November

November started out with an impressive snowstorm, just days after Hurricane Sandy.  We were very fortunate to not lose power during either.  Matt spent the first weekend helping clear hurricane destruction in nearby Milford.  Our ward jumped into action with the "Helping Hands" program, and it was incredible to see the spirit of service resonate at church those weeks following the storm.  Matt said one of his favorite church services to date was the first Sunday, when everyone attended the one hour testimony meeting in yard work clothes, testifying of the Savior's example of service, then dispersed to work in Milford all day.

One of the houses he helped with, clearing debris and sand for a few hours

The snowstorm kept us at home.

But discovering the joys of crunching snow under boots and throwing "cookie" snowballs was priceless

Also this month:

• Eliza's first Sunday attending church

• John's first field trip.  A few of us moms rotate a preschool co-op, and for the letter "F" the mom in charge arranged for a tour of a fire station.

John loved the fire truck

Fun kids!

• Eliza's first time meeting Aunt Jane!  Jane came out to visit us the weekend before Thanksgiving.  We got her all to ourselves before she trained down to DC for the holiday. 

Eliza reminds me of Jane: same mouth, similar social personalities, love of singing.  A fantastic woman to take after!  We loved spending time with her.

• My first Thanksgiving at home (next post).  I got a bucket for brining the turkey, but that turned out to be John's new favorite toy. Silly boy climbs in and out of it, twists down fast (with sound effects), hides his toys in it, etc. all day long!

• And of course lots of lovin' on Miss Eliza, who is getting bigger every day