Five for Friday- Summer Edition

I'm linking up with Doodle Bugs' Five for Friday Linky Party!  This is what has been going on in my world this week, fellow bloggers...

I've been thinking about opening up my own TPT store for a while now.  Little by little I've starting writing down ideas and beginning to create products.  I'm up to about 9 products now.  I say "about" because I haven't quite finished my 9th product.  I'll be taking the steps to open the TPT store sometime soon to share some word study and reading response activities.  As I use the products with my students during the school year, I'll add them to my store.  Keep checking for updates! :)

I spent some time at the lake house earlier in the week with my family.  "Aunt T" (my sister) and "Poppie" (my father) joined the twins on a nature trail for some walks.  We stick to the paved trails to make it easier for everybody. :)

My husband and I often "park hop" with the kids to keep them busy and outdoors when the weather is nice.  When we returned home from the lake house, we took them to one of our favorite parks. Discoveries were being made all over the place!  The kids spotted a butterfly, so they sat down to observe.  My daughter also worked up the courage to pick up a worm my husband found.  My son, on the other hand, preferred to look at it from afar.  

So, I may be off-the-grid technology-wise for the weekend to go camping with my family.  I'm not sure if I'll be able to blog while I'm there.  I think I may get some eye-rolling by the in-laws if I bring my computer.  I already got the eye-rolling when I asked, "Do they have Wi-Fi on the campground?  I have my July Blogging Challenge to do!"  You see, they're "real" campers, meaning no technology is allowed.  They did agree, however, that I can take pictures with my iPhone.  This will be our first time camping with the kids, so my camera is a must.  

My husband is a Craigslist Guru and has bartered his band gear trailer for a popup camper.  His band career has taken a back seat since our children were born, but he still plays music.  It's who he is and I dig it. :) Anyway, we're going to test out the camper on our trip.  We'll be headed to Rock Cut State Park in Rockford, Illinois.  

Here are some pictures of us at Dick's Sporting Goods picking out some camping equipment.  My kids instantly associate camping with fishing, hence they're checking out the poles and tackle boxes.

Took a trip to one of my favorite stores, Target!  We are in the process of switching up the rooms in our home to allow a spot for guests.  Below are some possibilities for decorating the guest room. 

Have a happy Friday!