summer of fun.

One last jumbled post of pictures to document the end of our summer. 

Summer 2014 went down as one of the best ever. Full of adventures, sunshine and lots of family fun.

Matt and I went on a date day bike ride a few weeks ago. Matt had the idea to go on a somewhat secluded mountain biking trail so we could just have time to talk and explore.  Instead, it turned out to be a series of hills going up and down 600 feet of elevation over and over again.  After about 1.5 miles, lots of foul language and both of us out of breath we quickly decided to head back to the car and drive over to the Burke Gilman trail for a ride from Bothell to Redmond and back. Even though it was 20 miles it was much more enjoyable than those stupid hills!

 We stopped at a lavender farm on the way back into Bothell for some delicious lemonade and an incredible view.

 Warm days have meant lots of water time. Sadly this pool has seen its final day after getting a few holes in it.  It lasted 2 summers, which I consider a success so next year we'll get to upgrade!

 Carter is now officially into Legos. His Uncle Matt surprised him with this special Lego set, just because, which made his day (probably made his entire summer!).  He spent night and day working to build it with Matt for about 4 days before completing it.  So proud!

 Carter got a much needed haircut before preschool started (a blog on preschool coming soon!). He looks about 3 years older and more handsome than ever before.  And, Lucy loves to pose in front of the front door anytime she wears a new outfit.

 Savoring every sunny day we have left to play at the park.  I'm a firm believer that parks are meant to be used year round so we'll just bundle up a bit more as the weather changes. But, there is something nice about sunshine beaming down on you while you push the kids on the swings.

 Kids ready to watch the first Seahawks game of the season!  We started out by parading down the street before the game to encourage the neighborhood to cheer them on too. I'm not sure if the kids really love the Seahawks or the fact that I made them pizza for dinner and they got to eat at the couch while watching the game. Either way, it made for a fun night (while Matt was at the game, of course!).

 As fall approaches, so does more inside play time. I made the kids this fort the other morning for them to play and read books in.  I'm not the best fort builder, but I've learned a few tricks along the way.  Latest and greatest idea: use a jersey sheet, preferably a fitted one. Stretchy and can help grip to couches, chairs, tables, anything!

 I asked the kids to read quietly while I made dinner the other night. Carter found a good book and settled in on the couch.  Lucy, on the other hand, spent 10 minutes "searching" for the right book on the shelf before coming back into the kitchen to "help" me cook.

 One thing I love now are bike rides with the kids. Carter is getting more and more confident on his big boy bike (no training wheels!) and Lucy is gaining more speed on her tricycle.  The other day I took them over to the Burke Gilman trail and we biked from one park to another before playing for a bit and biking back. Such a fun morning and I love how the kids can get some exercise with me!

 And finally, my sweet little mini-me. I really didn't plan for us to match this particular morning but realized it after I was dressed for work.  Maybe we'll have to find a few more mom/daughter outfits, while she still thinks it's fun to look like her mama!