we'll just start sharing again...

We'll catch up at some point, but for now, we will start sharing some recent favorites.

Kansas City, Take 1

My Mom and I took the kids in Kansas City late August/Early September this last year.  

Our first morning, we made the three hour drive to Oswego, Kansas to see my Grandma Ruth.  The winter before she moved from her house to the rest home in her town.  Although all her belonging fit into her room, it still looked like HER HOUSE.  I loved that.  Tessa insisted on wearing her prairie dress, which I think was lovely.  Grandma Ruth was in great spirits.  She insisted on NOT wearing her oxygen.

After a few hours, the kids were getting restless.  And so we said our goodbyes.  She passed away six weeks later.  (i.e. Kansas, Take 2)  My lasts memories are of her standing strong, walking us to the door of the rest home.  And me, wanting to get in one more hug.  One more kiss.  One more I love you.  You were and still are loved, Grandma Ruth.

Back in the 90's, my Dad took me to BIG BRUTUS (a strip mine digger) on the way home from Oswego.  It was a hot, but beautiful day, so I decided to stop and show my kids as well.

The next day the kids and I went to Antioch Park.  I think that day was the hottest day of the summer in Kansas City.  We were all a sweaty mess.  

We went to see Grandma Nonny the next day.  She and Tessa are soul mates I think.  Lots of time holding hands between these two.  

That evening, after the pool, we had dinner at my Aunt Janice's house and Tessa was in heaven with all the girls around.  Harlow is a year younger than Tessa.  

And Harlow's Dad is a fire fighter!  Who happened to have time to bring the truck to the house.  (That's Fireman Bill in the middle)

And then the little girls had cake.

Our last day we sent more time with family at the park.  And Asher and Tessa walked Aunt Janice's dogs along trails that I had logged many (many many many) miles on.  

And then it was time to head home.  Tessa says "see you guys next year!"

Asher is one (photo session)

We had a quick photo session for Asher's first birthday with Qiana K Photography.  They turned out great!  Asher's little romper was bought in Paris.  Tessa's dress is from Matilda Jane.

Payson II

We went back to Payson for a second time this summer with our good friends Jenni, Pete and their daughters Averi, Caroline AND although we did not know at that time, little Roo was daughter number three - Quincy (who was born last week)!  This was our first family camping adventure, and I am glad that we went with seasoned pros.  A few additions, like the camp stove, pop-up tent and the kiddie table made a huge difference!  We had a great time, and hope that it will become a yearly tradition.

just proof that I don't put my kids in danger - a composite image ;)

Random August Photos (aka back to the children… with some birds thrown in)

1. Tessa got a "Laura and Mary" dress (aka pioneer dress)  2. The day a peacock tried to join our flock (the chickens were NOT happy)  3. Mornings at Home Depot with my guy  4. The start of our sunflower house

1. A weekend away from Dad means Mommy needs a little break sometimes  2.  Smoothies were our favorite thing to drink all summer  3. New baby tricks

1.  Early morning irrigation day  2. Asher and a chicken enjoy the water table  3. Brother/sister time  4. Asher is funny

Girls in DC

Whoa!  A post without children!  (minus fur babies)  In early August, the six pack met in DC to celebrate Kelli's little bun in the oven.  Getting together with the girls is so much fun and the perfect getaway.  Let's do it again soon (like next week would be good).

Christina and I met Miranda in St Louis, and loved getting the half pack together asap!  Kelli and Tim live in a great neighborhood with lots of walking trails and a community garden.

Annie and Cassie arrived later on that evening, and the following day we headed downtown to the mall (and MORE community gardens!).  Food trucks were a plenty, and I had a pretty awesome sandwich.

Georgetown was our next stop.  DC cupcake was a little packed, so we stopped at another favorite bakery down the street.  Ice cream sandwich's are my favorite.

Thanks for a great weekend girls!

And Kelli and Tim welcomed John Lawrence on October 16th

and our six pack has grown to a 18 pack ;)

promise we're still alive

We've just been running like crazy!

Hope to be back here soon.