We Give Thanks.

Here it is December 1st. November has passed by with barely a whisper. It seems like (and I am VERY guilty of this) that Christmas really overshadows such a special month. I admit that I started decorating the beginning of November, partly due to time issues more than sentiment.

I would be neglectful if I didn't give Thanksgiving it's due respect. We had a wonderful and simple day. My beloved Gramps passed away just days before this Thanksgiving. We were flooded with family and friends for most of the week. By the time Thanksgiving came around it was just a small gathering. I think all of us needed that day to heal and let our memories settle. It was a beautiful day.

This year, I am most thankful for family. I am in awe at how God works His perfect timing. Last year at during Thanksgiving, we were a family of four with the promise of a new birth. This year, our family of five is so complete and full that it just thrills my heart. I am most thankful to God for providing for us in this way.

My cup overflows...

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I hope you all had a special day celebrating family and togetherness!

Happy Halloween from Ralph and Nellie

Nellie: Ralph, tell all the kids Happy Halloween.

Ralph: WHAT?

Nellie: IT'S HALLOWEEN, RALPH. SAY HAPPY HALLOWEEN.

Ralph: You are the Dancing Queen?

Nellie: HALLOWEEN!

Ralph: Woman, I don't have to eat green beans if I don't want to.

Nellie: Not GREEN BEANS. H.A.L.L.O.W.E.E.N!!

Ralph: Halloween? Why didn't you say that in the first place?

Happy Fall Day

Saturday Part III

Just when you thought our day was over...

My mom graciously offered to take the kids home with her after Lou's party on Saturday. I was hesitant (in truth, I practically BEGGED her to take them!) Skip and I had another birthday to celebrate that evening so we welcomed the kid-free night.

So, off they went to carve pumpkins at Ma & Pa's house. I am thankful that they are willing to host this because my kids wouldn't know what the inside of a pumpkin looked like without it. I am not about the mess. They have made it their tradition for which I am grateful.

I love seeing what designs my kids come up with every year. First, they draw out what they would like. Then Pa proceeds to make it happen. Z wanted a scary face and Lou wanted cross-eyes.

What an awesome way to end this fun-filled day!

Saturday Part I

Saturday was a crazy day! Three days later and I am still trying to process it all for the sake of the blog.

For me, it started off at 5am baking a birthday Castle cake for Loulabelle's 4th birthday party. I am sure I can give you all the boring details from that morning. And I know you would all be on the EDGE OF YOUR SEATS to read that I showered and cleaned the kitchen. So I will spare you the boring and go straight to the fun.

ZMan had a soccer game at 11:00, so we loaded up the car and headed to the soccer fields. The team played awesome and Z is playing his heart out this year. I love watching him play without abandon. He has been so hesitant in year's past, but not anymore!

After soccer, we made a quick costume change from soccer people to Anakin and Padme. We were invited to my FAVORITE FALL PARTY ever! We have attended this annual party since Z was 6 months old. That first year he wore a zebra costume and laid on a blanket with all the other babies. I love seeing our group picture change from year after year.


Here is my Anakin. I love this face filled with freckles and mischief. I never know what he is up to. The gleam in his eyes tell me that he was in Star Wars heaven. For Z, that is the perfect way to spend a day.


Here is the Star Wars gang minus Yoda who was asleep in the barn. (I didn't know Yoda could sleep...) Anyway, we have a Storm Trooper, Hans Soccer, Anakin, Padme and Obi Wan. Star Wars had a strong showing at this year's FAVORITE FALL PARTY ever. It was so much fun to see their epic battles. I loved watching the boys care for sweet little Padme. She had a blast being included in the fun.

The party wouldn't be complete without a Family Adventure Game, pumpkin decorating, costume parade and tons of good food and friends. It really is my favorite Fall activity.

I had to leave the party early to get ready for Loulabelle's CandyLand party. We must have been CRAZY to have these two parties on the same day. It made for lots of wardrobe changes and lots of hair products. WHEW!!

Stay tuned for more...