Apple Cup

All ready for a Husky win in the Apple Cup! Shannon is trying SO hard to make a W!

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving was with the Allstots this year and we had a nice visit in Ephrata. I enjoyed a gathering with some high school friends on Wednesday evening and Bryan had his annual Turkey Bowl Thursday morning. We then feasted, puzzled, footballed, and feasted some more. 

Shannon was a big help getting things ready for dinner.

She was SO excited to wear her new shoes, tights, dress and Julie-made bows!

The food was fabulous and the company delightful.

What do you talk about with a 3-year-old when there's a dragon on your head?

Slurping down dessert. 

Facetime with Russ and Julie.

Story time with Aunt Sue.

Gram just wanted a nice picture. Thanks, Mitch.

As ever, we have much for which to give thanks. Happy Thanksgiving!

Tailgate King

In July, Bryan bought himself a 4 game pack of tickets for UW football. Yes, home games are in Seattle (roughly 5 hours from our actual home) but that was not a major factor in his decision making process. It should be noted that I was in support of this purchase - call it mental health - but have nonetheless played the abandoned wife card a couple times. Once I went with him and the other 3 games he has attended with an assortment of fellas (odd fellas, in this instance!).

This time he went with Sam and Joe and they actually tailgated. The whole D1 tailgate "scene" is like something out of a movie and they were pretty stoked to be in the thick of it.

Yes, they brought a tent, a BBQ, some chairs, etc. The whole 9 yards, really. Then the Huskies beat OSU and became bowl eligible, so the whole thing was worth it. Bow wow.

Sunday they went to a Seahawk game. Bryan's loyalty to the Hawks is somewhat sketchy (at best) but he does root for them when it isn't in conflict with his fantasy team (don't get me started on that!). They had another great time and got to see another win. Oh dear, this may be the start of a tradition...

A Matter of Days

On Tuesday, Mitchell was a devoted leaf raker, making piles and jumping in them repeatedly. Note that he is wearing cotton, commonly referred to as death cloth, and is still warm enough.

On Thursday, the snow began to fall. Snow. Seriously.

It's not come above freezing except for once on Friday afternoon. We are chilly and still have a winter white cover. Brr!

Salem

Bryan went to his third Husky game of the season and the kids and I headed to Russell P's. The weather was beautiful and we enjoyed our time together.

We walked along the river while Shannon hitched a ride up top. Her uncle spoils her something fierce.

Strolling with Julie.

The carousel was a loud and wildly popular treat.

Sir Mitchell was delighted to ride the knight horse.

We feasted on popcorn and the kids ran laps around Salem's mosaic globe - a sure fire way to wear them out with Uncle Russ egging Mitch on to run 10!

After stories, the dogs even helped sing them to bed. No, we are not caving in and getting dogs.

Mitch and Booth. Poor pup is so patient!

A damp jaunt to the river.

Showing Julie some of his favorite stomping grounds.

Climbing the badger hunting tree.

A blondie in the leaves.

Thanks for hosting! We had a lovely time and can't wait to spend time together in Bend!

Yippee - Shannon is 3!

Shannon is a 3-year-old! Granted she thinks she's 5, but this reality is a stark reminder that our babies are completely past the baby stage. Shannon continues to be a charismatic child and our family is completed by her strength of will and enthusiasm.

We had a birthday party on Saturday and she was thrilled to have people over, open gifts, and revel in the "princess" theme she requested.

Haylee was helpful with the presents. Shannon was happy to receive generous toys, clothes, and fun activities. She was very excited!

Grampa picked out some new boots and she put them on immediately. I'm guessing we have a new favorite and fortunately there is room to grow!

Lorry and Bailey came, much to Shan's delight.

Watching the gifts.

Decorating their crowns.

The birthday royalty!

 

Reading her favorite library book. She has a great memory and can recite the story almost word for word.

Enjoying company.

The birthday cake and mints for a 3-year-old. 

Our princess. She's strong and brave and marvelous in purple!

Getting a story Sue and Steve.

The weather wasn't warm, but the rain stayed away so there was lots of outside play.

Jack and Mitch dug a deep set of holes and made a tunnel. Very muddy and very pleased.

Playing with Aunt Rachel.

She leaps into the leaves!

Happy birthday to Shanoodle, our little blonde bomber!