Pumpkin Time

festive birthday cupcakes

Jared's family really gets into Halloween costumes.  So this year he and I got inspired by our neighborhood trunk or treat theme and found some pirate garb.  Michael loved using Uncle Chris' other awesome sword on Halloween.  Jared spent $14 at savers and then we scrounged up the rest of the pieces last minute from our closets and from family members.  

Then I couldn't resist doing some star wars costuming.  We love Halloween!  

Fall

We have eaten and preserved our share of garden produce this fall.  Jared led the initiative for pickled and candied peppers! and he tried a few varieties of pickled eggs.

With Grandma and Grandpa gone we have tried to keep up our monthly family dinner.  We got to host in September.

Skyping is wonderful.  I think Grandma's quizzical expression is probably because she is trying to hear over the commotion of excited kids.   

Michael pulled off an awesome season of fall lacrosse.  We kept up with the regular practices and enjoyed the games.

When we visited our friends for an afternoon on fall break, Leisel went right to the chickens and was excited to feed them. :)

Maybe a new tradition..haunted graham cracker houses (or buses) with Fisher.  

our cider and donut effort :)

Jordan convinced Jared on every free evening possible to walk down to the canal near our home.  They had a few adventures and caught some crayfish remains and four baby catfish.

The Maxfields let us try out their foldable kayaks before things got really cold.  

Jared is already planning to make some with the boys before Spring.

The year at the Living Planet Aquarium

One of the treasures Jordan brought home from the aquarium.