Halloween was so much fun this year because Callie got it instead of ding dong ditching our neighbors like last year. She really enjoyed ringing the doorbell and shouting "trick or treat"! Andrei walked into the first couple of houses - it really surprised our neighbors. After he figured out about the candy he started trying to grab more than what was given to him. After awhile Callie decided this was a good idea too! They got a lot of candy which the parents ended up eating - uggg!

Bloomsbury Farm

It was an away weekend for the Hawks so we headed out to Bloomsbury Farm in Atkins, Iowa for some fall fun... farm animals, corn maze, corn box, straw tunnel, pumpkin patch and corn cannon. Callie had a blast - we will definitely go again!

Apple Orchard

Fall means time for the annual trip to the Wilson's Apple Orchard. I was a little disappointed because we missed the Honeycrisp season, but we got lots of other good apples and goodies. We had to do more climbing in the trees this year since it was later in the season, but got to do apples and pumpkins together. We were driving around the orchard gathering our apples only to find that they no longer allow cars during the weekends - oooops!

Visiting Grandpa & Grandma Stanley

We headed to Albion, Iowa to visit Grandpa & Grandma Stanley and help with some chores around the house. Justin and Cody power washed the siding, awnings and porches while the ladies cleaned out the garage and basement. Callie had a great time playing with all of Grandma's dolls. Overall a fun and productive visit!

First Day of Preschool

Here are a few pictures from Callie's first day of preschool at Discovery Cottage Early Enrichment. She was so excited to wear her new "pack pack". I was really worried about the drop off since it was her first time and although she cried when Jasmine dropped her off, she adjusted really well and didn't want to leave when it was time to go home! It is only one day a week for four hours, but I think it is a wonderful experience for her to learn how to play with others, listen and follow directions and be on her own. They do outdoor playtime, story time, snack, indoor playtime, music, art and lunch. I'm so proud of her for transitioning so well and so happy that she is enjoying school.

Mall of America

During our trip to Minnesota we decided to head to Mall of America for some food, shopping and rides. Here are a few "action" shots!

Northern Minnesota

We headed up to Lake Vermillion for our annual summer visit. This year the project was redoing the siding on the boat house. We also had time for some golf, boating, swimming and fishing. We took a day trip to Ely to visit the Fullen family at the Vince Shute Bear Wildlife Sanctuary. Callie and Nikki (golden retriever) were best buddies and spent the week playing together. As usual it was a great week spent in beautiful northern Minnesota!