Mesmerized

We spent a lot of time this weekend outside, enjoying the extraordinarily warm weather and the fall leaves.  Every fall, I'm reminded why this is my favorite season.  I love the colors, the clothes, the food, the activities...it just feels cozy to me.  I know its the season of dying and preparing for hibernation...but its a beautiful process.  And I'm glad God decided to make it that way.  We are enjoying every moment of the colorful leaves, hot soup with bread and light jackets.

Today is Elli's one year appointment (a little late, as usual).  I'm curious to see where she falls on the scale.  Annelise has always been below the average, 10% in weight and 30% in height.  I have a sneaking suspicion that Elli will be much above the average (especially since she and Annelise are practically sharing clothes right now).  We shall see.

So, we're doing our best to get up, get motivated, and accomplish much today.  Its not looking good though...its 10:30 and I'm enjoying a second cup of coffee in my pajamas, writing this blog, Annelise is enjoying Abby's Flying Fairy School on Sesame Street and Elli is sweetly sleeping in her crib. 

Oh well...we'll enjoy these moments.

Pumpkin Woopi Pies

'nuf said.

One Fall Day

Relying on Grace

The past few weeks have been a busy blur around our home.  Lots of school activities, work activities, church activities...just lots going on.  Isn't it so tempting during times like these to rely on our own strength - or to look for it in another person?  How unfair!  God is my only source of strength...in fact, nothing I do is apart from Him and His Grace!

So, I'm preaching this to myself today.  Another big work event tomorrow is keeping me on my toes and giving me lots of mommy guilt.  But, God is good, faithful and STRONG - and I'm asking Him to inject lots of grace into my life today.

Not Our Normal Friday

Not sure that I even know what normal is these days.  I can tell you its NOT being awake all night, just to have my kids wake up at 6 am. 

We're all a little cranky today.

Considering the circumstances, we would normally hunker down and rest, but I have a huge event at work tomorrow.  Like over 1,000 people kind of event.  So, alas, we will shower, pretty ourselves and get to work on all that needs to be done today. 

And yes, with the kids in tow.

What a Party!

 

Happy Birthday Elli!

Elliora Grace Neal was born one year ago today.  A planned c-section is a beautiful thing.  Within moments of going into the operating room, we were blessed with a big, beautiful baby girl.  Those first three months were a nightmare rough, but we made it through.  I wouldn't give her back for anything.  She is the sweetest baby, but displays a fiery personality.  Elli has added so much joy to our home.

Happy Birthday, Pickles!