Vacation!

After an incredibly last minute decision, two days of packing and preparation and two days in the car, we are on vacation. Well, as much vacation as 4 kids and no husband can be. Our trip North to our family cottage is an annual tradition and when our move fell at same time we should have been starting our journey this year, we were really disappointed. But, its good to be here now. 

Xury did great on the two day car trip but she was really happy to get out and run occasionally. We don't have hills where we live which just added to the excitement. (The big kids had fun running down the hill as well.)

Most of our friends are already gone for the summer but we have managed to spend a little time with family. 

It's quiet, and peaceful and just us, but its been a much needed break.

We've had lots of fun in the water.

And around the campfire

We've taken countless walks, played countless games and read countless books.

I've been thoroughly enjoying Agatha Christie's autobiography. I've always loved her books. Although, I hardly ever read them anymore since I've had the kids due to the fact that I tend to sit in one spot and ignore everything else in life once I've started one. Her autobiography, while very compelling, doesn't hold quite the same power over me so my children are still being fed while I enjoy her fascinating perspective on life. Tanner's been reading through the Harry Potter books and Aravis and I have been reading Choose Your Own Adventure books and lots of other "cottage" books.

We've picked wildflowers.

And caught toads.

And the kids have been building a fort out of scrap wood down the hill behind our cottage. 

In a few days we'll start packing up to go home but in the meantime, there will probably be more walks, more lake, more campfires, more books, more family and more quiet.