It's All About the Honeycrisp

If you like apples, you probably know about Honeycrisp Apples. If you haven't had one, you should. There is nothing better in the sack lunch department than finishing it off with a Honeycrisp Apple. So saturday we headed out to Crane's Orchards in Fennvile along with loads of other folks from all over West Michigan. I've been told they're usually not that swamped, but again it's all about the Honeycrisp. We had a great time and picked nearly 90 pounds of apples.

Ahoy Matey

The Walcotts got a taste of the sailing life this weekend. It was actually a first for all three of us. It has been many years since we've been out on the big lake, and for that matter, never in a sailboat. Our neighbors heard that Brighton likes boats, and they were kind enough to invite us to join them on a short sail. It was a beautiful night, and a very cool experience for us. We were all fascinated by the sails, ropes, and work that goes into each ride. Brighton ended up being lulled to sleep, so we snuggled watching the waves as the sun set. Jon actually drove the boat - not an easy task for a rookie. He also furled the jennie...I think that's what it is called.

The experience left us understanding why they enjoy it so much, and really in awe of the hobby. Ahoy Matey!

The Annual Transition

Summer vacation is a HUGE blessing in my life, but each fall transitioning from summer to being back at school is like going from zero to sixty at some ridiculously jarring rate. I'm not alone either. Just about everyone I know is in transition mode. With back-to-school in full swing, it's that way for us and most of our friends and family. It affects everyone really, from grandparents to the littlest ones. For us, things are going as well as to be expected. We all had a great week outside of one unforgettable incident. The first day of school was a thumbs up for me until I got home and Brighton decided to draw with pen all over our red leather ottoman. You can see the evidence if and when you ever visit us. It about made me sick, but I'm over it now. As my grandma told me, it won't be the worst thing he does. At school so far, I have kids that behave...so far. No one has really announced themselves as the class troublemaker(s) yet. I don't know if I should be thankful or wait and worry.

Although on some days it doesn't feel like it, I will say that Jon and I are getting pretty good at juggling our schedule and our responsibilities at work and at home. I really struggle with wanting to be productive and efficient while wanting to spend fun quality time with my son. It's a daily battle for me...a little insight into my personal struggles for you. Jon has figured out that there are a couple things he can do with Brighton (at least right now) that are productive and really fun at the same time. So, yesterday morning Jon and Bright washed the car while I set-up gradebooks for my classes. No question who had more fun. The car washing did require a new clean and dry outfit for each of them, but I readily accept some extra laundry as I got a really clean car out of the deal. What's another outfit when they each go through a couple each day anyway? The never-ending laundry: now that's another topic for another blog post.

Anyway, I hope this post finds you transitioning as well as possible. Hope you had a nice weekend too.

From A to Z

Summer is officially over, and we ended last night with our own"Z".

We met adorable baby Zoe the Zebra at Lewis' Market & Petting Zoo.

Have you ever fed and pet a baby zebra?