Fall Fun 2024

When we weren't busy with sports, we managed to squeeze in some other fun this Fall. Time just keeps flying, but we are trying our best to soak in the memories while the kids are still around!

We were able to sneak in a quick day trip to Champaign to celebrate Nyla's birthday and visit our favorite apple orchard. We had really hoped to make it back down for a football game, but our weekends never freed up like we had hoped!

Caleb and Leah had a great time during Homecoming week. They both participated in the Homecoming Olympics, Caleb had a singing debut at the pep assembly, and the week ended with a fun time at the dance! We also got to experience our first ever Homecoming Proposal. It was a team effort (Joel made the poster, I ordered the latte, and Caleb asked AJ to the dance).

Aside from staying busy with school sports, the three kids still enjoy being part of their school bands. Joel got to march in the Fall Fest Parade over Labor Day weekend and all three kids had concerts in October.

We all enjoyed a nice visit from Aunt Denise at the beginning of October. She spoiled us with lots of treats, gifts, and quality time...we were definitely sad to see her leave. She got to enjoy seeing the kids at their various sports and was even lucky enough to be here for the annual Chili Cookoff. Along with Aunt Denise's guest appearance, we were also graced with a visit from Nyla's friends for the Chili Cookoff. It was a blast to share it with some of our most favorite people!

October wrapped up with a fun Halloween night! Joel went to a friend's house with a bunch of other pals from school and cross country. Leah headed out with a couple of her friends. Caleb declared that he was too old, so he spent the evening just hanging out with friends at AJ's house.

Another Fall highlight was watching Caleb get inducted into the National Honor Society. It was so neat to see so many of these kids that have grown up alongside Caleb get recognized for their hard work. Of course, we were most proud of our kid! He has truly worked so hard despite a lot of struggles at the beginning of high school.

One of the biggest highlights of this Fall was Joel's special trip with TiTi to Universal Studios. After finishing the Harry Potter series last year, he made sure to cash in on the promised trip. He had so much fun getting to take his own special trip and we are incredibly thankful for my sister's generosity with these kids!