Halloween 2014

   Well, our first Halloween as a family of four was a great success.    The girls dressed up as pink crayons and were so adorable.   We went trick-or-treating on base after an early dinner of pizza and had lots of fun.   The Germans don't really celebrate Halloween, so we were thankful that the base housing complexes hosted trick-or-treating.   And the rest of the weekend was full of beautiful fall sunshine so we decided to head to the zoo on Saturday.   I was more than grateful for a good family weekend, as the week leading up to it was pretty challenging.   Peter was traveling, Susannah was sick and Sarah Avery had her two month immunizations so we were doctored out by the end of the week.   Single parenting is no joke.  I was so exhausted by the time Peter returned, I immediately fell asleep after he walked in the door from the airport.   Fell asleep hard, on the uncomfortable sofa in our entryway.   It was awesome.   Needless to say, we are very happy to have Daddy back home!   

Sarah Avery seemed to enjoy Halloween.   

I think she already wants to be like her big sis.  ;)

Peter and Susannah carved this great jack-o-lantern.  

Really wanted a pic of me and my pink crayon, but this was the best one we got.  

Ready to head to base for some trick-or-treating

This one chose to take a little snooze for most of the evening, for which Mommy was quite grateful.

The neighborhood on base was perfect for Halloween festivities.

Checking out her loot.

Happy Dance

Welcoming Daddy home

First stop at the zoo was the adorable sea lions.

Susannah loves the zoo more each time we go.

Checking out the giraffes.

And the gorillas.   (I'm aware that you can't actually see the animals in most of these pics, but I just love seeing these two together. )

In the middle of the zoo is a miniature forest with huge trees.   It is so beautiful and peaceful.

My girl and me.

Susannah looked forward to the penguins all day.

Sarah Avery was awake for only a little bit of the fun. 

My mornings consist of this sweetness.  

Hanging out on mommy and daddy's bed

This happy baby was in the 99th percentile for height and 97th for weight.

I'm aware that these are way out of order, but here is the pumpkin carving action.  Susannah opted to carve in a princess dress and sun hat.   Of course.   

Our favorite ice cream shop is officially closed for winter.   This was our last cone of 2014. 

Zonked after a friend's princess birthday party.   

laughing at Daddy

While they are SO VERY DIFFICULT sometimes, when I see a picture like this, my heart floods with gratitude for these two beautiful gifts. 

Growing way too fast

Post-ballet snack

Hope all of you had Happy Halloween celebrations.   We miss you all and send all our love from Germany.