It's the most wonderful time of the year...

Well, not really, but I chuckle every time I see those Staples commercials...

Anyway, it IS the time to prepare for the return to school...so far we have bought the new back-packs and running shoes, some new outfits, and today was the back-to-school haircuts.

Cassidy just had a trim but wants to grow out PART of her bangs (she wants the fringe but not so thick). That means, of course, that she is now going to have to wear clips or a headband for quite a while. While I had my hair done too, the young assistant at the salon spent time pinning back the long pieces of Cassidy's fringe and added a "ta-dah" accessory. She was delighted!

Bryanna had quite a few inches taken off the overall length and then the salon girl french braided the front of her hair.

Another thing checked off as September 8th approaches. What else are people doing to prepare?

And Miz S in California, the following video clip is for you because you love it...we miss you!

Fire's burning, fire's burning...

Yes, I grew up in a camping family and have camped all over Canada and the U.S. Yes, I used to have a full set of camping gear and camping was my vacation of choice during the university years. But now? When I choose spa treatments over smoky fires and the comfort of a bed over sleeping under the stars?

Yeah, well, Bryanna has been dying to go camping ever since her overnight at Mountsberg earlier this summer and some of my friends (as well as my sister and brother in law) camp regularly. So I bit the bullet and bought a tent this week. End of summer and all, it was a great deal - maybe too great. What was advertized as a 4 person tent will only hold TWO air mattresses (and believe me, while I'll camp, I will not sleep without a mattress).

Oh well, we're trying it out next weekend - the weather forecast is great and if I survive, I can always invest in a much more significant tent next year (maybe with bunkbeds, a washroom, air conditioning, a stove...)

And had to post this pic of my littlest sunshine - delighted with one of her new school outfits.

Watch for the camping post on Labour Day!

Oops, I did it again!

*sigh*

Something with me and hand injuries this year. Damaged the tendons in my left hand yesterday in a valiant attempt to save a toppling pile of examination papers.

Anti-inflammatory meds should deal with the pain and swelling in about a week.

Good thing I'm not scheduled for any piano recitals or typing contests in the near future. As if.

Drenched in sunshine. Immersed in contentment.

This was the week I had been waiting for ... when summer finally, finally, finally arrived.

As it happened to be the week I spent in Tobermory with my family, we were blessed to enjoy all that sunshine, warmth and welcome breezes in one of the most beautiful places (I think) in Ontario.

I considered posting in my typical fashion...somewhat of a chronological journal, but the past seven glorious days have all blended into one lovely glow.

So here are just a few of my favourite pictures that at least attempt to capture a few of the many "aahhh" moments.

Hope you enjoy...I certainly did!