The Week of Vermont

I am enjoying the crisp northern air this morning as I lounge in my flannel pajama bottoms and previously owned North Face fleece, on my best friends porch in Michigan. But let's back up a bit to Vermont, which is where I was last week. I know, I know, I'm such a globe trotter! Actually these nearly unplanned trips just happened to fall into place for various reasons. I think God knew that the kids and I could use a little break from being cooped up in the apartment all summer and the fact that I favor cool weather is just icing on the cake. Anyway, here are my boredom busters for the 7th week of summer featuring all of the memorable summer days of the family farmsteads in my favorite state.

1. Berry Picking

I love berries! Picking them straight off the bush just makes them taste even better.





SJ took this one on my phone.



And here are the benefits all mashed up on a aunt Julie's homemade shortcake. YUMAZING. Best dessert I've had all summer.



2. Farm Animals

When my mom was growing up they had all kinds of animals and pretty much lived off of the land. It's not quite like that anymore, but there are still plenty of gardens, a couple of pigs, some dogs, and lots of CHICKENS.





SJ was the chicken whisperer. She helped them reach the leaves at the top of what I called the Charlie Brown tree and they were extremely grateful.

3. Rocks and Rivers

We've been to a few lakes this summer, but this time we went to the river where my mom played growing up. It was the perfect day for a summer dunk.

 Also perfect was the little area off of the river that was roped off for swimming.

 

My mom has some video of us running down the hill at full force holding hands and crashing into the water. We had such a great time. 

4. Mountains

The mountains were a welcome sight in contrast to the hilly area that we live. We even ventured up 3,000 feet to the summit of one of these Vermont beauties.

5. Distant Relatives

My children have never met many of their distant relatives. And by distant, yes they do live far away, but I am talking about great aunts and uncles, or second cousins and such.

This photo is special because it's the three "Jeans". My Aunt Jean is in the blue shirt, then my middle name is jean after her, and SJ's middle name is also Jean after me!



My aunt Jean does lovely paintings and when she saw this photo of SJ with the chickens she immediately inspired some artwork. I can't wait to see the turn out.



6. Cook out

The last day we were in Vermont we had a cookout with the whole family.



The flames were leaping off the grill. The family was gathered around in the rocking chairs and picnic table catching up on lost time.



The children were running around playing kick ball and climbing on tractors.



It was a wonderful trip and I already can't wait until we get to visit again.