Early Hibernation

Things around here have taken a different turn in the past week, as COVID numbers in our safe little bubble of Vermont are climbing, and our governor placed a ban on all gatherings between households.  The science behind it makes sense (71% of new cases have come from small gatherings among a couple households), but my heart is hurting as we go back to this more isolated existence. No more play dates, carpooling, family dinners, or even safely-distanced walks with a friend or neighbor.  We will not be able to celebrate Grandma Betti's birthday together this week, and we will not gather with any family for Thanksgiving.  It's tough.  We are sad, and it's hard to put on a brave face and try to help the kids see the bright side of the situation, but the fact is that there ARE bright sides, and we will be okay.  Thankfully, for the time being, our kids are still able to go to school since there haven't been any outbreaks there, and stores are mostly open, as well.  The schools and teachers are doing an amazing job with their precautions to keep the kids safe.

Here are a couple cute things that Evie brought home from school this week:

I was told that Evie's violin "Vivian" was cold, so she borrowed Evie's hoodie

Last week, we enjoyed warm temperatures and a last hurrah playing at the park before the colder, gray November weather really set in. We were supposed to have our back door replaced, which seemed perfect while it was so warm out.  Unfortunately, after removing our old door, they realized that the wrong size door had been sent to us.  The new door won't be here for another month, so they had to put the old door right back in!  Argh.  

As the weather turned colder over the weekend, we got some little projects done around the house (lots of finishing touches from the renovations this fall), spent lots of time playing with Frankie, played lots of games, and watched some football.  

Noah's football drawing - can you tell who he's cheering for?!

I don't mind this part of hanging out at home

Snuggling a peanut butter jar

Noah is re-enacting football plays with his paper football players

Go Steelers!

Frankie is very curious about the squirrels getting ready for winter.  It's like outdoor doggie TV!