Week 43

We've had so much rain lately, that when this weekend offered up a beautiful sunny day, we wanted to make the most of it. We went exploring in a park in Brisol, just over the state line that I had seen in passing, but had never been to before. What a gem! It has wonderful playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas, which is what we sought out. We found a table and grill tucked next to a pretty stream. It reminded me so much of the Chimneys in the Smokey Mountains (which is by far one of my most favorite places). Lily was dying to go into the stream, but we certainly were not dressed for that, next time we will bring 'water shoes.'


As far as updates on CJ, she is definitely 'finding her voice.' We have nonspecific 'mama' and 'dada' and all kinds of other sounds, that sometimes come in waves when she's in the mood. Her top left tooth is coming in more and the top right is threatening to make an appearance, I have a feeling the poor thing will be snaggle-toothed for awhile.

I wanted to add this picture, because I just love the way she sits with her little feet crossed...

Daytrip to the Carl Sandburg Home

The weather today was so nice that we couldn't help taking a day trip out to the Blue Ridge Parkway area in North Carolina and exploring around a bit. Fortunately, we found the Carl Sandburg Home, that featured a picnic area, beautiful flowers and a goat farm. Though it wasn't quite fall yet, you could feel it on the way. So the weather was just right for our little adventure and we made the most of it!



Sweet picture....


Not so sweet picture....


Sweet picture again....


Artsy


The only picture of the actual Sandburg home that we ended up with...but you'll see that we've got the goats covered!


Trailblazer


Just sweet.


Observing from a respectful distance.


Hmmm....there seems to be one too many things squatting in this picture....


What happened to that respectful distance?!?!


Family time with the goats.


Another artsy photo.


A small bamboo forest.

Catching up

Well Mrs. Mattie took another two week vacation, which of course meant that we called in the troops so to speak. Nana and Papa graciously came down to provide stellar grandchild care for a week. We loved having them as usual and as always are so appreciative!

They had many adventures throughout their week. Luckily, I was finally not working on a Saturday and was able to join them on a quick trip to Asheville. Dave was unfortunately out of town. Tupelo Honey Cafe, The Biltmore, the Grove Park Inn and the Mellow Mushroom were all on the agenda. The pics are from downtown Asheville, The Biltmore and the last is on the porch of the Grove Park. (Big thanks to Anna for the free passes to the Biltmore!!)