kidding around

Thanks for your kind comments. I do love hearing from people! (I really do.) It feels good to update and know this documentation will be treasured by my kids when they get older (or at least by me when they are on their own).
Anyway, let’s pick up the photo tour…our fairy garden is still being cultivated (although today it is covered in a thick blanket of snow, poor fairies) and this Halloween we decorated with ghosts and pumpkins. It was fun to learn this summer that a few of my neighbors have told me that they enjoy watching our garden change throughout the seasons. Really?! Someone else noticed? Perfect.

I decided to not be a “scroogey” mother and actually dress up for Halloween this year. Well, it didn’t take much to transform myself into a cardinal…do you agree?

After having to postpone a trip to see family visiting other family in the midwest (Nathan had H1N1), our wonderful Washington State family made the quick trip from Michigan to Chicago. The kids loved connecting with their cousins- a rare and special treat.

Of course, the adults enjoyed chatting too. I am so happy that Nathan was able to hang with his brother too.

With working more, I am TRYING to give up control and have the kids do more around the house. I mean really, do I need to put away my 11 year olds socks? NO. So, here is a perfect example of my older 2 raking and me spoiling them.

I often dread Halloween and costumes and candy…but then I have a change of heart and get into the costume planning with the kids. Didn’t they look cute? Man, I can not even imagine being outside and posing on a day like today!

Oh, and you didn’t think I would be the only adult dressed up on Halloween in this house did you? Mr. Shack. was lured in with his very own blue jay mask!