My summer is … over! It’s the second week of school, and all I can think about in between classes is the fun I had from June 2 to Aug. 21.
I took two trips to the other side of the country to see people I love. I spent some time working (again) at the sandwich shop (I had missed the tips ALOT). I also spent quite a bit of downtime, doing some of my favorite things, such as: reading, watching TV, taking pictures, and doing absolutely nothing.
So, in no particular order, here are my favorite things from summer 2025:
Family and friends – My two trips were to Michigan and Virginia. Both were to see my sisters and their families. I had a great time with them and with my nieces and nephews. I spoiled them ALOT. I was also exhausted by the time I left because children have limitless energy as well as a the ability to get up very early. Still it was a great time, and we all made memories of a lifetime. (I also watched more Peppa Pig and Bluey episodes than I ever had before.)
In Michigan, I was able to spend a day with a dear college friend who I’ve seen once in the last 20 years. (Not too bad for people who live on opposite sides of the United States). We caught up like no time was passed.
Good beer and BBQ – Being in the West, certain domestic beers are not available. Specifically, Yuengling. I can usually get it when I visit family in Ohio. It’s one of the few macro domestic beers I enjoy. In fact, it’s really the only one. I prefer micro and/or local brews or Belgian beer. In Wyoming, I can get a lot of local stuff but very little of anything else (especially anything made east of Texas or in Europe).
So rather than getting anything local during my visit to VA, I jumped at the chance to get Yeungling during a lunch out. I was able to get it again (and on tap) during my four-hour layover at DFW.
I also enjoyed some wonderful Texas brisket and mac and cheese. In Michigan, I enjoyed IKEA’s meatball meal, my mam-maw’s chocolate pie, and a year-round Christmas store (Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland). At both places, I enjoyed my sisters’ wonderful baked goods. They are much better bakers than I am.
Staying up late … not really and sleeping in … not really – Since my schedule was more flexible than during the school year, I was able to stay up later and sleep in … sometimes. Most of my work shifts were from 11 to 5, so I could have a leisurely start to the day. I stayed up late when I was at my sisters’ houses, but I did not sleep in because I had a constant stream of nieces and nephews who wanted me to get up and play with them. Also, since I’m in my 40s, staying up late for me is anything past 10 p.m.
Now, it’s back to regular schedule where I have to get up early, make my lunch, and go to work. I miss sleeping in, but it is nice having a routine again.
Glimpses from the Other Side 