Utilizing Fall

Notice my handsome, clean cut son. He got called a girl, my cue that it's time for a cut.

Cocoa to warm the insides

Falling out of Fall

I'm definitely a season girl. I love the four seasons and am always in great anticipation of the next. Fall. The changing trees, apple spice, candles, squash, burnt leaves, the brisk breeze, bundling up in sun, scarves ...the list goes on. Then comes the anticipation for winter. Decorating for Christmas, peppermint mochas, shopping, blankets, tea, Christmas morning, sweaters ... the list goes on. Spring. Restless legs running outside, sandals, walks, iced lattes, playgrounds, adventures, blooming flowers ... the list goes on. And then summer. Swimming, lemonade, BBQ's, skirts, gardening, Margaritas and guacamole .. oh yes! Each season has so much to offer.

Isn't it funny though, often after just a month or so of one season, I start having such great anticipation of the next that I stop thinking about the season I'm in. In fact, I feel like I've skipped over Thanksgiving in my mind. Already I've started thinking of what crafts I will do for Christmas with the kids, where the tree will go, I've snuck in a couple Christmas CD's, and started thinking about where I can find a good peppermint candle. (I might add I do think think Christmas is a bit different and there is room for some extra anticipation, don't get me wrong). However, I have noticed that I'm forgetting the very things I love about fall. So, to prevent this premature planning, some action steps have been put into place. This week I'm going to be making a butternut squash soup and Creamy butternut squash pasta with Gorgonzola and apples. I will for sure post the soup as it's really great and really easy. As far as the pasta, well it will be an experiment so if it's a success I'll pop that one up here too. Also, I've been debating about whether to get another mulled apple cider candle for the rest of the season, and after having my friend Alyssa over yesterday and noticing my temptation to skip over half of fall, I'll be purchasing one soon. And finally, here are some more fall pics. So enjoy fall, soak it in, light some candles, have some cider!

In case you're interested....

Here are some of my favorite, inspiring photo blogs. They are professional in a major way and I really appreciate their style.

Bobbi and Mike

Pioneer Woman

Susan Stripling

Me Ra Koh

Baby Lucy

Always observing, always trying to keep up with the big kids, and always cute!

Botanical with Friends

Will's usually a few steps behind, just trying to keep up with the busy blondies.

The color of the leaves are amazing and with the winds picking up they will soon be on the ground. It was a perfect day to take a trip to the gardens. I feel so spoiled that it's November and still in the 70's- soaking in every moment. We went to the gardens with Sarah, Huntleigh and baby Lucy. Look at them holding hands- so sweet!

Happy birthday Hunts

Happy Birthday Hunts! This girl has got zing and personality- I love her! We got to go to a little celebration (superbly done) to enjoy this amazing 3 year old.

Each kid got a canvas and paint- quite a successful craft.

Here are the finished products below. Lucy's is the one smack in the middle and Will's is on the far left.

Will caught in the act of blowing out the candles with Huntleigh.