Midnight Sun

Going back to the Sweden archives because I hear my aunts are sad that these posts are over. And honestly, I'm sad they are over too! I occasionally find myself looking up the weather in Stockholm or looking up language classes at the Swedish Cultural Center - as if my next visit is around the corner. I do miss their delicious cinnamon rolls, casual biking culture (no Seattle spandex bikers!), fantastic fashion and the midnight sun. Oh, the midnight sun of Östersund. We always talk about wanting more time in our day, and they most certainly do. The sun dips below the horizon for what seems like a split second and then - poof! - it's daylight again. I needed evidence of this phenomenon, so here's what I got. (But geez, I don't like my voice on camera!)

Americana on the Island

The Samish Island 4th of July festivities are a little slice of old-fashioned Americana. It's one of the many reasons I am a proud native of Samish Island. A small town celebration of our nation's independence filled with a quirky parade, the star-spangled banner in every direction, delicious food, beachfront relaxing, sun, and friends and family (though mine was in Montana this year!).

Since we had a wedding last year, this is Joe's first experience. He just got off a 9pm-9am shift and somehow I managed to convince him to join despite the extreme exhaustion he would inevitably face. I don't think he regrets it one bit because he already said he's ready for next year! At one point, he said, "wow, this parade makes the Port Angeles parade look like the Macy's Day Parade!" Yep, that's about right.

The traditional ladies photo. (Sorry, Mads, my hair is taking over your face!)

The Samish Island marching band. They play a whoppin' one time per year!

There are a lot of tractors. An unofficial symbol of the Skagit Valley.

Kids get to dress like whoever they want - a devil on the 4th of July? Sure, why not?

They throw us a lot of candy.

The Knutzen's serve up some tasty food - like this frosting with a side of cake.

Greg likes to make what we call "nacho oysters" - grilled oysters with cheese, a slice of bacon, salsa, and green onions. (Greg is also the biggest HUSKY fan I know!)

Can't wait for next year!

Eight Years

At the young age of eight, Kamron is mere inches from outgrowing me. (He's also quite a goofball, as you can see.) He was a head above everyone in his second grade class this year and nearly the size of his teacher! The kid is growing like a weed and eating like a high school boy. Makes me wonder how tall he'll be one day. Maybe 6'1" like his mom? Or 6'5" like his dad? If I had to bet, I'd say even taller. Only time will tell. Love you, Kam!

Favorite Holiday

My favorite holiday has come and gone and I have yet to blog about it. Crazy, right? A full post to come, but for now, a snapshot of the amazing Samish Island 4th of July parade. Can't get much better than mini-horses and cute children! Try not to get too jealous.

TGIF!

Meet William, Harry, Pippa and Kate

Lizzie gets to keep William and Harry. I guess that leaves me with Pippa and Kate? :)

Oh, I wish. One day, I tell you. One day.

Matt's in the Market

Last week, Kathryn, Meredith, Olita and I had the rare opportunity to hang out together. With Kathryn now in New York, Meredith moving from Philly to San Fran and Olita and I holding down the fort in Seattle - these kind of get togethers are few and far between. (It's very, very unfortunate!)

We decided to go somewhere that would be considered "very Seattle" for our relocated friends. How much more Seattle can you get than Matt's in the Market, seated right in front of the Pike Place Market sign? We just ordered wine, cheese and salads, but it was all very delicious. The ambiance there is so lovely. Then we ended our night with the one and only, Molly Moon's. Nothing beats their salted caramel ice cream!

I look forward to the next time we can all share stories and a bottle of wine!

The view from our table. Not too shabby, eh?

Montana

My mom, dad, sister, nephew, cousin, aunt and two uncles are all vacationing in beautiful, serene Montana. I wasn't able to join the family fun because I depleted my vacation bank for my trip to Sweden, so I am vicariously living the experience through cell phone pictures. (Keep 'em coming, Mom and Dad!) The views are breathtaking and the camping site brings back fond memories of all of our family camping trips. Crossing my fingers that I can make the trip next time. Miss you guys!