Family Time

With family in upstate NY, we decided Memorial Day weekend was a great time to head north.  Packing up one toddler and one dog and four adults, we hit the road.  Bennett serenaded us and regaled us with information on all the trucks, buses and machinery along the route. 

Once in Castleton, near Troy where Jeff teaches, Bennett enjoyed family time with cousins Edan and Liat Radetsky and playing on the many slides and climbing equipment in the neighborhood.

Friday evening was Thai dinner with son Jeff at the Radetsky home followed by stories and conversations around the table.

Uncle Jeff, aka Uncle Bang Bang, got special treatment.

Troy has an excellent farmers market.  On Saturday, we all enjoyed sampling the many delights.  Our lunch was a collection of international foods with plenty of leftovers.  Liat got a chance to try a hula hoop.

Back at Ed and Leora’s, the giant bubble machine kept everyone happy.

Sunday morning, Cousin Ed let Bennett and Liat drive the lawn mower.

Then we headed to Bash Bish State Park in the states of New York and Massachusetts. 

The falls were lovely.  Cheryl and Bennett found the water pleasingly ice cold.  Jeff thought the water was balmy.

 Back in Castleton, Ed bbq’ed luscious burgers.  For dessert Edan and Liat roasted marshmallows for s’mores. 

The next morning we bid the Radetsky’s a sad farewell and took the long drive home to DC.  We had a delicious break with cousins Barbara and Bob at The Famous Deli in Philadelphia.  The blintzes and sandwiches were beyond giant size and we look forward to left overs back in DC.

 Yes, Jerry & Dave ordered one of each.  They also brought half of their "sandwich" home.   We enjoyed spending time with our cousins and plan to see each other again later in the week.