Hayride – Hotdogs – Bonfire – Music – Stargazing – Fellowship! What a Night!

A wonderful gathering of Union Church family members of all ages celebrated autumn in great abundance last Saturday afternoon!  We enjoyed food, fellowship, hayrides, music, stargazing, and visiting with one another last Saturday afternoon and evening at the Rhodes,’ Gilbert’s, and Friends’ lovely backyard and fields.

There were many highlights, but a few that stand out include:

• the herd of deer that appeared in the field just at the right time during a hayride (inspiring an early round of “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer”);
• an owl flying over and then perching in the very top of a tree;
• looking through a telescope and seeing a galaxy whose light began traveling our way about two million years ago;
• perfectly grilled hot dogs and fix-your-own s’mores (with the largest marshmallows you’ve ever seen!) and hot spiced cider;
• competitive croquet games;
• old-time music and dancing well into the night (or ‘til 9:30 anyway);
• a 70 degree late-fall afternoon;
• a beautiful sunset and afterglow;
• a clear, crisp night for stargazing;
• laughter and conversation.

The Community Life and Growth Board thanks all those who came out for the fun and everyone who helped put the event together.  There was definite talk about doing it again next year.

A distant view of the hayride

Lots of laughter

Someone gave Rev. Kent a megaphone!

Enjoying the potluck

Everyone enjoyed the smores!

A fine night for Music!

Catching up with Farmer Steve R.

Beautiful weather, beautiful faces!

Recent Intern Assoc. Min. Derek Roe with wife Jeannine came by for a visit and a ride!

Rachael White warms up at the campfire.

Lots to eat and talk about!

Chef Kevin B. kept hunger pangs at bay!

All aboard! Fun for young and old.

The last of the fall colors on the Rhodes Farm

Union Church Hayride 2012

Food and Fellowship at Hayride Party

Stephanie W. enjoys hot cider on hayride.

Farmer Steve Pulls the Load

Lined up and ready to go.

Hayride at Pastor Kent's House!

"Amazing Grace"

Farmer Steve leads a tune

Mmmm! S'mores!