Pumpkin Fest 2012...

We just love all of the events that downtown Zeeland hosts.  It makes the world we live in feel smaller and more personal, and it is fun to see a small community come together to support local businesses and enjoy living in community with each other.

Parker sat completely still in his stroller for the whole parade and waved at every float...we might need to be in the parade next year to put his wave to good use!  Joel and I were blown away by the amount of candy we got too!  Parker loved eating all of the Smarties and Daddy loved the Tootsie Rolls.  One float was giving away Tennis Balls and that definitely took the cake in Parker's eyes.

This was our first outing in about a month as a family due to Joel's back so after the parade we continued to enjoy the festivities with some hot chocolate, walking around and petting the animals from Critter Barn.  It was a crisp Fall day and we were definitely not dressed warm enough, but we had such a fun time!

Look out! Pregnancy is contagious...

While out celebrating Jodie's 30th birthday we took the opportunity to get a pregnancy picture of us girls before Sarah had her baby!  Such an amazing group of women God has blessed me with to walk the road of motherhood together.  Their support, advice, laughter, tears, spiritual encouragement and positive attitudes have really been the outlet I need to help me be the best mom and wife that I can be!

22 weeks...

Teacher Appreciation Evening...

Zeeland East Volleyball hosted a Teacher Appreciation Night to recognize the special teachers who have impacted the student-athletes on the team.  Tarryn South picked Joel for the honor of being her teacher!  He was introduced before the game started and got a gift and a very thoughtful card from Tarryn.  She also included a note about the impact Joel has had on her in the program.  It read as follows:

"Mr. Nagelkirk was my 7th grade health teacher and 8th grade basketball coach.  He has supported me and encouraged me throughout the years in more ways than one.  Thank you, Mr. Nagelkirk, for everything and for being a great role model to not only me but many other students who were lucky enough to have you."

I felt so proud to see Joel out there!  As a teacher moments like these are few and far between.  I also thought it was very special that he was the only middle school teacher there..all of the rest were high school teachers.  The impact he has on his students is lasting!

Fall Hike at Riley Trails...

A beautiful Fall day brought Parker and mommy out to the trails for some nature adventure.  Parker had so much fun wandering through the trails, watching squirrels, picking up pine cones and throwing them at trees and enjoying the spectacular creation that our Creator made for us to enjoy!

Parker played Tour Guide the whole time and instructed me where to go...

These are my absolute favorite trees!

I think Parks is starting to pick up on the fact that Mommy's voice tends to carry far.  He often tells me to "Be Quiet!". 

Parker's thoughts the whole time..."This is sooooo much fun!".

Who knew pine cones could be so much fun?!?!

I love spending my days with this special little guy.  He brings me so much joy!

This next picture kind of looks like Parker has a certain finger up...I assure you it is his pointer finger!

Such a beautiful place...

Parker found a "special" (dead) flower which we brought home with us and he carried it around with him for the rest of the day.

Running fast!!!