Adios, September

I still intend to post pictures from over the summer, but for now I'm just going to move on with current events! This week Nora had her first field trip to the apple orchard. It was also our first blustery fall day, so we snagged some hats and sweaters and hit the road (John was allowed to come along).

We started out in a barn w/ mini-benches where the kids learned about how an apple grows (incl. the role of the bees-- a little positive PR for bees), then went on a tractor ride out to the orchard where we picked 2 apples by twisting, not pulling them, from the branch (a lesson Nora really took to heart and has repeated anytime she talks about going to the orchard).

The rain held off while we came back, took a class picture outside and headed inside for apple cider and donuts. Check out the apple shirt she made with her class to wear to the orchard!

She had a blast, and John liked it too since we were either moving or eating.

The next day, Nora came with me to the dentist for her first visit. I went first, and our hygenist did an awesome job of explaining everything she was doing to Nora. They also had a very nice conversation, which I couldn't participate in while my teeth were being cleaned! By the time it was Nora's turn, she and Lilly were the best of friends and Nora hopped right up into the chair. She got her teeth counted (20!), then polished (w/ grape paste), then flossed, and then got the fluoride, which is now a really sticky paste that gets painted on the teeth. Lilly was impressed w/ Nora's swishing skills, Nora was impressed w/ Mr. Thirsty (the suction tube) and a great time was had by all. She got a sweet new toothbrush and even got to pick a prize out of a box at the end. And so we welcome Fergus to the family, her new little scottish terrier.

John is busy too, walking like a champion. He doesn't crawl any more, and is getting quicker on his feet every day. He also gained a little height and/ or a little extra arm strength and is now climbing up onto everything but the couches. He has absolutely no fear, so I have a little extra now as I've caught him standing on chairs and on the ottoman several times already.

They're still getting along well, in spite of John's ability to get into almost everything now. Nora has taken to putting toys she wants to keep from him up on shelves she can barely reach or behind the couch cushions, but otherwise does a good job of sharing... most days.

We'll post again soon!