It was a breath of fresh air this afternoon as we spent some time outdoors at Apple Blossom Farm, an apple orchard and pumpkin patch in Peoria. And has been our yearly tradition, our friends from Minnesota were here this weekend to enjoy it with us! The Vrieze family (Scott, Kathy, Grace and Norah) made another visit to Pekin, and as always, we enjoyed our time together very much! As adults, we chit chat and catch up, but I think our greatest joy is seeing our kids interact and play with each other. It's never expected or required that we do anything extra-special; we usually enjoy the days at home, eating, playing, napping and talking. Yesterday morning, the eight of us did venture out to take in the opening of Toyland. Sounds like an amusement park, with fun rides and sugary foods, doesn't it? It's not. Toyland is what Farm and Fleet calls their huge fall sale on all things t.o.y.s! I wish I would have had my camera. Picture this....Drew and Grace in the back of the cart, Reed in the front, Norah being held by her daddy, and the four of us adults battling other parents and kids though the tight toy aisles. An adventure to say the least! We didn't even get there until 10:30, and it had opened at 7! We caught a few good deals for Christmas and birthday gifts, so I can say I've officially started my holiday shopping! :)
As always, our deepest thanks to our friends for their continued willingness to stay in touch by "vacationing" at our house. We can't wait to see you again soon!
Here are a few snapshots from the Farm...
Dad and Drew coming down the giant slide!
The farm had several play centers for kids to enjoy. I think Drew liked the swings the best.
Reed and Norah enjoying the farm the best way they know how...from the stroller.
This year at the Farm, three feet tall!
"Hey Gracie, a goat!"
(Not the best family portrait, but Drew's got a million-dollar smile!)
A couple snapshots of some other fun...
I have to give Brad the credit for capturing this priceless moment!
Color Wonder time.
Norah and Reed, obviously flirting.
Drew and Grace. Believe it or not, they only had one moment of toy stealing/jealously/non-sharing. Pretty good, huh?
Dad and Drew coming down the giant slide!
The farm had several play centers for kids to enjoy. I think Drew liked the swings the best.
Reed and Norah enjoying the farm the best way they know how...from the stroller.
This year at the Farm, three feet tall!
"Hey Gracie, a goat!"
(Not the best family portrait, but Drew's got a million-dollar smile!)
I have to give Brad the credit for capturing this priceless moment!
Color Wonder time.
Norah and Reed, obviously flirting.
Drew and Grace. Believe it or not, they only had one moment of toy stealing/jealously/non-sharing. Pretty good, huh?
cute pics as always
ReplyDeletewow! the boys look soooooo much alike. I enjoy seeing the pic.
we will update you on the whole wedding planning and engagment soon. we have so much on our plate that we are not sure which direction to go.
Becky
we will be in Ill. for thanksgiving to visit daves parents in arura.