Pumpkin Patch Fun

It's that time of year to make the trek to the pumpkin patch. This year, we went to the Disneyland of all pumpkin patches with some of Natalie and Amanda's friends from school. Before our friends arrived, we were able to snap a group photo in front of a load of pumpkins.

Here is a warm up shot of the girls waiting patiently for Will to join them in the photo.

We also "rode" in the little school bus.

And sat in some cool seats made out of old tractor seats.

Then we headed to the petting zoo where the kids had fun feeding and brushing the goats....until one came along and butted Amanda in the behind. It scared her just a bit and she was ready to make a quick exit!

Our friends arrived while we were petting and brushing the animals and the girls were SO excited to see them that they ran around in circles. Here are four of the girls together -- two sets of twins! A fifth little friend joined us shortly thereafter.

After running around in circles, Amanda went and jumped in the hay.

Everyone tries out their animal personalities.

And then we watched the waterfall for awhile -- joined in this picture by our fifth friend.

Here is the whole gaggle waiting for our train ride. Does it look hot? Well, it was. Probably about 90 degrees at this point. Sheesh! Too hot for a day at the pumpkin patch (but beautiful and we're lucky to have such nice weather)!

Will started the day a little quiet since he was outnumbered by the shrieking girls. But he did enjoy the train ride with dad, despite the somber look.

The train ride took us by the GIANT pumpkin patch.

After the train ride, we dashed on to the next activity. The girls were SO excited to spend time together that they ran around the entire place holding hands. It was a little bit of a hazard because there were so many people there, but it was darn cute at the same time.

Will decided to pose for a couple of pictures while we ate lunch.

He was making some funny faces!

After lunch, we took a few rides down the slides and then it was time to go!

We had three hot and tired little people on the way home. Everyone took a nice nap in the car and all was good!

Kids Will Be Kids

The girls have mastered the somersault and had great fun recently showing off their form on the front lawn.

Amanda beams after completing her somersaults.

Back inside, the girls had great fun with these "happy face" stickers that they decided needed to go directly onto their happy faces.

Back outside, the girls had a moment of sisterly love and decided they wanted to pose for a picture together. Awwww!

And here, the girls show how they have mastered going down this "slide" and Will is starting to catch on, too!

A Trip To Apple Hill

Fall is now officially here, so last weekend we decided it was time to head to Apple Hill. First up was a ride on choo choo train. Mom snapped a few pictures while were patiently waiting in line.

And then, finally, it was our turn! We rode all the way around this little lake.

And even through a little tunnel. Natalie was very excited about that!

Here, the girls point to ducks that were swimming in the water. There were also yummy looking blackberry and raspberry bushes on the back side of the lake.

After our train ride, the kids posed for a group shot in front of this very tall scarecrow.

And then, of course, we ate some apples!

And had fun with the pumpkins.

Finally, everyone got a little "ride" in the school bus.

Mountain Picnic with Friends

For the past several weekends, we have made the 45 minute trip up to gold country to celebrate one occasion or another. For anyone who has not been there, the beautiful scenery and wonderful weather will always draw you back. This great photo session below captures another family picnic, however, this one is enjoyed with friends at our favorite Amador County winery.

Natalie enjoys herself climbing a tree.

Here, Amanda gives us a shy smile while waiting for everyone to arrive at the picnic.

Will also calmly waits (for 2 seconds!) for all the guests to arrive.

Another great photos of Natalie in the tree.

Will takes a break sitting on the bench.

The shy Amanda now turns mischievous!

Amanda sits on Daddy's lap for a quick photo!

Will jumps in for his group photo!

Our friend, Kristin, was the birthday girl, which was the reason for our fun outing! Her kids joined the fun...wow, how fast kids grow! Amanda shares a fun moment with Kristin.

Kristin and her daughter Ali!

And here are both of Kristin's daughters, Ali and Addison...Thanks for making our trip a blast!