We greeted the first day of summer early so we could get into the White mountains mid-morning to avoid late afternoon thunderstorms. Maybe it was the early morning or the huge meal (Damien's birthday supper) the night before but I was cranky and sluggish all the way up. We had a little shower up and on the way down but the summit, although gray and foreboding, was dry and we ended the hike in tree-dappled sunshine.
Top of East Royce Mountain: View to the west, yes those clouds were coming our way
Down East Royce Mountain: I was out of my state of self-pity by this point
After our hike up the 3,100 foot East Royce Mountain we headed back towards home and out to The JED Collective, "a group of organizers, parents, cultural workers, farmers and healers", for a potluck party to celebrate the summer solstice. In addition to the great locally grown veggies, meats & breads we enjoyed the company of friends, the privilege of meeting new folks, a soccer game in the summer evening light, and lots of romping around in a field of wildflowers.
Solstice all ages soccer game
Wildflowers: Celine's holding homemade doll Isabella in arms while picking wildflowers
It was the perfect Tougas family summer solstice. A hike up a gorgeous Maine mountain with a breath-taking view and then supper, consisting of many Maine grown foods, with friends and community folk.
Vanessa and Manis: JED friends
Renee...
I thought that you had a splendid talent to portrait your beautiful children, but maybe you have a magical touch to photograph everybody! What a pleasure, and an honor, to find me & Manis in your page! Thank you for the Solstice Buttercup Crown! love, Va