Busy Bees

My, my...we have been quite the busy bees recently. We had every intention of keeping this blog updated throughout the summer, but alas, the summer has slipped away from us, and it seems as though the crisp, Pacific Northwest Fall has descended.

But, I think a recap of what was a lovely summer, is well deserved:

Memorial Day Weekend: A Memorial for Irene -- Most of the members of the Sherwin immediate and extended clan headed to Champaign/Urbana, Illinois to celebrate the life of Grama 'Rene. Other than our wedding (a year ago), this was Ara's first experience with the Sherwins (young, younger, and youngest), and it's safe to say she, (and Todd, too, of course) had a wonderful time getting to know the family. Who knew family could be so much fun? :) Certainly, one highlight was gathering many of Irene's grandchildren, spouses and significant others for a friendly game of Ultimate Frisbee outside on a patch of grass by the hotel (in scorching heat and humidity, no less). It was also wonderful to see the place that Irene and Chal felt most connected to, particularly the family farm. Ara's family also has a family farm in rural Idaho, so it was especially nice for her to see similar family connections. We can't wait for the next Sherwin Family gathering!! Surfing in Panama, anyone? :)

Terra's Wedding -- One of Ara's best friends from childhood was married in Boise, and Todd, Ara, and Ara's dad made the trek. What a great time! The weather couldn't have been much warmer (it was quite a scorcher, especially for those of us used to the mild climes of Seattle), but it was beautiful. A really nice wedding, and a bit of Troy reunion, of sorts. Ara was able to catch up with old high school classmates (Luke, Steve, Laila, etc.), and Todd had perhaps a rough introduction to the social habits of Idaho natives. Definitely a good time had by all. Ara's certainly looking forward to the 10-year high school reunion (has it really been that long?) next summer...we'll have to start the planning!

(New Car -- We already told you about the new car...see the previous post. But, here's a new pic of Todd with the car. )









Vacation and First Anniversary -- The timing of the new car was perfect, as we wanted to be able to take it on our two-week vacation to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. As it turned out the, car was great, and the vacation was even better! First off, it was pretty amazing to be able to take two full weeks off of work--somewhat of a luxury these days. Second, spending two weeks camping and living out of the car, is a luxury in itself. It was one of the most relaxing and enjoyable vacations either of us have been on in a long time. Todd had never been to either of these national park gems, so it was especially fun for Ara to get to show him around a bit. We also celebrated our first anniversary while we were there, and took a few days out of the camping to spend at a fabulous B&B just outside of Jackson, Wyoming, called The Wildflower Inn. It was simple, and luxurious, and relaxing all at the same time. The accommodation was amazing (incredibly comfortable furniture, private decks, GOURMET breakfasts, and fabulous hosts). We can't wait to make an excuse to get back there, perhaps in the winter? One highlight of the trip was the 14-mile round-trip hike we did in Grand Teton NP. The overall elevation gain wasn't a ton, but it was quite a long slog, and on the way down, we got a little stuck in a thunder and lightning storm, which was a little unnerving, particularly on exposed talus slope! We were also trying to haul a** back to the Jenny Lake ferry, so we wouldn't have to slog the 2 miles around the lake to the end of the trail. We did made the next to last ferry, and in the end, we were soaked, (almost) grumpy, but celebrated the long hike with a tasty ice cream bar at the Jenny Lake Store. Here are a few pics from the trip; for more check out our Snapfish album.

Patagonia Outlet -- Although this was at the tail end of our vacation, it deserves its own paragraph! Who knew that Dillon, Montana (aka The Middle of Nowhere) would be such a hotbed of socially responsible consumerism? Dear God. We planned to pick up a few staples (you know, long underwear, regular underwear, etc.), and ended up leaving with an armful of goods, and with our wallets significantly lighter. But, who could resist? Todd got a pumpkin orange synthetic down hoodie. Ara picked up the real down deal in a vest format. Ara also scored with some sweet soft shell ski pants for nearly $130 off the regular price (backcountry skiing anyone?). It really was heaven. The whole way back to Seattle, we were plotting ways to make a weekend trip out of the Outlet (a 15+ hours drive from the Emerald City)... Anybody out there need to stock up on Capilene?

Those were the highlights of summer! We'll update again soon with more of our comings and goings.