Halloween Party

Nicole has a little friend in her class named Esther or "Essie" for short. Esther was the first friend Nicole talked about when she started school. We had only briefly met Essie and her mom one time but when we received an invitation to a Halloween party at Essie's grandparent's home we thought it was a perfect opportunity to get to know them more.

Because it was going to be a bonfire type of party I knew the mermaid costumes weren't going to work. So Nicole was excited to wear her Dorothy costume which we purchased to wear for next year. I also found Nicole's old "flower" costume for Allyson. She seemed pretty happy with it. It's a good thing we did this because when we got to Essie's grandparent's house there was a HUGE pile of leaves the kids were jumping in... one of Nicole's favorite activities!

These people literally pulled out all the stops. They had an unbelievable spread of food and some of the best chili we've ever tasted. There were hot dogs, chicken salad, macaroni and cheese, juice boxes, chips, and on and on. For dessert there was pumpkin pie and cupcakes. This was a big hit with our kids!

Essie is next to Nicole picking out a cupcake.

There were stories by the campfire, a costume contest where everyone got a prize. I don't remember Nicole's "title" but I heard them say Allyson got the "prettiest flower." Nicole picked out this pony for her prize. Britt helped Allyson pick a football. (They've been playing football in the house. It's his little way of getting to watch the game while spending time with the girls. Thankfully, it's a nerf ball!)

There was also a bonfire and the kids got to roast marshmallows for smores!

There was also a pinata. In one swing Nicole whacked the thing straight to the ground. (I wish I had it on video!) It didn't open, though, and a couple of the guys had quite a time tying it back up.

Essie is the one in the tutu and skeleton shirt. Quite a combination, lol!

Finally it broke and the kids went crazy for all the candy.

One of the most amazing things about this night was when I went inside the house and noticed a picture of one of my college professor's on the wall. Thinking they must know him I went outside and asked. Turns out Dr. Nunnally is Essie's grandfather! He was the one tying up the pinata and telling campfire stories. I hadn't even recognized his voice. (Of course, it's been 11 years since I graduated.) Dr. Nunnally is the one standing with the flashlight.

Here he is telling a campfire story.

Nicole decided she had a story to tell. Or at least she thought she did.

The kids (and parents) were so exhausted but had such a great time. Wow, do these people know how to throw a party!