Thankful

So thankful for all these boys, even if it is impossible to get them all to look at the camera at the same time!!

These boys

sometimes they argue, sometimes they refuse to share...

They are brothers.

But, do they love each other well?

Yes, they do.

Halloween, pt 3

The loot!

Halloween, pt 2

This year we had a black ninja, an elf, and a firefighter. They were all super excited about dressing up and I think all had their costumes on by 9:00am, Halloween morning. That is dedication, people!

We really enjoyed trick or treating in our new neighborhood. It was much more lively and filled with kids than our old hood. This year we also had the added bonus of having Grandma B visiting from Iowa. It was a great visit, as always. Thanks for coming B!!

Ninja Patch.

Legolas

Our little firefighter, "big and brave." The sunglasses were his idea.

Halloween, pt 1

Pumpkin carving. So messy, but so much fun. Unfortunately I totally forgot to take any pictures of the finished product, but believe me, they were some fabulously spooky jack o'lanterns!

Did you notice how we are all wearing shorts and tee shirts? Well, it was like 83 degrees that day. Strangely warm, even for Northern Cali.

Be back soon!

Tomorrow morning, I'm off on an eagerly awaited mini vacation to celebrate my cousin's wedding in NY. It's been years since I've gone away by myself, and I am SO excited (don't tell my children!). One benefit of being a busy mom is that you actually look forward to the plane ride- 6 luxurious hours all to myself!! Don't even try to talk to me, seat mates, as I have all I need with my book, my ipod, and my knitting.

I am also looking forward to visiting with my east coast family. Catching up in a relaxed fashion that will involve me actually completing my sentences, without being interrupted by a small person and their litany of never ending needs and desires.

Wow, I sound like I really need this break, huh?

I love being a mom. It has truly defined my adult life. But it is hard. There are many days when I find myself counting down the hours until bedtime, when I am just dying for a few quiet moments. A stay at home mom does not get paid, and often, does not get thanked. The boys never say at the end of a hard day, "Great job mom!" or "Hey- you really handle that well!" I know that they love me, and do appreciate me in their own boyish way. And they are such sweet, special little guys, each in his own way. They make me laugh and shower me with kisses each and every day. And I love them so much, it hurts sometimes!

But every once it a while, mama just needs a break! So, thanks to Jeff for arranging his schedule to accommodate this trip of mine. And thanks to Jake and Melissa for getting hitched. Can't wait to celebrate with you two!

Here are a few fall themed pics, from a recent trip to the pumpkin patch, to hold you over until my return.

Fun between the rain

We've had some early rain storms here in Northern Cali. While the plants and trees are all happy, the mamas and little boys were feeling a little put out.

We are not ready for winter!!

So, when after 2 days of chilly rain we had a clear and sunny morning, Atti and I headed right out to the park. It was kind of damp, but we had the whole place to ourselves!

We checked out the river- no boats, but lots of geese.

We enjoyed the beautiful autumn sky.

We jumped.

We climbed.

We had fun!

And then, when it started to rain again, we didn't feel so sad.