Hurricane Sandy

Hurricane Sandy came and went and thankfully we were left unscathed.
The worst of the storm was between 5pm-5am, with the eye of the hurricane around 10pm. You could totally tell. The winds were fierce. I kept looking out front to Chestnut Street where 4 large buttonwood trees stand. They have caused serious damage in the past, but not even a branch broke off in this storm. Amazing.
We woke up this morning, still having power and really no damage to our home or property. The rain didn't flood our home in any way. We are so incredibly thankful.
The only thing that's been a bit of a challenge is keeping the kids occupied and busy while being indoors for two days straight. (Normally we are out and about almost every day. We like to stay busy.)
We've made and decorated sugar cookies, listened to stories on CD and painted. I'm looking forward to Lilia going back to school tomorrow. I think we will all appreciate returning to our life's schedule.

Fall colors

Pumpkin Carving

 Saturday morning we got together with Church friends and people from the neighborhood to carve pumpkins.
Lilia didn't want to even touch the goopy pumpkin inside so I did all the work. She did draw the face she wanted and I carved it out.

This is the face Alex drew on his pumpkin that he wanted me to carve for him.

Finished product

The things you learn in school

Here's the discussion over breakfast just now...
"Alex did you know that Michael Jackson died because he kept changing the color of his skin." - Lilia
"I can't believe that's true," then he slaps his hand on the table. - Alex

Leaf Garland

This idea popped into my head a couple of weeks ago, but I was too lazy at the time to collect the leaves.
We were at my in-laws Sunday and they had the most beautifully colored and shaped leaves in their yard. Before I knew it I had at least 50 in my hands and Lilia was helping me collect more.
As I was watching the Amazing Race I got out some good ole needle and thread and sewed a strand of leaves, making this garland. I love it! I think I'll do it every year.
The leaves have already turned brown and it's only Tuesday, but it still looks really cool.

Boo at the Zoo

 Last weekend the kids dressed up in their Halloween costumes to go to the zoo.
I love the idea of them actually getting use out of their costumes and enjoying them more than just one day of the year.
Lilia is Jesse from Toy Story and Alex is Buzz Lightyear. He barely wore his costume, but we all had a great time.
It was a perfect fall day, and although the zoo was a bit crowded, we could take our time and just see a few of our favorite animals.

Alex's 3rd Birthday Party

I can't believe I'm so late in posting these pictures. Whoops.
Alex loved his birthday party. He now refers to it as present day and says that his real birthday is coming up.