Fall's New Phases

        Aiden and the Fall season have collided in a burst of interesting new phases.  Temper tantrums (I guess the Terrible-twos came a bit early), puppy-impersonating, and a fervent obsession with Elmo.  I did not expect his latest craze... wrestling!  Clyde is a willing partner, though Aiden always collapses into a bundle of giggles when he challenges Dad. 
        Kona and I seem to be his constant (albeit unwilling) partners.  There was a time when Kona held the title "Most Rambunctious", but Aiden's closing in and looking to block her nearly 4-year-run.  We are grateful for Kona's patience with her wild little brother. 

 

Our Long Absence

We never intended to be gone so long!  Things have been quite busy.  It feels like I woke up and Autumn was in full swing!  I'll do my best not to stay gone so long.  Here's a snapshot of our unseasonably warm afternoon, and I'll try to play catch up very soon!

Family Photo Time

Spring is here, and with it comes my itch for new family photos!  My family is very patient with me as I select complementary clothing and insist on new photos.  Though some came out better than others, we ended up having a blast.

Kona sneaks in the photo (though Aiden noticed!)

Three beautiful McBrides.

Ciala by the new fountain.

Lauren by the new fountain.

The whole family (except Kona!).

Clyde and Meg.

The McBride women.

The McBride men.

Ciala, Clyde and Lauren.

Proud Mom.

Whew.  All done... time to play!

Aiden longs to roam freely...

...Then takes matters into his own hands!

Please, Kona?  I promise I'll take good care of your kong!

See?  I'll pet you if you let me have it...

Ah-hah!  She left it!

Darn!  She found me!

Kona enjoys family time (and so do Clyde and I).

Most hands pet Kona (Aiden is still preoccupied).

Or has he he hatched a new plan?

Perhaps a way to distract us as he heads for the patio

(and Kona's food and water, which he's dying to try?)

He had a good lead...

...but Kona was too fast (and I was closing in, too)...

...Ciala joined in the chase (with Lauren right behind her)...

... Got him!