BBQ Delicious

In celebration of James' FIRST birthday, we are throwing a little par-tay for him.  Not only do we get to celebrate his birthday but we get to eat some ever-so-good food and spend time together!

For the celebration our menu is your basic good old bbq-ing.

Hot Dogs

Hamburgers

Green Salad

Sliced Watermelon

Chips

Good Brews 

It's about to be a fantastic party.  Anytime James is around it's bound to be a blast.  He gets to open gifts, eat dessert (no cake.... only on his actual birthday), and be the center of attention (as always).

HR:Fruit Loop

Yah-Who!!  It's time for fresh fruits and veggies to start blooming.  This is the best part of the year.  Strawberries, Cherries, Zucchini, Raspberries, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Eggplant... you name it, it's going to be fresh and tasty.  One of my favorite places is Hood River.  They have the best fruits and veggies, perfectly ripe and so tasteful.  With over 50 places to stop and get produce... you are bound to find something.  The Hood River Fruit Loop is so impressive because of the variety each stand offers.  I have found that I often times eat my whole way home because it is so tasty and I can't stop snacking on the cherries or apples that I just bought!

If you are interested in FRESH PRODUCE you must head up to Hood River.  Not only do they have amazing produce but there is much more to do there..... wine tasting, great restaurants, fun shopping, and beautiful scenery.

(click on Hood River Fruit Loop above)

shabby:apple

i love when the sun comes out and i can pull out my summer dresses.  dresses are easy to wear on hot days when you need something light and comfortable.  shabby apple has some of the cutest dresses.

{HALF}

Yesterday morning I ran a half marathon.  Not my first, but my second.  I love the free-ness and sites that are seen while running, especially when running new territory.  Yesterday's run was in Vancouver, Wa, in many regions I don't generally explore.  The competition and challenge of running is thrilling and addicting.  I have debated running a marathon but not ready to train.  It takes time, LOTS, and I am not sure I am ready to give that much time up.

BEFORE

I am looking for my next run though.... not sure when or how far but looking forward to the free-ness and challenge of it!

AFTER

want a bowl?

Looking for something for all types of eaters.... try these delicious bowls.

INGREDIENTS
1-2 cups cooked quinoa
1 can of black beans, drained, rinsed
1 can of corn, drained
1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes
fresh cilantro
1 avocado, chopped

DRESSING
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
1 garlic glove, mined

Combine all dressing ingredients and allow flavors to blend.  Season with salt and pepper.  Cook quinoa according to package.  In a large bowl mix quinoa, beans, corn, tomatoes, cilantro.  Top with dressing and mix well.  Spoon into bowls.  Top with avocado and cilantro.

ending....already??

my weekend thus far as been exceptional.  the best part was the SUN!  finally it has arrived.... and it's already june.  slow start to summer i see.

but moving on.... i had a wonderful weekend.  it started with a good happy hour on friday with my mom and steve down at the deck.  it's a fun local spot on the columbia river, down near the airport.  it's a floating house boat that has the best outdoor atmosphere and fun festive drinks.  the evening continued on with a bbq and ended with a few card games.

saturday was awesome.  the sun was out which seems to put everyone in a good mood.  don't you agree?  i got to spend time with my mom, abby, and james out in the sun.  james is just the best and his smile is contagious.  i cant get enough of him.  my mom, sister, and i always have such a good time together.  i love being with them.

sunday i woke up to gorgeous weather, enjoyed coffee and a delicious piece of french toast, and then spent the day doing little things, ya know?  and it's ending with a grub bbq of pork and grilled veggies.

why does the weekend go by so fast??

some things....

doesn't this look perfectly cozy for a fun time with family and friends.

like these.

my favorite part about summer.... fresh cherries.

dainty and cute.  cool and refreshing.  light and simple.