Our Halloween Party

We just couldn't resist a Halloween party in our fun new house. Costumes were optional. We provided popcorn, mulled apple cider and a warm crackling fire. The kids couldn't believe they were not invited! Just into the party, Asher snuck upstairs in a costume he put together from my closet. He was sure we wouldn't recognize him, but I would know those long legs anywhere.

Princess Leia & The Scarey-Clown-Man ( with Asher)

Ninja Rae & Dr. Rock Climber

John & Peter

Nerdy Couple

Peace & Quiet (with Colette)

I am a terrible in the moment photographer so I missed lots other fun guests. It was a great time.

My Mountains

I still love the mountains. We took a family trip down home this fall. We got to celebrate my step-brother's wedding and enjoyed a full weekend of family time. We had plenty of fun with Haaz Sue, Aunt LaLa, Papaw 'Tucky and MiMi, Uncle Phil and Jessica, and Aunt Linz and Trey.

Brandon and Ashley were married in the same church as Jeff and I. What a treat to experience that church again.

Asher was the proud catcher of the garter. He was a little confused and tried to give it back.

Our kids are always looking for a party. They danced their sweet little hearts out. The favorite song was "Shake Your Booty". It has since become a family fave.

These pictures are in my dad's back yard. We are soaking up a beautiful fall day.


No more front teeth.

A Warm Rain

I just can't tell you how much we enjoy living at the Balcon House as we call it. It has a huge back yard with a stream bed that run across it. The bed is only full right after a rain and I guess it is really a drainage ditch and mosquito incubator. But that aside, our kids love having "water" on our land. The last warm rain, Winter begged to wade. Ignoring the contamination levels of suburbian runoff and trying to be spontaneous, I agreed. Violet didn't need an invitation or permission. She really never does.

Wildlife

Jeff had to be out of town one Sunday. So we headed to the Lone Elk Park. Very neat place. It has a bird sanctuary and some elk and bison. Like everything else in Saint Louis it is free. We did take some pictures of all that, but these are just as wild and full of life.

My First Half!

My dear friend Lori encouraged me to join her in a half marathon in Valmeyer, Illinois. Lori's running partner, Diana has connections in Valmeyer and it is only about 45 minutes from our place in Saint Louis. Diana and her man hosted us the night before the race. We walked to the start! The weather was amazing. The course was gorgeous. The company was the best. The giant breakfast after the race was good too.

Lori spent the next night with us in Saint Louis and saw our little world here. What a sweet time we had. I hope she can come back with the whole gang next time. I miss her tons.