In and around Shoveltown, Massachusetts

As summer comes to a close, everyone is pining for the days that once were... but not me. For me, summer was a whirlwind of thesis work, long-distance relationshipping (yes, I just made that a verb), and leaving a place I grew to call home while subsequently returned to a place that I will always call home. It's hard to say good bye to friends, but sometimes you've got to try hard to find that silver lining...and after a lot of work...I think I'm getting there.


I went to New Hampshire with my family about a week ago, and it was really fun. But I think now that we're all grown and have our own lives...it's difficult to all live together in harmony under one roof....but that's sort of the essence of growing up.


It was a beautiful weekend, and we couldn't have asked for better weather. And in an attempt to try and spend "quality time" with the fam, I didn't get to go out and venture to far off the beaten path.


Plus, I wanted to spend time with my niece Tristan and nephew Cooper who I haven't seen for quite some time. I believe this quality time will translate into me being their favorite aunt...but I think Jenna has a pretty good lead on me, thus far. Matt, however...has the favorite uncle award in the bag.


As you can see, Cooper is a big Jenna fan. And I certainly can't blame him...she brings a lot to the table...while I just bring sarcasm and peanut butter M&M's.


And the best thing about returning back home was returning to a huge bouquet of flowers straight from Alaska! Ok, ok...it wasn't technically FROM Alaska...it was from a floral shoppe in Easton...but Colin ordered them in Alaska...so that has to count for something. And I have to give him serious props for his bouquet picking abilities...this bouquet has lasted more than a week...perhaps I may have a green thumb afterall!


And last but not least...what's a summer entry without mention of the Easton Summer Children's Races?! Cooper and Tristan compete in these races on a weekly basis at Frothingham Park in Easton. It's absolutely adorable to watch them run, because they're so wee. And I'm pretty sure you can only pull off running in a jean skirt when you're 3 years or younger. Let's just say I got some odd glances when I tried.