What a Weekend!

Phew! We've had a jam packed few days that have been super fun. In fact, on numerous occasions, Ella has exclaimed: This is the BEST _____ (fill in the blank with the activity) EVER! I've included a few pictures below but if you want to see more, check out the slide show at the end of the post. Grandma D came in town for the weekend and really helped out a bunch.

THURSDAY: was Henry's official second birthday! My little boy is growing so fast and he's getting so big. I can't believe it. At preschool on Thursday, there is a fall festival where the kids could participate in games and activities. Both Ella and Henry had a great time. Ella even got her hair spray painted pink! Henry ran around like a crazy man b/c he was so excited, didn't know what to do next. Then we went to Shipshewana for dinner (Henry's favorite - Amish cooking, seriously!) with Grandpa & Grandma Smoker and Great Grandma Donnie. Back to G&G's house for gifts... it was a long day and a late evening, but very fun.





SATURDAY: morning we had a birthday party/kids costume party for Henry. He started off a little grouchy, but by the time we got to the craft of making stick puppets and cake/presents, he was in a good place (can't imagine why?!?!) He had SO much fun with his good friends and he had a really great birthday - thanks to everyone for making it so special! What a crew of kids! Then, of course, since it was Halloween, we took a nap (so we could stay up late hyped up on candy) and got ready to trick-or-treat with our old neighbors and friends (back in our old neighborhood.) Ella was insanely excited. I don't think we've ever seen her run full sprint like that before. Our friends Patrick (will be 5 in Feb) and Briana (will be 8 I think? in Feb) ran with her from house to house to house. Henry was a little bummed that he couldn't keep up, but he was the cutest big bad wolf that you've ever seen. And Ella went all out with glitter and make-up to be the prettiest fairy-princess-ballerina (her idea) ever! She was Sleeping Beauty for Henry's party in the morning (by the way - hence the 2 different costumes in the pictures.) It was pretty chilly and the combination of a few Skittles mixed with sticky, cold hands... after about 45 minutes, Henry was done. The moms trekked home with the little ones (they also have Ronan - 1 yr) and the crew stayed out. After a bit, they returned and Ella was also done. We had pizza and played and it was a really fun night. Henry and Ella crashed when we got home (so did Mom and Dad!)








I think we've recovered today (just in time for Ella's birthday party next weekend!) But it really was such an incredibly fun weekend. And now, for the extended version in photos...click here