the start of summer

Once Seth was done with his exams, job interviews and graduation preparation, he was free to join us on some trail walks and other adventures farther from home. We visited a local Catholic retreat area complete with a trail in the woods with the stations of the cross. While some of the displays are showing some wear from being outdoors, they are full of beauty and dignity.
The next day we headed to the coast to go the marine museum and coastal town of St. Andrew's. Laura loves the seals, especially the mascot seal, Snorkel. She calmly handled all sorts of sea creatures in the 'touch' displays, while I just handled my camera and Kate. 

A flowering horse chestnut tree up close. 

After a picnic lunch at a local park area, we crossed the road and went down the steps the ocean floor as the tide was way out. It was beautiful, warm and sunny. I could have stayed much longer, but we still wanted to show Seth the town so we left the tidal pools and shells and headed to the other tourist areas.

Later that week, I finished prepping for our provincial homeschool conference by packing up my books both to sell and give away at the Used Curriculum Sale. 

Boxes on the floor were marked Free! 

Sale items arranged on the table for quick perusal.

The table was quite crowded for most of the sale and I was kept busy until the last few minutes when I could take a quick look at the other tables.

The aftermath waiting for a turn at the elevator.

Seth prepping for his first day of his new corporate job in town.

For our third year in a row, we enjoyed family homeschool camp for three nights with friends on an island in the river where we are ferried over and our luggage is brought to our cabin.  It's a relaxing time with meals served in the dining room and plenty of time to visit with friends or explore the island.