The Birthday Boy

Two years ago, on the 22nd of September, my ornery, lovable, independent, silly and super sweet little Nehemiah was born. This year we celebrated his birthday with his favorite dinner (completely devoid of nutrition), pizza and chocolate covered donuts!

Ah, but donuts don't count as cake do they? Well not here. For dessert we had a football themed cookie cake. While the message may have meant "Are You Ready for Football" I think "Are You Ready for a 2-year-old" may be more appropriate.

YUM!!

Nehemiah got a putt putt type golf game for a gift and after a week of swinging the golf clubs around and hitting people and/or furniture, I am beginning to think that may not have been the best gift:) Oh well, bring on the terribly terrific two's!

A Zoo Within A Zoo!

When our family goes to the zoo for an afternoon, I am sure all kinds of things go through people's minds. Our children are right at home among the chimpanzees and the giraffes. Until this spring, Micah truly thought we were visiting Noah's cousins (the monkeys) when we would go:) And on occasion, I am sure someone has thought our brood closer to wild animals than little angels. But this trip was different, this time we visited our favorite zoo, with one of our favorite families, The Walfords. Now you see where I am going with the zoo analogy? The kids did great and we enjoyed our day even if it was so hot that most animals were sleeping or camped out in the shade. Hey, when you travel with your own zoo, who needs animals?

Descending on Arriving at the zoo.

Where to go first?

Can you see the one red lemur and the 4 ring-tail lemurs?

Seems counterproductive doesn't it?

The wild animals playing in their natural habitat:)

More of the same.

Now all domestic:)

The Walfords looking like a National Geographic Cover!

A very realistic snake sculpture.

Ahhh, the joy of large families, everyone helps out, no matter who you belong to:)

Now back to civilization, girls in one van, boys in the other!

Mountain Excursion

A few weekends ago we met our friends the Jones' in the mountains for a hike to a waterfall, apple picking and a picnic lunch! The kids always love day trips with friends and when there is food involved, watch out!

Ready to hike up the trail and walk off some energy:)

Part of the scenic trail up to the falls.

We made it to the top of Pearson Falls! Now for some quick family shots, before we head back down.

A quick stop to enjoy the view one last time.

And now, lunch for our hungry crew!

Once we finished up at the falls, we drove over to Sky Top for one of our two annual apple trips. We try and go early to catch the Honey Crisps and the Asian Pears, but this year they were all picked even before the end of August:( We still had a great time picking and sipping on apple cider slushies.

Someone can't wait to get started!

A few more years and Elijah will be a pro.

Baskets are full, so back down the hills we go.

A beautiful day, full of beautiful memories, spent with beautiful friends!

First Day of School 2011

Our first day of school started much like the others...way to early!

Calla and Noah waiting for the bus.

Just stay little:)

Bella had Kindergarten testing the first day so she went in later that morning.

Home already!

I think everyone enjoyed the school themed cookies waiting for them after school:)

The following week was school for everyone, including the Kindergartners. The girls love to hang out together at the bus stop. Poor Noah is sorely outnumbered!

This year Bella and her friend Lydia share a seat.

Another family tradition the first week of school is Football Friday Night! Calla's friend Arianna came also.

Here is what the field looked like at 7:41pm, shortly after the game started.

Here is what the sky looked like minutes later when the first quarter was over. Jeff gathered up the kids and ran back to the car in just enough time to beat most of the rain. They did eventually call the game and replay it the next day.

Another start to another school year and another reminder that our children are growing up so fast!