Fall 'crazy' Break and beyond

When Fall Break came around, I was more than happy to take a break from the routine of school, activities, cooking and homework.  We had Dave for a full week, no interruptions.  It was bliss for the most part while we had a quiet few days at the lake with our puppy, who now loves the beaches and boat.  We also stopped by Auburn the day after a big win to witness Toomer's Corner and the TP celebration.  Kobe and the kids did not know what to think of it.  Of course, they soon found the entire mess tons of fun.

The latter part of the week, we flew to upstate New York to visit Dave's mom and family.  Unfortunately, Dave's 92 year old grandmother, Nan, passed away while we were there.  Ninety-two is amazing age for anyone, and Nan is in a much better place.  

The Adirondacks were in full color.  This is the first that Olivia and Zach have seen (or remember) of this area of the country. Olivia was three months old for her only trip to Nonnie's.  What a wonderful time to visit!  We missed a photo with Dave's cousin, Sue and her daughter, Katelyn, who turned 16 while we were there.  Happy 16th to you!  This is Dave's other cousin, Larry and his wife, Denise and daughter, Danielle.  

Dave and I celebrated our 9th wedding anniversary on Sept. 22.  Dave surprised me with a trip north of his mom's and we stayed at a B&B, called Inn by the Mill.  The Inn is historic for being a stopping point in the Underground Railroad.  The innkeeper was an interesting character, to say the least.  He didn't let us get a word in edgewise, so we did say the least!  The Hog Haus, seriously, it housed several hogs during the day, was our room for the night.  It was overflowing with hog decorations.  Where do you find all of that stuff, anyway?

Dinner was at Beardsley Castle, which is said to be haunted.  Check it out during Halloween on the Sci-Fi channel.  They will be airing a special on the castle.  We didn't witness any ghosts, but we did put back a nice dirty martini in the dungeon bar.  Guess what?!  They had gluten free appetizer bread for me and it was wonderful!  The food was fabulous and the castle is in a beautiful part of the country.  We finished our trip off with a hike up the rocky riverbed the next morning.  It was a slippery, but we love a good hike anytime. Happy 9th Anniversary to us!

Dave and I took the kids to the Utica zoo.  This zoo has been around for a VERY long time, witnessed by the surroundings, but we all has so much fun.  We will all remember the little fox named Sherlock.  He reminded us of Kobe.  

After delayed flights from NY and a late night/early morning arrival, we settled back in.  Gavin's 6th birthday party beckoned us out of the house to celebrate.  It was rainy, but I don't think any of the kids cared.  They had a silly string fight, watched a movie, decorated cupcakes and ate lots and lots of candy.  Olivia was so pooped after the party, she passed out with a lollipop in her mouth.  Cavities anyone?

It was nice to be back home, and made me appreciate 'routine' a little more.