What a difference a year makes. Last year was the summer of diapers, colic medicine and sleep deprivation. The sweet and tough days of having a newborn baby, which I somehow miss deeply.

We are living it up this summer with lakes, mountains, beaches, and berry-stained lips. We plan around Elena's naps and try to take full advantage of each weekend. Some highlights include berry picking with my older sister, wine tasting for my birthday, the Stray Dogs popup, the Summer Series dinner and baking with the season's berries and stone fruit. We've taken trips to the Oregon Coast, Mt. Hood, Crater Lake, the Painted Hills, Bend and Sisters.

Truth be told, sometimes I miss being able to have a lazy weekend. But Elena is more active than ever and she is happier when we are on the go rather than puttering around our feet while we try to get stuff done at home. She pushes us to make each day fun for her and we know that is more important than folded laundry or an organized basement. Some days are easier than others, but seeing our little adventurer-in-the-making experience the world makes our days and hearts even more full.