July has zoomed by so far – we’ve bounced between the lake house and my parents house while also taking Adelaide to summer camp and having a weekend getaway to celebrate 10 years of marriage. After that whirlwind of a few weeks, we zoomed home to Florida (literally).
We celebrated the 4th of July in Wisconsin on the boat while watching fireworks in all directions. Karissa’s brother had to skip his flight because one of them tested positive for COVID – so we missed him. Nonetheless, we had a good time and made the most of it.
We then celebrated our 10th anniversary by heading to Rockford, Illinois, to play minigolf, antique shopping, and eat at America’s first fully vegan brewery. Their entire menu was plant-based and it felt amazing to be able to choose anything from the menu after 2.5 years of eating just plants. The reuben was so good that I ordered a 2nd one after finishing my first…and had their 10-beer sampler to boot!
It was then time to take Adelaide to camp. She’s just old enough to do “starter camp” where kids spent 3 days and 2 nights there. Adelaide went with her cousin, Ella. This is the same camp Karissa attended as a kid so many years ago. Adelaide had a ball, in case you had any doubts.
While Adelaide was at camp, Karissa and I spent the time in Milwaukee for a 10th anniversary getaway. We at tons of great vegan food, did a few tours, explored antique malls, and visited the bobblehead hall of fame & museum. We fell in love with Milwaukee and plan to visit again.
Somewhere mixed into all of this and beyond, Karissa’s brother finally visited the lake. We met a bunch of new babies we hadn’t yet met. Saw old friends. And did all of the things we hoped to do before leaving. It was busy but fulfilling. Also, got to try Portillo’s new “garden dog” – a plant-based Chicago dog that makes it possible for vegans to eat at Portillos like everyone else.
Wrapping up our time in Illinois and Wisconsin was bittersweet. We were ready to be back home in our own space, but will miss our dear friends & family again. We’re hoping for lots of visitors!
We zoomed home. We’ve been doing the trip in 2 days with 10-12 hours of driving each. But dogs in hotels isn’t very fun, so I’ve been entertaining the idea of driving straight through for a while. We left early enough and felt rested enough to give it a shot – and WE DID IT! I drove for 23 straight hours and arrived home at around 9am. I immediately collapsed for a nap, but the kids got to spend an extra day at home. We’re debating the merit of driving in one shot vs. the 2-day approach, but are definitely glad to be back.
We’re now getting ready for the start of school and another school year of our new life.
I love how much life you’re living and loving. It was a great summer with all the kids and grandkids. I enjoyed meeting and spending time with Rebecca and Maesie as well. A big plus was having our fun with the Pavlik clan, Val, Nancy and the kids! Great write up and super great pictures which says it all ! Thanks Ryan..great job!