November...

A lot has happened! First of all, congratulations to Angie on finishing her first marathon! Madisyn and I went to cheer her on, Madisyn wanted to run with everyone, I think she's going to be our next marathoner (high hopes, maybe). She looks too happy to be running 26.2 miles :) That's her husband who jumped in for a few strides for support.


Next were two BIG surprise birthday parties! One was for my mom, who turned 50. It was a woman's only party. I think there were about 25 women there with lots of great food and a very nice time (she was totally surprised seeing that her birthday isn't until December 18).

Then a few days later we had my father-in-law's surprise 60th birthday party at our house. That was tons of fun with most of the Dykema family here and a few friends as well (about 25 - 30 total). He was definitely surprised as you can see by the look on his face :D


Update on the kids
Madisyn
Our ever-falling, accident prone child... After the concussion (and past stitches, medical glue, and numerous calls from daycare that she's fallen and gotten hurt again - including today, which was a bump on the head, cut on the forehead, busted lip, and bloody nose all from tripping over a little boy's foot) we have come to the conclusion the she's either terribly clumsy (like her mother) or needs glasses (like her father did at three). I called after her concussion and the FIRST time she can get in is January 11 (they have a special doctor for kids this young). BUT at least she keeps us laughing!
Our conversation the other day:
"Madisyn, you're a cool dude."
"I'm not a cool dude."
"Yes, you are."
"No, I'm not. I'm not a cool dude, I'm a mover and a shaker!"


Landon
Eight months old and crawling isn't enough. No later than he started crawling, he decided it was time to stand. Just trying to catch up with his big sister. And about a month ago he switched from saying "dada dada" all the time to "mama mama," and I soak it right up.