It’s the Great Pumpkin 2008

Apparently last year we started a tradition of going to Fulton Farms in October to pick our Halloween pumpkin. I remember we were in a festive mood (probably because we were going to be leaving for Hawaii soon) and were attempting to cheer up my parents because Eric, Shanda and Kaiden had just moved away. So we all decided to head to Fulton’s where they have a mini corn maze, animals, a hay slide, a kids hay tunnel, and a hay ride out to a pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkin. It was tons of fun.

This year we had suggested that the Loyd’s take their children or that we all go for a day. Then my mom called and asked if we could find a time to all do it together as a family. So we combined families and had a big gathering at Fulton’s. The Loyd’s came complete with Grandma Solinger. Naomi and Grace (our niece) came as well. Then there was my family (or at least the ones that live here) – my Mom and Phil and Janelle and Leon. It was great fun.

Everyone started out with snacks in the cafe as some of us were trying to get infants fed before starting out. It was crazy chilly that day, mostly because of the wind, so we tried our best to bundle up Isaac for the afternoon. Then off to the animals and activities.

This is one of the first times since they were older that we had Evan and Grace together (they are only 2 weeks apart)! We had lots of fun by sticking them in this giant tire. Grace didn’t seem to mind too much but Evan was doing all he could to escape! (His mom was proud).

Then out to the pumpkin patch. I do have to say going to the pumpkin patch with toddlers is MUCH more amusing than going on your own. It is great to see how they react to miles of pumpkins and the choice to only take one home. My favorite part was watching Evan and Grace pick out their pumpkins. This is the one that Grace picked out! Only for me to turn around to find Evan with his prize pumpkin! How cute, a rock and a immature pumpkin. One of my other favorite pictures is this one of Janelle and Leon snuggling together for warmth…

We also did some photo shoot type pictures with Evan and Grace. They didn’t really hold still like I would have liked but I did manage to capture a few. I love this one where it looks like Grace is trying to talk to Evan and he doesn’t really seem interested. BOYS! Oh yea, I have one now!

Then back on the hayride again and to head home. Ben decided to play with the camera and get some “action” shots while people weren’t looking. They turned out great. My favorite is this one of Cortney. I think this looks like a Ralph Lauren magazine advertisement. . .both a compliment to her and to my husband’s photography skills.

Overall it was a great day for hanging out with friends and family. I am excited for 2009’s excursion when I get to help my little man pick out his first pumpkin!

For more photos from the day check out the Pumpkin Patch 08 Gallery.