Cookie Monsters

Since our play date was cancelled, Owen decided that he would feel better if we made cookies. The kid has a point...

He actually did great getting most of the ingredients in the bowl. Willett is starting to get more interested, but not enough to give up the train entirely.

Now, we have Willett's attention.

Hey boys, this is serious. We got work to do.

I tried to make it look like Willett was being crazy in the kitchen. In reality, I got flour in his eyes and had to stop progress so I could wash his face and flush out his eyes. He looks happy now.

Finishing touches.

Now comes the best part...

Seriously, the boys make these cookies look better than they taste.

Now don't bother me, I'm busy.

It's A Book

There is a great children's book by Lane Smith, just released called "It's A Book". Should that be underlined or "apostrophed"? Maybe italics. I can never remember. Anyway, a bit of scandal about the book because of one of the characters in it. Do a search for "It's a Book Trailer".

So we checked out the book, and we love it. Of course, we have had several conversations with Owen about what another name for a donkey is, but we love the story, and the illustrations are fantastic.

So I feel like we have a good handle on when it is appropriate to say the word "jackass". Like, if we are at the zoo, and we walk by the donkeys, it is ok for Owen to say "Momma, there's a jackass." Or, when he is playing with the donkey stuffed animal from the Democratic National Convention, he can say to Willett, "give me back my jackass." Cautiously, I agree that that is acceptable.

With that said, we read the book last night at bedtime. That and a Dr. Seuss, a constant in our house. Owen seemed satisfied with his books, also being exhausted from the Parade of Lights. With that, it's lights out, hugs and kisses all around and a tuck-in routine for the night. As I turn off the light, Owen says to me, "goodnight, jackass."

Lesson learned.

Zoo Lights

One of our favorite activities this time of year is to check out Zoo Lights. It's not about the animals, it's about the lights!! And most of the animals are sleeping. I mean, why not? There's only a million electric lights all over their habitat and thousands of obnoxious people drinking hot chocolate and screaming kids banging on the glass. Sounds peaceful and relaxing to me too. So, we stay away from the animals and just enjoy the lights, which there aren't any pictures of because it's dark outside and photos don't turn out right. This is as close as I get: After taking all the photos above, I was exhausted, so I gave the camera to Owen. He took care of the rest for me.

It was amazing. At this point, Owen captured the beauty of the not often seen Bald Sloth. The photos are captivating.

I never said it was going to be pretty.

Thanksgiving

Nana and her youngest grandkids

Sarah clearly having the time of her life and Owen playing with kids. Where do kids learn that?

Papa and Geri

Willett and Luke

Troy was there too.

Seriously? The Stay-Puft marshallow man meets Cornholio

randomness. Prepping for winter.

Rooster and Spiderman

They go together like peas and carrots. I'm not explaining to the rooster where eggs come from just yet.

What the hall...oween are you supposed to be?

We had a few friends over for Halloween chili and trick-or-treating. Some of the "adults," and I use that term loosely, didn't wear costumes. How dare they?!?! Never fear, geeky Jeff is here, with his magic box of costumes. Lo and behold, crazy party ensues, dorks rule, and libations are consumed.

Most are self explanatory (but I will explain them anyway). From right to left, dinosaur, cowboy, nun, go-go dancer, princess, gaucho (cabellero? something), chicken, ladybug, half-hearted witch, spiderman, barbie princess, frog, grim reaper in flip-flops, and... clown pimp? Nice try dumbass, nice try.