cousin time

The boys had a week with Isabella and Sebastian this summer. Bike rides to the playground, hike at Beechwood, hike at Chimney Bluffs, dinner at El Rincon, beach time and just hang out and visit.

 An annual tradition . . . a cousin photo . . . only 5 together this year. Maybe next summer?

chimney bluffs

Breathtaking. Unbelievable nature. Although an annual visit it never tires. A geological feat. Experiencing with family is even better. Chimney Bluffs.

skaneateles

A visit to Skaneateles to Uncle Matt's parents place. Down a skinny road led to the cottage. If you descend several steps you are right on Skaneateles Lake with an amazing view! We spent the afternoon lounging on the dock while the kids played and played. Once the rain looked like it was rolling in, a quick change of plans meant picking up pizzas and dining in a YMCA's pavilion. The evening ended when the cops came and asked why the kids were up on top of the dugout's roof - oops.

all aboard!

The Potters asked if they could have a grandparent moment with the boys and take them on their new boat. I ended up being invited as well. Their new boat is very well appointed! Press a button and part of the floor raises to reveal the mechanics, press another button and tables move, etc. The boys enjoyed checking out all parts of the boat (nothing left unturned - even figuring out that they can fit in the bathroom no problem). Ambrose even discovered a new way to open up a window that they didn't know about. 

Mr. and Mrs. Potter turned over the wheel to each of us and with some direction we each captained the boat well. We can't wait for our next boat ride!

activities at the cottage

Time at the cottage is not just in the water or at the beach. The boys have been doing quite a bit of cross-stitching.

Blaise is trying out the new to them ripstick. Balance is hard on it but with some help (thanks Dad) it is coming along.

A fun sailing adventure out to Charles Point and then to Newark Island. The Sunflower docked at both spots for some on land investigation. On the way back the wind wasn't as strong but with successful tacking they made it back.

The sunset never gets old. The coloring from the sunset on the bay side - pinky orange and always breathtaking!

day trip

The boys and I drove up Route 3 along the Seaway Trail. We hiked at the El Dorado Beach Preserve, Black Pond Management Area and Lake View Management Area. We had lunch at Sackets Harbor Brew Pub overlooking the public dock and Lake Ontario.

We caught glimpses of frogs and turtles while exploring the dune and swamp areas. The boys cooled off at Southwick Beach where the water is incredibly clear, sandy and just the right temperature.

Fourth of July!

Although there was no 5K, car parade or fireworks . . . due to Covid-19 . . . we celebrated by being with family and a few sparklers/fireworks with neighbors. And the sunset and moonrise didn't disappoint either.