1. Embracing 42 Years: A Journey of Joy and Reflection

Earlier this summer, I had the privilege of celebrating another year of life, another full trip around the sun. For a long time, the prospect of getting older brought a certain unease, a fleeting sense of apprehension. However, these days, I find myself embracing it with open arms and a grateful heart. Aging, I’ve come to realize, is not just a passage of time; it’s a profound gift, an accumulation of experiences, wisdom, and deepening joy. Life, in its beautiful complexity, feels incredibly rich and fulfilling right now. Of course, I could certainly do without the new wrinkles that seem to appear uninvited, but even those are a testament to a life well-lived and many smiles shared. My birthday was a truly special day, surrounded by the people I cherish most. We celebrated with laughter, good company, and a delightful evening out at my favorite spot, complete with a celebratory margarita and, naturally, an obligatory sombrero photo to capture the festive spirit. It was a perfect reminder of the simple yet profound joys that make life so worthwhile.

2. Hummingbird Happiness: A Tiny Source of Wonder

This summer brought an unexpected, yet utterly delightful, obsession into my life: the hummingbirds that grace our feeder daily. I’ve completely fallen head-over-heels in love with these mesmerizing creatures. Investing in this particular hummingbird feeder (available on Amazon) was, without a doubt, my most cherished purchase this season. There’s something truly magical about watching these tiny, iridescent birds zip in and out, their wings a blur, as they delicately sip nectar. It’s a constant source of fascination and a peaceful escape. I simply can’t stop—and frankly, won’t stop—capturing their visits through countless photos and videos. Even though each snapshot and clip might seem strikingly similar to the last, the sheer joy and wonder they evoke are unique every single time. Their presence is a beautiful reminder of the small wonders that surround us, a burst of vibrant life that brings immense happiness to my everyday routine.

3. Summer Fun: Finding Joy Amidst Challenges

This summer began on a challenging note, as my son spent his last day of school in the hospital, with another round of chemotherapy looming ahead. It was a stark reminder of the difficult journey we’ve been on. Knowing this, we deliberately chose not to make any grand plans, opting instead for a relaxed, flexible approach, and that proved to be exactly what we needed. Our days were filled with countless visits to the pool, his absolute favorite place to be, where the water offered a refreshing escape and endless hours of play. Amidst his treatment, we also managed to sneak in a couple of memorable weekend getaways. One adventure took us to the charming lakeside town of St. Joseph, Michigan, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Another spontaneous, last-minute trip led us to the picturesque Door County, Wisconsin, where we explored scenic coastlines and quaint communities. These brief escapes were invaluable, providing much-needed moments of normalcy and joy for our family.

As the days grow shorter and the air begins to crisp, I’m trying to savor every last ray of sunshine, clinging to the warmth and light before the inevitable shift of seasons. While I’m never quite ready to bid farewell to the freedom of summer, there’s also a growing anticipation for the comforting rhythm that comes with the back-to-school routine. My son, in particular, is brimming with excitement for 5th grade, a new chapter full of learning and friendship. It’s a bittersweet transition, but one filled with hope and the promise of new beginnings.

4. A Charming Getaway to Galena, Illinois

My boyfriend, Todd, and I recently embarked on a delightful short trip to Galena, Illinois, a truly picturesque small town nestled in the scenic northwest corner of the state, not far from the majestic Mississippi River. Galena is renowned for its captivating historic charm, the gentle undulations of its beautiful rolling hills, and an absolutely adorable downtown area that feels like stepping back in time. Every corner offers a glimpse into its rich past, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing escape.

For our stay, we chose the Jail Hill Inn, a truly unique and utterly charming bed and breakfast that once served as the town’s historic jail. Having never experienced a B&B before, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but it exceeded all my expectations. Every single detail was meticulously thought out, creating an atmosphere of refined comfort while playfully incorporating its former identity. The jail theme was subtly woven throughout, from the elegant décor to delightful touches like the black and white striped robes provided in our room!

The innkeeper was a beacon of hospitality – incredibly kind, attentive, and genuinely invested in ensuring our stay was perfect. Each evening, a thoughtfully curated charcuterie board accompanied by a bottle of exquisite wine was delivered directly to our room, an incredibly thoughtful and luxurious touch that made each night feel special. And breakfast? Oh, the breakfast was beyond delicious and truly abundant. We were treated to an incredible spread, proving that no detail was overlooked in making our stay memorable.

Our days were spent leisurely wandering through the charming downtown area, exploring its unique boutiques and art galleries. We indulged in far too many delicious meals, savoring every bite of the local cuisine. People-watching from a quaint cafe became a favorite pastime, offering a glimpse into the relaxed pace of Galena life. To counteract our culinary indulgences, we intentionally climbed the numerous stairs that crisscross the town (a familiar challenge for anyone who’s visited Galena!), hoping to feel slightly less guilty about our epicurean adventures. It was a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and delightful indulgence.

Culinary Delights: Where We Ate and Drank in Galena

• Fritz and Frites Bistro: This charming French-German bistro was a highlight. Todd enjoyed a perfectly cooked steak and frites, while I savored a tender chicken schnitzel. We concluded our meal by sharing an incredible chocolate cherry dessert that was an absolute symphony of flavors – rich, decadent, and utterly unforgettable.

• Log Cabin Steakhouse: A classic steakhouse experience, notable not just for its excellent food but also for the largest pepper mill I have ever seen! Todd opted for a magnificent bone-in New York Strip, perfectly cooked, while I chose a melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon. We rounded off this hearty meal with a shared, delectable cheesecake.

• Breakfast at our B&B: Each morning at Jail Hill Inn was a culinary event. We indulged in a variety of gourmet dishes, including rich bananas foster oatmeal, a delightful chocolate almond croissant (unfortunately not pictured, but absolutely delicious), and a savory veggie quiche served with unique twisted candied bacon and perfectly roasted potatoes.

Beyond the exquisite dining, we also enjoyed a fun root beer tasting at Root Beer Revelry, sampling unique flavors and discovering new favorites. To cap off our exploratory spirit, we took an insightful tour at Blaum Bros. Distillery, learning about their craft and the art of spirit making. It was a perfect blend of gastronomic pleasure and unique local experiences.

The Heart of the Trip: What I’ll Remember Most from Galena

• The Thoughtful Gestures: The moment we arrived, I was touched to find beautiful flowers, a heartfelt card, and delicious chocolates waiting for me in our room, thoughtfully arranged by Todd. It was an incredibly sweet and truly unexpected gesture that set a wonderful tone for our entire getaway.
• Shared Laughter: We shared so many genuine laughs, especially during our impromptu people-watching sessions from a park bench in downtown Galena. These moments of simple, unadulterated joy and connection are the ones that truly define a relationship and create lasting memories.
• Overwhelming Gratitude: Above all, an overwhelming feeling of gratitude enveloped me throughout the trip. I felt, and continue to feel, so incredibly thankful for the wonderful man in my life, Todd, and for the amazing grandparents who so generously spent time with Miles, allowing me the precious gift of a few days to simply be, to relax, and to recharge. This trip was a beautiful reminder of the love and support that surrounds me.

5. My Son Miles is DONE with Chemo! A Moment of Triumph!

I deliberately saved the most profound and joyous news for last, and it truly is the happiest update I’ve had the privilege of sharing in a very long time: Miles is OFFICIALLY DONE with chemotherapy! This momentous achievement marks the end of an incredibly challenging chapter for our family, a journey filled with uncertainty, courage, and unwavering hope.

For those who may have read my earlier post from this year, “How Cancer Changed Everything Again,” you’ll recall the heartbreaking news that Miles was diagnosed with cancer back in February. This diagnosis came completely out of nowhere, striking us with a particularly heavy blow after having tragically lost my late husband to cancer. It felt like history was repeating itself in the cruelest way imaginable.

Miles’ specific type of cancer was linked to the essential medications he takes daily to prevent the rejection of the liver and kidney transplants he received as an infant. This rare, yet serious, complication is known as post-transplant lymphoma, and unfortunately, we found ourselves facing it head-on. The path ahead seemed daunting, but Miles, with his incredible resilience, approached each step with a bravery that continually inspired us all.

Thankfully, and to our immense relief, Miles responded remarkably well to the rigorous treatment. It brings tears to my eyes even now, just thinking about the raw emotion and profound significance of the moment he rang the bell, symbolizing the triumphant completion of his chemotherapy. This was a moment his own father never had the chance to experience, making Miles’s ring all the more poignant. That single moment was a powerful blend of overwhelming joy and profound heartbreak, a testament to Miles’s strength while simultaneously bringing to mind all those courageous individuals who don’t get the opportunity to ring that bell.

Ringing the Bell: A Symbol of Hope and Remembrance

On that unforgettable day in June, Miles rang the bell not just for himself, but for his dad as well, a beautiful and emotional tribute to both their battles. While our hearts are overflowing with gratitude to be through the active treatment phase, we are also realistic about the hurdles that still lie ahead. Miles is now diligently working to regain his strength, energy, and overall sense of self, both physically and emotionally. The entire experience, especially the brutal impact of the steroids, took a significant toll on his young body and spirit. I believe it will take time for both of us to fully recover from the intensity of the past months, to process everything we’ve been through and find our new normal. But right now, the overwhelming feelings are those of profound relief and immense hope for the future. We look forward to a healthier, brighter path ahead, filled with renewed energy and boundless possibilities.

Throughout the entirety of the last six challenging months, we were wrapped in an incredible blanket of love and unwavering support from our family, cherished friends, and even from complete strangers who reached out in countless thoughtful ways. I will never forget the countless gestures, both grand and small, through which people showed up for us, offering comfort, encouragement, and practical help. This journey has truly highlighted the extraordinary kindness and compassion that exists in the world, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

Thank You… For Your Unwavering Support

On that incredibly grateful note, I want to take a moment to extend my deepest, most sincere thank you to each and every one of you. Your presence here, your readership, and the support you’ve sent from afar have meant more to me than words can truly express. Whether you’ve visited my site countless times, tried one of my recipes and shared it with a loved one, or simply left a thoughtful and encouraging comment, please know just how much your engagement and kindness mean to me and my family. Your collective support has been a source of strength and comfort during both the challenging and the joyous moments. It’s a privilege to share these aspects of my life with such a wonderful community.

I wish you all a truly wonderful weekend, filled with peace, happiness, and moments to cherish.

❤️Ashley