As we enter August, I can’t help by feel like the summer has flown by. Evenings have already started to feel cooler and I’m desperately trying to grasp onto summer’s carefree spirit before autumn arrives. With a never-ending to-do list, it can be hard to make time for child-like carelessness, but I made an effort in July to say yes more often. The result – a camera roll full of laughter and beautiful memories.

In the beginning of July, I was hesitant to make plans since I was recovering from surgery. Much to my delight, I was feeling better than expected and was able to travel to visit my family. Anyone who knows my parents will understand relaxation isn’t their strong suit. Therefore, it was no surprise that I quickly put to work pitting cherries. To be honest, I was starting to go a bit stir-crazy by this point and welcomed the small task. Plus, I was treated to a campfire and small firework show that night!

July also marked Parallel 44’s 10-year anniversary! The celebration included horse-drawn wagon rides, live music and wine sampling. It was a gorgeous sunny day so Ian and both donned our straw hats and walked around the property giggling at how silly we must look together. However, neither of us got sunburned – so mission accomplished!

Towards the middle of the month Ian’s family flew up to visit. We spent the weekend at the Osthoff resort kayaking around Lake Elkhart, listening to music on the beach and taking a trip to the Wade House. The weekend flew by, and before we knew it we were making our goodbyes and starting the count down until our next get together.

The following weekend Ian and I experienced a first together – figuring out how to haul a couch home! In the past, I would just call up my parents and they would bring their pick-up truck. However, now that I live 2.5 hours away we needed a new plan and turned towards Menards to help us out! We laughed the whole way to the furniture store as we rode down the highway in our heavily branded rental truck.

At the end of the month, my family got together to cheer on Madison’s baseball team, the Mallards. Highlights included wining a t-shirt, eating stadium food and watching my mom catch a ball thrown into the stands! It was quite a night!

Throughout the month of July Ian and I attended a handful of outdoor concerts. With a picnic basket packed and a blanket in hand, we enjoyed warm summer nights listening to music and enjoying our small town.

Below is a short video that shares one second form every day in July. Enjoy!