Sweet Summertime

We have been quite busy this summer nannying and painting houses. We worked hard and played harder.  We had a lot of adventures this summer.  Mountain biking at Schwitzer, boating, Dance Family Reunion, Ragnar Relay, and some beautiful hikes.

Dallin running in the Ragnar Relay

We took off a few weeks before school started in September to fully embrace our last summer without school!

We started it off with a nice trip to my parents' house which is always a pleasure.  Tons of good food, family, bocce tournaments, hanging out at the river, free eye drops, laughter, and lots of love.  We loved getting to spend some time with Ashley, Brandon, and the boys, as well as with the Rietz Clan.

Hiking Denny Creek

Next we headed on a road trip down to Utah.  Whoa long trip, but was enjoyable thanks to a book on tape and an awesome road trip mate, thanks Dal!   The next morning we were able to go to a friend's wedding, Eric and Joann were beautiful and the spirit felt in the temple was wonderful.  It reminded me of feelings and promises that Dallin and I made 9 months ago.

A fresh bouquet Dal got me from our friends  (for free!)

 

The LDS Logan, UT Temple

We were able to stroll around BYU and were able to see Alli, Jake and a bunch of Dance/Hawkes cousins.  We drove up to Wyoming and went river rafting with the Dances.  Reminded me of old days rafting and I loved being able to be there with my sister and hubby!  BYU was a lot of fun and we really enjoyed reuniting with old friends and jumping back into the Provo scene.  We went rock climbing with Janie and Joe Endemano and also with Derek Orme and his friend and felt very accomplished! Well I felt accomplished anyway. 

We came home after our long road trip and headed off to the San Juan Islands, in the Puget Sound.  We chose to visit Lopez Island and biked around most of the island.  It was beautiful and we enjoyed the camping, homemade blackberry ice cream, the friends we made, and the biking.  We biked 29 miles in one morning exploring and loved it!  The burgers after made it worth while.

Sadly summer has come to an end and Dallin has started the second year of dental school and I have started my first quarter at the University of Washington.  We are excited to be back in school and love exploring and getting to know beautiful Seattle.  Go Huskies! (for now) and Go Cougars! (for ever). :)