Halloween

The kids were able to dress up 3 different times this year. We had our ward Trunk or Treat, a small friend party, and then Trick or Treating. They had so much candy! So much! And all they want is candy still. We still have lots left. (I am mean...I ration the candy out...to keep it fair and to keep bellys happy.) Here are the costumes...enjoy!

Trunk or Treat
Cleopatra, Ninja, and Spiderman

Halloween Party

TNMT, Butterfly Fairy, Venom

Halloween

It's Autumn Time, It's Autumn Time...

...the leaves are falling down.

This has been the most colorful Autumn in Ames...at least that I have seen in Ames thus far. I grew up in Maryland where the trees are over abundant and quite colorful. I love seeing all the colors. In fact, I remember my freshman year at BYU...I missed fall so much, I begged my mom to take pictures of some of my favorite trees in our neighborhood. It seems silly, but I really treasured those pictures of home.

Since we have moved here, Fall came and left so quickly. I suppose it was just so abruptly cold, that the trees didn't have time to go through the process. This year has been very mild...so the colors changed slowly and dramatically. I fell in love with Autumn all over again. So I had to take pictures...to remember Ames.

Inis Grove Park
Monkey Austin

Kaden did not want me to take his picture...can you tell?!

Sydney

And Nick too!

And I cried...

I cry a lot. It is actually very normal for me, but even more so when I am pregnant. I cry over happy things, sad things, inspiring things, or nothing at all. (probably more of the last than any of the others.)
I have been reading the NieNie Dialogues, a blog written by a woman who survived a plane crash, who is surviving being burned all over, and is functioning with grace. She inspires me so much. I read her posts and find such joy, sadness, love, deep admiration and inspiration. This woman is my hero. If she can face her day, so can I. She has been through hell and back...but she sees some joy in her very difficult life. I love her...and really I don't even know her. As I am writing this with tears in my eyes...I guess I just want to share her love!
Today's post pulled on the heart strings. I wish I could hug her. Instead, I'll just share my love her by sharing what I love most...Her faith is solid, her strength is powerful, and her edurance is admiral. Thanks NieNie!