Thursday, July 30, 2009

Our Trip to NY

We had a lot of fun and good time with the family. Didn't get to see friends this time due to their plans and commitments, but I'll be home again in August and will catch up with them then.

Mom took us to their new public library. Quite a place!








Colin.





Steph reading to Ian.





One of the many mobiles in the children's section upstairs.







The landscaping is excellent. Makes you want to bring a book out their and relax to the sounds of the waterfall.






Frogs read to their kids, too!




Day 2 we went to a State park. We had so much fun we went back the next day for more fun in the sun, swimming, and a visit to the nature center.

They had an art exhibit featuring these works of intarsia (a technique of woodworking consisting of interlocking pieces). Each piece is precisely fitted to its neighbors. No stains are used, just clear finish, so everywhere you see a color change represents a border between two pieces of wood. Incredible!










Of course, a nature center has its share of animal exhibits as well.



Good doggie!


















Here, kitty - kitty!


Rick, Ian, Colin and I decided to take a hike. It wasn't a long one but proved to be a challenge. We ascended some 900 feet in .86 miles. Most of the way up and all the way down, I carried Colin. Whew! Sweaty!





We made it! (Notice how fresh Colin looks.)





On the trail with Uncle Rick.






"My carry you, Daddy. My carry you." We tried that a few times but in the end it worked out better if I was carrying him. Hard to do, but hard to resist when he looks at you like that!





It was quite an effort, but we got to the top. It was a little hazy, but what the heck. It was fun. Toward the end we had to rally our spirits. The way down felt easier, if only psychologically. We chanted over and over, "Fun part - easy ride - get a drink - go swimmin' !" Sometimes you just gotta keep on goin' !






It's nice when someone is sitting on your shoulders, pushing your head down as you try to navigate tricky terrain. You should try it!






"That was easy, Daddy! Let's play!"





Yeah! WATER!!!





R-2 made of sand imported from Tatooine.





Grandma with Colin.





You know you had a full day and a good time when...





Back at the apartment, Ian and Tara fed the honksters.





And Colin helped Grandpa with the more difficult crossword clues. G: "Five letter word for Pacifist? " C: "Binky!" G: "Right!"





Da boys.





Rick tries to reconstruct my tower after causing the top piece to come down. Not so easy is it, Brother?!





Well, it was good to see everyone as always. We saw Marion and Jeff and Stella, as well. Thanks and see ya next time!!!



1 : A remote control boat on the pond at Mom and Dad's.

2 : Ian gobbling at the nature center.

2 comments:

Gramma O said...

Grandpa and I and Aunt Mayen are so glad you got to visit us. We just love our library, also and were happy that you could see it, too. And the lake and picnic were such fun. Glad you got to hike as well. It was a wonderful time and we hope that you can come again real soon.

Michelle said...

Your kids look like they got quite a workout while they were visiting New York - I love hiking! There are some great trails called the Kennebec Highlands in Oakland that are kid-friendly. Hope to see you guys soon!