Book Review: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Taking place in the 1960s, this fictional novel follows several relationships between white women and their black maids.  Each woman was different, and yet, so much alike.  Fundamentally, they all wanted the same thing – acceptance and love.  Unexpected friendships are formed and a comedic story of discovery and change unfolds.  I really enjoyed this book, although at times I had to re-read portions because of the dialect of some of the characters.  It would be interesting to see what someone who grew up in that time period would think of the book.  Although, I’d suspect that any generation would love it!

Allie at 2 years old

“Birthday Party!”

Two weeks prior to Allie’s birthday, her friend, Olivia, had her birthday party.  After we went to Olivia’s party, with the saddest face she could possibly make, Allie asked, “Allison’s birthday party? Birthday me?”  She wanted her own birthday party.  So we told her that in a few weeks it would be her turn and did that frown turn upside down!  She talked about her birthday party nearly every day and when the decorations and balloons started going up she could barely contain her excitement.  She even sang happy birthday to herself.  She was in her glory!  With how happy she was, I was starting to feel bad that her birthday comes only once a year, but now that Christmas is approaching all we hear is “Santa Claus!!”  I guess she just likes a good party!

Getting Ready for a Party!

The theme for Allie’s 2nd birthday party was Elmo!

101 in 1001: Host Thanksgiving Dinner–Task Complete

Not only did we host a delicious Thanksgiving feast, but we hosted our first Giblet Jog!  A 5K run/walk around the pond at 10am was just what the doctor ordered.  No Thanksgiving guilt this year!

This year I was especially thankful for my parents and in-laws who helped tremendously with the meal!  The dinner would have been questionable had the cooking been left to myself alone!

Here comes the cold!

The cooler weather is beginning to set in, but it hasn’t slowed Allie down a bit!  She’s more than happy to put on a hat and gloves and brave the cold!

Book Review: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

I LOVED this book!  When I read it, I resisted going to sleep because I didn’t want to put it down!  For all the men out there that think it’s a chick book – think again! It had suspense, drama, romance, and humor all in one. The main character is a man named Jacob, who is reflecting back on his youth when he joined the circus as their veterinarian.  The ringmaster is a money-hungry, conniving, abusive man who will use any tactic to get what he wants.  The ringmaster’s wife soon becomes the object of Jacob’s affection and a dangerous love triangle is formed.  I would recommend this book to anyone!

Movie Review: Toy Story 3

This movie was just as I’d expect from a Pixar film.  It had good animation and was entertaining for both kids and adults.  Although, there was quite a bit of violence for a kids movie.  I wouldn’t suggest it for kids under 5.  In this film, the toys get donated to a childcare where they get put in the toddler room instead of the older preschool room where the kids are more gentle with their toys.  It was funny for Kevin and I to watch because we currently have a toddler in our house.  The villain turns out to be one of the toys in the preschool who has assumed all the power over the other toys.  It really is a cute film, but due to the violence, it’s not for young children.

Trick or Treat!

Allison definitely enjoyed her Halloween this year!  She had all of her grandparents over to visit and even had a surprise visit from her friend Olivia!  At the end of the night, I’m not sure what she enjoyed more: the trick-or-treating or answering the door to hand out candy!

Liberty Ridge Farms 2011

Allison was so excited to go to the farm!  And it was the perfect way to spend an afternoon because it had so many things to see and do which kept our little toddler very busy!