Ack! August is here! I’m NOT READY for summer to be over, school to begin, and all the madness that that entails. Sigh. So I’m going to just try to sit back and enjoy these next few weeks in the meantime.
July was a good month! I had almost 200 miles of running, several swims, walks, stroller running, some pickleball and several days of weight lifting.
This week was a little slower. After racking up nearly 50 miles last week, I decided to take it somewhat easier this week. This meant some shorter mileage, and no long runs thanks to some travel. Here’s how the week looked:
Hi friends! I can’t believe we’re in August, but here we are. I’m joining Coco and Deborah for their virtual coffee today, while also sharing a fitness update for a fitness linkup, so I’m excited to share what’s going on over here. Here’s what I’d tell you if we were chatting in real life (most likely on a patio because it’s patio season in Cleveland!):
We Threw a 100-Year-Old House Party! Our home turned 100 this year, and we celebrated with friends and family. We hosted an open house/backyard bash with about 75 people. It was a great mix of friends, neighbors, families from our kids’ school, B’s family and kids running around everywhere. We had a DIY taco bar from Cilantro (so good), bubbles, temporary tattoos, sidewalk chalk, lots of sporting equipment, drinks, and I baked a bunch of desserts. It was supposed to storm but we lucked out and the weather held out! It was one of those days that just felt so much fun from start to finish. I wish I had taken more photos, but I was too busy enjoying it all. Maybe I love hosting more than I realized?
Summer Is Flying By If you know me, this will come as no surprise – I’m not ready for summer to end. I love the slower mornings, the warm weather, the way it’s lighter in the mornings. I’ve been running more on the trails and paths near me, something I can’t do in the winter when it’s too dark. There’s something about being surrounded by trees and nature that just feels good for the soul!
Birthday Season = Complete! With my kids’ birthdays in May, June, and July, summer is basically one big celebration. We had Guardians games, outdoor movie nights, trips to the Zoo, SkyZone, and so many treats. It’s a whirlwind, but a fun one. I’m always a little sad when GM’s bday is over because it’s so much fun to celebrate everyone!
Some Music in the Mix This was the first summer FW is taking piano lessons at Musicologie (he took last summer off), and it’s been going really well! He’s been learning some Beatles songs (which makes my heart so happy), and while it’s definitely a challenge to get in practice time when the weather is so nice, rainy days and no school have helped. It’s been such a sweet addition to our summer routine.
Summer Fitness Wins Fitness-wise, this summer has been one of my best! A few weeks ago, I hit my highest mileage week (almost 50 miles!), and July ended up being a nearly 200-mile month. I’ve also been swimming laps while the kids are at their swim lessons and I’ve continued weightlifting a few times a week. I’ve alao got in a few strollwe walks and runs with GM! It’s been a great balance, and I’m feeling grateful for the time and energy to move.
Fall Sports Are Coming After softball and baseball ended, we had a bit of a break from the usual sports/activities chaos (just swimming lessons in the evenings), but that’s about to change. My son starts flag football and soccer next week, and in a few weeks my daughter will resume ballet, cross country and soccer too. I’m not quite ready for the schedule shuffle, but I do love cheering them on from the sidelines.
Summer Reading I’ve been reading a lot this summer, and it’s been so nice! One Golden Summer by Carley Golden was the perfect beachy, feel-good read. I’m definitely going to check out more from that author. Got any recommendations?
A Little Travel, A Lot of Cleveland Love We didn’t travel much this summer, just Memorial Day weekend in Atlanta in May, a week in Boston in June, and a quick trip to Albany (now!) to see my brother who’s visiting from Germany. But honestly? I love summer in Cleveland. It’s my favorite time to be here.
So that’s me. What about you? What’s been bringing you joy this summer?
We had a fun summery activity-filled week with celebrations for my youngest’s birthday, a Guardians game, and a house party … and I ran almost 50 miles in one week (not one sitting, I’m not an ultramarathoner)! So once again, it was a good week of running, weight lifting,swimming, walking. I don’t think I’ll have such a high mileage week again anytime soon, but it was good while it lasted! Here’s how it went ….
I know I’m a broken record – but summer running really is my jam. I love the slower mornings with kids out of school, the lighter mornings (running in the light is the best!), the ability to run trails (because of aforementioned lighter mornings), and I don’t even mind the warm weather.
This week was no different. It was a good week of running, weight lifting,swimming, walking and just enjoying summer to its fullest. I can’t complain – in fact, this week’s activities made me content! It’s good to feel good!
I cannot complain about this week’s weather. Was it hot some days? Yes. But it truly felt like summertime and I loved it! I kept to my outdoor runs and the sun rising, and I felt the endorphins all week long. I wish I could bottle up this feeling come winter when it’s cold and dark and I despite the mornings.
Again this week I got in some good runs – a long run, a few regular runs – some walks, my lifting, and also another swim! This is truly the most swimming I’ve done in my life for working out and although I don’t crave it (like I do running), I’m glad I’m keeping it up. Here’s how it looked:
Summer truly goes by too fast. June is already over, which means we’re almost halfway through! Since it’s my favorite season, I wish it would slow down. I am not ready for July – despite loving it so much!
June was a pretty good month mileage/running wise. Some highlights:
Sleeping in! Though I’m still tired — probably because I’m going to bed a lot later with summer sports, etc.
Continuing my weight training, even on vacation
Swam some laps! This is a big deal for me – it’s stepping outside my comfort zone by (1) swimming and (2) working out at night, which I hate
Welp, like a lot of people in the US, we had a HEAT WAVE this week and it was HOT IN CLEVELAND! It was hot and humid, but we made the most of it. Did I get in shorter runs than usual? OH YES. Fewer walks? YES. But I still got in some running and lifting, plus a few days of fun with the kids to celebrate my son’s birthday!
I love Boston! It’s a city full of history, with plenty to do, and easy to get around. Plus, Boston holds a special place in my heart — it’s where B and I met while at Boston College! I love the city, and we recently went back with our kids for the first time. I hadn’t been back since I was pregnant with FW in 2016 and found that the city is still incredibly walkable, packed with history, and surprisingly kid-friendly.
Spending time in Boston looked a little different from it did when I was in my 20s – but there were still so many fun things to do! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning with little ones in tow, here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy Boston as a family.
Getting Around
Boston’s public transportation system (the “T”) is easy to navigate and a fun adventure for kids. Ours loved riding the train—and bonus: kids ride free! We just purchased a week-long adult pass and we were good to go for our 7-day stay.
Where to Eat with Kids
The North End (Little Italy)
Whether you’re with kids or not, this charming neighborhood is a must-visit. It’s packed with Italian restaurants, and most are kid-friendly, especially if you dine out for dinner early. A few favorites:
Mike’s Pastry – Iconic cannoli tourist spot. It’s cash only, but worth it! We tried other cannoli places in the North End but this still came out on top.
Pizzeria Regina – Famous Boston pizza with a location in the North End.
Lucia’s – A cozy spot we’ve enjoyed in the past (reservations available).
Nando’s – Great for families! They even made off-menu spaghetti and meatballs for our kids. They also take reservations.
Prudential Center
The food court – Options for even your pickiest eaters.
Legal Sea Foods – I’m not saying this is THE PLACE to go for the best seafood in Boston. Yes, it’s a chain, but it’s a Boston staple with a kids’ menu. They have several spots, but went to the one in the Prudential Center, which is easy to reach by T.
Quincy Market at Faneuil Hall
This is bustling food hall where everyone can find something they love, or at least everyone in our family did. From orange chicken to acai bowls to hot dogs to clam chowder, there really is a great selection here. Warning – if you go on weekends it’s BUSY and hard to find a seat, but weekdays are less packed and more manageable, especially with hangry kids. There are often free samples in the market and street performers outside too!
Ice Cream
We went in the summer, so yes, ice cream deserves a category of its own. Here are a few local spots:
JP Licks – A local ice cream favorite with spots throughout the city.
Gelato in the North End – Always a hit after dinner, if you end up not stopping at Mike’s (or even if you do!).
Jamie’s Ice Cream – Smaller place with outdoor seating in Brookline but right off the T. Their flavors are so good, I love “Dump Him” the most!
White Mountain Creamery – A staple if you’re near BC
Fun Things to Do with Kids
Boston Duck Tour
A land-and-water tour with a pirate guide and lots of quacking. Super touristy, but the kids loved it. Look for early morning discounts or combo tickets with other attractions. We took the 9:30 a.m. tour to snag the early-duck discount. This was one of the highlights of the trip for sure! The kids loved “driving” the boat when it went off the land and into the water.
Boston Public Garden
Ride the swan boats and visit the Make Way for Ducklings statues. A peaceful, picturesque spot for a stroll.
Freedom Trail
Follow the red line through historic sites like Paul Revere’s house. Great for older kids or history buffs. We only did some of this with our kids, since the 3-year-old couldn’t care less – but I’m hopeful my older kids will remember some of what we saw when they learn more about the American Revolution!
Boston Common
America’s oldest public park, and it’s perfect for running around or relaxing.
Newbury Street
Upscale shopping and dining but there are fun kid-friendly stops like a Harry Potter store and Ben & Jerry’s. Beautiful for just walking down on your way to the Boston Public Garden.
Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market
Shops, food, and entertainment all in one place. We got souvenirs, lunch, and walked around a few times. Our kids loved the street performers (and yes, there was some breakdancing involved by my oldest, too!).
Sports!
Our kids enjoy watching professional sports teams, and Boston has plenty to choose from. Since we went in the summer, we caught a baseball game at Fenway and it was great for the kids to see some ball in America’s oldest ballpark. (See a pattern? Lots of OLD things in Boston!)
Playground & Splash Pad
There are playgrounds throughout the city, but one that we frequented a few times was right outside the Government Center T stop and made for a quick break on our way to and from the T.
Rainy/Hot Day Options
New England Aquarium – A highlight of our trip! Penguins, sea turtles, and touch tanks. Our 3-year-old still talks about touching a sting ray and watching the penguins eat.
Museum of Science – A bit harder to get to, but worth it if you have time.
Boston Public Library – Beautiful and right near the Boston Marathon finish line, which is worth checking out, as well as the memorial.
The Prudential Center – A big, air-conditioned mall with food and shops (mentioned above also).
Bonus: Visit Boston College
If you’re near Chestnut Hill, consider a visit to Boston College! It’s where our story began! Stop by Cleveland Circle for a bite to eat at Pino’s Pizza and let me know if you want other food or coffee recs nearby.
Final Tips
Boston is a city best explored on foot or by T. We’ve driven and parked in our hotel before, but this time we flew into the city and took the T from the airport to our hotel. We also discovered a VERY affordable bus to and from downtown to the airport (Logan Express is FREE to downtown and just $3 to the airport). From Fenway to the North End, everything is accessible and easy to get to! And if you do make it to Mike’s Pastry, grab an extra cannoli for us, it’s now FW’s new favorite dessert!
Here’s some more inspiration from my recent Instagram reel:
I did something new this week – I got in TWO swims! My kids had swimming lessons each night, so two nights I was able to get in some short swims while they were at lessons. It was nice to do something else to supplement my running and weights, and even though my swims were short, I was proud of my attempt to get in some laps.
Otherwise, it was a pretty standard workout week – here’s what it looked like:
The title of this blog post should definitely be sung to the tune of “Summer Loving” (Summer Nights) from Greece. Do you remember that movie? Because it’s what came to my mind as I was typing the name of the post.
While it doesn’t truly feel like SUMMER here yet (read: not too hot or humid), I have been loving the summer schedule! Kids are off school, which means I no longer have to be done running and showered/ready for my day by 6:15. I get to sleep in more than an hour (!) and have been enjoying the additional hour of sleep plus the daylight during my runs. This week, while feeling the pain of being back from a wonderful vacation, I was so happy to be able to run outside during daylight and run some new routes at home. There’s something about running during daylight to brighten your mood!
I Crashed The Web 