A belated report on our Halloween Festivities.

Halloween was a two day party. Friday the 31st Elias stayed home from school with a 'sore throat' ,(that is another story that I'll need to tell at another time). Anyway, I dressed the kids up in their costumes and took them to the school so we could have lunch with Ben.I pretty much could eat these kids up.

In the Caf with Dad. Dad's dressed up as a dental student.

We carved Jack-o-lanterns...

and had a yummy dinner. I made Autumn soup and then baked it inside this pumpkin, (thanks for the idea Nadine). Alongside cornbread this was delicious.

Later we had caramel popcorn, played games, and won prizes. The next night we had a Halloween party at the church where they had a trunk r treat. Ben and I actually dressed up. Why we don't have a picture, I don't know . I was a witch and Ben was a Fed-Ex worker.

The above picture is of the fall pennant that I made to decorate with. I love the way it turned out and I know this is random, but I just wanted to share. When I took it down after 3 months I was so sad. That's how I know that I really like it.

My time with Jules

Julia and Clara came at the beginning of November to visit. I had a good time showing them our neck of the woods. Julia is so fun and easy going that it's impossible to not have a good time. The best way to craft is when the kids are in bed and you have someone to laugh with and talk to.

We had a ladies morning out at Mama's. I pretty much forced Julia to get the Monte Cristo. Mommy's and our Ladies- Haven and I, Rocia and Emilia, Racquel and Cos, Julia and Clara

Cousin tubby time

I took Julia and Clara down to the beach and took pictures of them with Julia's amazing camera, which I am obsessed with. Maybe someday!

Haven is pretty excited to finally have a girl cousin. She is pretty much surrounded by boys all the time. The Hancock granddaughters are now a whopping 3 since the arrival of Delia in late October, Yeah!

Julia, you are welcome at anytime. That invitation also stands for Jennie and Melissa as well.

Six Flags with the Bros

Ben's dental school was hosting a day at Six Flags in Vallejo and tickets were ridiculously cheap. So we invited my brothers to come along with us. I had a really great time with them while packing a lot into one day. We went on rides and saw lots of cool animals. The following photos are some of the highlights.This picture was taken at the end of the day. Sweet Codey had just taken the kids on the river rafting ride. I don't think you can tell, but they were all pretty wet.

My partner in crime.

All of us waiting for the killer whale show to start.

The drop zone is one of the most terrifying rides I have ever been on. This is the kids version. Can you tell how riveted Haven, Elias, and Levi are? Hours previous Ben had taken Elias and Levi on one the adult roller coasters, which they loved. That might explain why they are so excited. However, notice my timid little Haven. I don't suggest this ride, except for the fact that there was no line.

This was probably our favorite of all the animal shows. The crowd was small and the show was interesting. We even got to go up and touch the elephant. How many times do you get the chance to touch an elephant?

At the end of the day. I watched my brothers drive away and felt so sad inside. We all enjoyed the day with them, but it just wasn't enough.

Happy Birthday Pearl Baby!

You are one of the craziest girls I know and one of my dearest friends. I hope your special day was a good one.

Holy Metamorphosis, Batman!

I realize that childhood is a fleeting thing, and that blinking means missing a precious moment. But is your child really supposed to grow up overnight? It's only been a couple weeks for crying out loud!!!!

Learning to sit.

Crawling...(away while trying to dress him)

Bath time terror.

Rattling his cage. The morning wake up call.

Stair master.What the heck? He's a different child. No more slug.

Fort Point

One of my favorite places on the West Coast. Just as an added bonus to the dramatic surroundings, it's got an epic surf spot right under the bridge. What's the use in living a mile away if we don't visit?

Happy Birthday Levi!!

Ten years ago today I got a call while at college saying that you were born. I even got to bring you and Mom home from the hospital. Every time I visited home I just couldn't get enough of you. I wanted to hold and squeeze you all the time
Now Elias and Haven just can't get enough of you. Happy Birthday Levi. You're a good boy and a kind uncle.