Fall in the Air

Such a relief to smell the scent of the changing seasons; to have respite from the heat; to enjoy chilly nights and cooler days, yet just a week ago it was in the 90s and we had the babypool out for the wee ones to splash in! Anna and Simeon went 'skinnydipping' after dinner.  They were having such fun!

Today started out with excitement; Mark was trimming a Japanese Maple by the back door and a yellow jacket nest erupted forth with angry stinging bees. He was stung on his arm, his neck and several times on the top of his head. Grimmy had them clinging all over him and they stung him too. I stayed clear and avoided it, thank goodness. Mark took benadryl, had a good nap, but still has a headache. It will be tough to be a rockin' Boomer tonight.

So, since we avoided the backyard all day, I actually decided to cook! Made some turkey burger stew and cinnamon chip bread. Sliced up wateymelon and cantylope for snacks. Then cleaned the frig, did laundry and started organizing the garage some more. It needs more work, but more shelves first. It's getting there, and in the process, I'm feeling more at home here too. 

Yesterday I bought a really cute white dresser to refinish to put in the hallway; it's does not have very deep drawers, so will work fine without obstructing the traffic. It will be great once the hallway is painted and I get pictures up. Anxious to finish it!  The dining room is painted a medium tan on one wall and 'champagne' on the other three walls. Dustin hung our new light fixture and it looks great. The French doors are a huge improvement for that room.

Organizing feels good. I need the structure of a schedule and I'm looking forward to that.

And speaking of schedules, we started Family Dinners again last week. Had all the 'local' kids over for a potluck salad dinner and good long visit. It's so great to have all of four of my sons in the same area again! Connor had a good time hanging out with the older guys, but Levi has a serious case of hero worship of Connor, who was very patient and at the same time didn't quite know what to do about that level of pedastal. :) And of course, Gideon is happiest if he is reading, and Ephraim loves to explore. Anna wasn't too sure about Grimmy, but relaxed when everyone else was outside with her. PrairieDawn is starting to smile a lot and is a happy baby. Simeon, oh my, is a hoot. He kept us all chuckling most of the time with his activity and gobbledygook speech that is delivered with such sweetness and sincerity.  A most satisfying afternoon for this Grammy, being surrounded with love. Just missed the rest of us~

I'm looking forward to more Family Dinners this fall and winter. Best times ever!