Donuts

My BIG mouth is rarely an asset.  But when it comes to a donut eating contest...I have the advantage!  I was first introduced to this long standing tradition back when I first started dating Ben at his families Halloween party.  And since then in one way or another we have tried up hold the tradition.  The kids seem to look forward to it (I'm pretty sure they are just excited to eat the donut).  Here are some of this years contestants.

Austin was going with the "get low" approach, Natali after sheding tears just held the string, and I think we had to stop Caden from eating the string. 

 Isaac was in it 100%

Spencer had the right idea.  At one point I think he had gone around to almost all the donuts and taken a single bite out of each one hanging there. 

Abbi, Isaac, and Spencer having their turn after the big kids.

Fall Crafts, Pumpkins

In some areas of the country it may be Fall.  Crisp morning air.  Pumpkin Patches.  Apple Orchards.  Carmel Apples.  Pumpkin Pies.  Soups & Bread.  Fresh Baked Goods.  Leaves changing color.  Sweaters & Hoodies.  Sounds enchanting huh!?!

Well not in TEXAS.  There is no sign of Fall, no sign that it even exsists in this land of heat & humidity. Now don't get me wrong.  I know once December & January hit and I can still go to the park and be out doors that I will be praising all things Texas.  But right now, I miss Fall!

So even if it's not Fall outside, I am turning the inside of my home into cozy fall getaway.  (to be honest I'm just putting up few Fall decorations, not sure that counts as a "cozy fall getaway).

I saw THIS tutorial and instantly fell in love.  I decided to whip some up of my own.  Not to bad if I do say so myself.  This was a super EASY project and really basic.  Just wanted to share!  Happy FALL!

Apple Orchard

Last week for playgroup a bunch of us girls loaded up the kids and headed out to an apple orchard. Let me just say it was a blast! Natali and Isaac both LOVED playing in the large pool of corn. Let's just say that I found a lot of corn at home later that evening while getting kids changed into jammies! They had lots of farm animals and the cutest little houses from the Three Little Pigs. A new addition was this jumping pillow that the kids could jump on. It was perfect for the bigger kids (which now includes Natali). It was a beautiful Iowa day...blue sky, white clouds, sunny, and a slight crispness in the air. We will be back next year for sure!