Memorial Day

We had an incredibly low-key Memorial Day this year, spending the day mowing, lounging, and eventually BBQing as the sun set.

As we settled down to eat, I realized I felt sad. I miss our close and amazing friends we've made through the years, the ones we've always had to pick up and leave. I desperately missed our family, and it hit me hard that I would give just about anything for simple family BBQs and picnics. For low-pressure lazy summer days with the ones we love most.

As the unofficial start to summer, and a day on which most people get together with their friends and family to enjoy nice weather, each other's company, and BBQ in honor of those who sacrificed everything so we could do so, I felt the emptiness of those people missing from our BBQ.

We've already met amazing people here in NY who we will undoubtedly become close with, but part of moving is starting from square one and building those relationships which will blossom over time. It's a tough process, but it's one that's always worthwhile.

This year, as our families attended weddings and big BBQs half way across the country, Tyler and I enjoyed the quiet of the beginning of a new chapter.

 

Onondaga Picnic

Frankly, some days call for a picnic. Like, scream for a picnic.

Sunday was one of these days, so we packed up some goodies, sunscreen, and a blanket, and headed to Onondaga park in Syracuse. This place is a little piece of heaven in the city. We parked ourselves on the grass overlooking the lake, and spent precious time doing absolutely nothing.

We snacked, laid, and played in the sun. Eventually we trotted over to the park where Jackson enjoyed so swinging and sliding - although the over-populated park was less than ideal, we made the most of it.

Seriously, who cares when its all about the little guy, anyway?

With bike rentals, walking trails, and little beaches, I am confident we'll be back to take advantage of lazy summer days in the months to come.

 

 

Lunch Dates (and Other Wanna-Be Traditions)

I have a habit of trying to make every last thing a tradition. I have absolutely no idea why, but I try to label everything. Examples:

- First Friday of the month: New restaurant Friday
- 3rd Saturday of the month: Game night
- Thursdays: Homemade pizza night

...and now, lunch date Wednesday.

Obviously, this doesn't always happen, but I love to try.

Today was the perfect day for food truck food (of the Mexican variety), sunshine, eating out of the tailgate, and rare, uninterrupted conversation.

 

Photo-bombed by a good-looking guy in a uniform.

 

Tacos and Enchiladas. Don't mind if we do.

 

 

Happy lunch date Wednesday!

Project Garden

We found an already fenced in garden on our property. As most of you know Tyler, is a do-it-yourself-er and I'm fully appreciating his handy work.

A garden would be happening this summer, regardless, but we lucked out to not have to prepare an area from scratch. This garden will be more than enough work on its own. My God, those weeds.

Sunday was beautiful, and a perfect day to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and try to make a dent in this thing.

We got a corner done, but more importantly, had fun playing in the dirt.

 

Mother's Day

This mother's day was so simple, so calm, and so, so special.


Tyler rolled out of bed around 5:45, in an effort to beat Jackson awake, and keep him silent so I could sleep in. When I got out of bed at a glorious 7:30, the house was too quiet.


Turns out the boys made a Home Depot run, and promptly returned to make brunch.


We inhaled a sausage hashbrown casserole and pancakes. Tyler purposefully planned nothing after that, and asked how I'd like to spend the day. Honestly, I just wanted the kichen done. Installing backsplash was the only thing standing between me and a finished kitchen.


And so, Jackson and I spent the day playing, wandering in and out of the kitchen, as Tyler finished the backsplash. What a guy.


We took breaks to enjoy the beautiful weather and... the little mister decided today would be the very best day to take his first steps. I couldn't have planned this better myself. What an incredible gift - Jackson gave me a mother's day I will certainly never forget.


Unfortunately for you Jackosn, you'll have quite a bit to live up to from here on out.


Thank you to my boys for making today extra special!