Surely, one for the books.
After counting down the days (for weeks), we were all ready for what Luke calls “zero days.” No more preparations, no more waiting.
Zero days!
It wasn’t a countdown to summer. We were crossing off the days until we could reunite with much missed and loved family, and dear friends.
Niether words nor photos can truly express how much joy this summer brought to us. But I can try.
1. This summer meant spending time with Family : LOVE
Our summer began in Hilton Head…
…with dancing…
…and a horse named “China.” No joke.
…as well as a surprise reunion with much missed friends!
We then met even more family at Disney World.
…where Luke was super proud to ride his very first roller coaster..
…and just as excited to meet Mickey!
Where boys can be boys…
…and girls will be princesses.
2. This summer meant returning to Hudson, Ohio, America. : HOME
Our time in Ohio began with family, friends, and fireworks. A very meaningful 4th of July.
Watching the hot air balloons take-off with Grandma Patty and Papa Tommy.
A day on the farm…
…included riding Thunder
…and live music.
3. This summer meant filling our days with seeing friends, exciting new adventures, and lots of lots of lemonade stands! : FUN
SO blessed!
Going on 30 years of friendship!
Love this crew!
Oh how we’ve missed Miss Julie!
Zipline!
How is 2022 only 8 years away?!
Luke thinks Kate had “123456789” lemonade stands this summer. But it was more like 421.
4. This summer meant enjoying what Ohio has to offer. : BEAUTY
With Li Laoshi in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
5. This summer meant appreciating the little things we’ve missed…including food! : FOOD
They’re first snack after landing in America! Auntie Annie’s pretzels.
I’m embarrassed to say…I lost track of how many Chipotle veggie fajita burritos I consumed this summer.
Ice Cream is way too expensive in China. And just not the same.
So we had a LOT of ice cream!
6. This summer meant being able to celebrate past and upcoming birthdays with family and friends. : CELEBRATIONS
The perfect place for a 4 year old birthday party. Luke had been looking forward to this day for months.
Thank you for sharing our summer with us! We feel so fortunate to have such a loving home to return to, amazing family, countless friends, and overwhelming support.
ourshanghaidays 
I’m glad you guys had a fun-filled summer and I’m grateful to have caught up with you at the tail-end of it. Looking forward to following your next adventures!
What wonderful photos. Thanks for sharing. You are an incredible mother…Mary Beth
Mary Beth Harper
mbharper@gmail.com
Julie.
Great job. I really enjoy your Blog
Dad and I had a wonderful time
Thanks to you and John. Trip of a Lifetime
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️Love to all ❤️❤️Mom
Sent from my iPhone
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LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!
I miss you guys already!:) love Megan A.
Thanks! miss you guys too! Love, Jack Pawlowski