November 2009

The boys and I took these blankets to the Veterans Hospital. It wasn't quite the inspiring, patriotic experience I hoped for. First of all, it took about an hour to get there. We weren't prepared for that length of a trip. :) Second, we got a little lost (no one is surprised, right?). Third, when we found the hospital, it was in a less-than-desirable part of town and was surrounded with razor wire. We ended up pulling up to the entrance and handing the blankets through the window to a volunteer. I just couldn't see trying to find parking and then herd 5 boys through to find the office, etc. Hopefully some of the good of the experience made it through. And, hey, we got to go to lunch with Mike on the way home--we LOVE extra time with Dad!

Allie and I got to attend #4's Thanksgiving Feast

Mike LeBaron Day is November 14th!
Thanks to Earl for editing yet another photo for me for Mike LeBaron Day. This year the cake said "Mike LeBaron Day 2009" and "I'd like to thank the little people." Past years have been Arnold and Qui-Gon.

#3 taught a lesson about putting more effort in up front so that you get what you want in the long run.

#4's kindergarten class took a field trip to the pumpkin patch since they were rained out in October.

#5, his best friend, and I got to join #4 at the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm to feed animals, take a hay ride, play in the sun, pick a pumpkin, and have a total blast.

#4 was much braver than #5 and his buddy. In fact, said buddy told her mom that she and #5 don't like cow slobber, but his mom does! :)

We had Thanksgiving with the Hamiltons and a totally laid back week, complete with kids home from school and Mike home from work. Loved every minute of it! For quotables, read the Christmas letter--it should be arriving soon!