Football, Parks and Gnomes

Before coming the US, that attending a High School football game was a must see event before we left. So this past Friday, we witnessed the Gilbert Tigers take on the Highland Hawks in a game that included playoff implications. After 3 quarters of watching the game, and I don't mean football, it became quite apparent that these events are not just about the football. Rather, it was a chance for Gilbert High School to come out in full 'Tiger' force. It didn't help that we sat in the student section, where more and more black and orange painted teenagers swelled our stands forcing us to moving 'further up and further in'. I must say though, that the advice was good--this is a MUST see event if you're in the States in fall, it is a hilarious and fun cultural event. There were two marching bands, two mascots, over 500 fans from the local area--almost all of which were in Tiger colors (many were painted--even the grandmas). As one lady sitting next to us said, 'We're a spirited bunch (Americans)!', right after she cooled the enthusiasm of the growing throng of chanting teens with a blast from her water bottle. The half time show put to shame the Grey Cup show--Bachman and Turner--again???? Anyway, what a night, the only regret is we had to leave before the football game was over, although, like I said it wasn't the main event, and sadly we forgot our camera.
Down here, they have something similar to Tinker Town, so with sunscreen and ball cap in hand we headed over to Enchanted Island. It was Nate's first time at a small park/carnival. Those of you who have taken your two year old to a park like this know how fun and special a time it is!
Yes, it is halloween here, though it feels different, maybe because there's not two feet of snow on the ground, my one concern for Nate tonight is not whether he'll be too cold, rather, whether he'll be too hot, that's assuming he'll actually wear his full costume. What's our little boy going as? A garden gnome, that's right, with beard and all will will greet some of our neighbors with all of Nate's cuteness in beard form. Wherever tonight finds you, have a safe and enjoyable time! Tomorrow we head to the Grand Canyon for a few days of rest and sightseeing, we'll see first hand if its as big as they say as it is.