Chore time

I tend to focus on teaching the kids how to do different chores in the summer.  During the school year I find it is just too difficult to teach them new things.  We are behind this summer as we were gone on vacation and then the kids were gone at their grandparents and at various activities.  We were able to get some in this week.

And there, future wives of my boys, is proof that they know how to clean windows and fold clothes. ;)

It's what we do when it is hot....

At the beginning of the week it was cooler in the evenings so that is when we were outside.  Firefly catching was on the to-do list.  It was also fun to practice using my camera in the dark.

Splashpad?  Um, yes please!  I am so thankful that we have a free splashpad to enjoy this year.










Watching squirrels.  I know, sounds kind of boring, right?  You would be surprised how much entertainment a couple of squirrels can provide when you hang a pine cone coated in shortening, peanut butter and bird seed on a shepherd's hook.  Here they are chilling out in the heat.

 We also hit a local state park that focuses on animals local to Illinois.  We found several years ago that if you go right before the park closes, most of the animals are active.  Here are a few shots from when we were there this past week.

Submerged...A Book Review

I recently received a book from Bethany House to read and review.  The book is Submerged by Dani Pettrey.

The book is the first in the Alaskan Courage Series.  So it takes place in....Alaska!  I am typically not a huge fan of Christian fiction.  For some reason, I just find some of them poorly written and cheesy.  This was a pleasant surprise.  It is a mystery and has a good plot line.  I really liked the fact that the storyline was not predictable.  The author also wove some Russian history into the story and I enjoyed that as I am not that familiar with Russian history.  I definitely recommend this book for someone looking for an easy, light read on a weekend getaway or an afternoon at the beach.