Halloween Festivities

It was a busy Halloween, starting with a parade at Riley's school, followed by Trick or Treating on Main Street, then a quick jack-o-lantern pizza refueling break followed by more Trick or Treating. Brody got a little tired from all the walking, but his bucket was full, so he was happy to ride in the stroller and sample his goodies. Riley probably would have kept going all night -- too bad the grownups were starting to get chilly. 

Disneyland!

Disney never disappoints. It really doesn't seem to matter if you've got a small trust fund for your Mickey vacation, or you're packing sandwiches each day -- the kids don't care about the food, or where you're staying when they're almost 3 and 4 1/2. They care about the rides and unlimited waiting-in-line snacks, seeing their favorite characters, and the general buzz of excitement that surrounds a sunny day in the happiest place on earth.
We were especially lucky to be joined by Uncle Dan, who we hadn't seen in too long, and Mimi, our favorite babysitter. The laughter and excitement on the kids' faces truly is something I'll remember forever.

Obligatory family photo in front of the castle.

First ride of the day in Bug's Land

Just arriving at the park and excited to get going.

Chocolate milk break. Gotta hydrate.

Just arriving and ready to hit the rides.

Now that's the look of a girl who's excited to easily pass the 40" marker at Space Mountain.

Another rollercoaster for this thrill seeking gal.

The boys trying to make me nauseous on the teacups.

 

The Disney crew!

Our special guests, Uncle Dan and Mimi.

Uncle Dan!!!

Just a little snack.

Dumbo, a classic.

More snacks.

Riding with my boy.

Meeting some of Brody's favorites.

And another.

Muppets show.

A quick dip in the freezing Pacific ocean.

Meeting another pal.

When you have to sit out while big sis rides some rides, you must, of course, have a Mickey lollipop.

My beautiful girl.

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The boys.

Getting ready for the parade.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

My sweet little characters look adorable in their custom costumes thanks to talented friends and family. No thanks to the terrible customer service experience I had with Riley's costume, but I guess that was just the universe's way of telling me that I should not have forced a matching theme on them.

But come on, the end result it just too much!

I took the kids to the Veterans Home so that they could spread some smiles and they were a huge hit. It's amazing too how they've learned, probably more than other kids their ages, not to fear older adults, and how to approach people who are disabled or incapacitated. It brings my heart such joy to know that something as simple as seeing my babies in their costumes can make another person's day.

And yes, as you'll see below, I'm probably nuts for giving them ice cream on Halloween right before nap, but they were such good sports making our beloved Veterans smile. One good turn deserves another, right?

It's been raining all day, and I'm hoping the weather will clear up so we can trick or treat around the neighborhood, but we can always head back to the Veterans Home for trick or treating as well if it's just too cold or swampy.

Now, off to make mummy hotdogs and green applesauce for dinner.

First Day Pre-K

Riley’s first day of Pre-K preschool was Monday morning. She was very excited to see her new teachers and old friends. It seems like a great group of kids, and I’m confident she’ll learn everything she needs to know to be ready for full time school next year. When we left the building, Brody said, “where Riley go?” -- I think he’s going to miss her a little bit, but it’ll be nice for him to have some undivided attention.

Riley's 2nd Dance Recital: Royal Hawaiian Rock

Here's Miss Riley Roo performing on the big stage!

Click on the link below:

http://youtu.be/JvHAAif5PUc

Brodyman Turns 2!

The night before Brody's birthday, I asked him if he could do me a favor and just stay one instead of turning two. He said, "no mama," so we had no choice but to proceed with the Milk and Cookies festivities. Other than the rain that hindered our giant outdoor bounce house plans, the party was perfect. Lots of friends scattering lots of crumbs around the house, and one sweet little boy who was excited to play with his buddies and devour his fair share of treats. 

A cape, some tulle, and a Big Bad Wolf

 This may be the last Halloween where Momma gets to pick the costumes, so I figured, go big, or go home. After finding the idea for this adorable Red Riding Hood costume on etsy, and almost buying it, I decided to try to make it myself. With plenty of help from our babysitter seamstress extraordinaire...success! It's inspired me to keep the sewing machine out a little longer to see what else I might be able to create.

 Riley loved her costume from the start. I mean, for a girl who loves princesses, what's not love about his much tulle?

 Sometimes she trades her sassiness for pure preciousness, and it just melts my heart.

 Now, Brody, on the other hand, was not quite so sure about his costume.

But, he warmed up to it...

 

 My two favorite characters!

 

 Now, onto party time.
So, one of the best part of having toddlers at home is having plenty of excuses to get creative and crafty. Made these Frankenstein pudding treats for Riley's preschool party.

 More party pics. The kids did a little parade up and down the hallways, ate special treats, played games, and danced. Man, is my day job fun.