06/03/2007

Robinette's Apple Orchard. I took Nathan to the Orchard about a week ago and found that he enjoyed himself immensely. We started our visit with a trip into the 'Apple Haus' for some home-baked goodies (we opted for some Reese's Pieces Cookies!!). We consumed our treat on the wooden glider that sits outside the bakery. After that, Nathan explored. This is what he does best. A wagon-turned-slide enraptured the busy toddler and he spent a full half hour or more entertaining himself. I, of course, thought this was quite miraculous and insisted that my Mom join us for another visit. We went just the other day.

We arrived at Robinette's in the morning. This is, as almost all locals know, the best time to visit. After all, if there is one thing Robinette's does perfectly, it is doughnut-making. I enjoyed one...and then two...doughnuts! Nathan ate some of his, but mostly wanted to give Grandma a tour of the orchard. He took her hand and led her around like he owned the place. After I gave up all hope of persuading him to eat a few more bites of breakfast, we headed across the front lawn to the wagon...I knew Grandma would want to join in Nathan's fun! "Weee!" Nathan always squeals when he goes down the slide.

We all took turns...down the slide...up the stairs..."Weeee!" It was a memorable morning. We were slowly bringing our visit to a close when something caught Nathan's eye. Two geese (statues, as you can see) stood proudly near a tree. We have a cement goose that sits on our front porch. Nathan and I say 'hi' to the goose every time we leave our apartment. Imagine Nathan's excitement to find that goose has relatives! We gently petted the geese and said nice things to them. I think Nathan may have even tried to kiss one of them.
Later that day, Grandpa had to mow the lawn. Nathan is quite drawn to anything that combines noise and wheels. "Voom-voom!" This is the generic term for cars, trucks, airplanes, motorcycles, and lawn mowers. (Note: Cars can also be referred to as 'beep beep', trucks are also known as 'tucks', and motorcycles are sometimes referred to by blowing raspberries loudly in that sort of 'sputtering' way that motorcycles are known for.) Anyways, Grandpa started up the riding mower and Nathan just about did a dance! It was so loud! So many wheels! Right in the front yard! Grandpa agreed to give Nathan a ride. The toddler dove out of my arms in a rare show of ex patriotism and joined his Grandpa for a cruise.

Grandpa let Nathan steer. They headed onto the street and down a cul-de-sac. They veered from one side of the road to the other. On the return trip, they ran directly into a curb. Nathan got his Mommy's driving skills! He took his job very seriously and maintained a nothing-but-business attitude until he was released from duty.

What a very fun trip this has been! Right, Nathan Paul?