Saturday, November 13, 2010

Max Turns Two!

My baby is done being a baby! Max was so excited it was his birthday, he sang the song and learned to change his fingers to "two" (well, almost, at least he's trying) and was so happy. And it's not just that he is getting so big, he's starting to talk in sentences that people can actually understand instead of his jabbering that he is so famous for! (I'm actually going to really miss the jabbering!) He says "I'm okay, Mom." and "Come on, guys!" and his favorite, "I want some candy!" (pronounced canding) among many others. He also said his first complete night time prayer which brought tears to my eyes. He is so sweet and cuddly, and I love him so much! Happy birthday, Mix Master Max!
First thing in the morning we told him we'd go on a hike, and he couldn't wait to get going. He is so good, he gets so excited to be outside and we probably went two miles before he needed to be carried at all!
Just in time to practice for Christmas.
Hey there, gorgeous!

Sunday, November 7, 2010

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Some people long for their perfect snow white Christmases or salivate all year for that family dinner around the roast turkey at Thanksgiving. Yes, those are very nice holidays, and I love them too, but HALLOWEEN...now this is my holiday. This is the one I anticipate and my spirit gets a little thrill as it starts to draw near. So, you'll excuse me if I maybe put up one too many tacky decorations on my lawn or make it darn near impossible to get through my front door because I can't NOT hang up the dangling skeleton bones, or if I make my kids cry because I'm forcing them to trick or treat in the rain (because you can't NOT trick or treat! It's Halloween for crying out loud!)

This year was a wake up call for me, because Ella informed me a month ago she was going trick or treating with her friend and "didn't need" me to come. Ouch! But what if I want to?What if I NEED to? The other issue we had, was the critically acclaimed actor, Andy Avery, was to be starring in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers that evening so I had the kids on my own. But it all turned out well. That morning, Andy started a new tradition and raced with my brothers-in-law (in costume of course!) in a half marathon. Afterwards, we headed home for some Halloween chili and last minute preparations. Because it was raining all day and was freezing, Zoe and Max only hit a few houses with me before heading home for the night. It was low key, but still a really good time! And, yes...I'm already getting ready for next year!
Andy as Antoine Dodson, Korey as Pippy and Fred as Dwight Schrute!!!

My sister, Jenny, looking AWESOME! I WILL be copying her costume sometime soon!













The many faces of Zoe and Caroline. Zoe's official costume wasn't decided on till very last minute. Initially she absolutely refused to be the black cat, but the freezing cold rain helped to change her mind.