New Bed, the Bath, Sliding, and of course, APPLES!

September so far has been hectic. It began with Ayden graduating from crib to toddler bed. Of course it isn't as significant as it sounds, we just took the front end off of his crib. We've been very lucky with him though. For some reason he refuses to get out of his bed until one of us opens the door in the morning (or after a nap) and tells him he can get out. Not that I'm complaining, but as much as he purposely defies us we were surprised he doesn't get up.

Here Ayden gets ready for bed with story time in his "new" bed.

This month we also decided to get him some "Bath Crayons" to play with.....and play he did.

Ayden showing his artistic side.....we just hope it comes off.

The artist at work

September in upstate New York means the start of apple season! We decided to visit a larger orchard this year and man did it ever pay off. This place had more apple trees than I've ever seen! Not to mention one of the better bakeries I've been to. We knew it was good when they put out the Frisbee size cinnamon rolls! Anyways, they gave us a map of the orchard and which varieties were in season. We stuck with Gala and McIntosh since those are Ayden and my favorite varieties.

Ayden helping me pick some Gala.

Ayden a sea of Gala apple trees.

We left the orchard with 6lbs of apples. Not the greatest horde, but believe me, we're just getting started for this season. Fall in this area definitely has its perks, including nice cool weather. We do are best to take advantage of it since we know what is coming next. So, to end this part of September's blog, here are some pics of Ayden and his slide.

August 2008; Reunions, Family Visits, and a Really Big Lake

Ok, our story continues. First, let's answer the question about Ayden; are the terrible 2s really terrible? Well, that depends on who you ask. If you ask Rachel and I, we'll tell you yes they are. If you ask his grand parents (on both sides) they'll tell you vengeance is sweet. Little consolation to us, but they did find time to visit him this month.

Here Ayden attempts to make a welcoming sign for his grandparents.

Ayden and Rachel's Dad (David)

Rachel and Ayden at the Purington Family Reunion.

David and Great Uncle Harold

Ayden and Rachel meeting a long lost relative at the Purington Family Reunion in Vermont. Well, I guess you can say Rachel and Ayden are the long lost relatives.

The Purington's version of Where's Waldo? Can you find the Klavans?
(I'm an Orioles fan)

On the way home from the reunion we all decided to stop at Lake Champlain because it was there. I was hoping Champ would make a cameo, but he snuffed us. I swear, a little publicity and suddenly you think you're a legend or something.

Rachel and her dad posing with Lake Champlain in the background

Ayden pushing his stroller by Lake Champlain.
I tried and failed to get him to push me. Little booger.

After our little excursion to Vermont, David and Nancy had to go back home. Ayden was very upset. This was a short lived emotion because my parents showed up shortly after, gifts in hand for all....including their unborn grand daughter (apparently my mother has 28 years of pent up girl shopping stored up). We only had one good picture from that visit because we spent most of the time getting the computer (thanks again Mom!) up and running so I stole a picture from a June visit that I thought was cute.

Rachel and my father strike a pose at Collins Park.

My father and Ayden reading a book from a June visit.

Well, that about does it for August. Next up Apple Picking!
Look for that post sometime soon.

Well, so much has happened in the last couple of months that I could spend pages and pages writing. So I've decided to make the next couple of posts sum up that month's experiences using pictures instead.....I can hear all the sighs of relief.... To begin - A visit from Jody, Aunt Brooke, Ashley and AJ visit

Ayden, Ashley, and AJ hanging out at the Saratoga County Fair

Jody, Ashley, and Rachel posing in front of Congress Springs in Saratoga Springs

Aunt Brooke and Ayden "pregaming" his birthday


Shortly after they departed, Ayden turned 2. We celebrated with Red Robin

Ayden digging in!

Ayden and I enjoying his 2nd birthday dinner at Red Robin


Well, that sums up July. Next up August......but that'll wait until next time. How else are we supposed to build up the suspense? Will the terrible 2s come on with a vengence? Will more family visit? Check back to find out!!!!!!!