Ander's Visit- Relaxing & Refreshing

This last weekend we had Brooke, Corey and Malin up from Indy for a visit and we so enjoyed our time with them. We never ceased to find things to talk about and food and drinks were always near by. Malin and Ava played and had fun at the playground, carving a pumpkin, playing in the leaves, painting, girl talking at night, and riding bikes in the driveway. We wished we could see them more often and we are looking forward to putting a date on the calendar again.

Visit with my Mom and Dad -Oct 18th

For most of my adult life, I have been at odds with my Dad and from time to time we have verbally battled it out. Then about seven years ago, things between us became unbearable and we haven't spoken or seen each other in seven years. I still kept in touch with my Mom but as her illness with Alzheimer's continued to get worse, it was more difficult to see or talk with her because of my Dad's reluctance in cooperation. So, with that said, you can imagine my surprise and awkwardness when I went to see my Mom on a Monday morning and he answered the door and stayed for the visit. He was cordial and civil and very happy to meet Ava for the first time. He spent time with us looking at old photographs and reminiscing about past memories. He doted on Ava and she seemed amused. The visit ended with some hugs and some tears and now I'm not sure how to feel. It still feels like unfinished business. I'm praying for continued guidance and obedience to God's will in this matter because I sure can't do it on my own.

Ox Bow County Park- Oct 16th & 17th

What a beautiful Fall weekend it was on the 16th and 17th and both days were spent at Ox Bow County park with the kids. Ava was able to run all over and the twins enjoyed all the pretty leaves falling around us. The weather was perfect!!! We even were able to enjoy a group of Deer that was running through the woods. They stopped to see us, then moved on, only to return again for a better look at us. I love the Fall with all its beautiful splendor!

Finn not really caring about the pumpkins

Jovi and her first pumpkin

Ava Picking out Pumpkins

The Gours at the Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Patch 2010

Every year we pick out pumpkins at this farmhouse on Douglas road and they have alot of variety and many places for photo opportunities. This Fall has been so warm, I had to nix all the cute fall clothing and put short sleeve shirts on the kids. It was even too warm to really have the twins in the sun, so we took turns with Ava as she made her way around the assortment of all the pumpkins and gourds. We met the Gour family there as well and took some cute photos of their girls. Wish we could have stayed longer to play and see the animals but all our kids were in need of their afternoon siesta.

Addition to the House

We decided to add a three season room where our existing deck was located. The purpose of this addition is to have more indoor/outdoor living space without the mosquitoes carrying us off. We started the project on September 27th and it is scheduled to be finished by November 3rd. We are pretty excited about the way it's coming together and if this warm weather holds out, we may even be able to use it before it turns cold.

90 Days in Training

A friend of mine sent me a blog invite that she is doing a 90 day fitness training and encouraged others to join her. I would love to allocate some time for working out but it seems unlikely at this time in my life. However, I did take her challenge seriously and what I needed even more than a physical workout was a spiritual one. I am sad to say that I have not picked up my Bible since the twins have been born. So with that said, I am on a 90 day spiritual journey and have been reading my Bible daily. I'm one third of the way (30 days) in and feel so much more peace. You know how good you feel when you start working out physically-more energy, better moods, etc. I can honestly say I am reaping some of those same benefits. I feel better about life and feel more equipped to handle the pitfalls that come along. Additionally, I feel more connected and less cynical about the world around me. I'm thankful that I have friends that will challenge and encourage me. (Thanks Rapture!)

Work Tools

Some people have a laptop and briefcase for work....I have the above for my daily work tools.

10 bottles, 18 jars of baby food, 9 bibs, 9 washcloths, 9 spoons, 10 burp clothes, 9 plates/bowls, 3 sippy cups, 16 to 20 diapers, baby wipes, several sets of clothing, books, Oodles and Oodles of toys and a running prayer that we all survive the day!

Papa, Grandma, and our three little ones

Welcome home for Julie McNamee

A friend of ours had a severe stroke back in August of this year, right after we attended her daughter's graduation party. It seemed surreal that this could happen to such a young and active woman, and it was a devastating blow to her family as well. However, even it the midst of this turmoil, God showed up in so many miraculous ways. We are so thankful that she is recovering and gaining strength each day. Her inspiring attitude and infectious spirit makes you rethink your perspectives on life's daily challenges and be thankful and grateful in ALL circumstances. She was released from the rehab center in September after 40 days of hard work and her husband Mark along with some of her great friends, planned a surprise welcome home party that included a newly renovated villa, fully furnished and decorated, and many many friends and family to greet her to what they refer to as their "Recovery Home." Mark and Julie had just marked their 27th wedding anniversary right before her stroke, but were unable to celebrate until her homecoming. I am so blessed to have been there for this very special event and glad to know both Mark and Julie and their wonderful children.

Ava in dance class

We signed Ava up for a Mommy and Me dance class at the Elkhart YMCA and the first 4 weeks of the class she did not want to participate. I even had her sister Ashley come one week, her friend Sophia come the next, and her Dad took a try at it also. All were unsuccessful. So what motivates a 2 year girl to dance in dance class???? Answer: Curious George fruit snacks! I was so excited that she did all the moves and told George how well she did and when we got home, George asked her "Do you like dance class now?" Ava: "No, but I got a monkey George fruit snack" I think she is smarter than we give her credit for. Since that day she has participated in each class (without the motivating fruit snack) and we have re-signed her up for another session. By now I think she is starting to enjoy it and looks forward to time with Mommy without the twins.