On Halloween, Anton (my hubby) and I enjoy helping our grandchildren as they get ready to go out trick or treating.......and then when they're all ready, Papa takes pictures and videotapes them ---it's another way we can make lasting memories with them :) I helped our daughter get ready this year, too --- they attended a party after the kiddos were all done -- Ashlynn intended on being a ladybug----but her mommy was the ladybug and she was a beautiful butterfly.........Grandma and Papa think THE most beautiful butterfly there ever was!! Our grandson was a ninja.......We had lots of fun and put a big bag together of their favorite candy to drop in their bags -- we wanted to give them a major headstart on their evening's stash :) After they were gone, we went to our Halloween get-together with friends. This year we decided to all meet after dinner and bring an apple or pumpkin dessert -- share and play games...... Our friends that hosted it made the yummiest homemade pumpkin ice cream evaaaahh...... 
I just love this time of year...................holidays coming up..............sharing with family and friends.......and best of all, as soon as I finish my current project............we are DONE!!! All the shopping is complete.....presents are ready to be wrapped.....WOOHOOOOOOOO! A major record this year! We did alot of shopping a couple months ago on our trip to southern California......the best outlets and sales....filled up the trunk HAHAHA Want to start on a couple baby blankets for charity next -- and try some new patterns. During the past few years, my hubby and I have made it through a lot of challenges -- learning how very important it is to set our own path instead of allowing other people to do it. We've learned to accept what we have tested and personally found to be TRUE. We have chosen to spend our lives with people who truly respect and love us and don't just demand a grandiose "entitlement" of such. The peace that comes along with it is indescribable. Freedom to live a life without daily dramas.................... and substituting instead --love, support, and kindness............... :) We are so fortunate to have lots of family around us --- family that is blood related and family that we've welcomed into our lives as if they were........ Remember, the definition of "family" also includes people who share goals and values...who are emotionally attached....interact regularly...and share concern for the growth and emotional development of the same......it's members should be nurturing and convey mutual respect.........I think some families forget all but what they "expect" and "demand" from their "family." Let's, instead, think of what we can GIVE............what we can CONTRIBUTE to shared goals and values :) Have a great week!!
