imogene + willie

Supper and song was one of the many reasons we love our little neighborhood. A free event in the backyard of the local denim store, with live music, food trucks, and good ol' Nashville community. We didn't know it at the time, but this night in particular was our very last S&S, due to the city ordinances. In my mind at least, these sweet, albeit cheesy, photos in front of the glowing Tennesee sign are a perfect little tribute.

Par King

Later that night, we played a friendly (but let's be honest- things are always a bit competitive when I'm around) game of mini-golf at the local Par King course. If it weren't for the darn wheel-of-fortune at the last hole, I would have ended in pretty good standing. Nevertheless, we all agreed it had been too long since we put our putting skills to use.

Paddle boating

The paddle boats at Independence Grove are a lovely way to enjoy the outdoors when the heat is a little more than you can bear on dry land. This year, we got the 6-seater so we could take turns paddling and soaking our feet in the water.

Independence grove

Sunday afternoon, we rode bikes through the forest preserve in Libertyville. Part of the trail winds around the glimmering lake and then cuts back through lush green trees with plenty of shade. With only an hour of bike rentals to explore, we didn't make it as far as we would have liked to. Seems like a good excuse to invest in a good bike rack so we can bring our own townies next time.

Corn hole tournament

We have gotten some serious use out of the Bernal's elaborate homemade cornhole sets in the past year. It's the perfect outdoor summer activity, especially in their well-kept and perfectly shaded backyard. This year, we even had a full-blown tournament. Ryan and I made it to the championship round but lost to the Oldies. As you can tell by the photo of Wally, they didn't gloat or anything.  

Downtown dates

We visited the Bernals for an early independence day celebration and
on our last day in Chicago, we ventured downtown to spend some time with abuela and to finally see Kristen's stomping grounds. As always, our time with Grandma Bernal was relaxing and reminiscent, spent quietly visiting in the sitting room, thumbing through old photo albums. 

Our tour of Kristen's adorable home was followed by a delicious double date at Wilde. We don't travel downtown much anymore when we visit our family in the Chicago suburbs, but I was reminded of how much I do love that city.