Matthew turns SIX

We've been celebrating Matthew's birthday all week! Last Saturday was his birthday party at The Bounce Castle. Last night we got an ice cream pizza from Maggie Moo's. Tonight he wanted to go to Culver's for his birthday dinner. Two presents got wrapped in birthday paper and the rest got wrapped with the Christmas presents - bad mom. The perils of having a birthday close to Christmas. You try to keep it separate - but sometimes it doesn't always work out that way. Matthew, we are so thankful for you! You are a blessing!

The book nook

Matthew sprained his foot at karate last night - so no school today - waiting to see the doctor this afternoon. The good news is that he wanted to read in his book nook!

Our learner of the month

Matthew came home with this certificate. We are proud of the hard work that he does at school! Way to go Matthew!!

Philly 2013 - Flashback

The last picture is the Liberty Bell. That is as close we cared to get considering how long the lines were. ;o)

Summer 2013 - Flashback

Video games with Grandma and Grandpa!

As Matthew is learning to play Mark's old Nintendo 64 - he got to teach G'ma and G'pa how to play Mario Kart. We think they need to get a video gaming system at their home, too! ;o)

Doughnuts and pumpkins - 2013

Matthew and I had a fun time at a cider mill, Matthew was quite happy with the pumpkin he chose.

Sleeping with the cats

This is why the cats usually sleep in the basement.....

Halloween 2013

Our storm trooper

Kindergarten - First day

Here he is! He will do great!!

How my "garden" grows

I have a great garden this year - best ever! The only problem is that it is some sort of volunteer squash that popped up in my compost pile. Should be interesting to see what comes of it!

Detroit Tigers vs Philadelphia Phillies

We were excited to have the opportunity to see the Tigers and Phillies play last night! Our first baseball game as a family - and Matthew first ever. It was very sunny warm at the beginning of the game but ended up being perfect - weather-wise. We were twenty six rows up on the third base side. The Tigers won - 2-1. Mark was sad, understandably so. I felt bad for him, but can't quite make myself cheer for the Phillies - Cardinals are my sentimental favorite. Matthew was happy with the Tiger win. Matthew enjoyed the cotton candy - of course, and the peanuts. He was ready to go after the third inning - but was content to stay to the end once he found out that there were fireworks! Mark and I were impressed with the firework display. Matthew loved it - which goes without saying. It was such a wonderful evening! We are thankful for the experience and that we live close enough to go again!