over the river and through the woods

When it comes to raising five children, it is necessary to find free and inexpensive ways to build memories. One of our family's favorite such ways is going "over the river and through the woods" to grandma's house. We are blessed to have a number of grandmas to choose from. One such grandma is Grandma "Pancakes". Grandma Pancakes is Aaron's maternal grandma. She makes the most delicious pancakes and waffles hence the nickname given to her by our children. One of her secrets? She saves bacon grease and uses that to lube up the frying pan.

Grandma Pancakes also has an abundance of raspberry bushes. Our kids love going out and picking the ripe berries off the bushes. Maya is especially fond of berry picking.

Wyatt was content this day to just hang out in his daddy's arms and watch all the action.

Grandma Pancakes has four children and a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, so she knows all the tricks. Like saving honey bear bottles and letting the kids drink their orange juice out of them. More exciting than a silly straw.

Grandma Pancakes always has real maple syrup and homemade applesauce available to smother the pancakes or waffles with. And here's another Grandma Pancakes tip: for those kiddos who want theirs cut up, a pizza cutter makes the task a snappy one.

Of course, if you're not feeling all that hungry for breakfast food, you can always gnaw on the back of a wooden chair.

After filling their bellies, it's time for some fun outside!

The fact that she's wearing a dress doesn't slow down Maya's ability to have fun!

And once again, this boy just observes. Somehow I get the feeling that he is not going to be quite so willing to sit and watch this summer.