Summer's Sunset

Each year, we head out to Skaneateles at the end of summer for playground time, dinner and ice cream in the village and a walk on the pier. This summer has been amazing and this weekend has come much too soon. This past year has been challenging in so many ways and this summer was a perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, friendship and family and good health and happiness.  We are so fortunate to have this time together; you just can't blame us for always wanting just a little more summer, can you?

An Apple A Day...

....Even on opening day of the orchards at Beak and Skiff keeps us healthy and happy and reminds us that even as summer ends, there is a lot to look forward to this fall.  

The Great NYS Fair

Our family took our annual trip to the Great NYS Fair last weekend.  We braved the crowds and enjoyed the sunshine as Reed and Willa rode rides and ponies, experienced a dinosaur adventure, sang karaoke and won prizes.  We saw lots of animals, ate delicious foods and both kids got to bounce high on bungee cords.  12 hours at the fair with two enthusiastic and energetic kids results in two exhausted parents (and children) who will happily rest up to be recharged for next year's adventure. 

Growing Up

So when Willa wakes up from a nap, Reed usually runs into her room and climbs into her crib to comfort her and make her smile.  Now it is time for her "big girl bed" and, for the first time in 6 years, our house has no crib. Kindergarten starts this week, too. Growing up all over the place here.  Sniff, sniff, smile. 

Working Wonders

Reed and his mom had a date one recent rainy afternoon to Wonderworks. Reed had been there before with his class and was excited to share his favorite attractions!  He happily showed his mom the "spinny tunnel", the 4-D roller coaster simulator, the bed of nails, the bubbles, the virtual games and the space capsules.  Reed's new favorite activity was the ropes course, which he deftly navigated with ease!  It was a "Wonder"ful day at Wonderworks! 

Our Little Wild Animals

A week or so ago, we went (back) to the Wild Animal Experience, a new zoo in Chittenango.  We saw the giraffe and many other exotic zoo animals, fed fallow deer, bounced in the bounce houses, and paddled around on the little pond.  At the end of the adventure, we were sure glad that Reed and Willa were the only two little wild animals that came home with us!

If You Love Something....

...set it free.  And watch with joy and wonder the butterflies, whose metamorphosis from caterpillars to chrysalises to Painted Lady butterflies you've facilitated, test their wings and find their own homes here on the farm.