Beaver Lake

Yesterday we went to Beaver Lake to walk along some of the trails. It was a perfect day to go there, not too hot or cold.


Riley wanted to be a big girl and walk some of the trail herself.


Riley was able to see turtles and ducks.






She walked on a big log (just like in Dirty Dancing - except not over water and not with a boy).


Just as we were about to exit one of the trails, there were 2 deer standing within feet of us, of course they ran as soon as we were spotted but we're glad Riley got to see them.


And so Riley got a deer before we left. It was a fun day!

The (not so) tough life of a toddler

It has been one month since Riley has turned one and she is well into toddlerhood! Riley by no means has a tough life as a toddler. She loves to play, dance, run and talk. Riley loves "E-I-E-I" or to those of us older folk, "Old MacDonald Had a Farm." She loves to sing (yes she really does sing along) to Justin Roberts, and dance to anything with a beat - such a momma's girl. Her vocabulary has exploded and she says many new words. She especially does a good job when she is able to mimic what you are saying. Check out some of her favorite activities:







Riley loves to play "knock-knock" on the door. Whenever you tell her that you're going bye-bye she runs to the doors and says "knock-knock, bye-bye."




Riley loves to point out trees by yelling "TREEEEEEEE." She can also say leaf and green to tell you what's on the tree and what color the leaves are.


Lastly, I go back and forth about whether or not we should get a cat. Riley loves the kitties that hang out outside her window at the neighboring apartment. Everyday she stands at her window yelling (seriously yelling) "MEOW" because she wants to see the kitties. It's too cute - except when the cats aren't there, then it's a tough situation to clean up! :)


I am more and more impressed at all the wonderful things Riley can do! The fall is upon us and soon it will be apple picking, pumpkin picking and Halloween. We can't wait and will be sure to blog it all!

There's no babysittin' blues!

This weekend, Mama and Dada were going to a wedding. My godmommy Aunt Laurie and Uncle Adam came up to babysit. I was a little nervous, but my best cousin Keira told me how much fun she has when they babysit for her, so I knew I was in for a treat!

They drove up very late on Thursday night, and when I woke up on Friday morning they were ready to play. The first thing I did was show Aunt Laurie ALL of my books.

I also decided that Uncle Adam is my new best friend. We had a blast this weekend singing my favorite songs: Willy Was a Whale, I'm Gonna Catch You, Pop Fly, and "E-I-E-I-O".

Uncle Adam (I like to call him Aaaaaad) gave me a baba and I fell asleep right in his arms. I think he might have the magic touch, because I took an almost two hour nap!

I was still a little sleepy when I woke up, so I cuddled up with my Aunt Laurie.
Once I was wide awake, Aunt Laurie got me dressed and did my hair. Then we had a tea party! But I decided that teacups are for beginners, and I'm an experienced tea partier.
Before I knew it, it was time for dinner. Uncle Adam made me pizza, which was so yummy! And I ate like the big girl that I am.

Before I knew it, it was time for bed. I had such a great night!

But it wasn't over! When I woke up, they were still there. I was so excited!!

Aunt Laurie made me waffles, and Uncle Adam enjoyed my crazy morning hair.

I had such a good morning, and before I knew it Mama and Dada were home. We went to the Windmill near Keuka for some yummy food (Aunt Jenny's favorite butterfly potato!) and more quality time with my bestie, Aaaaad.

Overall, I think I have to agree with Keira: I have a pretty awesome family. I had fun with Aunt Laurie and Uncle Adam, and I know they had fun with me. I can't wait to see them again!

(This was guest-blogged by Aunt Laurie, who wants to thank Riley for being the best girl this weekend! xoxo)

Congratulations!!

Riley and her parents wanted to give a shout out to Crystal and Josh who got married today 09.09.09 in St. Thomas.

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Parrott!!!

We can't wait to see the newlyweds when they return!