decking the halls

Outside of restringing our lights from their summer position (draped over the outdoor table) to their winter position (outlining the roofline of the wraparound porch) the house doesn't always get a winter "look". We decorate inside, which amounts to putting up a tree and stockings, and usually call it done. This year, armed with reinforcements (hello mama and papa), and a week off at Thanksgiving, the house is dressed for winter. 

These cuties were inspired by this pin. 

Winterizing

All fall our weekends look about the same.

Out in the woods, collecting wood.

This year we tried something new. We hoarded and stockpiled until we had a rather impressive haul. Check out that leg wound.

Then we invested in a log splitter rental for a day. What a difference! We plowed through our pile (which outgrew the "trophy" picture above) in a matter of hours.

sledding

Our first real sledding adventure of the season was this past weekend. We weren't prepared, as in we didn't bring sleds with us, since we didn't think that it was the actual activity of the day. But then there was this hill, and two enormous pieces of cardboard. What were these two sled-loving boys to do? 

It was hysterical and charming and filled with giggles and belly laughs. 

school photos

Those of you know who this little guy know that while he can be the sweetest boy who loves to snuggle and cuddle, he has a strong will. He approaches new experiences with caution, and will not be convinced to do something if he has his mind set against it, or if he just isn't ready to dive in.

Day one of school photos he flat out refused to be photographed. No. Just no. So, on make-up day we all four accompanied him to the photo shoot. We were so very sure that our presence would help the process go smoothly. Oh how we were wrong.

On writing: Sir Isaac Newton

It's been awhile since we have had an installment of "On Writing", and I am one proud mama to share this one. The big kid wrote this one all on his own - a big step.
That's not to say that it was easy or painless, quite the contrary. It took a long time and a whole lotta patience, but he did it. 15 sentences for a 6 year old...whew.

Sir Isaac Newton was his choice of a famous person for Mystery History day. Besides the writing we also had to shop for period appropriate clothes. That day at the Goodwill was a magical thrift shopping day - a tuxedo like white shirt and a black blazer. No small feat considering I forgot until entering the store that this particular Goodwill was the unsorted, bins full of items, pay by the pound store. But, score and score.

 A few minor adjustments one Sunday morning, and ta-da, Sir Isaac Newton. I think the long overgrown hair really helped capture the look.

Research, writing, and practice came together when he stood in front of his class and read his report, flawlessly.

Mama, Papa, haircuts, doughnuts

The eldest has been waiting, and waiting, and waiting to get his hair cut because we were expecting some very special visitors this month. He knows that if Papa takes you for a haircut there is always a sweet treat to follow.
The youngest is only interested in the topping of most doughnuts, with this one being no exception.

Fall

While I love spring, I cannot hide my love of the beauty that fall brings forth. This year seemed to be particularly stunning.