It’s hard to believe that summer is here and we are already one week into summer break! Ahhh….where has the time gone?! Though I gotta admit, I’ve SO been loving ditching the hustle + bustle of early mornings and rushing out the door for school. Now, if only I could teach my kids how to sleep in a bit we’d be golden. 😉
Last year, I shared our Summer Bucket List and we had so much fun checking things off! This summer looks a little different for us, but I have some new fun things planned for my little crew. Oh sweet summertime, how we love you.
| splash pad |
We’ve already had a visit to the splash pad and the smiles that ensue from that experience are some of the best-ever! Josie was terrified of the splash pad when she was two, but Isla LOVES IT. She calls it the “poooooo” since the splash pad and pool are basically the same thing to her. That girl is the cutest!
| make homemade ice cream |
Nothing beats some homemade ice cream, y’all! And while I’m sure we’ll be heading out several times for a scoop, I love just buying the cones and having it right at home. And even better when it’s homemade, like this vanilla bean that is amazingly delicious. Pistachio is my husbands favorite, and well, me….I love me some cookies and cream! I use this attachment for my Kitchen Aide and it’s amazing.
| watch fireworks |
Despite our best efforts, we missed seeing any grand firework display last year. We caught them from afar at my Dad’s house in NC, but it’s just wasn’t the same. Hoping to get a good view this July 4th!
| beach trip |
I’m not quite sure how or when this is going to happen yet, but it might come down to a impromptu spontaneous girls trip, or we might just wait until daddy gets home. 😉 Have to work out some logistics, but that short couple days in April was just not enough beach time for this girl. And….I didn’t get my annual photo of the girls, so that is reason enough to get back there.
| swimming + water fun |
To beat the heat this summer we plan on hitting up some local water parks and public pools. There are several close by so we’ll be heading out quite a bit for some sun + fun.
| visit a farmers market|
I love farmers markets for all the locally sourced food + goodies you can find, but admittedly never make it downtown before they end on Saturday mornings. This summer, I plan to make it down there at least one or two times–no excuses!
| visit the library |
Josie has really taken a liking to reading and has come such a long way in just one short year of school. I am so proud of her progress and want to keep the momentum going through the summer, so my goal is to visit the library weekly so she can pick a new book or two. And let me just say…it is a total BLAST chasing Isla through the library. Like the best time ever. (strong sarcasm coming in hot!) All the isles and corners she can hide in are just too much fun for that girl. Oh the giggles, and mini panic attacks from mom.
| craft day |
We still have a gift certificate to use at the local paint and craft shop, so we’ll definitely be cashing that in here soon!
| go to the movies |
Our local movie theater has a Kids Summer Camp where they do early showings of older movies for a small donation to a local charity. I took the girls today to see Trolls and we only paid $3 a ticket! I really wanted to test the waters with Isla since it was her first movie, but she did great!
| blow lots of bubbles |
We got us a new bubble machine and a few wands so we are good to go this summer! Bubbles galore!
| visit the Kids Concert Series at One Loudoun |
This spot is about 45 minutes from our house, but I really don’t mind the drive. It’s a fun little spot with a nice splash pad, movie theater, lots of restaurants AND a Trader Joes that opened last fall. Definitely worth the drive and a fun little day trip for the girls and I.
| pick your own fruit |
There is nothing like freshly picked fruit and let me tell you….we are here for it! Luckily, we are surrounded by “pick your own” farm markets that are also full of kid friendly activities. Great Country Farms is a favorite and give military families complimentary admission (with valid ID) which is WONDERFUL! We also love Marker Miller and a new one to try is West Oaks Farm Market. Cherries are currently in season, but honestly they aren’t my favorite. Peaches on the other hand….I can get down with! I made a delicious peach cobbler a few years ago so that will be making a come back this summer for sure.
| backyard fun |
Most days will be spent right here in our own little backyard oasis. As much as I enjoy taking the girls out, staying home is so much easier and we already have all the things to keep them entertained. Playground, small pool, slip’n’slide, sprinkler, chalk, and bubbles. One thing I need to get is a new water table and I’m eyeing this one. My sister in law has it and the girls enjoyed it during our most recent visit there. Our previous table got kinda yucky so we tossed it. They are so great for the girls to cool off in though, and its something that we can pour all the water beads in and play!
It’s going to be a great summer!
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