13 Years in the Making

When Paul and I were fist dating, he asked me to go to the local St. Patrick's Day parade with him. I already had plans that day (to celebrate my birthday with friends), so I couldn't make it. I think that cursed us for the following years, because we have NEVER been able to make it to the parade until this year. Last week we realized that we were free, the weather was supposed to be nice, and we might be able to watch the parade.

We took the train in and stopped for lunch before heading to the boardwalk.

We arrived at our spot just around the time the parade was supposed to start, but several blocks away from the start, so we had to wait for a while.

Finally we could see the parade arriving, so Rudy (briefly) was lifted onto Paul's shoulders for a better view.

And a good opportunity for a family picture!

The first of several groups of bagpipers.

Another one.

I was impressed by the kids playing and carrying the drums.

There were ponies...

... and horses (one of whom left a large souvenir across the boardwalk).

And there was a lot of candy. This boy was on a sugar high for hours after!

The final group of bagpipers.

After the parade, we had some time before our train, so we did some shopping (new hiking boots for Paul and I, a pair of shoes for Paul, and winter boots for Rudy for next year - I love outlet stores!).

Paul and I later went to the Tyler Arboretum for a full moon night hike. Understandably, we didn't take any pictures, but on the way across the bridge we saw a beautiful sunset!

Skating

We recently went to the local roller skating rink. Rudy did much better this time, but didn't love it. It may be a while before we try again.

We ended up being there with two of his friends. Jade's mom's school was having a fundraiser, thus the reason for going to the skating rink.

And Sanai was invited, plus she has family members that attend the same school.

This is Rudy's rap face. See video below.

Fun with Friends

These pictures go back about a month, when we got together with the friends we camp with. We all decided that we wanted to get together sooner rather than waiting for our next trip. So we met, somewhat equi-distant from everyone at a kids play area where the kids ran and climbed and played for hours and the adults were able to sit and talk.
Then we went out to dinner before all heading home. With 5 kids and 6 adults, we were a big group.  The only pictures I took were at dinner and as we left. So glad these kids like each other and have so much fun together! And soon Ashton will be running around with them, too.