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It occurred to me that we haven't had any comments on the blog which is pretty unusual. Upon researching this further, wouldn't you know, I had the comment functionality set up in a fashion that wouldn't allow you to post. I am so sorry for that!

Commenting through the blog is now available if you are so inclined. Thanks!

Doin' the Puyallup...

:: View the slideshow ::

Our Western Washington fair is going on—the Puyallup Fair. On the school's fair day, we cut the work day short, picked up Connor from school, and swung out to get Patty and headed off to enjoy the day there.

As some of you know, Patty, understandably has not been able to get out of the house much. We were so happy she was up for coming along. We borrowed a travel chair of my mom's, which worked out wonderfully for her. It allowed her to let us (mostly Brett) push her around the fairgrounds from A to B comfortably.

Connor and I split off and rode some of the rides. He's a bit reserved about his choice in which ones to go on—he's not as adventurous and risky as me, which is just fine; we still had fun! Our last ride was The Monster. This was a real spinny ride, so needless to say that one did me in.

The fair is mostly about the food. The scones are always popular, along with the burgers, Krusty Pups and Cow Chip cookies. Every year it is pretty much the same, except for the cost... it's always going up! Then you have the usual peddlers selling their wares, wheeling and dealing some product they're trying to reel you in on that you can't live without. While we didn't get to see the rodeo (maybe next year) we did catch a little side clown show that was kinda cute, so I have some pictures of that in the slideshow.

I will be heading out the fair again with my colleagues from work. This trip is good for me because I can go on the scarier rides. Look for more pictures on that trip to be posted soon...

REVISION 9/20/2008: The fair visit with my colleagues was canceled due to the market crash on 9/16. Completely understood, but that's what happens when you work in the financial services industry.

Mossyrock and St. Helens tree farm...

The guys were drawn for cow elk this fall so to prepare, Brett, Connor and I took a drive out to the Mossyrock area to do a little research. This location was completely foreign to us.

It was a beautiful early fall day. With Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams in the scenic backdrop, we managed to see lots of deer and elk trails/signs, so we feel hopeful they'll have success there when the season arrives.

Right now, the bowhunting season is underway. It was bustling with people here and there. Brett managed to talk to one of the locals familiar with the area, who directed us to some points of interest.

Schooltime returns...

:: View slideshow of pictures ::

I love our seasons here, so despite summer taking an exit, I think I am ready for Fall.

School is now in swing and for us, this means crazier traffic and crazier schedules to manage. For the day before school, an open house was held. It's an opportunity for families to meet teachers, visit the classroom and drop off school supplies and whatnot. I (of course) donned the camera so some pics of the visit are included, along with a couple from his first day of school.

Time together...

We had some birthdays to celebrate! My mom, Leah, my aunt Gayle, and a dear and close friend of the family, Belle.

Plans were set out to meet up at a local restaurant in Puyallup. Added to the guest list was Carolynn & Jim, Lysa & Greg and their son Drew, Belle's significant other, Gordon followed by me, Connor and Brett to round out the list.

It had been way too long since we were last all together, so we'll make plans to get out again soon.