Prost!

In honor of our German heritage and since we couldn't attend the REAL Oktoberfest this year, Familie Flora decided to host their own fest of sorts at the end of last month. Mama once again rolled up her sleeves to make a fine selection of German delicacies--sausage, Rotkraut, potato salad, pretzels, Black forest cupcakes, and Lebkuchenherz. Daddy provided refreshing beverages in true Bavarian spirit. Uncle T and Daddy wore their party hosen. Elias played until he was absolutely exhausted. A wunderbar time was had by all.

Hiking for Hemos

Last Weekend we ventured out to raise money and awareness for hemophilia. In fact, we pulled together a few of our friends to walk with us. Elias was definitely the leader of the pack...

A little rain did not slow us down.

Elias managed to walk, make that RUN almost 80% of the 2.5 mile walk.  

With all our hard work, our team was able to raise over $1000! So then we got to let loose...

Fountain Square Jedi

One of the perks of having our barrel located in an artsy area of town is the much anticipated Fountain Square's Art Squared Event in which Masterpiece in a Day, an Art Fair, and a Parade takes place every year. Despite our section of the cultural trail being under complete construction, the even went off and we were able to soak in a beautiful early fall day complete with drag queens, storm troupers, clowns, and floats. Mama danced in the parade while Daddy and Elias saved the universe...

Flora Family Fun

Over the past couple of weeks, we have traveled and visited with our fellow family monkeys. First we traveled to Wabash for a little reunion.

Cousins

Learning the art of catch

Later, we took a trip to Tennessee for a little family fun. However, we got a little rained out. We still found some activities to do...

Wine (grape) tasting. The grape of the south is the muscadine--a very sweet grape indeed. 

Uncle D showed off his singing talents at karaoke...

...and Elias his dancing skills

In Chattanooga, they had a very excellent aquarium.

Elias LOVED the sharks

and the otters the best

Seeing all that marine life makes for a tired boy

But not for a little last minute fountain play

In Nashville a most excellent train display thrilled Elias and his friend Atticus.

Cheekwood had sprawling hills and gardens too

In the end, the rain stopped but it did not stop our fun adventures.