Lance celebrated his birthday a little over a month ago but I still thought it would be good to post some of the pictures from our birthday adventure.

Shortly before his birthday, we finalized buying a car, hooray!! We got to take it on it’s first real adventure! Lance mapped out a few castles and locations he has been wanting to see and off we went!

Went to a place we have now rated a 5 out 5 according to our rating system, it was awesome! Lots of nooks and crannies to explore, had beautiful scenery, and is a great place for a picnic.

We also stopped at a few other places along the way home but nothing compared to the fortress we saw first!

The next day, the celebration continued with friends from English club. We have been trying to get together for a year to go to a waterfall and castle not far from Ternopil. We finally made it happen! It was such a peaceful place, the waterfall was small since it was the end of  summer but still beautiful and refreshing. We put up our hammock, relaxed, went on a hike together, played badminton and frisbee, ate lots of food, swam, ate more food and finally explored a castle before heading home. We love being able to get together with our friends from English club, they are always ready for a good time together.

Explored nearby abandoned buildings

Yes, he really is that tall.

In July, my grandfather passed away at the age of 97. He was always seen as solid, faithful, hardworking, and witty. His passing was peaceful and with family but no less difficult to process. Lance and I decided that it would be good for me to go home to be with family during this time. My time in the states was only for two and half weeks since Lance stayed in Ukraine.

I was honored to be at my grandpa’s memorial at the National Cemetery where he was given military honors. I enjoyed being able to see family members I hadn’t seen in a long time. I am very glad that I made the short trip home for this time.

I also got to spend some good quality time with my family doing a few hikes together, eating meals together and running errands together. Had a short trip down to Oregon also to see family there. I can never get tired of time spent with family.