The Field

We are lucky to have a big open space just down the street where Wilson can run and run and run and we can watch the sun set. Here are my beautiful ones a few nights ago.

Autumn Equinox

Little Jane was just a thought (or a sprout?) at around this time last year. This year, we celebrated the change of seasons with our good friends and a walk in Cherokee park. We gathered leaves, sticks, flowers, dried things and other fall items to meld into a "sculpture" at the end of our walk. We all gave thanks. When it was Wilson's turn, he twice repeated: I am thankful for Jane. Me too, buddy. And I couldn't be more amazed at your gentle little spirit and kindness.

Nuestros Amigos Queridos

We had such fun playing with our dear friends Karina, Alicito and Fatimah. Wil captured the mood by pleading, "can Fatimita and Alicito stay all day long?" Here's to more adventures and time together!!!

Hanging out and listening to beautiful music

Pirate Willie

After an exciting weekend of 75 mph winds, trees down and power outages, we took it easy Monday. Inspired by a book of Halloween costumes and crafts, Wilson and I took a long walk in a pirate ship, complete with costume and flag. Here's the jolly old pirate himself, relaxing with a popsicle and sword after his adventure.

Apple time!

Our friend Ericka introduced us to a great orchard, Hidden Hollow (http://www.hiddenholloworchard.com/), where we wandered around picking (and sampling) all types of gorgeous apples. Hard to say if the apples, or the horses and tractors, were more exciting!

So long, summer!

It's been a fantastic summer. Since I was off work nearly the whole time, I felt like a kid again. Playing outside, getting drenched and muddy, hearing music at summer concerts and rocking on the front porch--bliss. And yet the whispers of fall coming are getting us so excited for sweaters, cider, pumkin soup, Halloween, birthdays and more!

Gentleness

I know the day will come, soon enough, when these two will be locked in some sort of fierce struggle for attention, toys, being right, etc. For now, though, I am relishing these quiet moments of sibling adoration. Jane lights up most when she sees Wilson, even when he is playing his musical instruments, well, not so quietly. Wilson in turn loves his little sister, mimicking my words "it's okay, baby, mama's coming," singing her lullabies, kissing her, hugging her gently and wanting to be close to her at every opportunity.

Grandpa Young Visits!

Grandpa Jim came to visit a few weeks ago to check on the progress of two of his grandchildren. Wilson, as always, was in awe of his Grandpa, a real cowboy with horses and cattle.

Two Kids and a Sling

It seems that both of my little ones need to be held close and nestled in, even when one is declaring his independence in the very next breath--let me do it myself!!! Wilson had two big firsts last week-- a successful trip to the dentist (he let them clean his teeth!) and swimming alone (with a floatie) in the big pool. I am so proud of him, and still happy that he occasionally wants to be mama's baby.