'Come here, little dearie!'

She didn't need any coaching to get into character and had the cutest little cackle we've ever heard.

Tessa and her preschool friends before the costume parade.

Tessa and Lex, aka Buzz Lightyear

Pre trick-or-treating

She assured us she was a "good witch."

The stash. She sorted her own candy, giving Eric and me the pieces that were "too hard." Oh man.

'C is for Cookie'

Tessa really missed Eric when he had conferences. So, we decided to surprise him with an October "valentine" treat. Ah, good times.

Surprise! continued: Pie makin' with Mima

Roll out that dough, ladies!

Furrowed brow=intense concentration

Now pat it...

And mark it with a 'T'!

Kory does his part

I guess Eric's part is just being cute (and helping document this activity)

I don't think this step involved a whisk, but it makes a good picture.

Sprinkle that streusel!

And put it in the oven for Tessa & me!

Bye, bye, pie!

Surprise! continued: Scootin' along with Kory

Surprise! A visit from Mima & Kory: the pumpkin patch

Tessa's first pony ride

She drives like her mother...good thing her car was attached.

Santa made an early visit to give these kids train rides. (Tessa is in the last car.)

Tessa was alarmed by the sheep baaaaaaing.

Typical Mima...trying to dodge a photo

Lookin' for a good one...

Tessa claims her pumpkin by sitting on it. I guess that makes it official...?

And hug it for good measure

Kickin' it at the p-patch, yo

Surfin' safari?

That "something" Mima had to "pick up for Tessa" before she got to our house was actually Kory. :) We're glad she did!

'Don't say butt, say bottom'

{I'm not a fan of any title containing the word "random." But (hahahaha—I said but...never mind) since this post is, shall I say, hodge-podge, I thought a Tessa quote would fit nicely.}

She is one of THOSE pet owners.

Blockhead

Tessa was supposed to be sleeping, but when we checked on her, we found this interesting book display. She said she made up a game, but hasn't explained the object yet. I consider it a win if I don't slip on them.

Supastar!

Oh, look. A princess threw up in our living room. Actually, Tessa acquired a nice collection of princess dress-up clothes. And she took this picture.

Heeeeeeeeey!

Do NOT mess with this girl when she is cooking.

Cloud gazing...we had a picnic on our deck to celebrate its recent staining.

Her favorite dress is Snow White's.

When Tessa has recorder in hand — watch out (and cover your ears!)