True Love

I really can't believe how quickly summer is zipping by. And I reeeaaallllly can't believe that in less than one week, my first baby boy turns eighteen. Oh stop it. Don't make me say that again. Sigh. Last weekend was Caleb's graduation at Norwich University- we were joking that he now has a higher rank than my Dad did when he was in the army! We're both incredibly proud of his accomplishments. It was NOT an easy eight days. Not by a long shot. This isn't your typical recreational summer camp program; this is an intensive boot camp-type leadership training program, and while I was anxious and a little nervous for him, I knew he would persevere and succeed with flying colors. And he did. The drive through Vermont is such a pretty one. We were near the famous Quechee Gorge, and thankfully traffic had cooperated, so we stopped to have a look and walk around a bit after a couple hours in the van. I will admit, the surrounding area has become more commercialized...

I haven't posted a new recipe in a long time, and I've been meaning to. But, summer. So I'll post this collection of pancakes for you instead. We make these at least once a week, often times more. They're simple. delicious, and generally a crowd-pleaser, so hooray! Favorite Basic Pancake Recipe This has been our go-to recipe for years and years. A friend gave me a recipe that a friend had given her and... I spent a few years tweaking it to make it our absolute favorite of all time. Favorite Pancakes Recipe HERE Best Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes  These pancakes have a slightly grainy texture because of the cornmeal, and let me tell you, they taste just as good for supper as they do for breakfast. :) Best Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe HERE Apple Pancakes with Sugar Sauce  I can't even remember how this recipe came about, probably just years of experimenting. These pancakes are packed full of good stuff, but then again, the ...

I feel like I'm still a bit "off" from last week's festivities, so add in this week's, and... well that's what so great about summer. Who cares? No real schedules anyway. Jonah arrived home from the FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) soccer camp in Atlanta safe and sound last night, so we are all under the same roof again. Always makes my Mama heart feel so much better. He says he had a great week but is so, so tired. And a little crispy. My Mom kept informing me that the UV index was the second most dangerous in...Atlanta. Like every day, in case I'd somehow forgotten. ha ha Thanks, Mom. So here are some favorites: Technically, the first one would be the one up above- having everybody together at home. TWO There's nothing quite as magical as lingering summer nights under the stars and beside the fire with friends and family And of course S'mores :) THREE  Peaceful mornings This is dependent on the baby, yes, but I ...

My baby boy is growing up so very quickly, and while I love to celebrate his milestones and accomplishments, there's usually a bit of grieving involved in the process as well. It's all so bittersweet. Last week, he officially turned fifteen whole months old!  He is so sweet, sleeping muuuuch better in his own room (until about 4 or 5, and then he transfers to our bed until about 7), is beginning to stand more independently, and is rather opinionated...and not so shy about sharing his opinions, ha! He still loves to cuddle with Mama, gives the BEST wide open kisses in the world, has a smile that melts stone, and really enjoys visiting the library and reading all the books. Or maybe scooting around and tackling the ginormous stuffed animals there and yanking dozens of books off the shelves. But who can be certain? It's probably because he's a genius. Of course. ;) Levi can also put on quite the show to get all the laughs (and all the attention, duh), and he still c...

Monday was the 10th, so I'm sharing ten pictures from our day. It was a very busy and full one! I love having these posts and looking back on them. I always think I will remember all the details, and I just don't, so I'm glad to capture these moments of our life.   A super early morning, and I couldn't get him back to sleep. He was wired but not super happy...look at that furrowed brow, ha!  Our big adventure for the day was to drive to Maine to spend the day at York's Wild Animal Kingdom. We had lots of fun!  I don't know why I have a slightly deranged look on my face, but Levi was semi-happy about riding on the carousel...as long as he was in my lap and not on a horse.  To hear her talk, you'd have thought she just stepped off the world's biggest, scariest roller coaster ride, ha ha! So, so funny! I'm glad she had such a nice time. We were getting tired and sticky hot midday, so we got ice cream and sat on a pic...