Christmas pictures

A stack of presents was our Christmas tree this year. Dan was away the week before Christmas, so to add more light into the dark days of Solstice, I celebrated Hanukah as well (along with Senator Hatch).
On the 21st we opened presents; Orion is at a wonderful age for this, since he played with everything as we opened them. The Potato Pets were the most engrossing, keeping his attention all morning (thanks, Becca!). Next year he may have developed a sense of anticipation.
We flew to Utah on the 22nd, meeting up with my beautiful and cute Niece, Ariadne.....
the enthusiastic Grandma Susie....
(who went with me on a short hike up Rock Canyon, reminding me of Utah's appeal)




Then on actual Christmas morning, we took pictures of the four generations gathered.

Here we all watch as Nana opens her presents. Thanks for hosting a very Merry Christmas, Nana! It was as it should be, gingerbread, a large caroling group, a slightly cheesy but dear Christmas program, and lots of small children running and playing.

(I could barely keep my eyes open. I've collapsed on the couch.)

NY Botanical Gardens train show

Uncle Rich treated us to a day in the city. Orion loved the trains in the Botanical Gardens, and didn't care at all about the NY buildings made out of twigs, which I'm sure he had in common with 98% of the visitors. (pics are backwards, sorry.)

Hardly any pictures at Thanksgiving

Oh well. At least I captured some of the dessert course--best pumpkin pie I've ever made; Orion helps Uncle Rich.

In November

Grandpa Joe and Grandma Karen came to visit for Angela's birthday. She loves her favorite nephew enough to feast upon him.



On a walk to the Swedish Bakery in our neighborhood, Orion shows off his new (to us; it was actually being thrown out) wheelz--from the makers of the best-selling car in America. He obv chooses his own car over a ride in the new stroller.

What a heartbreaker!

A mini vacation back to September

Orion and Dan are at Grandma and Grandpa McKinsey's while I'm home to work (sniff). Lest you imagine that I am getting too much done, and not thinking about my first weeklong separation from my darling son (and husband, but I'm more used to his being away), I will periodically post pictures as a break from crafting my upcoming talk and chapter.

We visited Grandpa Joe and Grandma Karen at the Oregon coasts most perfect time--early September. Above, me rescuing two starfishes from Zoe the dog at low tide, and showing it to Orion, below. I enjoy remembering this warmer time as it has been snowing, beautiful and cold, all day this good January 7.











Nothing like relaxing with the lawn mower on the hammock!

The Truck Museum and other good times

Orion and I spent an afternoon at the Golden Age of Trucking Museum in Middlefield, CT. It was pretty terrific for a guy who likes trucks; Orion didn't hold still for a second. Cars and trucks and fire engines and antique cars and even boats-- this place had about an airplane-hangar full of gleaming vehicles, with one that was built for climbing around, and a play area and snack area. I'd recommend it for a rainy afternoon with a toddler.



My favorite was this milk truck and the red fire engines below.


Because we had the place to ourselves, we ignored the under100lb/3yearsandup rules on the wiggle cars. These were really a treat for both of us.

And, back at the ranch--Orion likes to help cook ("mama/daddy/Orion kooking?"



Playing with my old Duplos also a major activity around the house. He's named the Duplo people Sam, Anna, Lucy, and Ruff (the dog). Lots of fun.