Fall Fun at Koetsier's

The boys (especially Will) had been asking to go to Koetsier's in Grand Rapids so they could do all the fun fall activities. Since Phil was in Ann Arbor for the football game, the boys and I drove up after Alex's hockey practice. This was probably the last year Will would enjoy it. They painted pumpkins, planted cat grass, played in the bounces houses, we went for a hayride, and they rode the bumble bee train. Then we visited with Grandma and Grandpa for a bit before heading home to watch the football game.

WMU Flag Boy

Will was one of two "flag boys" before the Western Michigan hockey game tonight. It was a fun experience for him. We all got to stand in the "player chute" as they came off the ice after warm-ups. After the ice was resurfaced, Will stood on the ice next to the door with a WMU flag. Once the players were on the ice, he skated around with them and then stood on the goal line during introductions. After the starting line-up was introduced, he skated with the rest of the team to the blue line for the National Anthem. Then he skated around a little more before leaving the ice. We received 4 free tickets for the game so we were able to stay to watch. It was definitely a memorable evening.

Gearing Up

WMU Coach watching warm-ups

More Guinea Fun

The Guinea Pigs are settling in nicely! Sherlock was acclimated right away. She will eat from Alex's hand, does scurry off to her tunnel when we walk in the room, and loves exploring. Brady is still a little timid but is much better than when we first brought her home. She has started to eat from her dish when we are in the room and will poke her head out to say hello. In the evenings, we take them both out of their cages and let them explore together. The love to chase each other around and will "popcorn" which means they are happy/excited.

We found you, Brady!

Happy Boys

Road Rally

Thank you to everyone that supported the boys in their Road Rally today! It was a great day for a run. Both boys ran a lot of laps and collected a lot of bracelets along the way. There were a lot of red faces and big smiles. It is always so much fun.

Mrs. Konkel's 4th Grade Class

And they're off!

Mrs. Taylor's 1st Grade Class

Guinea Pigs!

We welcomed two new members to our family yesterday: Sherlock and Brady. They boys have been asking for guinea pigs for quite a while. Last year, Will suggested that if he went a month without sucking his thumb he could get one. We agreed - but, after 3 weeks of success he was back sucking his thumb. In August, Will wanted to try again. So we made a deal: On September 28, Alex could get a guinea pig. If will could go a full month without sucking his thumb, he could also get a guinea pig. The idea that Alex would get one but he might not did the trick so we made the trip to Chow Hound last night to choose their new pets.

Reading up on Guinea Pigs the night before

Making their selections

Alex and Sherlock

Will and Brady

They had to sleep next to their new pets

They like to snuggle