I love kids (most of the time)

I really, really, really, adore my children. They're funny and smart and imaginative, and I love to be around them. They bring a lot of happiness to my life. This particular day, however, I did not have such loving feelings. Last week I decided to work on photography while taking my children on a nature walk. I am to blame for failing in this endeavor. I didn't pack snacks, it was close to dinner time, the trail was longer than expected, Taylor hadn't had a nap and I really was focused on taking pictures. Needless to say, it wasn't the most enjoyable nature walk. Lesson learned: Never try to get in "me" time while trying to entertain children--especially close to dinner time.

Another hike

We went hiking again a few weekends ago. It was a beautiful fall day in New England. We played soccer, Landon went mountain biking, we ate a healthy lunch of peanut butter and jellies, and Landon made a stick pile (one of his favorite past times).

Why, you ask, is Landon wearing a helmet while making
a stick pile and not while riding his bike in the above pics?
I don't know.

Taylor's birthday

Here are the pictures of Taylor's parties. We celebrated at home on her birthday. Landon was as excited as she was about the presents. Then we did her party at Piers Park--one of our favorites here in Boston.

Taylor is Two!!

I can't believe Taylor is two years old! She had the best time on her birthday. She is feeling quite girly these days, now that she has baby dolls, and tea sets, and purses, and jewelry. She still plays with balls and cars and guns, though. Her actually birthday pictures are in the works. We took these pictures for her two year old photo shoot. She thought she was so cool. I think it was her best day. Man, I love this girl!!

Happy Columbus Day and Thanksgiving (if you're Canadian).

Grandma's visit

Grandma came to visit. She brought with her:
Love from Washington,
An appetite for chocolate,
Way too many books,
Her "A" game for scrabble nights,
Her hikin' shoes for the tower,
The ability to share us with Erin's brother the day she got here,
Way too much money to spend on the kids,
Baby expertise to share,
Patience to sit in traffic to the fair to see the RCMP,
A listening ear, and
Great, great company.
I hope I didn't tell on you too much, mom. Landon's words as we left the airport after dropping her off: "Ah, man....no more treats now."
We love you and had a great time! Thanks for visiting us.

On Grandma's first day, Erin's brother surprised us with a visit
as well. We drove to Salem, MA where Erin was doing
his externship

Topsfield Fair. It took us forever to get there and it was way too
crowded, but it was all worth it to see the RCMP.







Time with the new baby.








One night we climbed up a stone tower close
to our home. The view is amazing.





Taylor's favorite gift from Grandma.
She asks to wear it everyday.
Thanks Grandma.