Evan's Apple Orchard

This was our second year going to Evan's Apple Orchard because it's SO much fun!  And we love their apples and all their home cookin'.  So, it was a day well spent even though it was quite hot!

First Day of Preschool

Well (sniff sniff) the time has come.  I can't believe it's been 3 and a half years already and the boys are ready for preschool, but they are.  And, I suppose, in a way, I am ready.  But not in the "I can't wait to have my kids out of the house for a few hours" way because I don't have the luxury of being a stay at home mom.  I'm ready to share Grant and JT with the world! I'm ready for them to show others what intelligent thinkers they are! I know they will love preschool and everyone will love them, too!  So, I'm channeling the words of a great book given to the boys by my mom. "If I could keep you little, I'd keep you close to me. But then I'd miss you growing into who you're meant to be."  Yes, I cried. It kinda snuck up on me while I was in the shower.  I just can't believe how fast time goes, especially when you want it to slow down and let you enjoy these moments.  But, I've learned a valuable lesson from my co-teacher, Mary Sieg, and that is to learn to appreciate every stage that your children go through. Because otherwise you'll always be looking back and missing what's going on right in front of you.  So, I'm thankful for this new beginning and the opportunity to share my boys with others.

The Shores of Siesta Key

After many years of absence from our family vacation spot, we've returned...FINALLY! And not much about its beauty has changed, the Siesta Key beaches are still some of the most beautiful I have ever seen.  The area around Siesta Key has changed a bit since I was last there as a junior in college, but many of our favorite hotspots are still there!  Here are a few shots from the boys' first trip to the beach on Siesta Key.

The Eggs Have Hatched

Robin's Nest

We have a robin family setting up shop on our master bedroom window sill.  We feel so lucky to share this moment with the boys and watch nature at its best.

Makin' Mud Pies

We finally had decent enough weather to try out the Mud Pie maker that Grant an JT received as a birthday present from Julie Ritter.  They had a great time getting messy.

Monster Truck Rally

This year we decided Grant and JT were finally old enough to go to their very first Monster Truck Rally at U.S. Bank Arena.  We purchased noise cancelling headphones for them in advance and then informed the boys about how loud the trucks were-explaining that they HAD to wear the headphones.  The boys absolutely LOVED the whole thing and were so amazed at how big the trucks were.  There favorite truck this year was Monster Mutt.  We had a blast just watching them, it's amazing how my perspective has changed about vehicles after having two boys.  Here are some of my favorites from today.