It was not that long ago that we looked out our windows to see the colors of Autumn. Reds, yellows, and golds. Our streets were littered with fallen leaves... dense enough to obstruct entire walking paths-your steps so nicely cushioned.

This morning, our beautiful Fall colors are thoroughly hidden under two or more inches of soft, white snow. Although I personally think the first snow of the season is exciting, my heart isn't in it this year. I envisioned a lot more fall related activities taking place prior to snow coming to Stuttgart.

I am especially glad, however, that we took advantage of nicer weather earlier in the month to visit Ludwigsburg's Pumpkin Festival. I don't think I would have been able to enjoy that afternoon nearly as much had there been snow...

Anyways, this is our third and final pumpkin extravaganza a la Ludwigsburg. This year's theme was a little different as it was the country of Austria which seems a little strange compared to years past. However, it was still very creative and cute.

We got an early start on a Friday morning when Chad didn't have to work. We had to get out the door by 0800 because we had an appointment with the passport office for myself and Rhett. As soon as we finished up there, we headed to Ludwigsburg and arrived right when the gardens opened.

We headed straight for the Maerchen Garten so Rhett could get out some excess energy. This year he could really enjoy himself and take advantage of the play structures, swings, boat and mini train rides. He had such a great time (Chad too!) that he didn't want to leave that particular area but we bribed him with food and all was right with the world.

The menu is always the same every year but I don't mind because I know I want the maultauschen before I even get there! If pumpkin flavored foods aren't your thing, they have a restaurant at the palace and two small cantinas in the park as well. This year we ordered maultauschen (floating in a bowl of kurbis soup), pumpkin cake, a pumpkin muffin, pumpkin strudel and pumpkin spaghetti for Rhett. The spaghetti has never appealed to me but when we tasted Rhett's, both Chad and I were immediately jealous. JEALOUS. It was so good. Chad thought he'd be able to finish whatever Rhett didn't eat but apparently all that play made Rhett very hungry because he ate the entire bowl and then the pumpkin muffin. It was quite impressive.

After lunch, we spent the rest of the afternoon wandering around the garden displays and playing in the hay. We soaked up the sun and enjoyed being totally immersed in the Fall. I appreciate that day more than ever.

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