to the pumpkin patch.

We had one really beautiful, warm day this week. When I checked the forecast and saw that coming, I knew we had to take advantage of it. So we met up with my brother and his little family at an apple orchard/pumpkin patch place. We went last year, but each year just gets more fun as the kiddos grow. Somehow we managed to get almost the entire place to ourselves with the most perfect weather.

[You guys, look at his unbuttoned pants. He is such an old man, it cracks me up. 

My little Linc isn't so little anymore.] 

 [I spy with my little eye, drool. Always drooling.]

[Cousins! Not pictured- Lincoln and the newest addition, Lela- just one month old!]

two iphone pics:

[Yup, all three went down that slide!]

[Lips. Eyelashes. Need I say more?]

You can see last year's post here!

where i've been {lately}.

Warning: this post is filled with randomness. It's time for me to release all the stuff cluttering my brain. We are only a week into August and all of this has happened already...

Let's start with a picture, shall we?

We hit up the fair last week. I remember when we first took only Audrey and here we are bringing three kiddos now. Oh, and that picture of those two holding hands? For the most part, they really are that sweet with each other. I'm so happy they have each other. 

Besides the fair, life has been, well, just crazy-great-oh-my-gosh-busy. We hosted a housewarming party last weekend. Every single time we drive into our neighborhood I seriously breathe a sigh of relief. I'm so thankful we are here. 

I've started seriously working out again and eating better. I'm ready to make a commitment to it. I want to be healthy for me and my family. What I do, sets the example for my kids, I want them to know we should take care of the body God gave us. This boot camp (which I scored through a Groupon!) is awesome. Totally intense and awesome. It's only a five week course, but I'm learning so many great exercises I can implement at home (and I already have!). 

August has also brought more working hours for me. Previously, I worked at my church (as the Director of Elementary Programs) about 10 or so hours a week, well that just doubled. I'm so excited about it. I'm thankful that I can work mostly from home and be apart of such an awesome body of believers. I get to use my degree too! Now it's just finding the balance. For the first time ever as parents, we had to hire a babysitter to come to our house a couple times of week so I can get fixed hours in. So far, it seems to be going well. 

This month Audrey is beginning a real dance class. I say real, because she took a class before, but it was with friends at a friend's home. Which was a great introduction for her, but now she is so so excited to be in a class for dance and gymnastics. We went to an orientation class this past Monday and she just smiled and listened so well the entire time. Preschool begins for her too! She will be going two mornings a week (while I'm at work). Girlfriend is growing up. 

We got a kitty last week. And let me tell you, it is the sweetest thing ever how Audrey just adores it. And this kitty, which Audrey named Millie, is such a good sport. She even tolerates getting doll clothes put on her and getting pushed around in a stroller. I'm not even kidding. However, she isn't fond of Naomi trying to pick her up by the tail. Ahem. 

We transitioned Naomi to a toddler bed. She has been doing really well, especially considering the girls share a room. I think there has been one night I had to remind them to stay in their beds. They like to talk to each other before bed too, which is so funny because it usually ends with Audrey whispering but in a loud whisper "go to bed, Nae Nae! Shhh!" Audrey our rule-follower, Naomi our mischief. 

I think that catches me up for August. Let's end with a picture too, shall we? 

I love that I was able to wear Naomi (21months) and Lincoln (3 months) at the fair.

P.S. New header coming soon! 

berry pickin' fun.

I want to come to this little space and share about our new home that I'm absolutely loving. And tell you how big Lincoln is getting. But instead, I'm popping in really quick to share some super sweet berry picking pictures from the other day. We spent the weekend out of town with close friends and family, it was just what we needed after going non-stop for a week on unpacking and getting our home in order. Even though it was 90 degrees out, we had a great time picking strawberries and blueberries on Sunday afternoon, sort of on a whim. Fresh berries are SO much better than store bought. Oh my. 

Haha. Yup, that's what I did pretty much the whole time to keep Linc out of the sun. 

Cousin love. These two, I tell you what. 

Evidence. 

Check out the stained fingers. She worked hard!

Oh, I do hope to come back and share about the house! I'm just so, so tired right now. Any extra minute I have I'm usually painting, or unpacking, or organizing, or maybe just maybe I get a little sleep in there too.

the weekend.

I love extra long weekends, especially when you start without really any plans and they slowly fill up with good, relaxing times. On Friday evening we went to our local pool opening, which was crazy, but it had free food. And I'm always about food, especially free. Saturday began with our tradition of garage sales and farmer's market. All five of us (hard to believe we are now a family of five!) pile in our van, which Audrey calls Rocket, and head out early in the morning. The girls stay in the van till the last garage sale, where they get to choose a little something to buy. Then off to the market. I know I've talked about it before, but our market is so fun, inviting, and full of interesting people. We can't leave without kettle corn popcorn, visiting the parrot man, and playing in the fountain.

 That Ariel toy is what she scored at the garage sale for 50 cents. She hasn't put it down yet. 

 Don't be fooled, that girl sat right down in the water and was soaked in no time at all. 

Linc hung out in the sling the entire time. I remember when I bought this one (off of Etsy) and was dreaming about the day I would wear him in it. And now it's here. 

The rest of the weekend was pretty much spent out on the lake, boating. One of my very favorite past times since childhood. I'm thankful my dad has a boat that we can readily use, one day we hope to have a boat of our own. Being that it was incredibly hot and Linc isn't big enough for a life-jacket, Andrew and I took turns staying home with him, while the other when on the boat with the girls. Which brings me to the point, that little dude is taking a bottle! About once a day we have been giving him a bottle so that he continues to do well with it. My girls very rarely got a bottle and didn't really like it, so this time around I introduced earlier and more regularly. Andrew loves the bonding time and I like the very small break. Win win!

Hope your weekend was lovely! I definitely didn't let it go by without remembering those who are serving and those who have served. 

strawberry shortcake festival.

I love starting traditions with the kiddos. I think traditions and {birthday} parties are two of my favorite things I love about being a mom. There is something special in coming to expect. I love looking back at old photos and reliving the moment in my head; thinking about that silly facial expression or the way the food tasted that day. 

Today we went to our town's annual Strawberry Shortcake Festival. It was cooler than usual for this time of year, but the sun was shining bright and the sight of kids frolicking around to the music was warmth to my heart. We had one big strawberry shortcake with three spoons. Audrey went for the whipped cream, Naomi loved the strawberries and ice cream, and I just devoured whatever was left. Lincoln was snug and so content in my Sleepy Wrap (it's like a Moby). 

We have had a couple of roller coaster days with our home we are trying to close on, so this fresh air was just what I needed. We were hoping to close tomorrow, but now it looks like it will be May 25. This journey with the house reminds me of my pregnancy and birth journey---I have to continue to let go and let God. 

Audrey was in the middle of saying "Shoot!" 

Naomi was intrigued by the birds above. 

You can see Audrey's first Strawberry Shortcake Festival here. {2009}

I think 2010 was rained out. 

You can see Naomi's first Strawberry Shortcake Festival here. {2011} 

baby {boy} wishlist.

[Here is my boy wishlist I created two days before I knew we were actually having a boy. Also, I have already made first boy purchase! A super adorable Mad Boy cowboy pj set and a Bambino Land comfy outfit via Zulily.]

With each consective baby you realize what you need and really don't need {which is quite a bit}. But you also learn that sometimes it's okay, and even better to invest in a piece that is more durable and will last through multiple kids (or have good resale value or keep as a keepsake).

That's where I am at. Thinking about what I really do need/wish  for baby #3, our BOY!  I would rather have less and love, love the baby items. Then buy something because it's on sale. [Don't get me wrong, I am a true sucker for sales.]

I received so, so many blankets for the girls. Blankets are great- for play, laying on, picture backdrops, swaddling, and of course keeping warm. Most of them are however, pink. This time around I would love to get some Aden and Anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets for my little man. [These aren't over the top screaming boy, but I love the orange and grey combo and think they would be perfect.]

Amazon, $40

If it has cowboy print on it, I'm all for it. I love this blanket- which makes a great playmat too!

Etsy, Peppermint Pinwheels, $35



Now, I know babies do not need shoes until they are learning to walk and even then I'm a fan of soft sole ones like Robeez. But, I can't resist these adorable mustache booties.

Etsy, Charlie's Giraffe, $20

I love looking at baby carriers and slings. There are so many beautiful, well-crafted ones out there. And hello, they work magic. I'm thinking this time around, I might need a couple of new ones, like this gorgeous floral blue and orange ring sling, it's a great price too!

Etsy, Zmunki, $45

I've been coveting an AngelPack Carrier for a while now, ever since my cousin, Erin, raved about one. I just haven't been able to justify buying one because I own an Ergo, which I absolutely love. The Ergo is super comfortable, easy to use, and works with babies all the way up to 40 lbs (Audrey can still be worn!). But the downfall to my Ergo is it isn't very compatible for babies less than 3 or 4 months without the newborn insert (which I don't own and can get rather toasty-- I will be having a summer baby).  I think the AngelPack has the extra head support needed for wee little ones. And not to mention the fabric!? Gorgeous. When I bought the Ergo, I had in mind that my husband would use it (which he certainly does), so that means the look is pretty basic. I'm ready for some super cute! I love the Cherry Blossom print.

AngelPack, $139

I'm so excited to be shopping for boy clothes! I like the challenge of finding unique boy pieces, that aren't all sporty {the hubs is all about the sports, it's already a funny discussion on how to dress our boy}. I love this sleeper gown I found, these are terrific for those middle of night diaper changes.

Etsy, Aimee Sharp, $18

There are so many adorable and SAFER teething toys out there. I could get lost on Etsy looking at all the beautiful handcrafted wooden ones. And I think my boy needs this one.

Etsy, Teeth Me, $8

There is my first wishlist. I'm sure to create more- ha! Tell me, if you have a boy, what is an essential, must-have? Brands that last?

P.S. We have a name! Some of you that know me well, know the name already. I'm looking forward to sharing it very soon! I'm thinking I should get Audrey on video saying it.

non-laboring on labor day.

I just sat here for a minute to try to think about the weekend and what all we did. And all I can recall is eating a lot and relaxing. We even managed to get in a family two hour nap today. It was splendid.

Every Labor Day we have made it a tradition to go to the local car show, where I grew up. Picture this--good ol'country folks walking around looking at old cars, bluegrass or gospel music playing down below the hill, and getting served up some mighty-fine pork tenderloin and fries. Then throw in a couple of bouncy houses for the kids and face painting, and you have a pleasant way to spend Labor Day. But what was really icing on the cake was the fact that it was only 65 degrees out all day, instead of 85 like it usually is this time of year. [I may have been a little over excited to dress the girls in jeans, long sleeves, and adorable little jackets. And I even whipped out a light scarf-eek!]

I didn't forget the sippy cups, or banana as a snack, or the two cans of soda in my purse, or the diapers and wipes, or the extra jacket, or the baby carrier, but somehow I did manage to forget the camera. So, it is iphone pictures to share.

You can see Labor Day pictures from two years ago, at the same place, here!

I do hope you all enjoyed a relaxing weekend as well!

the great hunt.

Have I mentioned it was absolutely gorgeous yesterday and got up to 85? [Today is 60 and rainy.]
And so an Easter egg hunt it was...

This year Audrey was much more willing to get close to the large, fake bunny, that kids are suppose to love, but really is just creepy. (Check out last year's pic here.)

This picture makes me feel guilty for not owning any pets.

Maybe I will go buy a Beta fish or something tomorrow.

The great hunt...Audrey wasn't about to walk away with her basket even half full.



And be warned, you may explode looking at Audrey and her cousin, Jonathan loving on each other.

Naomi was there, but she was mainly doing this.

Daddy's babywearing is THE best.



It was a good day. And now we have a lot of bribery candy on hand.

babywearing love.

I absolutely love wearing my babies. With Audrey I was pretty naive as to what type of baby carriers were out there and really what it was all about. But soon, I realized how awesome it was and found some great resources over at Adventures in Babywearing where Steph really knows her stuff. Now, I feel pretty confident in what I like and recommend.

When I'm asked what is your favorite baby carrier or what do you recommend for babywearing. It is so hard to answer that with a short, one answer.

But this is what I can offer.

Wearing Audrey in the Ergo at the airport July 2009

Andrew wearing Audrey, October 2010

My personal all-time favorite is my Ergo. [I also have been wanting an Angelpack, that is somewhat similar, thanks to Erin and her experiences with it.] The Ergo isn't super practical for newborns, but once they get big enough to support their own head, I think it is wonderful. One of my favorite things about the Ergo is you can use it with children up to 35lbs. We still use it with Audrey. I love how comfortable it is. Last summer, I would put Audrey in it and mow the grass, while pregnant. Perfect for long days of babywearing like at the zoo or museum. Easy to use and quick. And my babies always fall asleep in it, no matter the chaos going on around. And huge bonus and one of the main reasons I bought it-- very dad friendly. Down-side to the Ergo? Expensive (but totally worth it).

Wearing Naomi in the Maya Wrap Ring Sling November 2010

Wearing Audrey in the Maya Wrap Ring Sling, December 2010

If I had to recommend just one type of carrier to everyone? I would say buy a ring sling. They are cost efficient. User-friendly. And works wonderfully for newborns on up. Also, they are easy to store in your diaper bag or just keep in your car. I use a ring sling for quick trips-like in and out of the post office. Once babies are able to sit on your hip, this is a great way to carry in the sling. I don't recommend ring slings for a long babywearing day, it isn't nearly as comfortable as using an Ergo. I am borrowing my ring sling from my sister-in-law, she has a Maya Wrap. But I have been drooling over a Sakura Ring Sling for a long time, but I don't think I will ever be able to afford one.

Naomi just born in the Sleepy Wrap, October 2010

Naomi in the Sleepy Wrap, February 2010

The other carrier or wrap, that I love is the Sleepy Wrap. It was so awesome to use when Naomi was a newborn. She just fit right in nice and snug like she was still in the womb.Three days after she was born I used it at the Farmer's Market to keep her away from strangers who wanted to smell touch her. And now I use it a lot by having her face out. This kind of wrap can be intimidating because it is basically a really long piece of cloth that you wrap around yourself. But honestly, once you try it out a couple of times I think it is easy. The downside? I think it could get pretty hot in the summer time. But it has been great for the winter. And again, great for babies when they can't support themselves.

There are a lot of babywearing options out. My best advice is to find someone who has a carrier you are interested in, try it out and see if you like it before the purchase. Also, don't give up if you don't get it the first time. Not all baby carriers are for all mamas, you have to find the one that works for you and your baby.