Morning Temp

This week has taken a turn for the cold — this was this morning's reading when we got up at 6:00. No frost yet, but maybe tonight....

Blueberries

Mmm...them's good eatin'.

Monarch Butterfly

It's late summer, but some of the wildflowers are still in bloom, and there were plenty of butterflies, even after a cold start to the day.

Graveyard Fields

There are no actual graveyards here — it's called that because of a bunch of old, overgrown stumps that look like tombstones.

Throwing Rocks in the Water

Second Falls

We've had rain lately, but not much — there's usually a lot more water coming down these rocks.

Picnic Site View

Beyond those rocks, it's a pretty long drop....

Picnic Site

Above Second Falls on Yellowstone Prong of the Pigeon River, Graveyard Fields (near mile marker 419 on the Blue Ridge Parkway).

Parkway View

We went for a hike at Graveyard Fields off the Blue Ridge Parkway this past weekend. Gorgeous day, gorgeous views. (This funny-shaped hill probably has a name, but I can't remember it.)

Cam Reading to Ian

This is becoming increasingly common — Cam genuinely enjoys reading to his little brother.

Lego Farm!

Ian seems to do everything with exclamation points. (!)

Joanna & Elena

Ian Smiling

Lego People!

On the left is "Lego Mama," on the right "Lego Dada."

Elena Getting Changed

Years from now, this picture can be used against her for blackmail purposes.

Playing with Pappy

Cam & His Pokédex

If you don't know what a Pokédex is already, you probably don't need to know.

Playing with Blue, Magenta, & Periwinkle

He now sleeps with all three every night (and plays with the Lego farm in the background much of the day).

Blowing Out Birthday Candles

Two boys, one cake. Left side: Blue's Clues. Right side: Pokémon.

Daddy's Little Princess

Elena seems to be much happier — less screaming, more sleeping, better poo (goals we all share) — now that her mama has cut dairy and soy out of her diet. Poor Karen, though.

Unique Technique

Ian still isn't very accomplished at unwrapping presents and often needs help. This morning, though, he got a bit better when he started using his toes.

More Pokémon!

Nana, Pappy, Auntie Karen, Uncle Arthur, and Elena arrived at around 10:30 with more presents. Cam now has more Pokémon toys, books, games, and DVDs than there are stars in the heavens....

Ian & the Sheep

Watching Pokémon

One of Cam's presents was the first season Pokémon on DVD. They were wrapt all morning.

Reading & Playing