13 Months & Apple Orchard

Ryder has cruised right past the 12 month mark and on to 13.  With life as crazy as it is right now, the months are going by like weeks and weeks like days.  So this weekend we thought we would try to slow things down a bit with minimal plans and lots of family time.  On Saturday, we met up with the Tisdells at an apple orchard in White Bear.  With no intention to actually pick apples, we just spent the morning relaxing among the beautiful fall backdrop and summer-like weather.  Ryder and Autumn had fun playing in the pumpkin patch and we all enjoyed tasty apple snacks.  Afterwards, we drove up to Taylors Falls for lunch.  Since Shawn can't do any hiking this fall, we thought the drive would be a great way for us to enjoy the color together. Even though I'm sure 14 months will still come quick, we felt like we were able to at least slow things down for the weekend :)

Ry LOVED his apple muffin

A little hike through the apple trees... 

Then, on to a quest for the perfect pumpkin...

Looks like he found it!

A few 13 month notes (I know...a little late):
Still no walking yet.  Ryder has taken as many as 6 steps at a time, but only when he's in the mood. He has no fear and pretty much hucks his body in the direction he would like to walk.  Sometimes his legs keep up.  Even though he falls, he giggles every time.  For safety's sake, I think this is something we need to work on.  He does better walking between toys and can move quickly along furniture.  He loves to make silly noises and is getting better and better at playing by himself.  I think his favorite activity is still hide-and-seek combined with a toddler version of tag.  I love getting to know our little boy and cherish every moment with him. Can't wait to see what this next month will bring :)