Not having sports on Fridays has been a great thing for our fall fun...allowing us to take adventures right after school. One afternoon we headed out to Mulberry Orchards to pick some apples. The kids love this place, each year adding new activities around the farm. We sipped on apple cider slushies, pulled BBQ sandwiches and fresh fruit. We picked apples in little totes and got apple jam too. One of our favorite fall bucket list traditions!
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
Sunday, October 22, 2023
A Thompson Fall: Sip Apple Cider
We got creative this year with our apple cider. After school one Friday, we headed to Heine Brother's where they have a special little treat...steamed apple juice topped with cinnamon spices to make for a kids' delight. To accompany these homemade apple ciders, we enjoyed pastries as well.
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
40 Before 40: Go White Water Rafting
A beautiful fall day in West Virginia over fall break was spent on the rapids. Adelaide, Aspen & I headed up in the early morning and enjoyed a day on the water.
We enjoyed the fall foliage as well as the seasonably warm temperatures. Wet suits were very helpful in helping us feel less wet & cold!
We had a homemade lunch river side; we jumped off cliff rocks; we paddled through Class 2 & 3 rapids; and we giggled all day long!
A trip that was good for the soul!
Monday, October 16, 2023
40 Before 40: Attend a UM Football Game

Saturday, September 23, 2023
Brighton Kevin: 8 Years Old
Dearest Brighton Kevin,
My sweet son, how are you already 8 years old?! Entering 2nd grade, doing all of the big kid things, and growing up right before my eyes. Recently I was with some of your friends' moms at a school meeting. We were asked to pray for our children as they begin preparing for the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Communion. As the candles lit up the room and we sat in silence, I couldn't help but let the tears flow. To think how God performed a miracle the day you were born, it was an overwhelming feeling of joy & gratitude.
You are loving having Ms. Hagan as your 2nd grade teacher. You are flourishing in knowledge and growing by the day. Your handwriting is nothing short of perfect, and you are truly enjoying the reflex math games.
Soccer is still your jam...playing on your Javanon team and traveling for games. You are starting games, and you are taking on a leadership role. Ali is your coach and he is hard on you in the best way. You are really showing your growth in the sport and as a teammate!
You continue to enjoy golf; adding a weekly league to your practice has been a way to keep it fun. You play 9 holes at Seneca Park on the Par 3 course. This has allowed you to learn the game and deal with competitive situations.
You continue to be a very friendly little fella. You know no strangers and are always happy to chat with anyone. You have a zest for life that truly suits your name & personality. My hope is that you always keep the worldly-ness about you as well as your joy for life.
I love you!
Love,
Mommy


















