Thanksgiving Part 1

We spent the first part of Thanksgiving week with EJ's mom. She is doing SO well after having knee replacement surgery only 4 weeks ago. We are so thankful she is on the road to recovery and will be able to come visit us for Christmas.

She treated the middle two for painting pottery. They had a blast and can't wait to see the final product when she comes for Christmas.

 EJ's old toys are still a hit.

 The older two had fun playing football the day before Thanksgiving.

Looking at toy catalogs for Christmas gift ideas.

Our visit was short but sweet and the kid's loved spending time with Mim.

Preschooler

Avery is loving school this year! I almost wish I had signed her up for the 3 day class. Each time I pick her up in the car pool line she is eager to show me what is in her folder. So different from last year.

Blessed to call this little Turkey ours.

Come and Play

Owen took the opportunity (out of his comfort zone- knowing no one, but his band director) to learn and play alongside, The Richmond Symphony. It was a long day for him and a little boring ;) but he the experience was awesome and such a treat for our family to hear.

He rehearsed for 2.5 hrs and then performed for an hr. Our family came for the performance. I can't even fathom putting 750 instruments together for 1 rehearsal and then performing so well. There were musician playing at all levels, the sheet music specifically given based on experience. So cool! In total, he and my parents who drove him and stayed the whole time (thank you!!), were there for 5.5 hours and he missed the Eagles game (oops).

I am not sure how the middle school band will sound next to this amazing performance ;) At least he broke in his shiny, stiff black dress shoes.

Feeling the Fall

My back braking work, put to good use. Who is this girl? 

She is not my toddler anymore (although she still weighs that of a two yr old). God knew what he was doing when he prepared me with 3 boys, for her energy level ;)

I love how the simplest things bring JOY and if I am being honest... fear, sadness, anxiety, laughter, screaming... all within a few minutes time... ah girls. I have a lot to learn about shepherding this one's heart, but He is gracious to give me what I need when I ask!

My greatest privilege, is teaching her and reminding her to say, "Jesus, I am scared, help me!" My boys did not need that, but she does, almost daily. It's a gift to her and to me, because Oh how quickly I forget it myself. Praise be to God "to him who is able to keep you from falling..." Jude v 24

Halloween 2015

The Kindergarten Parade - his shark costume from last year made another appearance :)

 This picture shows just how small our Ry Guy is compared to his classmates

 We carved pumpkins at a neighbor's annual pumpkin carving party

EJ was gone last week for FIVE days to be with his mom after her knee replacement surgery. We MISSED him something fierce! Mom was around A LOT to help. Phew, it's a lot juggling 5 schedules by myself, I am so glad I don't have to do it more often. EJ's mom is doing well but recovery is slow and painful.

Ryan had to save his pumpkin seeds for roasting or planting, he didn't care which.

No theme to our costumes this year other than RANDOM. Only for a picture and "happy birthday" video to Mim, did I wear this muscle shirt ;) Mason did not wear the wig with his ninja suit all night. And yes, Owen went around the neighborhood as a mullet wearing tie-dyed penguin (who scared cousin Tripp all night).

These two... a match made in heaven.

Everyone had a fun night. My parents and sister's family were here for dinner and trick-or treating. Thankful to have family nearby.