Theo's always building something on our living room rug. Meanwhile, Meadow is suddenly really good at drawing. If she keeps practicing, she's going to be incredible by middle school. Meadow has been asking for a coconut cream pie since she had some on our big road trip to the UP. After having the ingredients on hand for a couple of weeks, we finally started with the crust. Meadow requested breakfast like Grandpa likes. Waffles with strawberries and whipped cream. 

Finally the family days at the MIA are back in person.  We decided to take the bus since it's a single seat ride all the way there. Give or take a couple of blocks. Pose in front of the museum.  Thanks, for obliging. Meadow wore another pair of her new earrings today. 

Our little baker Meadow decided to make us muffins for breakfast.  Thanks, Meadow. The kids had been saving their money from doing chores. Meadow wanted to go to Claire's to get some clip on earrings. She still hasn't committed to getting her ears pierced.  Claire's always has dumb deals, like buy 3 get 3 free. Of course Theo found some things he wanted too. Like this rainbow heart bracelet that I had when I was a kid.  Aww, didn't know you had it growing up. Claire's always overwhelms me when we go. Kitty earrings for this kid of course.  Meadow likes having a night light and Theo doesn't. He's been asking for a sleep mask. We went on a few rides, checked out the Lego store and enjoyed a fun night at MOA. For some reason I didn't take any pictures. IDK.

Friday We finally got around to carving pumpkins. It would've been more fun with G.G. and Grandpa, but it would do. We had a few days to spare before Halloween, anyhow.   I love the light shadows from our leaded glass windows.  Brooke and Meadow teamed up while Theo and I tried our best. The kids added their pumpkins to our stoop. Thanks previous owners for leaving the giant pumpkins for us.

Originally Scott was supposed to be gone this week on a work trip. I had asked my parents if they could come to help with the kids while I was at work.  Unfortunately  I wasn't going down to shoot one of the big boat shows in Florida. On the plus side we'd get to spend time with G.G. on her 70th birthday weekend. With the trip cancelled I asked if they still wanted to come. Before they arrived Meadow made neopolitan cookies.  These were some of the best cookies we've ever made. Thanks, Meadow's cookie cookbook. The next morning Theo asked grandpa if they could snuggle together. I had plans to take my parents to a pizza farm. Since the drive was an hour away we tried to find things to do in the area. We picked up some food for a picnic and hiked at Rice Lake State Park.  I feel like this is the second time I've had a job and Brooke's taken the kids to this state park.   True story. Most of the leaves are gone near the Twin Cities, but not down here.    We found a

  Blake was in town for his annual Union Conference. After dinner we walked over to Lynlake Brewery for some drinks.  We'd never been and thought it was about time. We brought games but they had a hug pile of their own.  I love when the kids root beers come in fancy glasses.