Fall Leaves

Fall leaves are my favorite. I have to say, one of my favorite seasons mainly because of its beauty.
We have so many memories under the beautiful, changing trees of our front yard.
Two of our children were born during this season. Its also Bryan's birthday month too. 
Here is a glimpse.
Past and Present, these leaves could tell our families story.
They do color such a gorgeous backdrop to such a memorable life (so far).

I am thankful for these trees and their leaves...all the joy they've witnessed and helped create.

My fav.

Here is one from when Mady just turned 1....look at that sweet little face!

These are from when Mady was 2....

This is from when Mady was just about to turn 3 and Collin was days away from being born...

Collin's newborn pictures!

Fall comes and goes quickly...
but I am glad that I have so many memories wrapped up in these beautiful colors, enough to last a life time. So much joy to remember, every time I see Fall leaves.

Family Picture time!

My great friend, Hannah is a very talented Photographer and took our family pictures this year...
Here are a few of my favs...

FOUR, 3,2 and ONE....

Lets have some FUN!

The kiddo's turn 4 and 1 within 9 days of one another. Collin's birthday is on the 17th and Mady's is on the 26th....which obviously can only mean one thing---> JOINT BIRTHDAY PARTY!!

and here it is....

 The theme was "Princess and Prince". 

The spread was quite delish, if you ask me. 

We had Arie's Fish Friends, which was goldfish and sweedish fish.

Magic Wands of grapes and star shaped watermelon.

We had Snow White's Apples. 

Sleeping Beauty's Pillows, which were large marshmallows.

and lastly, Rapunzel's Braids, which were braided pretzels. 

I mean really, our poor parents. What did they serve at our parties? Pizza and Cake. How pre pinterest nice of them!

My big girl!

We all had fun, which is really all that matters! 

Here are the pics, enjoy!

Bubbers, who was already 1 at this point.

We definitely didn't order enough pizza this year--whoops!

 Hobby Lobby had the cutest Princess and Princey type items for dirt cheap. They were great in lieu of favors, kiddo's were able to take the swords, hats, wands and such home.

 Big boy with his best buddy, Daddy. 

Mady and one of her besties from school, Brie.

My bestie (Aunt Gene) and her boyfriend, Aaron.

Mady was not happy at all about people singing to her. 

People have asked me why, and I say "Who knows! The wind must have blown!" 

I mean really, she's a girl. 

She cheered right back up within a few seconds of this shot. 

 

Collin loving his big Cousin Luke!

 

Luke was the youngest until Collin showed up, but I don't think he minds being replaced. He loves Bubbers.

 Now its big boy's turn to make a wish! 

 

Mom and Dad blowing out the candle for him.

 To say he liked his cupcake would be a major understatement!!!

Check back to the blog for his actual 12 month post for more pictures of his first smash cupcake experience. 

 

"Alright, all done. Clean me!"

Time to open PRESENTS!

!!!!

Sneaking a kiss for her favorite guest, her big cousin.

So thankful for helpful friends!

Everybody wants a piece of Bubbers!

Grandma and the Birthday Girl.

What a joyous day it was! I think everyone had a fun time. I feel like you spend so much time preparing and then before you know it, its over and people are leaving and days have passed and it seems like a dream. I love the quote "The days are long but the years are short." This so explains childhood and parenthood. How sweet it is to look back and reflect on my own experiences as a child, but bittersweet to watch my kiddo's celebrate their own special days. Because, I know it passes by so quickly. So we are cherishing each day and not leaving any cheeks un-kissed!

Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated with us. We greatly appreciate your prayers for our family and your rejoicing with us in these blessings God has given us.