THE THREE BEST DAYS OF MY SUMMER 2014:

1.     LOCUST STREET DAYS – June 8^th

This summer, I did not make it to Summerfest or most of the other festivals around Milwaukee area.  However, we knew a few people going to Locust Street Festival and so we thought we check it out. I rarely hang out in Riverwest, since I  moved to Bay View.  Heading over, I took a chance and called Sean and Emily, two old friends. Ashley and I have known them both for at least ten years now and we've been a close group for years.  From 2004 to 2008 we use to hang out weekly, most often on Tuesday nights at Landmark.  Now, we live in different areas of the cities and our lives are busy, and rarely do all four of us meet up. However, on this fine day we spent a few hours together again.  Having some drinks, sitting by a fire pit, and conversing like it was just another hipster Tuesday at Landmark.    

2.     CLIMBING MOUNT RAINER- June 30^th

My good friend, Laura, and I went to Seattle for a 4 day trip to visit, our lovely friend, Angela.  On our last full day on the trip, we decided to go on a day trip and hike Mt. Rainer.  I was looking forward to this day and the website, had described “Paradise,” the section we were visiting, to be filled with wildflowers and beautiful views.  I was wearing a tank top and jeans, and it was a warm summer day.  However, when we were about to embark on our hike we learned that the trail was still completely covered in snow.  The ranger told us by that in a few more weeks everything would be melted, but on that day, I was hiking up hill in snow.  I quickly realized two things: my shoes would be soaked for the rest of the day and that I needed to start working out more.  By the time we got to the top, I decided to catch my breath on a big rock and let my friends go ahead and explore the surrounding area.   For a moment I was alone with this beautiful view of Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens in back ground.  It kind of reminded me of “Lord of the Rings” and I was here with two amazing friends on this adventure.

3.     CORONADO BEACH – July 20^th

 

Ashely and I went on our first real vacation together in years to San Diego.  The best part of the trip was our beach day.  We sat in the sun reading books and I made a long walk to the famous Hotel del Coronado in search of overpriced snacks.   Many people say they prefer swimming in pools, due to temperature or that it’s cleaner, but give me the ocean.  I loved swimming in the Pacific with my wife.  The two of us waiting for a big wave to come along and then jumping with the waves as they hit our bodies.  I had not swam in the ocean in many years and I was so glad to be there with Ashley, it was a grand day indeed.