This week definitely topped it all though. We went apple picking with some friends, enjoyed hot cider, donuts, and apples (naturally), then our friend Ciera came back home with us and we cooked a big roast chicken dinner with mashed potatoes and carrots. While the chicken was in the oven we went across the street to my neighbors estate sale where we found a few items we liked. Most everything had been picked over but I found a Christmas wreath and Ciera a few cute mirrors. As we went to pay for them the guy asked a dollar for each thing. So we gave him two dollars. We were excited! Then (yes, it gets better) he starts asking what else we'd like. "Do you want this candle stick?" (it was grossly gaudy and about 3 feet tall with the candle!). Sarah said, "Yeah!". He went through most of the house handing us whatever we wanted. It was all completely hideous but we took stuff! It was incredibly awkward to have to say "Uh.... no, thanks, I don't really the things you own". But I came out with 4 bamboo trays and a wreath. Sarah got 3 drinking glasses, a giant candlestick in the shape of a lady in a robe, and a bowl. Ciera got 3 mirrors, a vase, and a decorative mask (this guy had bad taste!). Then, after admiring our treasures, we made apple crisp and sat down to play Uno. Then I taught everyone how to play Frog Juice (still just as fun!). All the while the candlestick was on the table, lit. We just had such a good time laughing and being together. It was wonderful. I'm so glad I've finally found a full life here in Grand Rapids.
Next week: pumpkin carving!
