Cabin Shenanigans + 4th of July in Photos

I spent the whole weekend outside as much as possible, and I was in my element. We slept in, made homemade meals, did a lot of cheersing with adult beverages, and held the annual family olympics tradition (go Team Orange!) - which included a triple challenge in bocce ball, soccer, and kayak races.

 A little sunshine and exercise was exactly what I needed, and we had such a great time that I almost didn't come home.  Thankfully I am rounding up some girlfriends for a ladies cabin weekend in a few weeks, otherwise cabin fever might set in (Pun intended? Unintended? I clearly have decision making issues...).

So anyway, here's a sneak peek at all the fun and adventures.

The typical cabin get-up. My favorite hiking sandals, comfy shorts, sunscreen, and sunnies. Had to be ready for some leisurely kayaking, a pick-up soccer game, or to grab a super soaker (and run!) at the drop of a hat.

Of course we ventured into Arlington for a stop at the famous Carolyn's Essenhaus for made-from-scratch home cooking, and of course a slice of one of Carolyn's to-die-for pies.

Slightly blurry, but I couldn't resist posting this one of my sister-in-law, Meredith, with my fur nephew, Ollie, our favorite Russian babushka wearing pup. For the rest of the day we attempted to speak to Oliver in a Russian accent, and as it was pointed out to me... I apparently have no idea how to do that. :)

Everyday we helped plan and cook delicious meals, and nothing beats cooking and good company with friends/family.I absolutely loved the night where Meredith and Kyle made pizza dough and we all made our own pizza pies for the grill. 

Just a little sprinkle of cornmeal on the bottom of the plate and it slid right onto the grill with ease. My toppings of choice - pesto, mushrooms, caramelized onions, goat cheese, a sprinkle of parm and a little sausage... oh baby!

I also checked off "learn how to cook with rhubarb off of my summer bucket list. How on earth did I wait this long to experience this deliciousness? No one can go wrong with a little strawberry rhubarb pie action!

Unbeknownst to us, the Beast is a total water sports fanatic. Although I think she could've grabbed a paddle and helped out a bit. What a freeloader! ;)







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Cabin weekend highlights...

+ catching up with my in-laws during the roadtrip
+ the weather was unreal
+ playing "Heads Up" and laughing so hard I almost peed my pants
+ taking my first ever tequila shot (ole!)
+ extended family party complete with fireworks and great company
+ sour cream raisin pie from the gods
+ spending time with my boo
+ late night conversations in our jammers
+ seeing 5 shooting stars while stargazing on the deck


How was your Freedom weekend?
//  What's your favorite place for a quiet getaway?  //

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The Essentials: Americana Swag

The 4th of July holiday is just a week away, and I couldn't be more antsy to get out to the cabin to celebrate with the fam! Every year we have a huge patriotic blow out and party the day away.

Family Olympics, kayaking, a cookout, fireworks over the pond, star gazing... you name it!

So of course, everyone is always out to one up each other by introducing their latest Americana swag. Little do they know, I've made a few purchases that I'm excited to debut! :)  Here are some awesome finds I came across. I think you will love them too!

1//  Three Bird Nest - Vintage American Flag Infinity Scarf

2//  Glam Up Fitness - American Flag Bow Tank 

3//  MackenziesMakings - Americana Turban 

(purchased!!)

4// The Monogram Line - Red, White & Cute Koozie

5// Pink Romashka - America Sunnies 

(purchased!)

6// Three Bird Nest - American Flag Leg Warmers

7// Southern Rustic Charm - Red Metallic Polka Dot Earrings

 8// Charlie Hustle Shop - Limited Edition USA Vintage Tee

(purchased!)

One thing is for sure, I will be decked out in red, white, and blue, and celebrating in style!

I already can't wait to hit the road for the family cabin, so we can sit on our red bench where Adam proposed under the fireworks 2 years ago (has it really been that long?).


How will you be celebrating?  
#merica

 

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Cabin Getaway At A Glance

I've been meaning to share some photos from our extended 4th of July vacay down at the family cabin!

Good thing it's July 18th...

Haha! It's okay, I figured photos are fun to see anytime, right?
So enjoy one of our favorite spots in the whole world. We absolutely can't get enough...

Nothing beats a Kansas sunset driving through the flint hills.

Lots of snoozin'.

Beast has no concept of personal space - ha!

Where I sipped on coffee in the morning and did some lazy afternoon reading.

Tank tops and sunglasses were the dress code requirements... obvi.

Bella Beast was supervising the boys' kayak races. A wee bit chilly out there, so the sun felt good!

We sure know how to make it festive for the holiday.

Went to see Despicable Me 2 and wished I would've worn my sister's Halloween costume :)

Margs happened. And then I fould these little surprise photos waiting for me on my camera...

Cheers to blackmail! ;)

My MIL... the marg master!

And then after a stellar 4 days, we loaded up and said bye to our little piece of Kansas heaven.

(and yes, I realized I got zero photos of me or hubs... blogger fail.)

Yup, counting the days 'til we go back!

PS - Don't forget to link-up and gain new readers ALL WEEK at my Mingle Monday Link-Up!


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Hello Americana!

Who's ready for fireworks, cut off shorts, and not working?!

Yeah... ME too!

I am beyond excited for 5 o'clock to roll around, so that we can grab our posse and get the heck out of this city! We're cabin bound and ready for a stellar long weekend celebrating freedom with friends and fam.

The cabin has been in Adam's family for decades and has many special memories... Adam proposed there at this time last year!

{via}

I am still in the process of trying to snag a last minute Americana inspired top by the time we leave, so I may need to swing by old navy to check out this striped tank, this star tee, or this fun top. I mean, I can't leave town without my USA gear, right?

Did you find any cute patriotic outfits?
Help a sister out.

Anyway, the next 4 days will be filled with sleeping in, lawn games, kayaking, morning walks, peaceful sunsets over the lake, watching the boys blow things up, adult beverages, yummy food, and of course... our annual Cabin Olympics.

Guaranteed fantastic (aka: ridiculous) photos coming your way next week!

What are your plans for the long holiday weekend?
Wishing you all a very safe and wonderful 4th of July!


Land of the free because of the brave!





PS - Don't forget to link-up and gain new readers ALL WEEK at my Mingle Monday Blog Hop link-up!


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