Summer 2016 Adventures

With Daniel not having a summer job for the first time ever, we were able to spend a lot of time together as a family. This was particularly good because we added a new member at the beginning of summer. It was nice that Daniel could be home to help more with the adjustment from family of three to family of four.

And, of course, we had our parents come out to meet Carter and help as well. It was very nice.

Among other things, grandmas and grandpas took Aubrey outside to play, which was always a nice break for me and very necessary for this outdoor-loving girl.

Daniel also took Aubrey "hiking" to give me breaks. She's quite the mountain woman.

When I was feeling well enough, we went to Plimoth Plantation. Aubrey had a much better time this year than she did last year, thankfully. And because she's Aubrey, her favorite part was riding the bus from the parking lot to the plantation.

But she did enjoy the historical stuff, too. Here she is grinding wheat or corn (I don't remember) with Grandpa.

We also went blueberry picking while my parents were here. It was hot as all get-out, but it was still very fun. And Aubrey loved it.

Carter pretty much slept and snuggled with Daddy the whole time. Typical.

The farm also had animals, which Aubrey loved, but it was all about the swings, as usual. Grandma obliged.

Afterward, we had to get some ice cream at Bliss Dairy, of course. Aubrey discovered the cow, and the two became fast friends.

But she really loved the ice cream!

There was actually a lot of ice cream consumption this summer. But that's as it should be, really...

Aubrey takes her (and other people's) ice cream very seriously.

Anyway, we also went on picnics...

... and played at the various parks near our house.

 We tried to get Aubrey wet whenever we had a chance...

The best way to get wet was by visiting the beach in Newport, RI. We went twice.

The second time was a little colder at first...

But that meant I got snuggles!

And the sun did eventually come out and make things much nicer. 

Our second time around, Carter even dressed for the occasion! Our little island man...

Speaking of fashion, Aubrey totally rocked the summer look...

She also showed some serious American pride when the 4th of July rolled around...

But eventually, the fun had to end, and we had to get back to normal things, like grocery shopping. Here was my first trip out with both kids by myself!

And after all that, we're all still alive. Amazing! Now it's Fall, which is treating us very well so far. More on that later!