Friday, November 12, 2010

Annual Family Bonfire

We love our annual bonfire. It's one our highlights of fall. This year we were at the old farmhouse for the festivities, and although we were at at new place, things were just as awesome.

We had a rip roaring fire, for sure.
The boys loved exploring the place.

I think everyone had a turn 'driving' the tractor.


Sound effects galore!

 All the kids were given pumpkin lanterns to run around with and the girls loved their glow in the dark necklaces.

 We roasted hot dogs as part of our dinner outside in the chill. Then we made s'mores, had donuts and lots of hot cider. The kids couldn't get enough of the cider, especially W.

We invited friends to the special occasion and they loved it, especially the s'mores.

Grandma doesn't disappoint with her festivities. (She's lookin' a bit unclear because of the smoke). My sister and her family joined us as well. And guess what W has in his cup? Cider! Probably his 29th cup.

We piled onto the hay for our hayride through the woods. We were charting new territory this year and it turned out fabulous. I think we only had one person get smacked in the head from a low branch. Much better than in the past. One year, we all had to lean into the middle to avoid thorny branches. Those can hurt when you don't see them in the dark!

Our friends' little one. He was going strong all evening.

Pa created a great trail for us. He even rigged up orange rope lights to go around the trailer.

I think W talked the entire ride. He told us about the lights, the moon, the trees, the hay and a dozen other things, I'm sure.What a little chatterbox. He was probably wondering why his siblings have such messy faces.
Everyone was taking pictures and enjoying the ride. Grandma joined us for the second ride, along with the missionaries, who showed up to chow down. They couldn't resist such an event!

Look at that face! I'm surprised because it looked like he inhaled his food!

Aunt S with 2 of her kids. Good times were had by all, I tell ya!!
Does this scream fun or what?!!

 This is Baby B. Poor guy. He didn't make it to the bonfire this year because his cozy bed really wanted to snuggle with him.
Maybe next year, buddy.

4 comments:

Lauren said...

I want to have a bonfire with your family! We miss you guys. Move next door?

Shelby said...

Good times, good times... I can't wait until next year. And baby B is excited that he may even be able to attend. :)

Carson Knaphus said...

This is exactly how I grew up! My dad had a Kubota tractor, and we hooked up a trailer and took everyone for hay rides - finished with a bonfire and cider. How perfect! That is one of my favorite memories, and it's great that W has it too.

Carolina Chocolate said...

Oh, we'd love to live near you, Lauren! We'd have such fun!

Carson, that is just too perfect!