Birthday Parties, Beaches, and the Big E

The last stretch of summer has been good to us. My mother and sister came for visits from Washington State, Greg surprised us by returning from the Middle East a little early, and there have been no shortage of events during these warm September days. Here are some photos from the past few weeks, which were filled with birthday parties, days at the beach, and a trip to one of the ten biggest fairs in North America: The Big E. Lila is attending day care temporarily while I work on my Master's thesis. My mom was here on her very first day (pics with her and the kids are on the previous blog post). She goes to the same place Lucas has been attending for over a year, and he comes to visit her sometimes throughout the day. He asks his teacher if he can go visit "his baby." Here is Lila on her first day of day care!

Lucas has had a busy social schedule this month. Birthday parties every weekend! We learned a little about him by watching him navigate his way around 2 and 3-year old birthday bashes in parks and beaches: scared of carousels (go figure) but loves digging in the sand for crabs (really?!). Also, will ALWAYS hit the biggest slide around, and would rather play than finish cake.

Sweet Lila Grace:

Last beautiful days on the beach:

The Big E. This fair represents all the New England states and is so large, loud, and fun we took my sister up with us for a full day with the kids. Lucas and Lila loved the scene. First fair ride:

The Big E Burger: 1lb of ground beef, bacon, all the fixin's, sandwiched on a huge doughnut. No, I'm not kidding,. Yes, we did try it.

If you eat the Big E Burger, you must wash it down with beer.

A Big E Moment: sheep and goats.