Almost perfect

I took this picture the other day and was instantly bummed when I wasn't able to focus my camera correctly. I knew I had missed it, the perfect shot, the one that could have gone on this year's Christmas cards. After looking at it more closely, maybe it's not the perfect shot...Does it really reflect what my kids are all about? Not really! I don't think anyone could tell me the last time they saw the two of them sitting still together...it doesn't exist (unless of course, they're parked in front of the TV). My two kids are usually running around yelling, singing, giggling and yes, annoying one another. They are full of personality...unlike like this nearly "perfect" photo.

Perhaps it was my view of "perfect" that was unfocused, because I don't think it gets any better than this!

Fall Favorites

Cute outfits for the kids... beautiful colors on the changing trees right in our own backyard...

field trips to local farms

and pumpkin growing contests....this beauty is 350 lbs. Apparently last year's local winner was over 1,000 lbs....just a little miracle grow added to that soil!

There is something I love about every season, but I think fall may be my favorite, especially living in New England.

The Messy Flower

I don't know about you, but when I hear a sad story I always feel compelled to do something. Sometimes things you do may seem insignificant, but when a group of people get together, it can turn into something big! Some time ago I read about a little girl named Cora who at less than 1 year old lost her battle with cancer. Her young parents set up a fund to raise money to build a playground in her memory. Many people from Etsy donated their time and money to the cause. I purchased this Messy Flower from Joy's Hope to support Cora's playground. The playground was recently completed and you can see the story here on the family blog.

Speaking of making a difference, I also saw this video recently on Tara's blog. I wish I would have seen it before my birthday, but there's always next year.

"Anyway"

"God is great, but sometimes life ain't good...and when i pray, sometimes things don't turn out like they should, but I do it anyway." Song lyrics from Martina McBride's song capture my feelings for this past week, as we had to say goodbye to a dear relative and friend. It's one of those moments that just doesn't seem fair or right and you question the purpose of it all. We are grateful for the moments we had together, but that too is what makes it hurt all the more for those who loved her. ....time will heal...or at least make it easier to bear...

Pumpkins, Pirates and Plants....Oh My!

We went on our annual family outing to Ward's Berry Farm to pick pumpkins. This year we were early enough to actually take the pumpkins right off the vines. There were so many beautiful pumpkins, squash and gourds in the fields. Last year we were so late that all the plants were gone and the pumpkins were being hauled in from other farms....not really an authentic pumpkin picking experience. This year it was different... Little Miss spotted this "little pumpkin" right as we got off the tractor ride. She never let it go the entire time we searched for pumpkins. We asked her if she wanted a bigger pumpkin, but she was content with her treasure.
E on the other hand couldn't get his hands on enough of the treasures...he was determined to take one of everything home!

When we took out the annual fall decorations we couldn't find E's handmade pirate ship from last year. We ventured to the craft store and we bought a new model...bigger and better than the last. He's been having a blast using his playmobile pirates to act out the battle scenes; I've even caught him talking like a pirate (it's very cute).

I got home from work yesterday to an early birthday surprise....beautiful mums and pumpkins displayed (by my two boys) on our front porch. My hubby is developing quite the eye for decorating! Happy Fall everyone!

Inspiration

I came across this blog recently and just today noticed the home pictures that she has posted...BEAUTIFUL!!!! I'm motivated to do some redecorating of my own now that I have seen her gorgeous home. One of my favorite ideas of Meg's was the artwork done by her children in the bathroom....soooo great! Check it out here.

Fall seems like the perfect season to try some new ideas....now for the time!

Blessed...

Nothing to complain about when I have this....my two little blessings!