17 Jul
More Minnesota
We arrived in Minnesota just a day ahead of the famous Ward Springs Fourth of July Parade, at which parade participants hand out candy and beer. We had the good fortunate of sitting next to Gramma and Grampa’s neighbors, Rex and Linda.
The last half of the parade is just a bit wet…
We took a number of boat rides–Ava even got to drive!
Gramma and Grampa kept us full with fabulous food the entire time. Gramma and Ava made homemade ice cream with Ava’s great, great grandfather’s hand-crank ice cream maker.
We took a day trip to the state forest nearby, and had lunch at a cute little tea house called Just Like Grandma’s.
Katie celebrated her birthday with a little help, too.
And, of course, there was liberal spoiling of the grandchildren and great grandchildren!
14 Jul
At the cabin
We left for vacation last Thursday, stopping halfway in Iowa. Before Ava fell asleep at the hotel that night, and she confided in me that she was feeling pretty burnt out.
“Mom,” she said, “Preschool is just driving me crazy. My teacher has me doing all these five-year-old dot-to-dots, and I am just . . . ugh!”
I suggested vacation was just what she needed, and fortunately, we arrived at Gramma and Grampa Great’s cabin the next day. I think it’s fair to say that Ava got the rest and relaxation she needed. In fact, we all did—maybe with the exception of the Grandparents Great!
13 Jul
How I spent my summer vacation
A photo essay from the Smith family…more details on our week long trip to Minnesota in the coming days!
2 Jul
Bye for now!
I’m taking a blog break—I’m finally sending my beloved MacBook Pro in for a much needed tune-up. I’ll be back the week of the 13th.
See you soon!
1 Jul
First harvest
Bryan found the first mid-summer crop in the garden yesterday—two giant cucumbers that we probably should have located and picked last week. I had no idea they’d be ready so soon—we just finished the peas and lettuce a couple of weeks ago.
Bryan chopped up the cucumbers with onions and tossed them into a mixture of vinegar, sugar, water and salt. The recipe suggested that this marinade could be kept all summer—just add more cucumbers as needed. Those of you who know Bryan won’t be surprised when he tosses it after a mere 48 hours.
28 Jun
The Gemini
Lately, I’ve been reading a lot about a new artisan elderflower liquor called St-Germain. I found a recipe for a St-Germain cocktail in this month’s issue of Living. It’s quickly become my favorite summer drink, as evidenced by the empty bottle…
The Gemini
(Makes 2)
- 4 ounces grapefruit juice, strained
- 3 ounces St-Germain liqueur
- 2 ounces vodka
- Ice cubes
- Prosecco (Italian sparkling wine)
- 2 grapefruit-rind twists
Directions:
- Mix grapefruit juice, St-Germain, vodka, and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into 2 chilled glasses. Top with Prosecco.
- Serve each with a grapefruit twist.
26 Jun
Overheard: Anniversary edition
Ava, after watching our wedding video last night: Mom, can I please be at your next wedding?
Smith Family Weblog 