Taking a Walk

We went over to Ed and Julie's house today. You'd think by now I'd remember that the first thing the kids would ask was "Grandma, did you bring the Wii???" I said I'd bring it tomorrow.... along with the Ingenious game.

When we got to the house, Ed was watching the Illinois-Michigan game on the big screen TV. Ken quickly became engaged in watching and cheering for Michigan (of course). Neither defense showed up for the game, so it was very high scoring, ending up at 67-65 after three overtimes.

Jesse is, of course, growing quickly and learning new skills, which he was proud to show off--like making a clucking noise with his mouth and waving bye bye.

Ed and I took the kids and dogs for a walk/ride. Ed pulled the green wagon with Sam riding in it some of the way. Kate rode her bike. Bijou and Charlie eagerly led the way. We ended up at a playground, where Ed played Angry Birds, Bijou and Charlie were teased by a squirrel, and the kids played on the equipment, showing off their skills and having a great time. I snapped photos of this moving ensemble/menagerie and did manage to capture a few good moments.

Later, Julie went to get her hair done, and I fixed dinner: Betty MacDonald casserole, refried beans, squash and onions, a small chili casserole made from poblanos grown in their garden, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, chips, and a couple of small fiery red peppers for the brave. Cate even tried some of the Betty MacDonald casserole, but Sam ate mac and cheese.

After cleaning up the kitchen we played Can't Stop!. Cate came very close to winning, making it to the top of two numbers quickly and then needing to roll only one more four to win. Somehow I came from behind, closed out the fours, and ended up winning the game.

Since we were there a month ago, Ed and Julie have acquired a new top-of-the-line dishwasher and a new TV and stand for the family room. Julie also has a new Canon SLR camera. They're hoping that Ken will have some tips for Julie and maybe take a family Christmas photo for them. Ken says he may need to take the camera for a while to familiarize himself with its features--say for the next year or two!