Friend Thanksgiving

Since we weren't hosting for our families this year, we decided to host a gathering with friends. It was potluck style and guests were encouraged to try a new recipe out. We did the turkey and ham (which are easy peasy) and made the standard stuffing but also tried a Mexican corn dish. There was so much food and everything was delicious! I went crazy implementing Pinterest ideas! I had framed Subway art, a veggie "turkey" platter, a fruit "turkey" platter, an apple "turkey" platter, Oreo "turkeys" for the kids, pilgrim hat cookies, blessing bags, and a Thanksgiving story bracelet. So fun!

It's Electric!

We started a new family tradition and took the boys to the St Charles Electric Parade. It was really festive with lighted floats, horse drawn sleigh, high school marching bands, and fun hand outs. Who wouldn't want to ride on a decked out school bus?

Yankee Doodle Dandy

Our neighborhood holds an annual Yankee Doodle Bike Parade for the kids. Last year we were the new kids on the block and I didn't really know what to expect. This year I was way more prepared and dec'd out the boys rides. Bennett's buggy is classic Americana and Alan's bike is flashy Americana.

 Gathering before the parade kicks off!

The police escort

Brad and Bennett being patriotic

 The red, white and blue drink turned out super cute!

And some festive pretzels :)

When you've tried everything...

One thing I have not enjoyed about raising children is potty training. For years, I heard people say girls learn earlier than boys. I now have a three and a half year old that has not mastered number two on the potty. I've tried all sorts of bribe and reward systems with no success. I let myself get really frustrated about it and take a break (aka give up) for a while only to start back up (usually when a younger friend starts wearing underwear or a 4 year old girl makes fun of me for changing his diapers). Recently my 18 month old has shown an interest in the potty! So my perplexed brain ever trying to figure out what motivates Alan, wondered if jealousy or some friendly competition from a little brother would work.

Here's the attempt

I loudly announced that I was going to get my camera to take a picture of Benny on the potty and send it to daddy at work. And Alan joined in and got his Leap Pad with a camera to take pictures too. Backfire! In fact, Alan cheered the loudest when we realized that Benny had actually pooped a little tiny bit while on the potty! Any way, after not blogging for ages I thought it would be fun to start again with a chuckle :)