September

For my birthday on Monday the 3rd, we planned a family bike ride on the Banks/Vernonia Trail.  We planned on canning pears the Saturday before, but since they weren't ready, we switched our plans to bike ride on Saturday and can pears on Monday.

We had to take both our cars to get all the bikes to the trailhead.

Nicholas on his bike and Mike on roller blades pushing the double stroller. Not the smartest way to push a stroller, but it works pretty good on this trail.

Water break! Zach decided not to stop and is up ahead. (Can you see him?)
Later that evening, Mike and I went to Red Robin for my free birthday burger and ice cream.

My birthday - fraught with pears!  All hands on deck!

I like to cook them outside on the campstove.  Thirty-four quarts!

 We then went to the park for a Labor Day picnic with friends.

David ended up dirty and happy!

Sweet Gabriel in the swing, 11 weeks old

Gabe is getting good use out of the Tinker Bell chair. David is showing him  how to play cars.

Smiles from David and Gabe at 12 weeks old.

Gabe getting himself in an awkward position in an effort to get his thumb in his mouth.

Three month old Gabey!

Gabe and Nicholas

Taking the plunge and getting that diaper off 4-year-old David!

Books, treats for going potty in the toilet, and a doll that wets to demonstrate how it's done.

Toys for David as rewards for going in the toilet, and snacks and drinks.

Overall, it was successful! He's certainly old enough and smart enough to catch on and we are so proud of him!

Family photo shoot: