Corn Maze and Fall Festival

We took a Carlile family trip to the Corn Maze (and Corn Festival as Zeke likes to call it). The theme this year was minions -- super fun!

We decided to take everyone on the long side of the big maze. The little girls were so excited for the corn maze but it didn't take too long for them to get hot and frustrated that it was really just a long walk without changing scenery.

We started out finding our way by looking for numbered signposts. Aaron scanned a code on #1 and got our location in the map. We started following around the outside, to sign #2. Then we started looking for major 'roads' and found #3. We figured we were in the middle of the maze by then. A few more corners and we were very surprised to see sign #10 and it was a straight shot out. Somehow we found a shortcut the maze and ended up exiting in the kids maze. It was awesome. 

Very fitting that the kids put themselves in the rule breaker stocks. We were very happy to have broken the rules and skipped out early. 

We spent the most time in the Pumpkin Princess Playland. Nora was so happy to dress up like a princess and ride in the carriages. 

And meet the real Pumpkin Princess

Zeke spent his time in the Playland minding the store, and loving it. 

It was a great day full of fall fun. We had the best time! 

At The Lot

Dynna's in-laws have some property out away from it all, and we took the opportunity when Draper and Carrie were here to go out there and have a hot dog roast. The stream running through was so fun for the kids - both said their favorite part was the boats in the river.

Such beautiful autumn views! It was a very peaceful and relaxing place. A good chance to disconnect from outside life and reconnect with family. 

Zeke and Nora got to hold Lizzy for the first time. She is such a cuddly baby!

More beautiful, peaceful views. 

Carlile grandkids all together! The family is growing :)

Map & Compass Hike

One of Zeke's scout requirements is to go on a hike and use a map and compass. I thought this was a great opportunity to get out and get close to some autumn scenery, and we picked a hike close by that we had never done before. This particular location is a system of hiking and mountain biking trails, so there are a lot of trail intersections. Since the signage was minimal, we really did need that map!

Good thing I brought another copy of the map, because Nora of course wanted one too. 

We were maybe a little early for great autumn views... there were a lot of green leaves still. However, they were starting to change!

The view from the lookout point was spectacular. 

We live in such a pretty place!

We had a great time and I'm hoping we can go back and explore some of the other trails. Given that the weather seems to be changing, it may have to wait until next year!