Christmas Cookie Playdate

Today the boys had their friends (and brothers) Romie and Ashton, over for a cookie playdate.

We had plenty of cookie cutters, rolling pins and sprinkles ready for the crew.

 The boys dove right in- flour, sprinkles and cookie dough were flying everywhere!!

 I can honestly say I've never seen Christmas cookies like these before!

After the cookies were baked, we made ornaments..

 

before boxing up the sweet treats and going to see some neighborhood Christmas Lights.

Scouting with Santa

Yesterday, the boys had their Cub Scout Christmas Party.  The entire family was invited for the festivities.  Our boys brought toys for Toys for Tots and cookies to share with the Pack.  A special guest arrived from the North Pole for the celebration.  Not only did we get special time with Santa, but he gave every scout (and their little brothers) a pinewood derby kit!

Jingle Bell Run 2013

 Today I ran the Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis for the third year in a row.

I'm proud to say that our team, Mal's Pals, raised over $250 for the Arthritis Foundation - and had a great time doing so!

First Grade Class Pictures

Finnegan

 Patrick

Wednesday with Mom

Today the boys and I had a free day.  Yes, its the day before Thanksgiving, but with all the schools closed (and no turkey for me to prepare) we took advantage of it.  We baked several pumpkin breads and made special Thanksgiving cards, then made some deliveries!

Our first stop was our local fire station.  The firefighters were so kind, they thanked us for our gifts, and then let the boys climb on the firetruck and gave them coloring books and badges.

 Our next stop was the police department.  The officers gave the boys more goodies and were very happy to get our bread and cards.

 Our last visit was a quick stop to Daddy's office.

Then, I took the boys to the movies to see "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2" and out to lunch.

I sure am thankful to have a special day with my guys.

Walking with Friends Wordless Wednesday

Sully's Class Picture

ThunderRoad Half Marathon

Today, I'm proud to say, I completed my second half marathon.

Just like two years ago, I ran the Charlotte Thunder Road Half Marathon.

 I had a great cheering squad.  The boys worked hard on special posters for me...

and even wore awesome running shirts!

 Not only were my 4 best guys at mile 5 and the finish line - 

but mom and dad were there too!

 I finished the race in 2:08, which is 10 minutes better than last time!

 It was a great race 

and I've got my sights set on the Myrtle Beach FULL Marathon in February!

Sully's Family Night

Tonight, Sully had family night at school.

His class performed on stage and then we went back to his classroom 

for a special Thanksgiving gift from the students.

Great Job, Sully - YOU ROCKED IT!!

(and we are so proud of you)

Visit with Grandma Peg & Grandpa Neil

This weekend, Grandma and Grandpa came for a visit.

On Friday night, we all went to the boys' soccer awards

 

They were very proud to show off their medals to Peg & Neil 

 On Saturday we drove to the Museum of York County for Astronomy Day.

We got to meet Author, Dave McDonald and see how he illustrates Hampster Sam.

 Patrick and Finn got to draw their versions of the characters.  

I bought them the new Hamster SAM book, 

and Mr. McDonald autographed it for them.

 After, we went to the planetarium for a space show.

Thanks for visiting, Peg and Neil!

Wordless Wednesday

Halloween 2013

We started off our Halloween with a spooky breakfast

After the big guys went to school, we met Ashton and Meredith at for a 2nd breakfast - 

complete with design-your-own Halloween pancakes!

Sully and I went home and started setting up for our big party.

Before we knew it, everyone was home from work/school and we were ready to party!

The games were set up....

 

The food was ready....

 

our costumes were on...

and our guests had arrived!

 

After the party was over, it was time for candy.

 Trick or Treating with the 2 best witches - Nannie and PopPop!

 Our last house (and favorite) was Ms. Susan and Doug