Exploring Roosevelt Island...

After a failed attempt to take the boys to the National Zoo one beautiful Sunday this summer (we arrived an hour too late and the parking was all full) we decided to make lemonade out of lemons and went and explored Roosevelt Island instead. I remembered going there for picnic lunches during school field trips to DC and had always had it in mind as a fun family destination. 

We first did a walk around the perimeter of the island and enjoyed taking in the views of the Potomac. Adam had fun climbing up on rocks and skipping rocks on the water. Harper just endured the bumpy stroller ride - guess it wasn't exactly a stroller friendly walk - lesson learned for next time. 

After we finished walking around the island we found the memorial section which is what I remembered from my previous visits there. They boys ran around and checked out the various fountains and little bridges. We read about Teddy Roosevelt and were reminded of how grateful we are to him especially for establishing our National Parks. 

We then enjoyed a picnic lunch - just like I had done in that same spot many (many!) moons ago.

Happy boys after a fun day exploring our backyard! 

Backyard Camp Out...

An old golf buddy of mine who was downsizing brought us her barely used tent at the beginning of the summer and so on an unseasonably mild and low humidity night this summer Andy and Adam had a little backyard camp out. 

We set up our ridiculously large and comfy air mattress. Loaded them up with lots of pillows and blankets and they slept under the stars. (Harper and I were enjoying the comfort of our beds indoors - ha!) 

I checked on them first thing in the morning and sure enough they were still snoozing and enjoying that fresh summer air. 

Harper and I joined them once they woke up for some tent cuddling - maybe next time we'll join them for the whole night - hmm...maybe not! :) 

Today we celebrate our Independence Day...

The 4th was on a Wednesday this year which makes it slightly less enjoyable but we still managed to have a fun and festive day! My family came over and we enjoyed some delicious BBQ. Adam and I also made some spirited rice crispy treats and star spangled fruit kabobs! We had flashy necklaces and miniature flags to help show our patriotism as well. 

We ended the night with a bang - ha - as we watched our neighbors put off fireworks (not very legal ones - yikes!). Turns out Sadie has a "firework hating" friend in Harper - he was none too pleased. Might have to stick to watching them on tv next year. :) 

Nick turns 21!

Our nephew Nick turned 21 back on July 4th and so we all gathered the night before to celebrate! It was a last minute gathering which with Andy's side of the family always seems to work out best - we had almost everyone in attendance - that's not an easy task. 

Amy & John hosted a festive German themed feast for us all. There were lots of laughs shared and everyone just loved getting in some face time with little Harper. Adam and Isabella are thick as thieves and love when they get to play together. 

It was such a fun get together and I wish we could do it more often. Until next time - which with this family, you never know - could be tonight! ;)