Seriously, where did October go?!? I thought September was crazy as we adjusted back to school schedules and I over-scheduled doctor and dentist appointments, but this month has just been a blur!
October 1st brought somewhat bad news as Keenan's office was one of many put on furlough by the government shutdown. He went in to work that day to turn off computers and lock up. After that, we hunkered down at home trying not to spend any unnecessary money not knowing how long it would last or if he would receive back-pay. Luckily, Keenan had already purchased some home improvement supplies over the past few months and made the most of his time painting the exterior trim on the house and taking care of landscaping projects here and at our old house (now our rental property). He received a text from his boss the evening of the 16th stating that if everything passed that night, work would resume the following morning. So far it looks as though he will not receive back-pay for the 10 work days (12 business days total minus Oct 1 to shut things down and Oct 14 for Columbus Day). Keenan is a contractor and therefore not a direct federal employee. Bummer.
The first weekend of October we visited our favorite pumpkin farm which is now just up the road from us. It was so fun to drive by it on a regular basis during the last few months and watch the corn get taller and the activity around the farm increase. Some neighborhood friends had their birthday party there giving us the excuse to go earlier than usual. There were so many 1st grade families there making it extra-fun. A hay ride was included in the party which was a first for us. Along the way we stopped twice - once to feed some cows and the second time to feed and love on some donkeys. We also got to try out the corn maze for the first time. What a fun day!
These brothers love each other so much!
My sweet kiddos
Asher's first time on the pedal tractors
Silly cow-kids
Watch out for that tongue!
The donkeys loved the attention
My sister came for a week-long visit mid-month to hang out and help celebrate my birthday. With Keenan home and Jill around, my load was significantly lightened making the perfect birthday week. Jill and I were able to get out and do some shopping thanks to some birthday money I received. The kids enjoyed having their Auntie Jill around to play with and read to. They really wore her out! Did I take any pictures during her visit? Nope.
The past couple of weeks have been extra-crazy for me, personally. The second week of school I was asked if I'd be home-room mom for Ari's class. After I was assured it was mainly emailing, I agreed. Wrong! One of the big duties is helping with the annual Fall Festival. My jobs were to serve as a liaison to the class parents with information, to request volunteers and to plan, collect donations and submit a themed basket for the silent auction. The festival was this past Saturday, but we ended up not going as we had Ari's baseball game and I had my fill with all the prep-work. This week is Red Ribbon Week at school. I agreed to help out my friend who was coordinating all the decorating at the school. I spent a good part of last week and the first half of this week up at the school. In addition to all that, my evenings have been spent making Halloween costumes for our family. Based on an idea I used a few years back, each of our costumes is designed around a plain hoodie (which I found on clearance on the Hanes website!). Most of them just have felt pieces glued/sewn on, but I did have to sew up some fabric for mine. I'm not saying all this to complain about all I've had on my plate. I just want to document for myself why this month was so full. And really, I only have myself to blame. But also because I really have had fun working with and getting to really know a lot of the other moms at school. Plus, I've had the chance to use my creative skills which is always fun. But, I am tired. And ready for a break.
So before October ends, here's a sneak-peak at our costumes and our pumpkin carving fun (Asher was napping and his pumpkin is as hard as a rock for some reason). We went to a Halloween party at story time on Monday to give these babies a test-run.
We hope everyone has a safe and happy Halloween! Here's to hoping November is a calmer month!
