Rabbits and Goats and Sheep (and Minivans), Oh My!

It was another week (partial, at least) without Daddy, as he wrapped up a busy two weeks of traveling. Luckily, he's home now for the foreseeable future...much to the relief of Mommy and the kids, who miss him very much when he's gone!

In addition to our usual activities like gym class and neighborhood playgroup, Mommy scheduled some extra activities to keep us busy while Daddy was away. Wednesday afternoon we met up with friends Mitchell and Jason at the playground and after that we joined part of the Arking clan (Vivi and "Big Alex" along with their mom) for dinner and ice cream. Thursday we went back to the gym for open play time, and Friday we took a special trip to a local farm to pick out our pumpkins. Alex and Ari each selected their own pumpkin and we also got a special tiny pumpkin for the new baby, who is scheduled to arrive the morning after Halloween.

Today we joined Cousin Naomi at her 4th birthday party, which starred a bevvy of farm animals, including some rabbits, a goat, a sheep and a pony the kids got to ride around the back yard. Alex and Ari were fascinated by the animals and not at all afraid to get into the rabbit pen, pet the goat and the sheep, and ride the pony:

After the birthday party, it was home for a nap for Alex and Ari while Daddy went out to make a big purchase: our new minivan. Yes, Mommy has entered the world of minivan-driving "soccer moms" even though she swore it would never happen. And she has to admit that it's actually a great vehicle and one that is going to make her life much easier. The kids LOVE the new car- they are captivated by the automatic sliding doors and Alex didn't want to get out of the car when we got home this evening. He already knows how to get into the car AND into his car seat by himself. Mommy is envisioning a much easier way of life, even if it is as a stereotypical suburban mom.

This week is our last full week with just the four of us, and it's shaping up to be a very busy one: classes, play dates, school and next weekend several birthday parties and Halloween celebrations. We're especially looking forward to Halloween- Alex and Ari are practicing their "trick or treat" and Mommy is anticipating all of the fun we'll have!