Where did this summer go?

I cannot believe it is already September! I feel like the summer was such a whirlwind of activity. Maybe because it was.

It was a great summer. Our trip to Montana was a very good trip. We just approached each day with a laid back attitude and everything fell into place. God blessed us each and everyday with something special from amazing sunsets to no cost upgrades on our rooms.

We made a great discovery in South Dakota. While visiting Mt. Rushmore a live band was playing. We fell in LOVE with their music. The band was Brule/Airo. Airo is an acronym for American Indian Rock Opera. They played what they called contemporary Native American music, I believe. Anyway they were awesome.

To learn more about them you can visit their website http://www.brulerecords.com/

We saw a lot of wildlife which is a rewarding experience but my favorite was probably the loon. I think they are beautiful birds but to hear them call is just incredible. That was a huge blessing even though it was too far away to get a good photo.
This little critter was a pretty exciting encounter. We were just driving along slowly on a backroad when this bear bounds out in front of us. It had been in the creek was just to our left (driver's side). Everyone in the vehicle was pretty excited to see one so up close and personal.

We were home one week and then off to cook at Big Kids Kamp. A great week but tiring. Cooking is fun but boy do you get tired of scrubbing pots! Well, I did anyway. Some people may enjoy that. The kids were great and I know God did some amazing things while we were there. My prayer is that what they experienced stays with them for a life time. My friend, Anita, and I still reminisce about camp and that was some 30+ years ago. Wow, how time does fly, but they are wonderful memories and friendships can last a lifetime.

Katie will be home soon and for that I am grateful. I have missed her although I know she has enjoyed her summer immensely.

Meanwhile I have been playing "catch up" on everything that was left undone here. I have painted my living room and I have done some serious cleaning which was long overdue.
Now it is time to refocus on school as my little one is in 8th grade this year, hard to believe.
And my photography business is growing which is cool.
The garden is winding down but I am still canning tomatoes. Mainly juice and salsa, which reminds me, there are lots of tomatoes sitting on my kitchen counter right now so I will sign off. I'll be back with more random thoughts. Until next time....