We sure did!
Good thing we also have strong willing workers . . .
. . . and plenty space to spread it around.
We were quite pleased (and tired) with the final result.
Looks like we are not the only ones that will enjoy our fresh back yard.
Like Ethan says: "I think the deer like our new mulch, it must be nice and warm for him."
One of the reasons that attracted us to this Island at this time of the year, was the possibility of spotting Orca whales. There are three resident pods, about 86 whales total, that roam the coast following the salmon. These factors give you a good chance to meet them, but still, you have to be at the right place at the right time, which doesn't always happen. I knew our chance had increased this time around when I noticed we had forgotten our binoculars.
Fortunately we keep a travel size one in the car, and this little binoculars became very popular as Shawn spotted some splashes to the south that had a potential to be whales. Sure enough, a whole pod of whales traveled the channel in front of us going north, and treating us to a beautiful display of nature. So cool!
The Orcas might have been the main attraction, but there were many other locations to explore. We visited the English Camp and revisited the time of dual occupation of Island and it's peaceful, although drawn out, conflict resolution.
Not many things taste quite a good as campfire pancakes and sausages in the morning.
Rock ledges always attract the boys. Although this looks a little unsafe, it's only a trick of the camera and angle that gives this picture the such "edge."
Walking around the grounds of American Camp.
This little guy stopped traffic and was happy to pose. Later we realized he wasn't the only of his kind (red fox) roaming around.
A little impromptu getaway that gifted us with many memories.
The kids spent all afternoon jumping, playing and
splashing!
This year they started this hourly 15 minute "rest period," where all the kids have to clear the pool and only adults can stay in. Well, most adults are there with their kids so the pool is empty and as smooth as glass, with about 100 kids sitting around looking at it longingly. It just looked like the perfect scenario for a mom's cannon ball moment. I talked two other brave (or crazy) moms to join me and we went for a synchronized cannon ball. Some of the life guards thought that kids had broken the rules, only to realize that it was some grown ups having their moment of fun.
To end our longest day of the year, the boys decided to sleep in the tree house. Although the sun is shinning through the trees already and the birds are singing away, there is not a sound coming from the tree house. An active day at the pool will assure a good night's sleep!
June brings us lots of activities and celebrations, including scouts achievements and fun outdoor opportunities.
Last weekend we participated in a scout outing, to which the Boys Scouts invited the new Webelos and their families to be part of.
One of Ethan's requirements now is to learn to set up his own tent.
Fire handling and safety is also part of the deal.
Nolan and his scouts mates from their newly formed patrol had many opportunities to work on requirements as well. Cooking your own meal and plan and cook for your patrol are skills that were tacked on this camping trip.
Christian was able to help new scouts earn their "Totem Chip", which is required for them to be able to handle knifes in any scout activity.
Webelos listening to the "Fire safety talk."
Many people tried to draw wit the "magic stick," but only a few succeeded.
Let's just say you had to pay close attention to everything that was said, and being polite didn't hurt either!
Another day, another adventure.
This time the boys tackled the river rapids.
Rapids named Snowblind, Rock n' roll, Drunkards Drop & Devil's Eyeball did not scare this group of veterans . . .
. . . or intimidated the novices either.
Not a bad way to celebrate Father's Day!
He took to it as a duck takes to the water, excelling in his techniques and concentration, winning a few gold medals along the way.
It was now time to test for his Black Belt level.
Nolan joined him later to put the gift to good use, while I was preparing the breakfast selected by the birthday boy: omelets (with sausage, bacon, orange pepper, green onions and cheese), waffles, OJ and coffee.
Another tradition at our house, besides choosing the days menu, is that the birthday person gets the day off. No chores or school work! Ethan made sure the this was observed as well.
Baseball practice was not a chore though.
The dinner of choice was taco salad, however, due to it being a scouts night, we would not be able to have a dinner together with all the family. Instead, Shawn and I let Ethan pick a place for the three to us to go and dine out. We ended up "dining in" at a local Drive In, a first for Ethan. Wisely we don't choose to let three boys eat messy burgers in the car, but tonight was an exception. It was a special time for our youngest to spend some time alone with his parents.
As we were all home together again, it was time to light the candles, sing and have birthday cake.
Happy Birthday my son, we love you!
Luckily for us, time has not gone as fast. We feel barely older then when we were little girls spending time together at the beach cottage.
