Christmas Pictures

We had a few attempts at Christmas pictures this year.

First, we tried Target.  Zoe was not impressed, but we got a new family picture for the living room out of it.

 

Then we tried some shots when we got home. . .

Amelia likes to twirl in her Christmas dress

Finally, we tried again in December. . .

. . . and afterwards had a snowball fight.

Thanksgiving

We had a lovely time in Minnesota celebrating Thanksgiving with Grandma Becky, Grandpa Jim, Uncle Mark and Ralphie.  We also celebrated Ralphie's birthday while we were there.

Look! Uncle Mark's holding the baby!

Zoe liked the animals at the petting zoo.

Our annual trip to see the reindeer.

Zoe's first ride.  She was stoic when she was riding, but cried when she had to get off.

Building Legos

Formula 1 in Austin

Grandma Marilyn watched the girls while we went to Texas to watch the US Grands Prix.  We stayed in San Antonio and the race was in Austin.  We had a great time, watching Qualifying from turn 1 on Saturday before walking around the outside of the circuit then watching the race on Sunday.  We even got to walk on the track after the race!

Turn 1 & 2 in the background

From our lawn seats just before turn 1. . . it's a big hill

The Ferrari at FanFest in Austin

Jenson Button from our seats in turn 15

On the track in turn 15 after the race!

Pit lane entrance

Start finish straight

Park ferme

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.