Growing Up

Ethan has really grown up lately. He's a real thinker and talks about so many grown up things. He's thoughtful and a big helper.

The other day he decided he wanted to eat lunch and couldn't wait for mama to finish helping Avery...so he made his lunch all by himself. I was so proud...a little sad my boy is getting so old, but proud nonetheless.

He'll be 4 next week!! Can you believe it?

Fall Zoo Trip

Bob and I took advantage of a fabulous fall day on Friday with a trip to the local zoo. We packed a lunch and headed out for a great adventure.

Ethan was so excited as he remembered so many of the fun things to do and see at the zoo. He talked nonstop the whole way there. Avery was just a couple of months old last time she went so she was in for a surprise.

It was a perfect day, not too warm, not too cold and not too crowded. We were treated to lots of big animal activity since the weather was perfect for getting out and moving around. Avery oohed and ahhed at just about everything and Ethan ran from place to place leading the way for us all.

Avery was smitten with the monkeys and the Meercats. She chatted with them and squealed with delight every time they ran by her.




The leopard was a real thrill. He paced back and forth in front of us. Ethan was mesmerized by his spots.


The kids got to ride on the carousel. Ethan just had to ride the snake on the log again this year. Avery chose the Ape, but wasn't too sure about riding any of them. She stayed on the whole time, but kept a keen eye on me. Ethan of course LOVED his snake ride.

The kids each had a little money from a Halloween package and chose to spend it on a souvenir from the zoo. Ethan had a very hard time choosing. He liked so many things. He finally decided on a leopard mask and has been "so happy" with his choice. Avery on the other hand chose very quickly. Daddy showed her many different things she could choose, but she lovingly cuddled her stuffed Meercat all through the store. Thanks Gram and Papa for the spending money!

It was a perfect family day! The kids were amazed at everything we saw. I'm sure another zoo trip will be in our future!


Caution: Wild Leopard escaped from local zoo!

The Happiest of Halloweens

We had a week full of Halloween celebrations. Ethan and I finally agreed on a costume and spent Monday afternoon creating a Dragon Fighter's costume. We really had a ball working on it together. He knew exactly what he wanted: a fur vest, that fur stuff on his boots, a belt, and those things like Hiccup's dad wears on his arms. (See How To Train Your Dragon for more details.) Avery lucked out and was given a fabulous Tinker Bell costume by some Disney loving friends. I think I had the cutest kids on the block!

We had 3 great Halloween parties during the week. The kids loved playing the games, winning the prizes and treats and





spending lots of time in their costumes.








On Saturday I took the kids Trick or Treating for the first time. In years past we always did trunk or treat so even Ethan had his first time. Avery practiced all afternoon, but when it came time to say trick or treat and thank you she had stage fright, but quickly warmed up to choosing her own candy and putting it in her bag. And eventually gave the sweetest smile and thank you ever. Ethan was thrilled to go on ahead of Avery and I with some friends. He loved knocking, choosing, wishing Happy Halloween then sprinting off to the next house!

The kids made out like bandits and because of the cold drizzling rain we had lots of our candy left too so we were all happy!!




Avery was sad to see the holiday end and begged to wear her costume again on Sunday afternoon...I decided to hang it in her room so she can bring it to me any time the urge hits! All you need is a little dust...pixie dust!