Sunday, September 13, 2009

Ain't no Party like a Suburban Block Party


Around these parts block parties are a big deal. Seriously. They don't mess around. Think bouncy houses, fire trucks for the kids to explore, treasure hunts. I was surprised that people went all out, but I guess there are so many families and kids that it just makes sense to have a huge blow out and, not coincidentally, allow the adults some time to congregate and have a few beers. Sounds like fun to us.


We didn't really live on a proper block in Chicago so we missed out on the block party experience. It was kind of a bummer. Kate and Joe let us crash their block party, but it's not quite the same as having your own.


Thankfully, our move was just a few weeks prior to this year's block party and we got to attend. The festivities did not disappoint. I wish I had taken a picture of the huge bouncy house. Anna was so excited for it that she ran down the street, without us even realizing it, and made a beeline towards it. But then, as children often do, she got cold feet and was afraid to go inside. I didn't mind because it seemed a bit dangerous to me.


We got to meet a lot of people on our block and even discovered a Columbia, MO, connection. I swear the world is soo small. Two families have kids somewhat close to Anna's age so I think some playdates are in our near future. I'm excited about that. We desperately need to get some new friends out here for her. The poor girl is going a bit stir crazy.

The block party was a great time. It's too bad we had to leave so early to meet the kids' bedtimes. Apple bobbing (or apple boppalobbing as Anna says), cupcake decorating, and a big pinata were just a few of the highlights. Can't wait to see what they come up with next year.




Look out, Anna's taking the lead in the neighborhood bicycle parade...with help from her trusty assistant.

Gearing up for her pinata swing. Do I wear the candy bag as an accessory? Or just use it to stash my loot?


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

That sounds like sooo much fun!! I'm glad you guys enjoyed it and met some new people!! Maybe she was trying to wear the paper bag like a dress like the one I made her a couple of weeks ago. Can't wait to see you guys this weekend:-)

Kate said...

But was your mailman singing C'mon Baby Light My Fire on a karaoke machine? : )