Halloween Parade at School

On Friday the preschool hosted its first Halloween Parade rather than just having the typical in-class parties. The kids had a chance to trick-or-treat around the school before heading out and walking around the block. Many of us mom's were on-hand with camera's to snap some pictures of the little ones as they marched around.

The 2's with their teachers, Ms. Becca and Ms. Jen


Tatum and Elise: the bumblebee and her "hunny" pot!

Bye "hunny!"

Tatum Starts Preschool!

It is hard to believe that Tatum is big enough to start preschool but now that she is two she gets to go to "school" twice weekly. She thoroughly enjoys her time at school which includes such activities as art, music, outside play, snack time, and lunch time. Here are a couple of pictures of her first day:

Showing Mommy her lunchbox

Packing her bags

Here comes Tatum!

Tatum Turns 2!

It is hard to believe, but Tatum turned 2 on October 17th! We decided to head to Shenandoah with some friends in order to celebrate this special event. We stayed in a lodge in a small town called Sperryville right outside of Shenadoah National Park. Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate great and our hiking consisted of walking through some pretty thick fog. Day 2 was slightly better weather along the Sky Line Drive, but that depended on the altitude and how far North we were. The Northern third of the park was closed because of snow! However, we were able to drive the lower 2/3 and saw some amazing views of the moutains in near peak fall colors. After the events of the past few weeks, it was a welcome getaway and Tatum seemed to enjoy "Doah" as she calls it.

Tatum and Elise ready to blow out the Elmo Birthday Cake

Family Picture on a Fog-covered Hike

Tatum Hiking

Below the Snowline along the Sky Line Drive in Shenadoah

In loving Memory of Megan Jeanette Smiley

June 26, 1987 -October 9, 2009

As a bridesmaid on our Wedding Day, June 14, 2003 (age 15)

Meeting Tatum for the first time (December 2007; age 20)

Christmas Eve 2007

Family trip to the Outer Banks 2008 (age 21)

Trip to the Hunt Club Farm

It was the perfect Fall weather this weekend in Virginia, so we decided to head out to the Hunt Club Farm in Virginia Beach to tour the pumpkin patch and to do some fall activities. Tatum's favorite part of the day was the petting zoo and riding the pony, Thunder, a 13-year old miniature horse.

Watching a tortoise

Petting a pygmy goat

Riding "Thunder"

Bravely climbing a hay-stack

Attempting to pick up the pumpkin...she really wanted this one!

Enjoying the fall breeze on the hayride