Turkey Day with Mamma and Pappa

Mamma and Pappa made the long trip to Sioux Falls to be with us on Thanksgiving Day. We promised ourselves that we wouldn't "over-do" the meal since we were celebrating with the smallest group in recent memory. But alas, we had leftovers galore. Not necessarily a bad thing. Especially when some of the leftovers are Mamma's family recipe for meat stuffing. Yum. The one thing we did right was keep dessert to one simple and favorite choice: brownies ;)

We also attended the Sioux Falls Holiday Parade. The boys generally loved it, although David was scared of the hot air balloon carts that would ride by occasionally and blast the crowd with much-appreciated hot air.

Thanks for making the trip Mamma and Pappa. It was great to hang out with you for a few days!

Passing Through

Well, sort of. Aunt Gina decided to accompany "her little friend MJ," as David called her, from Portland to Sioux Falls as MJ continued on to Philly, where she is moving. Aunt Gina stayed with us for a few days after MJ left and what a great time we had! Chuck E Cheese, Harry Potter, and general raucous play in our living room. We miss you and love you Aunt Gina - thanks for visiting us!

Good Things Come To Those Who Wait

On November 19, after weeks and weeks of doing chores/daily tasks to earn stickers to in turn earn dollars, David finally saved up enough money to buy the toy of his dreams!!! This toy plays about 20 familiar kid's songs in about 6 different music styles (rock, hip hop, reggae, jazz, etc) and with about a dozen different musical instruments (trumpet, flute, violin, etc.) David can control the volume and the tempo. He can add special effects to his songs (like an "Ow!" or a wailing guitar). And he can record his own songs. Last but not least, it comes with a working microphone. He has been learning and teaching himself songs including "O Christmas Tree" and "Oh When The Saints." Rock on, Young David!!!!