Parade of Homes is my SuperBowl.

Every year I know it is pumpkin and mums time when I start seeing the signs for Parade of Homes. I look forward to the parade each year with an intensity and reverence I think my husband reserves for the SuperBowl. There are not a lot of things I make time for that are entirely for my enjoyment. I like working. I work. I organize. I clean closets in spare time. But, the parade - that I ensure I am able to enjoy with complete dedication and focus. Ade has been coming along for the last few years, but this year reached all new levels of interest for her. We got some milkshakes (normally we get Starbucks, but it was so hot out!) and headed out to see what we could see. After FOUR hours of looking at houses, discussing their attributes, which rooms would be for who, would the dogs like the backyard, I had to convince her we were done ("One more house, mom!"). It made me see the glimpse of our future together not just as mother and daughter, but as friends. I see afternoon shopping trips and meals and so much fun with my grown-up buddy.

My favorite part though was so quintessential Adelaide. We were in a house with a fairly open floor plan, and I was in the great room while she was in the kitchen. The realtor was at the island in the kitchen with the brochures. Adelaide sauntered over and picked up something from the counter. I saw her looking at it, and realized it was a business card. Next I see her walk over to the realtor, and say in her very adult voice, "Hello, Richard." Yes, she checked out the guy's name and struck up a conversation. Hysterical. The realtor was a little surprised to be discussing the home with a 6 year old, but he doesn't know Adelaide. ;-)

Other updates...

 Vivian turned THREE!!!

 We like pumpkins.

 Adelaide and I ran our first race. 1 mile!!!

 Trick or treat, baby!

Ryan and I escaped to New York for my friend Kristin's wedding. We stayed in Brooklyn and had a fantastic time. Junior's cheesecake, lunch at the Met with a little rooftop sightseeing of the NY Marathon, ate at Michael White's Osteria Morini, and just had a great time being a couple. So many thanks to Aunt Jenna for hosting our best girl for the weekend. Was so happy to give her a little blue box with infinity earrings from Tiffany's as a thank you. I love her infinity, after all.

 And, let's not forget, Aspen's first haircut!!!