One more day of work, but yesterday felt like summer’s return. Sure the temperature dropped a startling (and welcomed) thirty-plus degrees, more reminiscent of early fall than early summer, but we still gathered around the big outdoor table to celebrate my stepsister’s 25th birthday with our beloved oak tree and retreating sun to awe us with their nightly slow dance.
Specialty cocktails a la Pinterest, a communal canvas, and happy dogs helped to set the mood for summer, my nephew inviting each of us to take a turn alongside him in the hammock.
Sweet, sweet summer, you always leave us too fast. I know you’ve just arrived, but we’re going to hold on extra tight this year…
Black Berry & Meyer Lemon Gin & Tonic w/ a splash of mermaid = Perfection.
Blackberry & Meyer Lemon Gin & Tonic recipe, in case you need some inspiration for a summer beverage…
Everyone had to add to the painting… Everyone.
Joey & Odin
Heaven.
oliviaobryon 
Looks like a mighty fine start to summer, weather notwithstanding. Enjoy!
Thanks! Hope life is great in your part of the world as well 🙂
Sounds like a great day. I like the idea of the community canvas. And that nephew sounds pretty special.
Yes, the community canvas was a lot of fun! And, Joey is a little love, doesn’t hurt that he loves his aunties a lot. 🙂
Hmmm. Blogging on a Wednesday morning. School must be over. 😉
Thank goodness.
Teaching is a hard gig. You deserve the breather. Those of us who don’t get summers off can only be envious.
Thanks– I agree, although I think everyone with a conventional job could benefit from a little less time at work.
I’m working on that.
I love the idea of the community canvas. I’m going to try that.
Lots of fun! You never know what you’re going to get…