How’s your summer been?

It’s hard to believe that we’re already starting to reminisce about the summer months and look forward to fall—the start of school, somewhat cooler temperatures, and (of course!) art walks.

Thus far, the Smiths’ summer has been jam-packed. The whole family kicked off summer with a week spent relaxing at a Sullivan’s Island beach house. That includes all six grandchildren … or seven, if you count the baby on the way. (Be sure to look for some beachy scenes from both Shannon and Jennifer at upcoming shows).

The family at Sullivan’s Island

Speaking of the baby on the way, Shannon has spent the summer preparing for her September 7 due date. After “baby-mooning” with Clay in Monhegan, Maine in July, Shannon was showered with baby gifts just last weekend at a party thrown by Jennifer and friends.

Shannon also spent time with her family in New York City and Holden Beach, North Carolina.

Jennifer visited the Big Apple with her family, too. They rooted on California Chrome at the Belmont Stakes and spent a day soaking up inspiration from the old masters at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

And besides spending her days both painting and playing out at Meggett, Betty traveled to Northport, Maine with Cody for two weeks, where she ate lobster rolls, went on day trips, and spent a lot of time sitting right here:

She traveled the mid coast photographing for future paintings. She will be part of a group show at Star Gallery in Northeast Harbor next summer.

And Betty also visited with Anglin Smith Fine Art artist Colin Page while in Maine.

Mark your calendars: The Smiths will be presenting works inspired by their warm-weather adventures, beach jaunts, and summer days spent here in the lowcountry at an art show called “Summer Past.” After an opening reception on Friday, September 5 (from 5 to 8pm), the show will run through September 19. We hope to see you there and hear about your summer.

Here are a few more photos from the summer months:

“Memommy” with some of the little ones

Eating lobster rolls at the famous Dip Net Restaurant in Port Clyde, Maine

Leigh and her daughter Ellen joined the Smiths at Sullivan’s