Fall at the Orchard in Boone

We visited the Valentines for a few days and were invited to join them on an excursion to an apple orchard near town. Addie loved being a part of Michaela and Jenna's 'school trip'. Though the weather wasn't great, the girls loved being together and had fun "hooty-hoo"ing through the corn maze, picking pumpkins, and learning all about apple harvesting. The mommies had fun learning about it, too!
Everyone got a bag full of apples - half of which we fed to the horses who live near the Valentines' house.

We also squeezed in some visiting with Grandma and Granddad, and their piano.

Cherry Blossom and Kite Festival

The blossoms (and crowds) were out in full force.

We love the kite festival - for a few hours the mall is covered with all kinds of kites which creates a neat atmosphere.




There are tents set up with crafts and activities for kids.
Addie made a Japanese style paper lantern.


Blue sucker teeth.

Addie's favorite thing about the festivals? The port-a-potties.
She couldn't believe all the little green "houses" that were set up!

Addie's work

This is the first time Addie attempted to write her name. She did it, albeit in reverse, without spelling help or anything. It was in a Valentine's card to her cousin.
1/26/2010

The name-writing set off a series of attempted words. Here, Addie wrote and drew likenesses of her two favorite people.
2/18/2010

Just a few weeks later, she's writing her name like a pro. This a self-portrait, complete with teeth and haribows. The artist is pictured with her dad who has whiskers, and her little sister who is asleep in bed.
3/22/2010

Loving siblings.