Happy Thanksgiving

The pressure was on to produce a Thanksgiving dinner that was edible and lived up to all the Falahee memories from Brian's childhood dinners. No pressure at all.  After a fun day of playing some football outside, Christmas lights and indoor games, it was finally time to sit down for dinner.

With the much needed assistance from Nana, the meal was met with very happy smiles.

The battle over the turkey legs was on and Emily and Garrett beat us all out.  Who could resist that smile?

Everyone dug in and had a real fun meal.  We decided to take a few moments to be thankful.  We circled around the table to hear what we are thankful for and made us all realize how incredibly lucky we truly are as a family.

It was a great weekend.  Topping off the weekend, we joined our friend's families for a big football game.  It was a great time at DeFazio for all the kids and adults.  

Garrett's First Gymnastics Meet

The Ellis school of gymnastics was the site of Garrett's first gymnastics meet.  We arrived at 8:30am and were so excited for G.  When we received the program, we all were shocked to see that Garrett was going first.  If he was nervous, he didn't show it.

The first two hours were spent warming up on all the equipment.

This is Garrett's coach, Hassan.

The Level 4 team ready to compete.

I was lucky enough to take video of Garrett on all 6 events.  We were amazed at his ability and what he had learned in three short months.  Couldn't believe his routine on rings and high bar - he is one strong kid.

Garrett placed 9th overall and received ribbons on all of his events.  He even placed 5th on two events.

You simply left us all in amazement at your incredible ability.  We are so proud of your determination and hard work.  Watching you compete was the greatest gift.  Simply outstanding!

End of Season

Garrett had quite a fall season.  Garrett is the busiest 7 year old I know.  First, he had tons of fun playing flag football with his buddy Tyler on the Jets team.  

Garrett had a season of showcasing his speed and spin moves.  In the last game of the season, he scored two touchdowns in the first couple minutes of the game.  Look at him ready to play some defense in the middle of the line.  After him getting to the ball before the quarterback even looked up, the coaches moved him back five yards to make it fair.

Buddies!!  It was a gorgeous November day to finish up the season, especially with those big smiles.

Garrett was also on a very strong soccer team - Andrew, Mason and Joey being just a couple of his friends on the team.  They played a great season.

Every Tuesday and Thursday night, Garrett also spends 3 hours (5-8) at gymnastics.  To say G is busy is an understatement but he loves every minute of playing and hanging out with friends.

Snow

It is only November so why is it snowing.  

The kids had flag football today which they toughed out.  They were all very wet and cold by the end.   I was frozen by the end of Garrett's game so I couldn't even get a picture of Connor's game.  I wanted my hands in my pockets the whole time.  Sorry Connor but if you remember this day you would definitely agree with me.  

Halloween

An Oompa-Lumpa, a stealthy ninja and a Frozen princess - all ready to get lots of candy.

Frozen was the big movie of the year and there was never a doubt that Emily was going to be Elsa.  Daddy and I couldn't resist the request to participate so we were Anna and Olaf.

In usual tradition, we headed off to Kristen's house where we were greeted with a delicious dinner and a neighborhood chock full of candy.  We made it to all the houses on six full streets.  The amount of candy we accumulated was unbelievable.  

We even managed to stop off at a friend's house on the way home.  The evening was a huge success!

Championship Baseball

It might be Game 7 of the World Series tonight but that isn't what we are excited about.   Connor and Needham Green are playing in the Championship game of their fall travel season.  Per the grapevine, it is the first time a Needham team made it to the final round.  This year both teams are from Needham.  What a big win for Needham Baseball!

 First order of business, good sportsmanship with handshakes for all.

 Then to make it official the National Anthem.  

 Top of the third and Connor's team was leading 5-0.  In one inning, suddenly it was a tied game.

Then in the fourth inning the heavens opened and it was pouring.  The kids continued to play.  They played through some of the worst conditions I have ever seen.  Connor pitched the final three innings and it was fantastic.  Unfortunately, the defense did not hold up due to the weather conditions.  Needham Green lost the game 7-6 but it was an amazing game which could have ended either way.

Connor, There is no loss that is easy but to know you did your best is what you hold onto.  You played hard and you had fun.  Keep your competitive streak alive and remember to work hard.  We love you!  We also couldn't be prouder of you.  

A Fun Visit and Pumpkin Preparations

Papa came to visit for Grandma's birthday and it made the weekend very special.  I even managed to get a few very cute pictures.

After Papa's departure, Grandma took on another crazy task. Grandma decided to carve pumpkins with the kids.  It always surprises me that the kids are so grossed out by the insides of a pumpkin.  They all helped draw the faces and the end result was perfect.