October Celebrations!

Last weekend I traveled to the Seattle/Gig Harbor area where I met up with my sister from Iowa and attended a baby shower for her daughter-in-law who is expecting her first baby. The shower was a great party, one of the most fun showers I have ever attended. The food was excellent and the caterer made this darling fresh fruit salad decoration as part of the food presentation. What a hit it made!

My sis and I spent some great time with her son, daughter-in-law, and her daughter-in-law's sister and mother from Florida. We shopped, went sightseeing, and enjoyed time together which happens so infrequently. It was refreshing and a wonderful change of pace for me.

This weekend we celebrated Suzie's birthday. The family came for a taco dinner and following the party, Chloe and Claire extended their stay by sleeping over at Papa and Grandma's.

Chris was the life of the party, he kept us all smiling.

Claire went right to work in the "art corner" of our diningroom. She actually spent quite a bit of time coloring and drawing the entire evening as well as the next day.

Aunt Suzie got some help with blowing out her candles...

And the birthday cheesecake was enjoyed by all....

After the other family members left, Claire and Chloe modeled their colorful fall dresses and the following morning,  their new dresses sent to them by Aunt Jeannie.

Life is good, no doubt about that. We are looking forward to some play time with the grandchildren on Tuesday of this next week, come rain (which is predicted) or shine!

October Arrives!!

Paula, Mike, and the children often spend time in the foothills and mountains hiking. It is excellent exercise for everyone, and the children often tell us the exciting things they see and do. A few days ago, Mike sent me this picture of the girls crossing a flume. (Yikes, is what I thought!!!) Claire is in the lead and Chloe following close behind. From what Mike says, Chloe wasn't too keen on that little section but Claire led with confidence. They have completed up to 5 mile hikes which I find quite amazing for 4 year olds.

Chloe, on the other hand had no problem "leading the way" to climbing trees. Mike found Chloe up in a tree a few days ago. Claire was a bit hesitant to try it but when Chloe insisted that Papa and I see her climb on Tuesday when we visited, Claire soon decided it was the thing to do. Papa gave her some hints to get started and up she went too. 

Papa and Chris watch as the girls do their tree climbing.

Our sweet friend Miss Chris sent a little surprise for the kids that will be great for those hiking days. The canteens are so cute and the kids loved them.

They "wrote" thank you notes to Miss Chris. Below you see Christopher working on his with his color crayons.  

Halloween will be here before we know it. The three C's are totally prepared. Chris doesn't model his costume in these photos but I am told his is ready as well.

Chloe and Claire pose with some new dresses that are certainly bright and cheerful! :) When I ordered them I didn't realize they were quite that bright, but they are definitely fall colors and can also be used in Hawaii when we go in a couple of months. Wow, is all I can say! :)

Our visit for this week was so enjoyable and we look forward to a few hours with our grandchildren again on Tuesday. Enjoy your week!