A Day at the POND

 Where do you find a turquoise pond in the middle of a forest, with tree swings, a pebble beach, water toys, and a zip line?  Where else but in West Valley, New York!  Tuesday, of last week, I took the boys on our first adventure road trip, up to West Valley to visit my sister-in-law Amber and her kids Christian, Silvia, Haven, and Finley (newest member, she just turned 1 years old).   West Valley is about an hour north east from Bemus Point, and what a scenic drive we had.  We drove through the Alleghany State Park,  the Seneca Indian Reservation, and Ellicotville (mountain ski resort village).  We passed through beautiful forests until we reached their house.  It was the hottest day of the summer, so Aunt Amber had an idea to take the kids to her friend Michelle's pond.  Yes, only in NY can you have your own POND!  This pond is nothing like I have ever seen.  Its a tropical oasis in the middle of a forest!  Amber's friend and husband really went all out, it is the quintessential summer hang out spot.  There was so much for the kids to do, and a pebble beach, gazebo, music, and drinks for the adults!  It felt like we were at an exclusive resort.

Taji swinging in this cool swing above the water:

Christian zip-lining into the water:

 Silvie paddle boarding:

Taj was in rock heaven, lots of little rocks to throw into the water

 Cousins Finley and Jax playing in their own exersaucers:

Finley, Amber, and myself..... (it was good sister-in-law and cousin bonding time)

Grandma Sue, Aunt Sherry, Sierra, and Cayden also met up with us and we spent the rest of the day hanging out with them (and Grandpa Grover, Brad's dad) at a car show.

This is my favorite photo of the East Coast Cousins (minus the college kids Michael & Nicole):

The kids had soooo much fun playing at the pond, at Aunt Amber's house, and eating hot dogs at the car show.  I'm so glad we now live only an hour from Brad's brothers kids..... they are such polite and sweet kids, and I especially love how Taj and Jax will grow up with their little cousin Finley who is right in their age group (and who is already a little tomboy.) And with as cool of a pond as this one, you can bet we will be back before summer ends!