Road trip! This time to Canada!
A friend who also happens to be one of John’s colleagues, Chris, lives with his lovely wife, Kate, in a beautiful historic home in Niagara-on-the-Lake. They invited us and the Hills (who have featured in the blog multiple times) up for a visit. So we rented a car, loaded up our little traveler, and headed north! We drove the 8-hours with just two breaks: a quick coffee break not far outside of Philadelphia and at a lovely roadside family restaurant in Upstate New York (reminded me of KY!)
Reading up on our destination
That is one serving of raspberry cobbler. ‘Merica.
Conrad’s 7th country!
Upon arriving, we headed to dinner at a lovely brewery and had a very relaxing evening.
The whole crew at dinner. The Hills, Houghtons, and Candetos!
Bonfire the first evening–so relaxing!
The next day was a workday, so the boys and Kate got down to business while Katie and I took the kids into town–and to the park!
Is there anything better than babies in swings?
Yes! Babies on a slide!
Picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake
An important business meeting
City baby can’t handle the grass
Such a gorgeous and historic home!
After the work day was done, we went to Ravine, a stunning winery not far from the Houghton’s home. I am LOVING the Canadian Riesling, which is dryer than the European varieties. It is incredibly refreshing on a hot day.
Relaxing by the vineyard
Bellies full of pizza
That’s America over there!
The next morning, we journeyed with the Hills to see one of the world’s great natural wonders: Niagara Falls! I was in awe of the size and the sheer amount of water pouring over every second. It is a shining example of the incredible power of nature. We all enjoyed seeing it!
We took a boat from the Canadian side: The Hornblower. We sailed right up under the falls and got very VERY wet. The kids loved it!
They even had toddler-sized ponchos.
Our first view of the falls from the boat
Ready to rock!
The Hills
Family photo with the Falls
Little baby, big adventures!
So. Much. Water.
I think this photo captures the intensity of the experience. And the sheer amount of water.
Everyone looks happy–so much fun!
The falls from above.
My guys
After some waterfalling, we headed to a brewery for lunch. Conrad was tuckered out, but not too tuckered out for a swing and a swim!
Post-waterfall brews!
I think we’re wearing him out. He hasn’t slept through a meal in a LONG time!
Swing break!
Finn and Conrad go swimming!
For our final evening, we had an adults only dinner in the beautiful barn behind the house. Kate and Chris cooked and it was DELICIOUS. We even had a delicious cake from a local bake sale!
Lovely dinner in “the barn”
Friendly game of darts!
The next morning, we had to head back to Philadelphia. But first, we had to stop at Tim Hortons. Because did you really go to Canada if you didn’t go to Tim Hortons?
Baby’s first Time Hortons Donut Hole.
After arriving back in Philadelphia, we went to dinner at a favorite local restaurant to celebrate my birthday. Hilariously for our last three birthdays we have been in some kind of transit. For John’s birthday last September, we were on a flight to London. For Conrad’s birthday in April, we were on a flight to Japan. And for my birthday, we were in the car driving back from Canada. I guess you could say we like to be on the go 🙂
My birthday dinner at El Vez in Philadelphia–after our drive home 🙂
Thank you, Chris and Kate, for such a lovely time! We appreciate your hospitality and had such a fun and relaxing weekend! Your home is beautiful and we loved getting to know your town. Look forward to spending more time with you (and you, Hills) very soon!
As always, thanks for reading!
John and CB's Most Excellent Adventure 