DOG NOSES + DQ BLIZZARDS

"I almost wish we were butterflies and lived but three summer days - three such days with you I could fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain." - JOHN KEATS

Stepping out my back door yesterday, summer quite literally smacked me in the face. All in one delicious moment, a warm wind swept my hair up, vibrant sun rays caressed my cheeks, and I caught a breath of that indescribably satisfying summer air - sweet, pure, and complete.

Maybe I imagined it, but I really do think all the animals felt summer in the air too. Hooves frolicked, tails wagged, mud splashed, and our llama neighbors curiously peeked across the fence to watch the jubilant celebration.

Don't you just love their ears? 

I tried napping on a blanket under a shady tree to enjoy the show - but this was the result.

Inquisitive and wet-nosed.

Don't you love how dogs have a complete lack of understanding about personal space? It makes them so lovable.

This snout belongs to Katie, a gentle border collie who has free roam of the farm. She's everything I always dreamt a farm dog would be - sweet, strong and loyal with dark, friendly eyes that twinkle at you when you call her name. Yes - I'm not exaggerating. She really is straight out of a novel.

Beau loves Katie too, and when she barks excitedly he jokes, "What's that Katie? Timmy's stuck in a well?" It makes me laugh every time.

Katie's tail rarely stops wagging.

Besides wet dog noses in my face, and watching the animals come out of hiding, I think it's summer's natural spontaneity that I love most of all. But really I guess - who doesn't? It makes you feel like a kid again - running outside barefoot, licking ice cream on the front porch steps, or my favorite - listening to the chirps and whoops of wildlife while camping under the stars. 

This is our first summer in the farmhouse - and while it's sure to be a busy one - I can't wait to see where leads. In particular, I'd love to wander a flea market (never been! any suggestions?), start my first garden, see a rodeo (one of my bucket list items), spend as much time as I can with my family - especially my nieces and nephews, and of course - make it out on the boat for some fishing (Beau) and book reading (me).

These punchy summer beauties popped up just this week! 

What are you looking forward to most about this summer? Whatever it is, I hope these next few months are filled with plenty of memorable adventures, and a healthy number of 'mmm'-inducing DQ Blizzards eaten with those long, cherry-red spoons. 

With love from the farmhouse - Grace