To Everything, Turn, Turn, Turn...

There has been a lot of "turning" here in Duluth in the last few weeks. Autumn here is much like cherry blossom season in Washington D.C. If you time your visit just right, you will be treated to the most spectacular palette of fall colors you've ever seen. Unfortunately, the colors leave as quickly as they arrived. At this point, most of the leaves have lost their vibrant shade of red or yellow, and are waiting on the first gust of wind to sweep them to the ground. Still, those three weeks of autumnal brilliance make trudging through the long winter worth it.

In light of the anniversary that passed last week, we had an intentional family weekend. Chris took Thursday and Friday off, and we honored Derek's life by making memories with our loved ones. On Thursday, we took full advantage of the fall foliage by having some family portraits done (you might remember the incredible work On3Design did with Kendall's newborn pictures!). Afterward, we hit up Blackwoods Bar and Grill for a lovely lunch, and headed home for family nap time. Chris' mom, Marcia, arrived later in the afternoon, so Chris and I took off for an impromptu date night- dinner and a movie. Thanks, Grandma Marcia!

Friday, we trekked over to Bayfield, Wisconsin for the annual Bayfield Apple Festival. I was very disappointed, as were we all, when we arrived under large clouds of rain. We tolerated the rain at the outdoor festival as long as we could before surrendering and heading back to the car. The fun potential for this event is high, though, with the right conditions! Live music, great food, yummy desserts, fun parades, and pumpkin patches...next year we'll check the weather report first! :)

We made a stop at Erickson Orchards on our way out of town to pick up a
couple apple pies and other apple treats. By the end of the day, Kendall was famous
for her cute hat, getting recognized in several places.

Kendall, checking out the craft booths with Grandma.

Our drive back to Duluth along Lake Superior was stunning.

Fall foliage in full bloom on our block!