This past week I've been able to mark a few things off my "list"! #12 & #5
When first starting Allen Designs 13 years ago, the first several years were spent as a workaholic. Several all nighters a week, no friends (that weren't at the art shows), no tv/movies, definitely no vacations or time off. It was the sacrifice that I was willing to make to build the business virtually debt free.
Hence, always a shortage of time and money.
For the past couple of years Gary and I have been blessed to be able to take more time during the summers for travel and adventures with our kids.
The Ape Caves are right in our backyard, only about 35 minutes away, and we had never been before.
They were a little creepy. Very fun to experience as a family.
Another "backyard" gem we discovered this past week was Battle Ground Lake. Literally 3 minutes from our house. If you don't remember, about 9 years ago bg lake made national news for E Coli. That happened shortly after we moved here and I guess that was enough to keep us away.
Oh, what we've been missing! It's a quaint, beautiful lake surrounded with large evergreen trees. A small sandy beach area and plenty of picnic tables. And did I mention... 3 minutes away!
I decided to save you the "me in a swimsuit" pics!
My sweet mom joined us for a picnic but passed on the swim.
**************************************
If you're anything like me, sometimes it's hard to get my booty out the door. I have to constantly fight my lazy side. I hope you're doing some fun things this summer.
creating lasting memories
experiencing new adventures
and laughing loudly!
YAY! I'm glad you made it to the Ape Cave! One of these days, I'll take my boys.
And I haven't been to Battle Ground Lake in probably over 15 years. Yeah, I was a bit nervous after hearing about the e coli. And I usually pass on Vancouver Lake for the same reason.
Posted by: Christina | August 09, 2009 at 09:16 AM
Yup... there's that "Alexis Look" again... :D You are blessed, no doubt, M & G. :D
Posted by: Sandy | August 09, 2009 at 10:36 AM
Tho I have to say... Miss Jessica also has her looks. What a couple of characters... great kids. :D
Posted by: Sandy | August 09, 2009 at 10:37 AM
Oh Michelle! I DO fight my lazy side... I just enjoy being at home so much it's difficult. However, it looks like you and your beautiful family found some fun stuff to do nearby. Hmm... got me thinking now. BTW, love your 36 things to do list! I'll be 50 in January and I think I'd like to make a similar list. Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Michele Patrick | August 09, 2009 at 01:50 PM
It looks great! Who says you have to travel far for a great holiday! Yesterday I was with my Dad out in the boat. I tell you: lying on the boat-roof, looking at the skies floating by, and smelling the salty sea-air does wonders!
The sandy beach looks very inviting! And you all seem to be having the best time.
Oh, and I have gotten so many compliments for my new clock and cat-jar!
Posted by: Spindelmaker | August 10, 2009 at 05:21 AM
Had a great time... love just hanging out with you three... thanks for the invite!
Posted by: mom | August 10, 2009 at 03:59 PM
Your whole family is beautiful. Your Mom is gorgeous too.
Renee xoxo
Posted by: Renee Khan | August 10, 2009 at 06:21 PM