The Epic Birthday Party

We have never hosted a friend birthday party for the kids. We knew though that Peter's 8th birthday called for a fantastic celebration that he would never forget. He decided it had to be a Harry Potter theme, so we rolled with it and ended up having a great time.

I managed to collect some great props from family members and nearby friends. I even made chocolate frogs to send home with the guests. It was enjoyable and Peter was thrilled with all the gifts he got. I'm so glad we were able to make this birthday memorable. He is a pretty shy kid and to have all the attention focused on him for a few hours was impressive. He was great at being polite and kind to all his guests.

Something new

I have voted faithfully every year since turning 18. This year a few weeks before Election Day I read about voting by mail and I decided to give it a try. I already knew whom I wanted to vote for, so I signed up, received my ballot in the mail, and sent it right back in. It was the greatest thing ever. No standing in line with children, and I had a teaching moment with the boys while I was filling it out. I think this will become a new "normal" for me.

The Year of the Deer

Our neighbor is a avid hunter. This year he decided to put this on the shed roof that faces our back door. It was horrible and I hated looking at it so much. For about three weeks I kept the drapes closed so I wouldn't have to look at it. The boys thought it was gross too, but they would always talk about it with their friends. Yucky! I hope he never again decides to put a deer head on his shed roof.

Halloween

The boys were so excited about this years Halloween costumes. They had been counting down the weeks once they knew that Brandon had bought them these costumes. We had a delightful time hosting the Thomas Family Halloween Party at our place. Then, the boys wore the costumes again on Halloween.

The Thomas cousins (except for Peter)

During the month of October I also found time to help my cousin make these costumes. They turned out a whole lot better then I imagined them to be. They are so darling and I'm so glad I was able to help a little bit.

Salem Pond

I took the boys to another adventure nearby - this cute little pond that really isn't that little. It was such a great place to spend an hour or two. The boys really enjoyed feeding the ducks.

This bridge was freaking me out so badly. I hate heights and this one was so high. I was brave though and we made it across and back.

Swimming in October

A few days ago I decided to stop procrastinating and take the boys to the local Recreation Center. We went right after lunch and we had the entire place pretty much to ourselves. It was so AWESOME! I can't wait to take them again soon.