Family Matters

On Saturday, I began the all-important big sister roll of preparing my little sister for college. Of course, I may be starting a little early considering that she is 8, but that's beside the point. After receiving yet another lecture from her (someone scratched "fuck you" on our apartment door at some point before we moved in. Emma does not approve.) we began our quest for adventure.
Earlier that week, I'd received a tip that a nearby museum was holding an animal presentation, so we headed that way (with the source of the tip in tow, of course). The Wagner Free Institute of Science is only a few blocks from campus, so it was a relatively easy walk, even for Emma with her shorter legs. Though I really shouldn't be saying that. At the rate she's growing, she'll be as tall as I am soon. Sigh.
Anyway, moving on. I would highly recommend the Wagner Free Institute of Science. They are funded entirely on donations, yet incredibly well run. Their upstairs exhibit contains samples of coral, rocks, minerals, all sorts of preserved animals and even dinosaur bones! For the kids, they run a scavenger hunt that takes them to all corners of the room, answering questions. I was certainly worn out from it! Also, the institute occasionally hosts special presentations and classes - all free! The one we attended - Fangs! - was run by the Elmwood Park Zoo who did a fantastic job. Their presentation included snakes, an opossum, bats and several other critters. Emma and I both loved it!
After the exhibit, we proceeded to an afternoon of cookies, exploring the campus and carving pumpkins, definitely one of my favorite holiday traditions. Usually, I take a lot of pride in my pumpkins, though I think Marco may have outdone me this year with his rather realistic looking fox.
Overall, a wonderful day or sister bonding and adventure! (Emma particularly liked the ice cream available in the dining hall.)
On another family related note, I received a package from my mother today. At first, it seemed to be a basic Halloween treat surprise - funky stockings, caramelized popcorn and some delicious chocolate! But as I was sorting through the candy container, I discovered that it contained more than candy. Dispersed through the sweets were several condoms, some even flavored.
I'm not entirely sure what to think about this, so I've decided to find it entertaining. Oh my mother... I love her.