I flew to Buffalo with Ellie and James and was able to see lots of friends and family when we were there. We went to meet our newest cousin, Rosie, Kaffy and Brian's new dog, we saw Quinn and Owen, Grandma and Grandpa and went to the zoo with Oscar and Caroline, Elyse, Max and Ellen, and Alessia, Elizabeth and Amy. It was so fun to get together with so many people.
While we were in California, Ellie and James were fortunate to spend time without us at Mimi and Papa's house. I'm not sure who had more fun - Ellie and James, my parents, or us! They went to the Burns family reunion, the zoo, the Erie County Fair and had the time of their lives. Ellie was especially excited that she got to have five nights alone at Mimi and Papa's - without me! Part of the reason why we had such a relaxing vaca in California was that we knew our kids were in such wonderful hands.
We spent an amazing few days in Napa. It was one of our best trips ever. Everything was perfect about it...our hotel, the food, the wine, the weather. It was very relaxing and so hard to leave. Some of the highlights include dinner at Farm, Bouchon and Bottega, wonderful tastings at various vineyards and sitting by the pool without having to supervise children. It was true bliss. We can't wait for our next trip there!
Muir Woods
in Tiburon
a view of the Rock
We had an amazing time in SF with our friends Caroline and Keat. We spent our first two nights in California there and went to Muir Woods, Tiburon, Sausalito and also spent time in the city. The climate was quite a change from the sweltering East Coast heat but we didn't mind it one bit. We enjoyed many delicious meals out and had lots of laughs with old friends. It was a great kick off to our California vacation.
When "Uncle" came to visit, he insisted that Ellie make beaded necklaces with him. While she would've preferred watching ESPN or talking sports, she gave into him and had a great time. In all seriousness, we all had a fun time when Adam came up from NYC. We are already looking forward to his Labor Day visit.
There's nothing like a summer evening at the pool. Ellie enjoyed her first smores this summer and James loves playing at the playground. Unfortunately, these nights are numbered...
Bridget came for a nice long visit earlier this month. E&J had so much fun with their favorite aunt. We spent lots of time at the pool and beach and Bridget and I even went to the Indigo Girls concert while she was here. Come back soon, Bridge!