Daytime Stories: Summertime Memories

There is so much to LOVE about summer. Just the word alone is exciting. In the past few weeks my oldest son Keaton has finished kindergarten, summer school has started, blazing hot weather has arrived, watermelons have been sliced, smores have been made over the fire and normal bedtime routines have been traded for one more swim around the pool. Summer is about making the most of the short time we have together without school, busier schedules and colder weather.

Last week we all ventured out for the annual June beach weekend. My sister always hosts this event and we all go to the state park about ten minutes from her house. The night before the beach we all gathered in the backyard for dinner and a bonfyre while this photo was taken by my son Keaton:

This photo had me thinking.

Once it was taken I realized it looked similar to a photo of my brothers and sisters back in the day when I was about the same age of my daughter-3. This photo was taken in another backyard which belonged to my grandfather on the 4th of July. Every year all five kids would go to my grandfather's house over the 4th of July-it was the most exciting event of the summer next to a possible 6-Flags trip. Now its my turn to take my kids on summer trips that we turn into traditions.

Cameron-Govenor Dodge State Park 2012

I love this photo of Cameron. He is a totally terrible two year old right now. But darn he is cute and how can one be unpleasant at the beach?

Averie in her element and wearing all pink

You ask Averie about her favorite things and she will gladly answer. The two things that usually top her list are swimming and all things 'pinkalicious.'

Keaton-back yard water fight

So what did my kids want to do while I was exhausted aftern the beach weekend?

Have a water fight in the backyard of course.

We are looking forward to spending a lot of time with cousins, going to the pool, having popsicles on the deck, staying up late, taking walks in the dark, buying a slip and slide and more. Much more.

In fact, tonight my dearest friend is coming in town and staying with us for the weekend. I am so excited I could dance and shout. I have not seen her since last November but once we get together it will be non-stop talking and laughing. Within 5 minutes it will be like we are in high school again-this happens every time.