"Daddy...what's this?"

As my job winds down from fever pitch to fast paced, I've been able to spend more time with the kids and I'm loving every minute of it.  I have found though, that I have to be constantly on my toes.  This afternoon we went on a pumpkin picking trip to Kelkenberg Farm, a great stop for Fall fun featuring the mentioned pumpkins, farm animals and country shop.

At one point during the festivities my little guy decided he needed to use the facilities.  After I helped him, I asked him to wait one second for me.  About thirty seconds later, from next to me I hear "Daddy - what's this?"  I turned to the side to find him with his hands in the urinal.  I took him over to the sink and washed his hands thoroughly, shaking my head with laughter the whole time.  I took a second and tried to explain to him what it was and how big boys use it.  He was completely disheartened that not only did he have to learn how to go on the potty, but here was another thing for him to pee in.  If he only new the options that await him.

I know that as a dad I've got the obligation and the privilege of introducing him (and my daughter) to thousands of new things, but I get excited every time I watch them see something new, try to figure it out, and either enjoy it or hate it.  He was looking at the urinal like it was some sort of UFO or time machine.  This feeling of excitement was tripled when on the way home I introduced him to Ska (the play list included Planet Smashers, The Toasters, Buck-O-Nine and Dance Hall Crashers) and I saw him bopping along in the back seat (he naturally head bangs - but I've made a deal with my wife - no metal until at least age 8).  Today we've hit urinal and Ska, pretty full day...what should we learn during the rest of October?  I've got a partial list:

Jumping in Leaves
Parsnips
Home-made Applesauce
It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown
Hot Apple Cider
Passion Pit
Popcorn Balls
The "Switch your mask to get more candy" trick
Making a tent with chairs and blankets

Anything I missed?