I HEART THE GOLD COAST

We finally made it to the beach on the weekend! Oh my word, there is something so refreshing and majestic about it, I loved it!

Only since living in a land-locked province of Canada, did I realise how much I took for granted our living within an hour of some of the worlds most amazing beaches. The kids had a fantastic time frolicking about in the waves & got sand every.where.

I'm vowing to appreciate these pristine sands & clear waters a lot more this summer! They really are pretty spectacular. Do you live close to a tourist attraction, or beautiful part of the world that you tend to take for granted?

:: Don't miss out on the 20% discount on all items in my shop this week. Use code MERRY20 at checkout.

SUMMER TIME & THE LIVING IS EASY

When I first moved here, I wondered to Dave why people even bothered buying summer clothes since the summer was literally only a couple of months long. However, after living through six months of winter and snow, I now understand why! People embrace summer like I have never seen before (and I come from sunny Queensland!). But, I think that's probably why. When you don't have something, you are more grateful when what you have been wishing for, actually comes along. (true of life in general wouldn't you say?!)

Summer here in Edmonton is full on. Life is a-buzz with activity, people making 'summer plans', going camping, staying up late enjoying the long days (it doesn't get completely dark till 11pm in the height of summer). I love it and I have gotten so caught up in no school schedules...in fact, aside from my regular night owl freelancing, I am not running on any schedule at all. Very unlike me! : )

I've been getting truly into the summer spirit which has meant less computer time (thank you to you lovely peeps who still pop in hoping I have updated something inspiring!), today is the day for a massive update. Of the personal variety though, I hope you'll indulge me...more pretty creativity to come soon!

We enjoyed the Taste of Edmonton (twice!) - great tunes, great food, great vibe!
We spent three days camping at Long Lake, Alberta. Yes, there was a bear warning out which makes for interesting walks to the toilets at night!
We went raspberry picking just last week. I'm hoping to head back while the berries are well and truly ripe for the picking!

WHAT THE TRUCK #2

We went to What the Truck last year just once before the season ended. This year I'm not missing one! : )

On Friday night, it was the first event of the year, and we went to check it out even though the weather wasn't too flash. I love the concept of walking around choosing fun food and eating it on a picnic rug, with music and a load of people wanding around. A lot of atmosphere. 

My review: Molly Eats had some great gluten free options, which I really loved (yay for me!). And the other stand outs this time round were Nomad & a fish burger from The Act that was pretty delish. A friend of mind had the 'crack n cheese' from the Nomad and said she was sure there was some kind of 'special ingredient' as it was the best mac n cheese ever! 

If you're planning on going I would recommend getting there earlier rather than later. We arrived at around 5pm (kid dinner time, hello!), but by the time we were leaving at around 7pm there were heaps of line ups for the popular trucks. 

You can find out the future events via their Facebook page. Can't wait for next time!