Jubilee

So many reasons to love summer:

1. The Girl and her Trampoline.

This summer Isabella and I jumped on the trampoline after dinner. It was our thing. One hot night we brought some blankets and a pillow out and read books by lantern light until the cool breezes kicked in. We were more fascinated, though, by the zillions of bugs attracted to the light. 

2. Our First Harvest

We are terrible gardeners. But we grew enough tomatoes to make this:

 

and it was delicious!

3. Fish fry

Mark even had a t-shirt to go with the theme. Now that's dedication.

4. Baby M. 

"In Love" pretty much sums it up.

This summer Matthew figured out how to turn from his tummy to his back-big milestone!

5. And then there's his big sister, who stole my heart a few years back...

Here's just one reason why:

A summer headline you probably missed: Isabella Moves Into Box...

After (Doll)House is Hit by Tornado.

Thank goodness her fire truck was close by to assist in the rescue.

6. The Freemont Diner.  

We made an impromptu stop at the highly hyped roadside farm stand 

with its dirt driveway and chicken farm. 

Our family reviews: 

Katie liked the layout and font style of the menu.
Mark liked his coca cola.
Isabella thought their mac n' cheese was too pretentious.
Matthew liked everything--except the food, which he didn't eat, because he knows nothing compares to his mama's roasted bananas and blueberries, pureed to perfection.

The dinosaurs thought is was all very prehistoric, but the turquoise tables were a nice touch.


7. Family Reunion.
Surrounded by family is the best way to end a summer! My Dad's family gathered at their house for a lovely dinner and visit. Elinor and Bob came from Southern California, while Tom and Margo were visiting from Pennsylvania.  We love and miss all of you already!

 When we look back and say, those were halcyon days, we're talking 'bout jubilee.