Saying Goodbye to October

It was a whirlwind of activity this last week of October. We were supposed to go to the pumpkin patch on Tuesday but the trip was canceled due to bad weather. We still had gymnastics on Wednesday, preschool with a halloween party on Thursday and then on Friday, Halloween, we were invited to take part in the filming of a promotional DVD for the gymnastics club. We showed up at 10:30 and did gymnastics until almost 12:30. Sidney was one of only two children in her age group that stayed so long. She was so wound up by the end of class but LOVING every minute of climbing, jumping, swinging and flaying through the gym. We went to Old MacDonalds (as Sid calls it) for a Happy Meal and then managed to squeeze in the ever elusive nap before trick-or-treating.

Sid was dressed up as a cute butterfly and was led door to door by her cousin Emilie. Emilie has such a gentle kind manner with Sidney and patience to match. It was a successful evening filled with much loot and excitement. The kids were worn out by the time we were finished and as planned last year, the Bailey in the coffee was a perfect touch for the adults!

Back row: Laura and Dirk, middle row: Sophie, Julia and Emilie, front: Sidney

When we went to Gymnastics on Wednesday and Friday Sidney was pleading with me to go to the museum to see the rocket (Atlas rocket circa 1960) we drive past it on our way. We have a pass for the museum but with school and everything going on we have not been in a while. Saturday was mom's hockey day so Dad, Mom and Sidney ran some errands in town and mom got dropped off at hockey and Dad and Siddy went to the museum for an afternoon of fun. Finally she got to see the rocket and she went with Dad who would share his love and enthusiasm for space and aviation.

The museum was very quiet and they got to see many displays and demonstrations on their own. I am sure many people were out enjoying the sun after getting all that snow on Tuesday! Mom had fun at hockey and was enjoying post game beer and nachos when the family showed up to pick her up and take her home.

Sunday will be a fixit day. Hopefully Dad can get our new programmable thermostat installed and the new weather stripping on the door before the real winter hits. The freak snow storm was a good motivator to prepare for the real thing! Sid and mom will work on house work and continue with our new hooked on phonics learn to read program. Sid is really into it and has found a new love for letters. We picked it up because she keeps telling us how she wants to learn to read. Seize the opportunity!

Our little niece / cousin Addison is fighting hard and gaining weight and length. Born October 16th at 1lb 5 ounces she is a tough cookie. We are sending her and her mom and dad much strength, courage and love.