Thankful

This kid loves his Papa. Lately he's been pretty lovey with Grandma but when it comes to playing, Papa is a sucker for doing whatever Gavin demands! He drags Papa around the house/yard making all kinds of demands. Push me. Pull me. Cover me with leaves! I'd say "poor papa" but I think he kinda likes it!

Algonquin Park

Continuing on with the fall traditions theme....
We will often stop in Algonquin park on our way home from Bala. It is one of the most beautiful places during fall. On this particular day, it was cool but there were several people out canoeing and enjoying one the last days out on the lake. Gavin was excited to stop and have a rest from the long drive.

When we were in Bala we bought Gavin this sweet little hat. I just loved it the moment he put it on. Ethan also got one but I didn't get a picture of the two of them. Someone did! Susanne, if it was you, can you please send it to me? I would love to have it!

I figure, when they are young and still very influenced by our decisions, we should make them look as cute as possible. Shawn says that's half the battle... but a hat goes along way with me and cuteness!

Bala Cranberry Festival

I know. It's been awhile and things are a little "old news" now but I still want to share the stories whether they are old or recent. They're too good to let pass by.

The weekend after Thanksgiving, every year, we head up to Muskoka country for a fall tradition that we LOVE! The Bala Cranberry Festival! And yes, we do love cranberries. But that's not the only reason we go... we love the atmosphere... fresh fall days... it always rains!

This year was extra special because we took our trailer and camped at Gullwing. The Fillmore's came along with their huge 31 foot trailer to join us (only 19 feet!). The best part was all the kids. Gavin loved having Maggie, Mitchell and Madison to keep him entertained.

On Saturday, the Antunes' family came and also Erin and baby Jessica. There were 7 adults and 7 children! We headed into the festival, all bundled up. First stop...Cranberry Marsh for some wine tasting and the popular cranberry chutney and peameal bacon sandwich! Delicious!

After, we went to all of the vendors...shopping of course and to the rides for some kiddie fun. Gavin had his first pony ride... too cute!

It was so great to catch up with my girls! I miss them so much between visits and yet it's like no time has passed when we get together. Oh, except we all have kids and husbands now!

I love a good fall tradition but it's even better when it's shared with friends!

It's happening....

My little baby boy is getting so old. He just seems older and it scares me to death! Tonight we went to buy his first pair of hockey skates and a helmet. He starts skating this upcoming Monday. He looked so cute in his little skates and helmet but it broke my heart. I thought about how wonderful this new stage will be but also how he'll never be my baby again. Cutest thing though... he kept talking about "jumping and jumping" when he gets on the ice. He said that's what Dora does. We replied... yes but hockey players don't jump. Bad...I know. Anyway, I just want more time. I just want more days of snuggles and songs and stories; more mornings of him climbing into bed with us. I just want more. Gotta go. I feel a need to go give him another kiss goodnight.

So Thankful

Today I was talking to Gavin about Thanksgiving and being thankful. He was so funny. He began thanking for all kinds of things like kiwi and fall leaves. He didn't really understand but I sure did like hearing the gratitude in his voice for the little things. It's not really about the big stuff anyway. It's good to be thankful for all the little things that bring delight and contentment to our lives... even kiwi.
We headed out for our annual fall tradition.. picking the pumpkin at Campbell's Orchard. We got all kinds of fun things like gourds, apple cider, fresh broccoli, apple chips and yes, the pumpkin. It's a tradition. I LOVE traditions. They give me that special something to look forward to.
Today, I am thankful for so many things. But mostly, I am thankful for my family and that feeling of contentment that I feel right now. It may change, but right now... I feel it.