Noah on Two Wheels

So my firstborn has taken the first big step toward eventual independence, he took off his training wheels and took off on his own for the first time.  No pushing or running beside him, he just fixed his pedals and off he went.  The celebration that followed was in true Noah style of jumping, spinning, wide-eyes, and tongue hanging out. (see picture below) 

With this exciting event also comes the sadness that every mom faces when a milestone is reached that makes her realize that her kids are growing up and aren't going to be little forever. 

Now, if I can just get him to ride to home from school safely.....

Our Un-Halloween

So most of you that know me understand why we don't do Halloween so I am going to save myself some time and energy and just post cute pictures of my kids in their new dress-up stuff since this time of year is perfect to get dress-up clothes/costumes for cheap. We did go to Matt's parents Harvest Carnival this year because they were working it and they had a train pulled by a riding mower which is my Joshua's favorite thing, besides tractors of course.  The kids had fun and didn't have to see any scary stuff and Mommy didn't have to deal with trick-or-treaters at my door. (Daddy had to work late that night)  

However, this is the first year that Mr. Noah, the big 1st grader, had an issue with us not "doing" Halloween and not trick-or-treating, which we have never done anyway, and all the other peer pressures of public school and 6 year old boys.  We plainly explained to him why we don't "do" Halloween but with that wonderful 6 year old attitude it was not enough and he was still fussy about it but oh well, he'll get over it and thank me when he's older. It was definitely one of those times that I wish I either had the patience to homeschool or that all the kids were old enough to homeschool (any openings at the Petersen school Jenn?? LOL)  

So without further ado, my cuties!

Hope: Pink Giraffe (a "Raff") she had a tail and everything

Noah: Larry the Cucumber

Joshua: Bob the Tomato