Good-Bye Summer, Hello Fall!

Summer technically ended a month ago and we are finally starting to get some FALL weather. I have been waiting for the red and orange and yellow trees to shower the ground with their leaves. I embrace the crisp air and the ability to see my breath! The coats and scarves that have sat in my closet for the last 9 months are fantastic new additions to my wardrobe. The smell of pumpkin and the cravings for peppermint are invigorating! I am in awe of the new season that is sure to bring new adventures ... Fall is SPECTACULAR.

I can't wait to visit Apple Hill! It's almost a crime that we haven't been able to break away for a day of roaming through the apple orchards while drinking hot apple cider! The apple strudel is incredible, no matter how cold it is! Thanksgiving break will surely be our first opportunity to visit the beautiful hills that remind me so intensely of my childhood. I can't wait!
The apple bushels at Apple Hill

Apple Hill is so beautiful, Thomas Kinkade painted it.
"Sunday at Apple Hill"

The last days of summer for the Benson's were busy as usual, and they were enjoyed to the fullest! Erik spent many hours playing ping pong with the only real competition from the youth group ... Danny and Stephan ... and I am sure ping pong tournaments will continue through the winter.

The shoes are off and the game is on!
It get's intense!
{A good pair of flip flops were destroyed by ping pong}

We also celebrated Erik's 28th birthday on September 1st! I planned an evening out on the town for him. We had reservations at a fabulous restaurant and we enjoyed a great evening with friends. I hope he felt truly celebrated as it was just the first of MANY birthday's as a family!

The restaurant printed Erik's name on the menu for our special celebration! Woohoo!