Summer?

Before I start another school year and packed fall, I figured I should re-cap the summer. It went so quickly though, I am not really sure if it counts! Whatever it was, it was a wonderful time full of so many of my favorite people.

My time at home began as always with a family dinner of pizza and lots of catching up! Amanda picked me up at the airport and for the first time in possibly 3 years, we had some baby-free sister time. Don't get me wrong, I love her babies! But it was nice to have complete conversations again for a change.

I also quickly found myself venturing to my absolute favorite place... Grandma's porch swing. We chatted for hours-- I got all the family and town gossip and she gets stories and pictures from my life abroad. It was a beautiful summer in Michigan, so I was able to enjoy that swing and the time with Grandma Ree a few times!

My first weekend was girls weekend! I ventured to the lake house to enjoy the sunshine, a boat ride, a bonfire, and general relaxation. Also, lots of wedding chatter as we prepare to celebrate Dana and Matt's wedding in October! Although 30 some hours of transit in a long weekend may not be ideal, it certainly won't keep from being there to support my Din-din!

Then began days with my family that went far too fast and full of love and laughter! We went to the local township celebration, fireworks for the fourth, an airshow with carnival rides, a parade and patio party with Grandpa Bob-- and that was just one weekend! There was also zoo trips, magnet tower building, glamping, a farm day, Cars 3 in the theater, a food cleanse, buggy rides, and lots and lots of swimming!

In addition to lots and lots of family time, I caught up with some friends too. I went down to Somerset for a day to catch up with Christina and Sara. Went to lunch with Beth. And got a fabulous haircut and all the news with Sierra.

Mom and I drove out to New York to catch up with Kim, Sabrina, and Ange! Not to mention their expanding families! We cheered on Kim at a half marathon, saw her inner city ministry, and helped prepare for a church baby shower... basically, she's still busy as ever. I was also able to see Ange again in Michigan for some bubble tea with Nicole!!


I've been back in Riga for a little over a week. But I still very much miss all my people back home. Especially these two...