Finally got the chance to write this post, which I had planned to do over a month ago. I have a tendency to be a little busy and push back these posts so I’m happy to be able to get this one live.

So here it is, the end of the summer of 2025, a summer that was packed full of entertainment for the Thompson family. Before the summer was officially kicked off, we took a trip to California to visit family (see previous post), and after coming home we saw Andrea start the transition from school to the hospital. She still had some orientation to go through but she did it.. she is officially a nurse!! Congratulations love!!

Of course with the summer comes the heat and we got to break out a couple new backyard water toys, one being a water table and the other a pool with a slide. Both Aurelia and Akira LOVE the water, so we spent a good amount of time out back having fun.

With Andrea’s new schedule, I had more time with the girls so I had to figure out ways to keep them active and busy so they wouldn’t go crazy from the boredom. Break out the crayons and paint and let’s make some artwork!! However the girls weren’t the only ones having fun. Andrea and I ventured out on a few hikes but the one that stands out the most is Rock Creek Falls.

What an amazing place tucked into the Unicoi area. With multiple creek crossings and some slight elevation change, this hike became one of my favorites to do. After doing the hike, we took a quick trip down the road to visit Red Fork Falls which was a sight to see!! I look forward to the day we revisit these waterfalls.

Summer was moving right along, full of the typical activities including visits to the pool, whether it was out back or at the Y. The girls also got their first ride on, thank you nana and pop pop. By the way, this Jeep is awesome!! It has working lights and music and best of all, a remote control for me! I also want to thank my coworker Ben for allowing the girls to have a bounce house that his girls no longer used!! My girls are not spoiled.. wink, wink.

Another exciting adventure found us at Bright’s Zoo in Jonesborough were Aurelia got to feed some giraffes, see a bunch of other animals and take a train ride. What a cool place! We learned that Home Depot has a kid’s workshop every month and that Aurelia loves going to it! If you have a little one, you should definitely check into this. It’s the first Saturday of each month, and the project changes themes and.. it’s FREE!!

When summer comes, not only does that mean fun in the sun but our annual visitor from Colorado, Auntka!! It’s crazy how much has changed in the year from her last visit. The girls found themselves a new best friend!

Ok, the summer is in full swing now and the adventures are coming along. A rainy classic in Bristol was highlighted by an Indian outlaw and tasty treats. We found ourselves taking a dip into the Devil’s Bathtub and visiting Margarette Falls. We also decided to take a trip to the Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg. We took Aurelia there when she was right around 1yr old, so a trip back was well overdue.

All the sights and sounds, the water and sun, we had an amazing summer but like all seasons, it has to come to an end. I am thankful for the opportunities that I have in my life and the chance to experience these adventures. I sit here looking out the front window, the sun is still bright, the day is still warm and I know the adventures will go on. Summer has to come a close, but the memories will grow. What will fall and winter bring.. hmm, let’s find out but until then.. the pool is closed.. see ya next time