I have distinct memories of visiting my grandparents in the summer as a kid–the smell of their home, fig newtons in the cookie jar in the kitchen with the gold linoleum floor, shag carpet in the family room, swinging saloon doors, taking baths in my grandma’s tub with the pink bottle of Avon bubble bath, sitting in lawn chairs outside their Airstream trailer at the campground where we’d visit them, and riding Big Wheels with my cousins…they always had Big Wheels for the grandkids.
Poppa made sure to get a Big Wheel to keep at his cabin, and I can’t help but smile watching Dash relive this summer memory of my own–one of the many associations he’ll make with summer with his grandpa someday.
I’m bad at checking e-mails these days, have thought very little of things I need to do, haven’t felt one bit of stress and–here’s the biggie–HAVEN’T BEEN TO TARGET IN A MONTH.
End cap Target specials can’t compete with this:
We made cinnamon rolls the other morning and took them outside to share with the chipmunks.
It rained a few days last week, and while at home I might get a little stir crazy being stuck indoors that many days in a row, we loved the invitation here to watch movies, work on puzzles and nap in the cabin.
The cooler temps also give us the opportunity to bust out our flannels and buffalo checks.
By the way, I said no to him climbing to the top of the teetering log pile, and he’s thrilled about it.
My brother and sister and families came up last weekend for our siblings bash. Sacrificing more frequent family get togethers was definitely one of the biggest drawbacks of moving to Florida, but it sure does make coming home more special. All family get togethers should involve the circle huddle. Around a table, a campfire, a piano, a game board…just put them in a circle and magic will follow.
Also, sword fighting to balance out all that love.
Evening kayaking with coffee…
Followed by family hot tub time…
Matchy matchy cousins.
And my sister who has a very special place in Dash’s heart.
I can’t wait to hear what my kids remember of these summers someday…
In the meantime, I’m storing so many joys and reminders of how I want to live my life. Summer will do that to you.
I love that you haven’t been to Target in a month. If we all lived life well maybe we could eliminate all the cheap crap that fills our homes only to make us feel totally unsatisfied! Summertime living really is the best, but if life is done right, maybe it doesn’t have to end!
Ps-I went to Mackinac when I was 9 years old. It still resonates as one of the best places and experiences. I look forward to returning with my three kids one summer very soon!
Looks like pure bliss. I love the nature-y surroundings.
Believe me…your children will remember their wonderful summers at the lake. I’m sixty, and I still remember my summers at the cabin. They were magical.
I love your Michigan posts! They bring back lots of fond summer childhood memories for me and inspire me to continue finding similar experiences to offer my own child. Can you tell us what is inside “A Bit O’ Bliss”? I am certain I’ve read about it in previous posts, but when I search for it, I can’t find anything. I am sure it is something special, in keeping with most of what your dad does! Enjoy the rest of your summer.
P.S. Searching your blog definitely reminded me of how much your photography has evolved! I am so impressed!
There’s a queen bed and t.v and fridge and a ladder with a tiny loft with two twin beds.
I am following on IG..a nana myself..and commend you…what a responsibilty ..one month ..3 Littles..l0l..chickens and butteflies and kayaks and Mackinac..Your dad..is amazing.That’s a lot of company..love their place..and the Amazon delivery boxes..so sweet.
You are making superb memories.
Looks like such a magical place!
I am from MS and I’m in Michigan for the next few days, Thompsonville to be exact. Anything we need to make sure we do? Currently we are driving in Holland and it is beautiful!
Every kid would love this.. Those are bright and great environment and your kids would be forever grateful.
Where can I find Nella’s adorable Happy Camper shirt?
Yep…. You’ve captured the pure essence of Up North, from the crackling fires with barefoot toes,running and jumping off splintery decks, patchwork blankets, board games, sandy toes – not to omit the endless star fields! Pure Michigan!
Soooo does your dad or anyone else in that little wooded area rent their houses? Because I definitely need to visit with my little boys!!