Fireworks Above Us, A Screaming Bloom

I am in disbelief at how quickly the Summer came and went, and how much adventure and joy I managed to squeeze out of it. I've been clinging desperately to what's left, but have spent most my time recalling and reminiscing all of the memories I had the pleasure of making this season. 

Before school got out for the Summer I had made a list of all of the things I was longing to experience, and I'm proud to say that I crossed the majority of things off, with two exceptions that will just have to wait until Autumn graces us with her presence.

The list included: having a picnic, going to yard sales (lots!), spending a day at Green Lakes (x2), and spending a day at the beach (see below). 

The last few I finished this past weekend: spending a day with my grandma (made her dinner!), flying a kite, and going for a hike. 

This was not on the list, but I'm so grateful for it: STAYCATION!

Ben and I spent our Saturdays off together exploring new towns, thrifting/antiquing/yardsailing, walking along Lake Ontario, swimming(!), taking short road trips, eating ice cream, taking photos, going for long walks, going to the movies, and just enjoying our time together. These have become some of my favorite memories.

It has been a while since I've posted, and also a while since the 4th of July! That being said, here are my photos from that day. 

I spent the afternoon at the beach with 'the Bens'. This included a pb&j picnic in our new cooler, terrible tasting alcohol, new beach towels, ukulele playing, a floppy sunhat, new swimsuits, and most importantly: the first time Ben has ever gone swimming with me! In the 3+ years we have been dating, this is the only time he has ever swam. Crazy, right?!

After our beach trip we had a small backyard barbecue and walked to the bridge to watch fireworks with friends. Very low-key, but also very much the best.

Dress: Forever 21

Bikini Top: Unique Vintage

Bikini Bottoms: Modcloth

Floppy Hat: Target

Sunglasses: Target

Pink Magnolia Blushing and Coy, Savors the Sun While She Shines

Although it's Summer, I'm still trying to get caught up with Spring. I was so busy, but for me, Spring seemed to linger much longer this year than it usually does. Maybe that's because I was just counting the minutes until I was wrapped up in Summer, and already it's July. How did that happen?

Anyway, these photos are from the day that I took my second to last final. I finally started to feel free. 

One of the best places to explore/walk/take photos/relax happens to be right down the street from where I live. It's called Highland park and it's one of the most beautiful places. Somehow I discovered a huge part of the park that I had never been to on this day, and it's absolutely gorgeous. 

It's a path lined with all different types of magnolias and lilacs. We were really lucky to make it just before the magnolias were gone for the year.

Another great thing that I (re)discovered on this day was my 50mm lens. I feel embarrassed even admitting this, but it just sat in its case for about a year. I got a 35mm lens at the same time and fell in love with it. I had trouble getting the 50mm to focus and got frustrated, so I stuck with the 35mm.

Well, I'm so glad I decided to give it another try. I wish it didn't take me so long, and I still have to get used to it, but these photos really changed my mind about that lens.

I really loved this day, and am happy I finally get to share it.

Blouse: Vintage

Skirt: Forever 21

Sunglasses: Vintage (gift from Ben)

Clutch: Thread (gift from Ben)

Shoes: Old Navy

Under All The Rolling Clouds, Over All The Fields That Surround This Tiny Town

In Late April, Ben and I visited this pretty field that I've always wanted to pictures at. I feel like I have a lot of places like that, sitting in the back of my mind, waiting to be photographed. I drive backroads often and there are places that I've passed on my commute for years that I just haven't had time to get out and take photos of. It's nice to check one off the list.

Cardigan: H&M

Top: Forever 21

Mustard Cut-Offs: Delias pants, altered by me

Shoes: Delias

Bonus: Everything except the cardigan was on clearance!