On the final day of summer, we played.

Yes, I do know it isn't really the last day, but for those of us with children returning to school it certainly feels like THE LAST DAY OF SUMMER.

I understand it feels that way for the Girl of the House, too.


We took a long hike in the still wildly blooming Carleton arboretum.









We loaded up the canoe and headed to the river.

Paul's parents first obtained this canoe in 1973. We took possession when we bought the 'home place'.

We've lived here since October 1998.


And yet, somehow, this was the first time we took the canoe down the hill and put it in the river. This was also the first time Paul ever used this canoe. 36 years? Yikes.

Let me tell you, in case you were wondering, this canoe is heavy. Really, really heavy. But well worth the battle.

I didn't bring the camera, for fear of drowning it. Next time I'll find a way to carry it. The river was quiet, peaceful, and full of birds. We saw an eagle, an owl, a kingfisher, multiple types of ducks, a great blue heron and more. We're already planning a return trip, without waiting another 10+ years.





And finally, on the last day of summer, the outdoor cats have decided that my potato bags are a great place to relax.

We'll be digging those puppies up soon.