SUMMER DAYS

This summer has been a lot of fun and most of it has been in our own little neighborhood! We have had fun watching our backyard full of fruit grow (and not so much fun discovering that our dog seems to know exactly when the blueberries and strawberries are perfectly ripe). We have one of those Costco playsets that the kids have thorougly enjoyed for the past few years, this year being no different. A neighbor next to us has a hot tub and trampoline, and our neighbor behind us has one of those big pools that they have graciously shared with our family- the kids have had a blast! There is also the infamous "water table" that we got for Abby when she was little that is still going strong as the most popular toddler/preschooler summer pastime. I also must mention that our neighbors behind us have the most beautiful asian inspired landscaping in their backyard. Our two older girls play with their two girls and we have a "secret panel" in the fence in which they go back and forth (not to mention that Ryan has easy access to sneak over and play a video game or two with their dad!) Anyway, when emerging into the yard (via the secret panel), I always feel like I am entering into a Japanese secret garden, with the peaceful sounds of a calming pond (complete with Japanese Koi swimming about). They have even built brick steps with solar lanterns on either side leading up to the panel. We have been blessed with great neighbors and friends for our kids!