Family Running

Kate made a New Year's Resolution this year to try a Couch to 5K program.  In a very rare occurence, I've actually stuck with it and ran my first two 5Ks in October. 

My first was for Katie's Crusaders and Kevin and the girls came out to cheer me on.  Don't you just love Amelia's sign (especially the Christmas Tree card).  

My second race, we ran as a family in our local Y's Run Before the Boo.  I attempted to slow Kevin down to my pace by making him run with the double stroller (not designed for running), but even the gravel section didn't slow him down too much.  He ran on ahead after half way to make sure Amelia got back in time for her first kids 50 yard dash.  I ended up finishing right before she started so I didn't miss it :)

Halloween

After celebrating Halloween for the last two weeks, we finally reached the big night.  Due to a High School Football game, we even got to Trick or Treat on Halloween instead of the usual Des Moines Area night before.

Zoe went around the cul-de-sac with Amelia and her friends then returned to help me hand out treats.

Pumpkin Carving

A Visit From Curious George

Curious George came to visit for the weekend from school.

Center Grove Orchard with Daddy

We finally took Daddy to the orchard with us.

We took advantage of a great deal for some professional pictures which turned out pretty well in spite of the chilly, windy weather.

We had a great time picking apples, completing the corn maze and playing all over the farm yard.

Pumpkin bowling

Living History Farms

Our first Halloween Activity was at Living History Farms.  Amelia was a little disappointed that she couldn't show me inside all the buildings but had a good time.  Zoe enjoyed her first trick or treating experience.

"The Look" and "The Royal Yes"

Zoe's had some interesting facial expressions lately.



Apparently, Mummy uses this look a little too much when disapproving of what the girls are up to.



Amelia learned "yes" long before she shook her head.  Zoe, on the other hand has been shaking her head vigorously for a while now.  This week she learned to nod, in a very regal way.