Fall Round-Up

I think I may finally be getting past the busiest part of the Christmas season this year, so I'm coming up for air to post some pictures from this (also busy) fall.

Our holidays have become more fun this year as Jackie is more able to remember and participate in the festivities, and Halloween was no exception.  One of our friends was generous enough to loan us several costumes, but as soon as Jackie put on the spider costume, she wouldn't even try another one on.  Not mommy's idea of a good costume, but she loved it.  Since then, her favorite bedtime story has been Curious George Goes to a Costume Party...I personally have it memorized at this point.  And let me tell you, the writing leaves a lot to be desired.

Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

My little spider

For most of the month of November, we were thrilled to be in Ashburn, VA, where we got catch up with Josh's parents.  Jackie fell in love with cooking while helping Grandma in the kitchen, observed deer in the woods outside with Grandpa, and watched Cinderella approximately 20 times.  We were able to make a weekend trip down to Virginia Beach, where we still own a house.  Our weekend was packed with visits to friends, and it was so encouraging to see how well everyone is doing.  We miss our "family" there and are so happy to be making wonderful friends everywhere the Navy sends us.

Ready for our trip

What could be better?

Grandpa read The Cat in the Hat. Hilarity ensued.

Puzzles are a lot of fun right now

Elmo slippers

Apple SAUCE!

Grandpa's library is just as fun!

Jackie's "office"

The park!

Jackie's perfect day 

Learning to play pool with Grandpa

Making cupcakes

This is how you lick the beater, Jackie

...and this is how you "frost cupcakes"

Back at home, we spent Thanksgiving alone as a little family....and before you feel sorry for us...it was wonderful!  The day was spent as a family cooking together and watching football and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.  And while I thought my first foray into Thanksgiving dinner turned out great....there was no stress to begin with!  I feel I have officially arrived as a cook now that I can churn out a respectable Thanksgiving dinner.

Macy's Parade with friends 

The bird! 

Happy Thanksgiving from the cook!