Chuy's Children's Parade

On Saturday we took the kids down to our favorite parade, Chuy's Children's Parade. I love this tradition b/c it is a great way to get kids involved in giving back. Chuy's always does a great job of putting on a great parade, even when there is rain in the forecast. The kids absolutely loved the whole thing. They were mesmerized for the whole hour and a half.

Emma and me hanging out in the rain. It stopped just in time for the parade to begin.

Abby needed some walking time before the parade begun.

The kids watching the parade. They literally stood there and watched the whole thing. A few times they started dancing with the music.

Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Rudolph.

Happy Abby.

Emma and Gammie dancing in the street.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I am so glad to be creating traditions with my kids. I remember going to this parade with my parents and even being in it with my dad and his fancy car. Truly a great event.

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year. It was nice and low key. We enjoyed talking about all the things we are thankful for and we enjoyed spending quality time as a family.

Before we gobbled down any turkey on Turkey day, our neighbors hooked us up with sky box tickets to the local hockey game. It was pretty spectacular and a very nice way to watch a hockey game.

On the day of Thanksgiving, we kept with our tradition of waking up early and going to the Turkey Trot. It was a beautiful day to participate in such a fun event. Andy had a great time running it. I wish I could have joined him this year but my knee and back are not fully recovered and it was not worth the risk of making my injuries worse. Thankfully my parents hung out with me and the kids and we walked the one mile.
After all our hard work at the Turkey Trot, we went to my parents house where we were spoiled with yummy food and good company.

Abby loved playing peek-a-boo.

My little girl. Growing up too fast.

My sibling picture attempt. I think they did pretty good.

Ta-da!

Emma was ready to eat.

We made another Thanksgiving tree this year. The girls had a fun time coming up with things they were thankful for each night. Our favorite one was from Emma. She said she was thankful for ceiling fans.

It was a wonderful day being together and creating memories. We are truly blessed and are so thankful for all of our blessings. Happy Thanksgiving!

Lovely Weather

Lately the girls and I have been enjoying quiet afternoons at home. This is the time of year that I absolutely love being in central Texas. You just can't beat the weather. Thankfully the girls love it too, so we can spend tons of time outside. Emma just loves pushing Abby on the swing. I find it very cute that she wants to help her little sister. Thanks for the little break Emma.

Our Home

Five years ago we made our biggest purchase in life, our home. It was one of the most exciting days of your lives. We have been so happy where we are that we even refinanced our home down to a 15 year mortgage (can't beat the rates right now). So happy anniversary to our favorite place that has been filled with so many memories. I know I talk about moving a lot but I would have a hard time giving up the place that has been with us since the beginning.

The start of something great.

Our home five years later.

New Jersey Day 6: Our last day

On our last day in Princeton we decided to ride the little train they have in town. It was a quick 15 minute round trip but the girls thought it was the greatest thing.

Grandpa buying the tickets.

Getting ready for the ride.

This little lady loved jumping on the seats.

Later in the day, Yaya took Emma shopping for some new shoes and a new fleece. Emma loved carrying around her shopping bag.

Can you see her new purple shoes? The girl loves them!

We had a wonderful vacation and Emma asks to go back all the time. If only it was that easy to hop on a plane.

New Jersey Day 4 & 5: Weekend Fun

The main reason for our visit was to introduce Abby to Solomon side of the family. We spent to weekend hanging out with everyone that we could. The girls had a blast getting spoiled by love and attention and Andy and I enjoyed catching up with our family that we do not get to see very often.

Emma with Aunt Janet. Emma loved spending time with her.

The girls were also spoiled with many new gifts. Thanks everyone!!

Taking a family stroll in the neighborhood before dinner.

Playing in the leaves with Grandpa.

Lots of cuteness pictured below.

We had a little birthday celebration for the girls.

Abby yelling for some cake.

Nana helping Abby with the cake.

On Sunday morning we went and checked out the local apple orchard. The girls loved the animals and tractors at the orchard.

The girls got to feed some of the barnyard animals.

The girls loved the tractors at the orchard.

The girls making Yaya and Grandpa work. I won't lie, I am glad my back got a break for a moment.

The girls looking for the ducks.

Later on in the day we headed to Aunt Janet's house for some more family time. The kids loved playing at Janet's house. She has everything a kid could ask for. Thanks Janet!!

The girls playing in the backyard.

Generational picture with Andy's dad and Grandmother.

We were so happy to spend time with our family. It is hard living so far away from each other. The girls absolutely loved being surrounded by everyone.

Stay tune for our last day.