Go Purple Go!

A week ago today, we ventured to the big game: Redskins vs. Vikings!! Because I planned ahead…….the boys were dressed in Vikings apparel. I told Nathan he had equal opportunity to fit them for Redskins jerseys.

We met Grandma and Grandpa Raeder in Minneapolis. Before the game, I had a little extra time to visit a few close friends in the Minneapolis area while the boys enjoyed riding the escalators. They also got to take their first train ride! Although we were within a mile of the Metrodome/Mall of America Field, we kept warm on the crowded train.

 The boys did so well at the game! I think we were all worried about how they would act, and I’m pretty sure Grandma Pam thought she would be going back to the hotel at half-time…..but the twins stayed entertained the whole time. I think Evan most enjoyed watching the cheerleaders and waving to them…..I’ll have to watch him in high school! Jaden loved yelling ‘Football go!’ It was a close, high scoring game in the second half, which made for a fun evening……. Especially for us Vikings Fans!!

26.2 miles of Cheers!

I returned late Sunday night from the Bowling Green, KY marathon, and my legs are still sore. No, I didn’t actually run the 26.2 mile race, but as a spectator, I think I walked 30 miles! Jaden and I ventured on a road trip Saturday to Louisville, KY where we picked up my sister, Laurie, at the airport. From there we spent the weekend in Bowling Green, KY for the Sunday morning marathon.

Do people with 1 child realize just how easy it is to travel with ONE child?!! From packing, to roadside stops, to bedtime routine, I felt I was on vacation with just Jaden and myself to worry about! Jaden did get spoiled with attention from Auntie and even got to go swimming. Packet pick-up was at the Corvette Museum. I decided I'd take a red one!

 It was a smaller race, which weaved back and forth in the downtown area. This made for a very spectator friendly course- looped twice. Jaden was a trooper! It was a little cold in the morning, so mile 3-4 he was crabby, but after a little cuddle-time, he was his cheerful self. Unfortunately, during his crabbiness, is when the local newspaper decided to interview me! 

We were able to see Laurie 9 times along the course! Jaden entertained everyone along the way. Between miles 6.5 and 11.5 we had a little picnic while we cheered on the runners. 

 Jaden did get a little nap in while we were walking from mile 13 to 16. The other runners and spectators were all so friendly. My only complaint was there were no coffee shops open on Sunday morning in the downtown area!! I was really looking forward to sitting and drinking coffee while watching other people run; but in reality, I don’t think I really had an extra hand for a coffee cup!

Jaden found some leaves to run and jump in!

Laurie had pneumonia the week before this marathon, but that didn’t stop her! She did amazing and checked state #47 off of her list! Jaden and I were excited to cheer for Aunt Laurie at a marathon. Good luck with the three states left, Laurie!

Halloween 2013

 Yup. It’s true. My kids went as ‘losers’ for Halloween!

My Vikings Players! (Evan wasn't really into this picture-taking-thing).

 Pumpkin donut time at Daycare!

 They got to wear their costumes all day as Thursday morning they had musicgarten class. The kids had a parade in the senior center while they played an instrument and sang along with Miss Mary.

 Evan trying on a friends' 'Vikings' hat!

 Jaden got some fun pumpkin glasses at Daycare!

Thursday was a rainy day, but there was enough of a break in the rain for the boys to trick-or-treat at the neighbors’ houses. Most of the neighbors let the boys pick what they wanted, of which a two-year-old really can’t make big decisions like which piece of chocolate to take. They clearly wanted them all! But by the last house, they got the hang of it: walk up to door, look cute, candy bowl comes close, grab a few pieces and put them in the pumpkin. 

 Evan did get a little skeptical of some of the costumes of the other kids we passed on the sidewalk. When the kid dressed as a ghost walked by, I had to carry Evan. Poor Little E. I just need to rent the Reggie Redbird costume for the day to get the fear of mascots/characters/costumes out of Evan!

The boys had an even better time passing out treats at our door!