The Slavens' Blog

By publishing this blog we are hoping that it gives us the motivation to continue our adventures- just so we have something cool to post. Thanks to all of our friends out there that have pushed us to the point of actually taking the time to do this. Hopefully we will not let you down!

OCTOBER FUN

Adventures for October included a beautiful weekend on Racquette Lake in the Adirondaks. We were there during peak "peeping" season. (Peeping refers to seeing the changing leaves during the fall). We stayed in a quaint little cabin on the lake and did a couple hikes which produced some amazing views. Mason enjoyed both his first pony ride and train ride during this trip.





























We spent one weekend in New York City to visit Mark's cousin, Julie, her husband, Bill and their three sons. Not a typical adventure for us- but anytime we drive more than three hours we consider it an adventure. We had a great time at the Bronc Zoo and our delicious chocolate desserts afterwards were adventurous in and of themselves.













October also brought about pumpkin hunting, carving and costumes. Mason was so into Halloween this year. Half the time we had to relate his food or activities to Halloween in order for him to try it! He dressed up as a gorilla and as of today (11/14/07) our carved pumpkins are still decorating the outside of our house.

September in Ithaca

During September we stuck close to home. Mark was still getting into the swing of things with school. Mel was still trying to feel comfortable in her new job. Mason was finally beginning to enjoy going to the babysitters 3 times per week. We did take a couple hikes to the nearby waterfalls and gorges and spent our weekends taking turns enjoying road bike rides (which, in Ithaca, are really great!)

THE AIR OF AUGUST

The beginning of August was spent at home, in Wyoming. Mark's brother, Andy, married a fabulous girl, Cynthia. We were so happy to be home for their big day. We were also just happy to be home. We love and miss our families and Wyoming. (I have to note that this photo was found at carriepattersonphotography.com. I don't want to get in trouble for publishing someone work!)




We spent a day with Grandpa and Grandma Cioffi at String Lake where Mason experienced his first canoe ride. Grandpa Cioffi also took us and cousin Spencer for Mason's first raft trip down the Snake River.
8 month pregnant, Beth, and her husband Kyle joined us for a little hike and boat ride to Hidden Falls. We enjoyed every second outside that we could. (I realize no one wants to see Mason's bare bum- but this picture was too hilarious not to post)

OH JULY...

Mark had to start his reseach at Cornell at the end of June- which is also when we moved from Delhi, NY to Ithaca, NY. Even with everything new- we found time for adventure! Mel insisted on a hike for her 30th birthday despite the rain. We spent a wonderful week in the Outer Banks of North Carolina visiting Kitty Halk and playing in the ocean (thank you to the Cioffi family!) And the last week of July was spent with the Crook Family including activities such as the Hogle Zoo and Mason's 2nd birthday!