Independence Day

When Inspiration Strikes

Happy Independence Day to all my U.S. friends out there! Is anyone doing anything special today? We’re having a picnic at our house with family this afternoon and I can’t wait! 

In preparation for our little gathering, I found myself at the grocery store in search of pork ribs to barbecue. First, I had to pass the produce and inspiration struck. 

Strawberries and rhubarb

Whoever put the strawberries and rhubarb together in the produce area of the store is smart!

Jimmy has been asking me to bake a strawberry rhubarb pie for a few weeks now, and what better time to make it than when we’re having guests over to enjoy it with us 🙂

Strawberry rhubarb pie fillingStrawberry rhubarb pie

Pies are definitely a bit of work to put together, but so rewarding when they’re finished.

We’ve been having some hot, dry days here in Pittsburgh, so we’ve been keeping a close eye on our garden and watering it as needed. I don’t think we watered the garden more than twice last year, but this year it seems like we could water it twice a day.

Sadie helped me pick some zucchini and squash. We are patiently awaiting the arrival of the cucumbers. Can’t wait to make pickles

Zucchini and yellow squash from vegetable gardenToddler eating squash from garden

Sadie and Niva spent some time cuddling in the yard yesterday and it was too sweet. These two seem to be best buds and partners in crime.

Yesterday I let Sadie play with my washi tape collection so I could get some housework done and she shared it with Niva… who chewed a few rolls. I was totally okay with sacrificing some washi tape so I could get a bit done, lol. 

Toddler laying with Siberian Husky in grass

Alright, off to bake those pork ribs for our picnic! 

What are you up to today?

Do you like strawberry rhubarb pie?

A Festive Fourth

I hope everyone had a lovely Fourth of July!

Sunset

Jimmy, Lola, and I had quite the busy weekend. From preparing a float, to marching in a parade with our church, to cooking out with my parents and more, we were totally wiped out by the end of the long weekend. Wiped out in the best way, though.

Want to see the creepiest picture ever?

Creepy

Jimmy decided to wear a mask, fake beard, suspenders, and hat while we marched in the parade. When he brought home that mask, I was like oh boy, haha. We thought people would be freaked out, but a lot of parade watchers were laughing. Our friend dressed up, too, and even wore a wig. They definitely looked festive 😉

Lola marched in the parade with us, which was quite amazing. So many kids and even adults wanted to pet her, so she got a lot of attention! By the end of the parade, she was so tired that we put her on top of the float. It was adorable.

After the parade, we headed to my parents’ house for a cookout. We pretty much just relaxed for the rest of the day. My mom and I took Brandy (my sister’s cocker spaniel) on a walk to a local school and we had fun going down the slide together.

BrandyFourth of July

In the evening, we headed to our church to watch fireworks. We didn’t stay very long because it was rainy and the clouds were covering the fireworks. Oh well! You win some, you lose some. It was a lovely weekend of hard work, celebration, and family time.

Did you celebrate the Fourth of July?