ebb and flow

We finally made it to the beach! We have had our little vacation booked since this winter, and have quietly been counting down the days. This getaway could not have come at a better time. Our little clan has been in desperate need of a change of scenery. Kaleb and I are praying that this will be a time of clarity, renewed hope, and relaxation.

Today was the loveliest day! We spent the lions share of it playing in the surf, building sand tunnels, boogie boarding and strolling leisurely, stopping to sift thru broken sand dollars and  scour for shells.

We finished the day completely sun weary. Truly exhausted in all the best possible ways. It prevailed as a winsome beginning to  what will surely be another great beach vacation.

fall fail

I feel everyone is writing of fall. Crisp golden leaves swirling to the ground. Mugs filled to the brim with something hot, warming you all the way thru. Your favorite pair of socks possibly stolen from a beloved. Scarves, chunky knits and riding boots. Pumpkin spices weaving thru chilly breezes.

And I'm just not there.

It's near a hundred degrees outside and we're gearing up for a jaunt to the beach. I'm in cut off jean shorts grasping for  those last dregs of summer.

Maybe in October. . . 

a fair evening

I have so many great memories of going to the fair, starting as a wee little girl myself. I used to love to ride the motorcycles, the pink one with the sparkly paint was always my favorite. I remember scrambling up the steps, and side stepping my way around to have first pick.

As a mother, the fair has become a milestone of sorts. I still can recall the first time we took Aussie, a mental picture I hope to not forget. She was about three years old and we had been prepping her all day for the adventures that lay ahead. Of course, she had no idea what it was but knew she wanted to be dressed perfectly for the occasion. She strutted out in a black leotard, a purple tutu and leg warmers! I can still picture her so plainly, sitting astride a miniature pony in her fancy get up.

The bugs and I sat down yesterday before we left and scrolled thru photos from our previous fair days. It's so fun to see how much they change each year. To watch them become braver, to look back on their different hair styles and fashions. Aussie wore a leg warmer last night across one knee, just in case she fell, this year it wouldn't scrape her knee like it did last year. I had to giggle just a bit to myself, these wee ones come up with the best stuff. :)

To be perfectly honest, as a mother the fair is a bit of a nightmare. The crowds are thick and hot and wild. My head was spinning trying to keep everyone safe and accounted for. I was gripping the hands of multiple wee ones and continually counting 1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2, 3, 4, an ongoing mental headcount.

As the sky darkened and the lights began to glow purple and blue, we braved the lines and took up into the night on the ferris wheel. A family favorite. We snapped pictures and scanned the land contemplating what would be their final ride of the evening.

They settled on the giant slide. One final hurrah! Not sure my mamma nerves could handle too much more, we bid farewell until next year.

counting the little joys

    1. reading a deliciously light hearted novel

    2. an uninterrupted nights sleep

    3. learning anything

    4. pointless television and cuddles with my love

    5. rioting laughter with friends

    6. physical exercise

    7. dreaming of the future and hopeful travels

    8. exploring the great outdoors

    9. dark chocolate

   10. smudgy handprints on door frames

   11. smooches from the wild ones

   12. plucky new ventures

   13. lasting love

   14. baseball tees

   15. unexpected beautiful

What brightens up your days?