Things We've Been Doing This Summer, Part 2

Growing things:

I've wanted a planter box for some time now. Bri built me one the other day. We might even get some dirt in it soon enough to plant some pumpkin seeds. The possibilities are endless.

My indestructible Hydrangea. Cassy has laid on and destroyed this more times than I can count.

Tomato plants.

The first red ones of the Summer. I feel like they have been really late to ripen this year, maybe because all of June was sucky.

Who knew I would love gardening and fabric when I grew up. I feel old. But fulfilled.

Things we are learning this Summer:

How to mow the lawn.

Thank heavens, because any of you who know me, know that I do NOT mow lawns, don't even know how to start a mower! Guess I won't have to learn now.

Mustang Sally

Just one of our random Summer purchases.....

1966 Mustang:

The kids were giddy with excitement!

Even the neighbor kids jumped in for some fun.

Brian has been smiling from ear to ear for two days. I have only half way been smiling, as it needs new brakes $$$$$. Oh well. We got a sweet deal on it, and I think the enjoyment with outweigh the cost!!

Now we just need a name.

I Cut Bangs

Thoughts?

I think I love them, today anyway.....

The 4th + Cousins = Fun

Things I love about the fourth of July:

Motor scooter rides
My parents house
Great Food
Cousins
What feels like the greatest view in the world
No fire on the hill in front of my parents
OUR FREEDOM

Max, Jake, Grace, Auri, Warren, and Avery....only missing 6 1/2 others.

Spence had fireworks left over from last year that we lit off before retiring to the back deck.

Jake was so sweet to cousin Auri, he held her for a long time.

Had to snap my favorite picture of the night.... I looked over to notice what the boys were doing during the spectacular firework show! Yes, playing Mario cart together. I quickly snapped a picture, then made them turn them off! Hilarious, or not.

We went to the

Avery, Gaynea, Aunt Hill and I met downtown to see the Portland Art Museum. After living here for more than ten years, I don't think I have ever even been here, I'm a little ashamed to say. It was so beautiful!

Avery and my mom were really in their element.


Down the Park blocks I took a picture of Avery next to my alma-mater.

The fountain that we threw our pennies in. I always throw a penny in a fountain whenever I have a chance. I need all the wishes I can take.

The sculpture at the entrance of the museum:

Avery thought this one looked like a watermelon and grapes. I will put out my apologies to the museum for the pictures, I think it's not kosher.....

Aunt Hill looking hip in her "True Religions"

This one looked like a giant piece of fabric:

We ate crepes with strawberries and whip cream and frozen yogurt from this place after the exhibit.

They had cool lighting:

Avery loved being downtown. Although she did not get the concept of paying to park somewhere.

On the way home we drove by Brian and my 1st apartment. It's the one on the bottom, #4. Avery could not believe that we lived here. She asked, "why didn't you just buy a house?"

At the end of the art exhibit I asked Avery what her favorite part was and she said, " I don't know, it was all so amazing!"