ah.... summer vacation

The person who penned the phrase "time flies when you're having fun" must be a billionaire because how true it that?  I can't believe it's already August 5th.  For some reason it feels like summer is over even though we still have three weeks and then another family vacation in September.  We've been super busy this past two weeks with Ryan on vacation.  I have a lot to report so I had better get to it..... he's back to work tomorrow!  

Last Wednesday three of the Grants packed up and headed to Fundy National Park.  The decision was leave poor Leo at home was difficult... but it was definitely the right choice.  We had a super time with Ruby and I think she would agree.  It was her first time camping.  Her first time on a real hike.  Her first time seeing water falls.  Her first time having smores (mine too!).  And, her first time hiking up a 2.5 kilometre trail.  We were so proud.  Next year, we'll bring Leo and hope that he's ready.  :)

On the way to Fundy, I was once again drawn to the simplicity.  

Someone has the right idea here.  How beautiful.

The small town, country way of life has always appealed to me and every time I drive through places like Hillsborough, Riverside Albert and Alma, I long for a much simpler existence.  Raising chickens, chopping wood and tending my own crops...  Maybe someday..... Who knows?  It's a far cry from our current reality but being in the woods (even though it was a fully serviced campsite with a playground and bathroom) got me closer to nature than I've been in a while, so I was happy.  Very, very happy.  

It was refreshing to be dirty for two days.  

Ruby was a trooper and LOVED our first hike to Dickson Falls.  It was a 2.5 km loop and she partied the entire time.  

Smiles all around.

Tree hugger.

Supper time.  Experimenting with a head lamp.  

Camp Fire Smiles.

Day Two:  

On the way down to Laverty Falls.

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Hiking back up.... She hiked about 2 km, singing most of the way.



On the way home, we stopped at Broadleaf Farm to pet the horses.  I thought it would be fun.... never did I imagine that Ruby would want to ride one!  So... when she asked, I asked.... and in no time she was up top of a great big horse!  As she was getting seated my heart was dropping into my belly.  What on earth was I thinking???  Anyway, she survived and did great.  I was thoroughly impressed and quite shocked that she was so calm and cool about the whole thing.  She surprised me.  It was fun!  

So, there you have it.   Summer so far.  
Here's hoping we get a few more adventures in before, dare I say the word.... autumn.  ??  

Ciao.  
ox