The Final Stretch

August is here. Whew, it's hot! I'm a Midwest girl, this should be of no surprise, but after a rainy humid summer, I was thinking we might get lucky and have the June we never got to enjoy. This is not to be.

I sit on my front porch rather enjoying the 110 degree index and contemplating our summer thus far. Fun, busy, boring at times (because of all the rain), hilarious moments mixed in with frustrated moments, dance parties in the kitchen and basement play room, and lots and lots of happy road trips (one airplane ride thrown in there). Ava is a full blown toddler, hence the frustrated moments, and brings this joy to everyone she is around. It may just be a smile from a mean looking old lady, but Ava got her to smile. That's just what she does.

Summer is in its final stretch. There is still lots more to do before the cold weather hunkers us down. More trips to the water park, the zoo, the playground, play dates, to the sprinkler set up in the back yard, to Birthday parties, to visits with family and friends (this summer included a rare visit from an old friend--Kevin, you know old friends are good for the soul, even if you may not have one--ha), many more picnics in the back yard to do, walks around the neighborhood, trips to the library for lunch in the park, gymnastics, and finally one last summer trip I can hardly stand waiting for. Folly Beach, I can smell the surf just sitting here and Sudano's, why haven't we seen you guys for this long?

Now please, everyone take a moment to say a silent prayer...we are driving with a two year old for 16 hours.

One of my favorite moments from the summer was the three days Ava and I got to hang out with my Dad (my mom was there too, but she knows what I'm talking about here). These are few and far between, so when they happen I take in every moment. Thanks Dad!

I will miss summer once October arrives, but until then, I am loving August (but not so much the sweat that's starting to drip into my eyes) and the many memories we have yet to make.