More fall fun

Two weeks ago, we picked the pumpkins from our garden. Not only did we harvest a measly four, but they were small-- much too small to carve. Along with Travis' Linder Farms pumpkin and a few leftover squashes, we painted our display of gourds.

While we initially planned to paint faces on the 5 pumpkins, the solid painted look grew on us. The kids wanted an outlet to unleash their Halloween creativity. So we spent evening together where we drank caramel cider, decorated clove oranges,

 

 

and frosted sugar cookies.

Last Friday, Jamin's school held its fall carnival. We dedicated that night a "Mom-Jamin date" and spent hours playing games.

Playing

Scott's a playful dad. Even after a long day of work and school, he takes time to shoot hoops, throw a ball, or wrestle with the kids in the living room.

They have such a great time together. 

I'm thankful for a husband who truly engages with our children-- not only in teaching but also in playing.

Linder Farms field trip

Travis took his first field trip last Monday.

We went to Linder Farms. He couldn't wait!

As soon as we got there, he wanted to play in the corn bin. But the schedule of the trip meant going on a hay ride instead. Travis was mad.

He felt a little happier at the petting zoo. 

Next, it was time to learn about pumpkins. Travis could see the corn bin. Back to square one... until he got to pick his very own pumpkin. Mrs. Walls explained that was his ticket to play.

Play time!

After free play, Travis tore around in the corn bin with his friends. All was right in the world.

Happy #32

Scott turned 32 yesterday!

On Saturday, the two of us went out for sushi and shopping.

Yesterday was a nice, relaxing day filled with family time.

And cake.

Happy birthday, Scotty! We sure love you.

First grade portrait

Benjamin, 2012:

New kids' rooms

At the end of the summer, we swapped the kids' rooms and rearranged their furniture.

This is what we did with the boys' room (Jamin's bed is on the left, and Travis' is on the right):

Bulletin board/backpack/toy basket area:

Last week, my mom & David sent over a huge shipment of goodies after their San Diego house sold. My childhood bed became Libby's new bed:

Closer view of her ladybug bedding:

Autumn so far...

Our family headed out to Linder Farms for the first of many trips this season:

Libby-- with her usual sense of style-- is potty training ("Oh, hello pee!"):

Jamin and I harvested our more sensitive vegetables with frost looming in the forecast:

 

We enjoy the crisp mornings and warm afternoons outside as often as we can:

Of course, the boys are all busy with school-- especially Scott, who studies full-time on top of his full-time job. We appreciate the hard work he puts in each day for our family. I honestly don't know how he juggles it all.