We got home Saturday afternoon from our summer vacation in St. John's Newfoundland (where my parents and most of my family live). It was a great visit, and unlike most trips, I can't really say that I'm happy to be home now. I think that's because St. John's feels like home to me too (maybe even moreso than Ottawa...)

Peyton and I went for 2 weeks, and Ted joined us for the last 8 days. We had wonderful weather, most days it was hot and sunny. Some highlights of our trip:

• Of course, seeing my parents, and my sister who was in town at the same time! Peyton enjoyed spending time with Nanny, Papa, and Auntie Sue too.
• Visiting other extended family, and friends. My grandmother really enjoyed seeing Peyton again. We also got to attend my cousin Jenna's 10th birthday pool party which Peyton really enjoyed. She really loves Jenna and Victoria, who are her "1st cousins once removed" or something like that.
• Having babysitters! My parents were happy to watch Peyton any time, which meant I could do some fun things like, going to a movie, late night dining out, a long hike that Peyton probably wouldn't have been content in a backpack for, etc
• The ocean. The views we had on our hikes were amazing. We also spent two nights in cottages on Bonavista Bay, where we walked along the shore and waded in the ocean. It was great!
• Swimming. We swam in the lake near my parents house, an lake we found on one of our hikes, and a great waterfall swimming hole too. Something about swimming in these natural places (as opposed to pools) is so nice. It reminds me of swimming at our cabin when I was growing up. I wish we could have a cabin (or "cottage" as they say in Ontario) for Peyton. Maybe someday.
• I wouldn't call it exactly a "highlight", but my grandfather fell ill while we were visiting and was admitted to hospital. It looked quite serious for a while. The good news is that he seems to be recovering well. I was happy we were there for that, though, even just to provide some entertainment and distraction for my grandmother!

There's probably more to say, too, it really was a great visit. But that's enough for now! Hopefully I can put up some pictures sometime when I get around to it.

That was it for our big summer trip. However, we do have other fun things coming up, mainly visits from Ted's family, short trips to Sarnia and Toronto, and a September camping trip. Let the summer fun continue!