Speckman Family Visit

A few weeks ago my brother and sister-in-law asked if we were free and interested in them coming to visit from Michigan.  They didn't even have to finish their sentence and we were already saying, "Yes" while jumping with joy.  It's been way too long since we have been able to all get together so we cherished every minute of it.  We spent our time swimming at our local YMCA, going to Adventure Park, and lots of playing around here.  

Special thanks to Steven, Kim, Chloe and Silas for coming to visit.  We love you so much and this summer can't come fast enough.

Forward Facing

For the past few weeks Ian would scream and fight to get buckled into his car seat.  It probably was a phase, but knowing we were only about a month away from him turning two, we decided to turn his car seat around.  When Ian got to the van, he stood there looking at his seat.  I told him to climb in, he looked at me, smiled, and then happily climbed in and let me quickly buckle him in without a fight.  I then asked him if he was happy and he screamed, "Yah!"  He is growing up way too fast.

Gray Ghost Run

The city of Anoka which is located in our county is known as the "Halloween Capital of the World".  The entire month is filled with events revolving around Halloween.  They end their month of activities on Halloween day with a 5K costume run and parade.  A few of my closest friends asked me to participate with them, I was hesitant at first since I've never done a 5K before, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to dress up as a Disney villain and spend time with the girls.  

The race was a lot of fun, so much that I see myself doing it again next year and maybe a few more before that one.  I joyfully finished and even was able to celebrate with dad (Nate) and Elyse who came to cheer me on.  

THE DISNEY VILLAINS

Steph (Mother Gothel), Rachel (Ursula), Heather (Maleficent), (Yzma), Nicki (Cruella), Rebecca (Captain Hook) and Steph (Queen of Hearts)

Happy Halloween

We continued our annual tradition of having friends over for dinner and then taking the kids trick o'treating around our neighborhood.  It's very simple, but so much fun for both the kids and us parents.  Already excited to do it again next year.

Boys went as Paw Patrol: Chase, Ryder and Marshall

Elyse went as the beautiful ribbon witch

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Caleb's First Field Trip

Earlier this week, Caleb and his preschool class went on their first field trip. Unfortunately I was unable to go, but thankfully one of my best friends was able to attend with her son and kindly took some great pictures of Caleb picking out his pumpkin and riding his first bus ride. I know it's a day he won't forget as he had so much to talk about when he got home that day. 

Thankful Thursday

Today I am thankful for fall!  I just LOVE fall.  I love sweatshirt and jeans weather, I love all the beautiful colors the leaves turn, and I love being able to play at a park with no one there besides my boys.

Bonfire

Dad (Nate) came up with a great and fun family activity that we participated in this evening.  We spent our time outside in the backyard making a huge bonfire.  After the bonfire was built, we cooked hot dogs and made s'mores for dinner...delicious!