falling for fall

We took a little field trip out west yesterday, beyond picturesque Middleburg and into the valley for the annual Shenandoah Hot Air Balloon Festival.  And though the winds proved too gusty for any hot air balloon action, the boys did get to take a spin in a real honest to goodness MONSTER TRUCK. 

We saw it as soon as we entered the festival, and knew it had to be done.   Dylan got a little nervous about it at the last minute, so Andrew and Logan whooped it up with Mary Ann and her two boys.  Dylan is like his mama, we don't like things that shake up our insides.  Andrew captured the whole ride on his phone video camera, so we'll try to get that on here soon.

It was as beautiful a fall day as could possibly be.  Virginia in the autumn is simply my favorite time...the crisp air, shocking blue sky and crunchy falling leaves.   No bugs, no humidity, no need for coats or sunscreen even. Perfect for a picnic and a hayride on a beautiful farm with fun friends.

We women toured the historic Long Branch Mansion, elegant, posh and over the top.

Yes, this was a real giant pumpkin!

If October lasted three  months, we still couldn't get to all the festivals, orchards and pumpkin patches in our area.   There's so much to choose from and every fall we try to shake it up a little and visit new places.  Much too soon, the cold weather will be here and we'll be stuck to indoor activities.  So right now, the goal is to be outside as much as possible!