to tree or not to tree?

That is the question. We had originally decided on not having a Christmas tree this year. At this point we don't know the timing of our move, nor do we have much space for a tree in our loft. We would just have to enjoy the spell of pine when we visited grandparents. With or without a tree Christmas feels so strange, especially since all of our decorations and stockings are buried in a storage facility. We decided on a tree after all. We will probably make ornaments out of paper and popcorn, but it brings us joy knowing how excited Piper and Miles will be on Christmas morning to see our tree glowing and bearing gifts.

Christmas Compound

Surrounding our living quarters is a winter wonderland. There are great tall windows in the loft, which means we have a front row view of  this marvelous display that is the compound. To top it off, we also have snow.
To get the full effect, Piper and Miles smash their faces against the cool glass. I'm happy to be home where it's already cold and Christmassy.

Off to Tea

    Lovely cousin Julia (middle) had a birthday tea party today and it did not disappoint!

Boo!

Are you frightened yet?

Just wait!

Ferocious!

What's that? Danger you say?

I got this...

We hope you had fun this Halloween!

All New Things

Here I am packing lunches last week. We will pack lunches 3 times a week now because I got a job! Yep, I now work at an academy. It's a wonderful school right around the corner from our soon to be house. Along with the job offer, Piper and Miles get to come with me! She goes to pre-K and he hangs out with me and other wee ones. It's a wonderful arrangement, particularly for Piper. She has been talking about going to school for a very long time and it has finally come. She loves it and is doing splendidly! On our way home the first day, she was telling me that some children were being poor listeners. I asked her if she was being a good example for them and she replied "yep, I wiggled MY arms like an octopus." I don't know the story behind that one, but it sounds like fun.
On another note, while watching the Olympics, Piper decided she'd like to try gymnastics. We got her started in a children's class three weeks ago. The class has brought out this new found confidence and adventure in her. She's jumping off everything now, which sometimes makes me cringe. If you are wondering about her crazy hair, so am I. I can't contain it. All she has to do is move and all her hair ties and clips fall out like a cartoon.

Apple Orchard

Autumn in Michigan is beautiful! I'm telling you, these snap shots don't even do it justice. This splendor lasts only a few short weeks, but it is breathtaking. This is my favorite time of year for the color, the extra layers, the cider and donuts. Even the everyday things are better. For instance a good cup of coffee is so much more enjoyable when your hands are chilled and a breath of cool air feels fresh and crisp in your lungs. I've missed this, can you tell?

We took the kiddos to a local apple orchard a few weeks ago. Piper and Miles played on this train for the longest time. Fun fun fun followed by donuts and pumpkin picking. Oh and by the way, that squirrel is waiting to use the porta potty.

Marriage

It's been six years and three days of pure bliss. Also, six years and three days of unwavering sarcasm. If you haven't figured it out, Broc and I have been married for six years and three days. All jokes aside, this is my guy. We have our off days and we have our individual off-putting qualities, but we like each other and (jokes are no longer aside) maybe even love each other. What?!