Strawberry Picking

This weekend we went for our annual strawberry picking at our Community Supported Agriculture farm we get vegetables (and fruit) from in the summer. This is our third year picking strawberries and is becoming a great family tradition. It was Jude's first year (he was pretty small last year). He delighted in mashing the picked berries with his hands and then attempting to shove them in his mouth. He did an amazing job of also shoving in handfuls of dirt...it's a good thing it's organic! He was following in a strong tradition. Below is Callum on the first year we went.

And, on the second year.

Of course, he is much more mature about it these days! Actually he was really into helping out this year...carrying quart boxes and picking strawberries (with lots of coaching about not picking white ones, a rule that he repeated to mama and papa endlessly once he learned of it.). He talked on and on the whole time about every little thing that he saw and especially enjoyed tattling about how messy Jude was getting. Of course, we did bring home a lot of berries but BOTH of the boys ate them at an amazing pace before we could get out of the fields. There is no fear of scurvy in this household.

Papa's Birthday--A Day On the Rails

For his birthday, Papa requested a trip on the Whippany Cabooser--a few Sundays in the summer a freight train company strings together several old-fashioned cabooses for fun rides. In all, we had a great time although the real sounds and movement of true caboose was a little scary for both of the little people but after a while they both got into it. We even got to climb up and ride in the cupola (the uppermost portion made so they can view the train uptop.) .

This is the "I don't like pictures" face.

Mother's Day Extravaganza!

I was a lucky mama this Mother's Day. Callum's school hosts a Mother's Day Tea the Friday before---the kids prepare it all (wink) complete with food, song, books, and gifts that they make. I got an amazing plant that Callum had picked and planted in the classroom. And, an impromptu "I love you THIS MUCH" said while reaching him arms up into the sky. I will admit to a few happy tears!

Then, I was spoiled on Sunday with a crepe breakfast, even more handmade gifts, and a great dinnner. But the real treat was a family hike.

Cal discovered the beauty of a deep attachment to a walking stick.

Jude discovered how amazing the whole world is from a perch way up high.

And, we all confirmed how nice it is to be outside together. Callum was a great sport and loved every minute of it. About halfway through the hike he was chattering away saying "I like hiking. Oh look! Mama! An elephant! A camel! A horse! I'm using my senses. I can see lots of things on this hike." The only real critter we saw was a chipmunk but Callum saw a whole zoo.

It's Hot!

the heat spiked up this weekend and with the air conditioners not yet in, we had to get creative about beating the heat. The boys had a blast tromping around in the baby pool and the sprinkle ball.

This is the new face we see when we say "Smile. Cal." I love it!

Yippee! Cal's Three!

And, for his birthday we celebrated at a nearby gymnasium complete with a big trampoline, ball pit, and lots of climbing and swinging equipment. Cal and his buddies bounced around like maniacs. (I'd include more pictures but don't want to post other people's kids without their permission.) Cal had a great time and laughed so hard I thought he might burst. So did Mama and Papa, frankly. Jude had a good time, too. And, you had better believe he tried to keep up with everyone!