Annual Block Party!

Here is a great shot (taken by Chris) of Dexter on his first tricycle ride at last night's annual block party!

But first, here is the scrutinizing little dude earlier that day, enjoying a cracker while waiting for the train to the market.

I wore the new dress I got from my Anthropologie run the other day.

It has birds and gives off a very woodland nature vibe.

We're getting fall weather now and tights were a must. As was a wool blazer and a scarf.

It also has this fluff thing along the collar.

Met with Sable and other friends. It was a particularly busy day for running into people this week.

Later that day we made our way across the street and twenty paces over to the annual block party! This is one of my favourite parties to go to each year. We were first invited shortly after we moved in 2008 and it made us feel so welcome to the neighbourhood. Although we're not officially living on that specific "block," we are honourary members.

The street gets closed off and people bring out their BBQs, tables and chairs, and lots of tasty food to share. This year there were lots of balloons and a pinata that the kids went gaga over.

When the thing finally broke open (after many concerted attempts to destroy it) the kids pounced on and ravaged the candy on the ground. Never have I witnessed a group of individuals descend upon treats in such a way that so accurately mimicked a zombie hoard devouring brains. It was pretty shocking.

Since it gets so chilly now, we brought our fire pit to warm things up.

Don instructed the kids to gather kindling and let them help with the fire building.

Various neighbours took turns watching over the baby.

At some point Dexter discovered the tricycle and he was REALLY into it. I think it becomes him very well.

Oh, and those fancy green trainers? Gift from grandma.

Little Zoe was so kind to Dougal the pirate dog.

At one point it rained and we feared for the party, but it passed. Nevertheless, Graham was prepared.

Dexter with neighbourhood friends.

And then... BBQ!

Followed by home made ice cream and other treats. I think I ate 6 rice krispie squares and 3 brownies on top of the ice cream and oreo cookies. I love dessert.

Such civilized dining. I was much more savage and ate half my dinner while sitting on a curb.

As the evening got colder we put more logs on the fire.

And had boisterous conversation into the wee hours.

So biking and taking the train out for food and friends is always wonderful, but walking up the street to meet with friendly neighbours is an excellent thing. Regardless of where you live, having good neighbours is priceless. I know a lot of people lament that the fact that neighbourhoods aren't as friendly and safe as they used to be. You know, people don't say hi and you don't get to know them very well.

Perhaps that is true, but it takes good people to get that going and to inspire others to come out of their shell. Luckily, there already seems to be great neighbourly momentum happening in my 'hood and my little family gets to reap all the benefits of these fine people living all around us.

Block party!