We thought this was the year that Elan would discover candy, which he thinks is just “pretty” and has no idea that it is something sweet that people love to eat. In fact, last summer when we were waiting at the airport after a long flight, he entertained himself for at least a half-hour moving different-colored toffee from one bin to another. I guess that’s the plus side of having a kid who is not very interested in food.

Elan was a pirate this year.

It was the perfect no-cost costume since my neighbor across the street provided an armful of pirate paraphernalia when I told her my idea. It was a big day for neighbors overall – we had a smash-hit Block Party complete with jumpy house, costume contest (for all ages), and potluck with great food. There’s something about closing off the street to traffic and having everyone out of their houses and interacting that makes you think: let’s live this way everyday. And we’re so lucky to be living in a neighborhood (and block) where people are friendly and interesting, and there’s lots of kids around.

Earlier in the week, we went to a pumpkin-carving party at Elan’s nursery school, where he had a great time with his friend Katia, who was dressed glamorously as a princess. He is completely enthralled with Katia and talks about her all the time. She tells him what to do, and he (mostly) goes along with it.

And now I’m going to utter one of those ridiculous statements parents make:

First love?