A visit to Howell's Pumpkin Patch

They hydro-duckie race was a hit with both boys.

A photo opportunity at the iconic Howell's sign. I think I have one of these from every year we've visited, and have managed to stay out of the photo each time.

Jack tackled Mt. Haystack. When asked if he wanted to give it a try, Griffin said, "No. It's yucky and smells like poopy." City kids.

Next we conquered the corn maze.

Bryan hoists his perfect pumpkin in jubilation. OK, maybe he was laughing at something the boys said.

Griffin and his sherpa haul the pumpkins back to our wheelbarrow.

"Stop, sherpa. I'd like this one instead."

The menfolk carry our pumpkins back to the tractor.

Trick or Treat

Ricky Stanzi and our loveable land shark got dressed up on a very wet and cold night to go trick-or-treating in the neighborhood. The surprise was on us when Batman appeared to take them to the houses. Bryan's manly pride was called into question when Jack giggled and pointed to his costume and said, "Daddy, your underwear is on the outside." Guess we haven't introduced him to superheroes yet. Another highlight was when a Clive police officer (yes, Grandpa Tom, a REAL cop) appeared and Batman and Superman joined the real superhero to complete the Hall of Justice (or Justice League or Legion...the debate is ongoing).

Happy Halloween!

Curious George had a great time at Beggar's Night this year for Halloween. He happily ran door to door until a sucker-stick incident curbed his enthusiasm. We finished the night with a mandatory viewing of "Charlie Brown's Great Pumpkin" and some treats.

Pumpkin Song

One of Jack's favorite songs is "the name game" and he can adapt it to pretty much everything, including his favorite fall gourd. Stay tuned for more verses including "ceiling, fan, door, light," and pretty much anything else he can think of. The song can go on for hours.

Howell's Pumpkin Patch

Jack and I headed to Howell's Pumpkin Patch with our neighbors for a little taste of fall (it was 78 degrees). He and his buddies Alex and Sam hunted for pumpkins, fuzzy caterpillars and tractors.