunch by Lake Michigan.

Audrey looking out at Lake Michigan.

A peaceful view.  Looking out at Lake Michigan on a recent trip to the city.

A girl and her dog.  Violet and Phoebe at the field by our house.

More bubbles in the evening!