Halloween Recap

This year, Halloween was SO much fun! And I anticipate that it will continue to get even more fun in the coming years...until Payton reaches that "tween" age where he doesn't want to trick-or-treat with us anymore. But I think I still have a few years before that happens.

Halloween started out at Payton's school with their annual "Storybook Parade." The students get to dress up (usually in their Halloween costume) like a character from a book. Luckily, we have plenty of Ninjago books, so Payton got to wear his Ninja costume.

We all waited anxiously for the kids to start parading around the school:

(Even Parker got to dress up in his costume!)

 There he is!

 He was walking so fast, his teacher was nice enough to stop him and let me snap a picture. :)

After the parade, the kids went back to their classrooms and we had Fall Centers. This year, the kids made adorable owl cupcakes and a Thanksgiving turkey craft (which I can't wait to display!).

 Isn't that little owl cupcake just the cutest? Not to mention the boy who made it. :)

After school, we just laid low and set out a few decorations in preparation for the big night!

Our neighbors came over for our traditional chili dinner and then out we went for trick-or-treating.

(yes, this is how Parker smiles these days)

Payton ended up running ahead with a large group of neighborhood kids...

...while Parker learned the art of trick-or-treating.

He only collected about 10 pieces of candy, but he was in heaven!! I think he was even more shocked when I let him eat a few pieces. 

After we finished walking our block, Parker and I stayed home and passed out candy, while Brian took Payton & his pal Avery over to the adjoining neighborhood where there was a haunted house set up.

Then when they got back from trick-or-treating, we hung out in our neighbor's driveway while they handed out candy.

Once we got home, bathed the kids and put Parker down, the real fun began...sorting candy!

Payton sorted out several piles including "Favorites", "Mom", "Dad", "Parker" and "Don't Like." He was so sweet to give most of his lollipops to his brother since he knows they are his favorites. What a sweet kid!!

 It was a really fun evening and a holiday that I will always remember. Both boys had such a great time, and watching Parker go trick-or-treating for the first time was priceless. 

Goodbye Halloween - see ya next year!