wrapping up october.

 What a month! It seemed to fly right by and now it's officially the start of the holiday season. Umm, crazy.
Carter had his final cross country meet last week and ran his best race yet. His school hosted 4 other schools and watching him improve in something new was so fun to see. Long distance running isn't his strength but he really learned how to better pace himself and focus on his own running instead of simply beating others. Track and field will begin in the spring and we can't wait!
Simon and I have been spending our days baking, reading, cuddling and playing outside. Our new little reading room has been so fun to use and I always enjoy a special helper in the kitchen. These chocolate M&M cookies with white chocolate chips were so yummy for a special after school treat!

 And, because all things in moderation I balanced out our meals with a homemade roasted pumpkin soup (seriously you guys, so good!) and my favorite prosciutto, chèvre, balsamic salad. While I love summer and all the fresh produce these fall meals have been some of my favorites!

 We got to celebrate another fantastic soccer season with Lucy's team last week too. These girls have played together for 4 years now (some 6 seasons between fall and spring leagues) and the fun will continue into basketball in a few weeks! All 8 players will return with the same 2 (amazing!) coaches!

 Tough girl. Love it!

 And finally, all things pumpkin. Halloween was last night (still recovering with all the coffee today!) and I think this was my favorite year yet. These traditions just get better and better every year.

 We squeezed in 1 final soccer game for Lucy and basketball game for Carter over the weekend. We had to divide and conquer with both games scheduled for the same time while Simon was having fun at a birthday party. A date lunch with Carter afterwards was perfect for some one-on-one time too.

 And then...date night for us! We found a new sitter who has been wonderful with the kids so we were able to sneak away for our wine club's fall release party and then a delicious Italian dinner at our favorite local restaurant. Even a few hours of adult time was so needed after a busy week.

Next up....all the costumes, parties and candy from Halloween Day!