Backyard Campout

We finally have some cooler temperatures, so we let Dayna have some friends over to camp out in the backyard. It's pretty clear several of them have never pitched a tent before. But the tent made its way up, the dogs and s'mores were grilled over the fire pit. And sleep may or may not have happened. This is the stuff memories are made of.

New School Clothes

Had a fun date with this girl last week to get new clothes for Kindergarten.

She picked Freddy's for lunch and made short order of her cheeseburger, fries and ice cream. Her new clothes are pretty cute, and she's excited to show them off when school starts.

Live Entertainment

Dayna has been looking for performance opportunities. She took the initiative to contact the person who runs our local farmer's market and set up a date to play. Last Saturday, she earned a nice sum while providing music for about an hour and a half. Several people shared positive things with us as she was playing. Well done, Dayna.

Metamorphosis

Summer to Dayna means riding her bike to the school's butterfly garden. Inspecting milkweed leaves for caterpillars or eggs. Bringing them home and nurturing them until they make a chrysalis. Waiting expectantly for the butterflies to emerge. And with any luck, following the life cycle through several generations.

Today, these beautiful monarchs made their appearance.

A Dog's Life

Dayna has been working hard pet-sitting for several neighbors this year. She often brings them over to our house (and we even had a guest for a week!) Dan is still hesitant to get a dog, but I think he actually enjoys their company! He was caught snuggling more than once with a dog on the couch.

Stir-Up Days

Ashland has their annual Stir-Up Days in July. There's so much going on, and it's usually super hot. We managed to make it through the parade and a race, as well as taking in a few other events.

Annie loved cheerleading camp and got to march in the parade.

I walked the 5K and came in a solid last place (the other walkers did a 2 mile walk, but I was determined to make it 3.1 after my broken foot.) I had been walking a 25 minute mile, but managed to finish the entire 5K in 50 minutes.

Dan, however, plowed the competition and came in second place for his age division. Way to go, Dan!

Making an Entrance

 So tired of this boring front door. We're trying out a new color before we commit to a new door.

 Apparently, the carpet liked the blue as well. Half a quart's worth. Exterior paint. Sigh.

 Fortunately, we were able to get a LOT of it up.

 We're still a work in progress, but I finally have a house number.