Five on Friday

It has been such a week with Beau cutting more teeth but we managed to get everything as prepped as possible before heading back to our hometown to celebrate Beau's 1st birthday with our family and friends.  So I thought I'd do a birthday theme today.

ONE
I love parties with all the little details that work together to make the entire party special.  I knew the theme I wanted this year and when I found this shop on Etsy it had the perfect party pack that captured my vision.  If you are planning a kid's party, definitely check out Lauren Haddox Design.  Her items are darling! 

TWO

I really like to make some of the treats that will be served during the party.  Not all of them, LAWD NO! I delegate some things out for sure but I love making some things.  This year we decided to have Beau's smash cake made and I decided to do the cupcakes.  PTL I discovered the bundt cakes over at MMM. I have made different versions for several get togethers so I picked two flavors to make into cupcakes for the party.  I will have to think long and hard about which flavor to indulge in this weekend! 

THREE

Continuing on with food, do y'all plan your food around your child's theme? We sure do.  I love making everything go together but this year was a little trickier.  I am not sure if it all quite goes together.  We will see Saturday!

FOUR

Hudson's birthday is in February, the beginning.  I feel like we are still coming down from Christmas when his birthday rolls around and when his first birthday rolled around. We ended up getting him something he could use forever and to serve as a focal point for gift opening at his party.  Beau's birthday, now a month before Christmas, we are using the same logic.  Enter Pottery Barn anywhere chairs.  I ADORE them and I love how little the boys look when they are sitting in them on movie nights! 

FIVE

Every birthday party, holiday or big event I look forward to so much. I get this idea in my head of how it's going to go and what will take place and all the beautiful photos we will have to look back on with fond memories.  And, 9 times out of 10, something happens that dampens my vision a bit.  I realize that in all honesty, it is really just me wanting to control everything.  So I am vowing to breathe and ENJOY this birthday.  I mean they only turn 1 once!

What are some of your favorite things about birthdays?

Taking time to enjoy

I ADORE parties! Holiday parties, birthday parties, dance parties (you know you have them in your kitchen too!). I love going to them and I l.o.v.e planning them! Beau's first birthday has been so fun to plan. The theme was easy to pick and everything seemed to come together pretty naturally.  But I am at that stage now: nights before the party...knowing we have to haul everything two hours to our hometown...prep the food...bake the cupcakes...set and stage it all...

Did you do it too? Start to tense up with me; feel a little bit anxious.  I do this all the time.  I build things up in my mind of how I see them going and then, if one little thing is off, if something doesn't go according to plan- I feel like it all failed (even though it didn't!) What a stealer of my joy!! What a selfish way to think.  If that is my thinking, then what is my true heart for even having the party?? Ick!

It is so hard today to not see things that other mama's are doing (hello, um blog world and Pinterest!) and not feel like we have to compete with what others are doing.  Over the top parties, moms who have it all together and think of every detail to make is so super special and also remembered to capture it all in pictures and video while looking like they stepped out of a fashion magazine.

But here is what I've learned (am still learning), I don't have to compete with anyone else.  As much as a love reading all the blogs I follow and seeing the wonderful ideas on Pinterest, those things are not for me to use as a measuring stick of my worth.  Those moms that may be able to pull off those parties might struggle in another area that I don't.  Or maybe not at all.  But either way, IT'S OK.

I am enough.

I am a daughter of Christ.

I am a loving wife and mother.

I am doing  my best.

Those truths- they give me joy.  Those thoughts are the ones that I should cling tightly to.

So this weekend, in the rush and chaos of planning this sweet event with our close friends and family, I am going to enjoy.  I am going to be in more pictures.  I am going to spend less time worrying about how the party looks and spend more time talking with our guests.  I am going to soak in all of Beau's sweet smiles and giggles.  I am going to enjoy the day.

What are you going to take time to enjoy this week?

Photo Dump

Just a look back over the past month according to my iPhone...

Bucket List #10--CHECK!

Ok so I don't really have a written out bucket list nor do I even know what number this would have been on my bucket list but let's just go with it, shall we?

My last post was all about Halloween. I still can't believe that Halloween has come and gone and November is coming in full-force.  Every weekend of October (and now November) was scheduled with something. Normally this is where I would insert a frowny face but, honestly, every single thing on our calendar was fun and added some sweet time with either my boys, my husband (or both!), my extended family, or my friends.  Blessed is an understatement.

But back to my bucket list.  The last weekend in October had been in the books since August.  Way back when, I registered for the Rock N Roll Run in St. Louis.  This series is so fun and done all over the United States. It has bands along the course playing music and the spirit of the race is pure fun.  So, not being a runner, EVER I registered for the 1/2 marathon.  I printed out my Hal Higdon training sheet, scheduled some long runs with my running buddy, Jenny, and began running.  It turns out, I AM a runner. (Truth be told I think anyone can be!)

Since Andrew hadn't been home since we moved, we decided to make the most out of our weekend.  We headed back to Decatur Friday afternoon.  We planned on staying with Andrew's parents Friday night and then having my parents pick up the  boys to spend Saturday with them.  After having dinner with Andrew's family, Andrew and I got the boys' things all ready for the night, left our instructions, and headed out to watch some high school football.  I don't know about you, but I adore football.  And there is just something about high school football that I can't get enough of.  Call it the dancer in me that performed under the Friday night lights season after season but I love it.  It was the perfect game for us to go to.  Our high school alma mater was playing the high school of the former school I taught.  Both teams happened to have really good friends of ours on the coaching staff.  So we got to see both friends coach, and I got to catch up with the fiance of one coach and the wife of the other after the game. There is nothing like a night of football and friends!

The next morning, after breakfast with Andrew's parents and the boys, more instructions, an instructional text to my mom, we loaded up and headed over to meet our friends to make our trip to St. Louis.  You may remember Jenny from my post back here and that she is part of the best mama's group ever so needless to say the *entire* two plus hour car ride (yes, there was traffic) was spent catching up on everything under the sun.

We spent that day walking around and eating.  You have to prepare if you are going to run 13.1 miles!! :)

Us with our bibs!

The runners!

Heading out to dinner

Lucas Park Grille had amazing food and drinks!

The start time for the race was 7:00 am and Tony was in the third corral so we had to be down there early.  My sweet friend, Teran, sent Jenny and I with these little goodie bags full of things runners use which came in so handy because breakfast at our hotel didn't open until 6:30 and we were leaving before then. So we readied ourselves, downed a Luna bar and made our way to the starting line.  It was still dark when we left our hotel but there was something so cool about the city being quiet except for the other runners joining you to make their way to the starting line.

You can check your bag while you run so we did that and took one last picture before heading to our corrals.  (It was a wave start based on the time you thought you would finish.)

The weather was supposed to be in the thirty's at the start of the race but I don't think it ever got that cold.  But it was definitely a chilly start. I am not going to bore you with details of Jenny and I's conversation over the course of 13.1 miles or the thoughts that ran through my head as we ran the streets of that beautiful city.  But I will say that at about mile 11 my eyes starting watering because I thought of how awesome it was to be doing this.  To be able to run, to run alongside a friend, alongside thousands of others.  It was an overwhelming feeling.  I then had to quickly get it together because mama had two more miles to complete.

That final stretch was exhilarating.  Words can't describe.  Tony had already finished and Andrew had found him and they were waiting at the finish for us.  Sappy moment- Jenny and I hadn't run together in a month because of the move and our finish time was 2 seconds a part.  We never had to talk about our pace; it just happened.  Ok, moving on.

I told you this race was about pure fun so while we waited for Jared to finish (he was literally right behind us) we went and got our free beer for finishing! I told myself it would help with the achy muscles.

I am so glad I signed up back in August; back when running three miles was my MAX!  It was the best feeling.  I can't wait to run another!

Halloween

I am a few days behind but is it just me or was Halloween on a Thursday crazy?! My boys were super tired after all our fun on Thursday and we went non-stop Saturday so yes..a little behind but getting done no less.

Hudson was so excited for Halloween this year.  We suggested a costume idea for him early in September that he LOVED! When his costume came in (because we ordered it this year) he wanted to wear it that instant! We hung it up and told him he had to wait for Halloween.  These past few weeks have been filled with us counting down to different activities and Hudson is really beginning to understand how much excitement happens when anticipation builds.  Everyday last week he asked if it was time for "twick or tweet".

In our town, trick or treating is done two nights.  It was done on Wednesday and Thursday this year.  I think its a *tad* excessive to have two nights but I don't make the rules.  On Wednesday we decided we would hand out candy and make some special treats for the boys to snack on that evening as we watched Toy Story Terror together. It was so much fun watching Hudson run to the door every time the doorbell rang.  He would ask, "Mom, what they for Halloween?" Then he would put candy in each visitors bag.  His commentary drew lots of smiles and laughs from older children and parents.

"Hey, he looks scary!"

"Oh, hers a butterfly!"

"How 'bout you have this piece, otay?"

Beau helped me in the kitchen.  We whipped up these delicious bars to let the boys have during our movie.  They are gooey and sticky and our boys loved them!

Our sweet neighbor had told us about another activity in our town.  The local businesses passed out candy during the day.  So, since I didn't really know how it all worked, I recruited her to help me take the boys around Thursday morning.  Hudson could not wait to get into his costume.  Of course, it was POURING that morning. But, I'm not complaining.  That sweet sound of rain on the rough lulled Beau to sleep in an extra hour and half so he was more than chipper for our outing. PTL!

Sidebar: I know EVERYONE thinks their kids are the cutest but I mean, really, are they not cute?? You don't have to know them for those pictures to melt your heart a little.  It's okay. ;)

We made our way around the town, stopping at the County Clerk's office, the courthouse, the old hotel on the square, the police station, the bank, and finally, Daddy's work. Fortunately the rain wasn't pounding down on us and it wasn't too chilly so we got to walk everywhere, which 1)wore my kids out (YAY for good naps!) and 2) prevented the hassle of buckling and unbuckling them in and out of their car seats every 5 seconds.

We spent the rest of the afternoon, after lunch, stories and changing to our "wegular toes" playing inside because it was again, pouring down rain.

Andrew came home from work and the boys were all excited to tell him, and show him, all the candy they had collected that morning.  Because our boys typically go to bed pretty early, we knew that we would want to hit trick-or-treating that night at the beginning phase of the two hour time block.  Plus, all that rain had brought in a chill to the air and as much as I love Halloween, this mama is not about getting sick! No thank you!

I had crocked some spaghetti- so yummy- and then we did baths. Our boys went straight into their snuggly Hallowee jammies and topped those with their costumes.  Let that genius sink in for just a moment--our kiddos were dressed for bed so right after our fun night it was going to be an easy transition.  Even more genius, that idea was from Andrew! Man, I don't give that guy enough credit! :)

Beau was crabby fussy  still wore out from our fun morning so we made sure to get his belly full before we headed out.

While Daddy fed Beau, I got some pictures of this cute cowboy.

And my sister-in-law said it best. Even a defender of the intergalactic galaxy needs a paci sometimes. 

We went to about 10 houses in our neighborhood. Hudson said trick or treat every time and held open his bag.  It was so fun to see him really *get it* this year.  

When we got home we dumped our candy into our large bowl and let the Hudson pick out something to snack on. Beau got a Reese's..not too shabby in my opinion. 

We got Beau situated for bed and then turned on our traditional Halloween night show, "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown."  We watched it the past two years but Hudson is just at that age where he laughs at funny things making Andrew and I laugh.  

It was a pretty perfect Halloween. 

XO,

Bekah

Rainy days and a thankful heart

Yesterday was a rainy day for most of the morning.  And I don't know about you but there is just something about a rainy day during the fall that I just adore.  Maybe it is because it's a bit cooler so everyone is dressed a bit snugglier. Maybe it's because I take the opportunity to light candles because it makes the house feel warmer and less dreary.  Or maybe it's because my kids are at those sweet ages where imaginations are beginning; they are playing together; and I am there to witness it all.  I am so thankful for this time at home with my boys.

I am thankful to soak up extra snuggles with my boys.

I am thankful for the moments I get to listen in while Hudson "reads" his books during lunch prep.  It never ceases to amaze me how many books he has memorized and with the exact rhythm and cadence they are read to him in.  *so sweet*

I am thankful for the squeals of delight as the boys pull EVERY pillow from the couch to play on.

I am thankful for the floor that needs mopped 1892 times a week because all our meals and snacks seem to be messy.

I am thankful that Hudson loves to help me with all kinds of chores.  I pray that servant spirit is one that grows in him and that he will one day bless others with it, including his future family.

I am thankful even on the days when the boys don't nap because it's a couple more hours of time with them that I won't ever have again.

I am thankful on the days they do nap because..well, let's just keep it real, mama NEEDS nap time some days!!

And I am so thankful for a God who continually pours His blessings over us so I can be at home majority of the time.

Xo-Bekah

Pumpkin Patch 2013

I just love fall.  Pumpkins, mums, the leaves changing, apple crisp, cooler temps, boots, scarves, sweaters, candy corn, football, bonfires.  What's not to love?  One of my favorite fall activities is a trip to the pumpkin patch.  Andrew and I did this for the first time together when I was pregnant with Hudson.  And we have gone every year since, adding to our group.  This year was was by far my favorite year!! I am not sure if it was because of Hudson's age and how excited he got or because I absolutely adored the patch we went to this time, but let me tell you it was great!

Since moving, Andrew and I realized we are going to have to be very intentional about seeing our family and friends.  We don't live in a town that is exactly booming with activity and attractions, which is fine, nor do we have a lot ANY extra room to host a ton of visitors.  Fortunately, we have *amazing* family and friends who are ready to be just as intentional as we are.  My sweet sister in law, Rachel, suggested doing a family pumpkin patch trip in Springfield this year so we could get our boys together. I posted here about how close our boys are in age.  Springfield is a middle ground as far as distance to travel and it is also a big enough city to find things to do with our little ones.  I was all over this idea and started looking up pumpkin patches to visit. Our family had always gone east to a pumpkin patch in Champaign so this would be a new one for all of us.  I came across the sweetest website advertising Bomke's Patch.  It seemed like such a neat family that began this patch (and tree farm!) and I couldn't wait to go. Like seriously, I made a calendar to count down the days! I.Love.The.Patch!

My family went to middle church that morning and left straight after.  Our boys took a little snooze as we drove to Springfield.  Perfect start.  Add to that sweet little start was the weather.  It was cool and crisp out, with a breeze. Jeans, long sleeves, fleeces: perfection!

We met at Culver's first to fuel up our little men! I could not believe how much sweet Emmett had changed in the past month! He was smiling from ear to ear and the most happy, teething baby I have ever seen! (Unfortunately I did not take my camera into eat lunch so I did not get any pics of his sweet face. FAIL.) As we ate lunch it clouded over a bit, but call me crazy, it added to my good mood.  Where we live a stormy looking sky over a field of corn only adds to the beauty that surrounds us. Check at these sweetie pies walking into the patch!

They had a pre-picked section that caught our boys' eyes as we walked up.  There was a whole group of large pumpkins and, being all boy, they both ran to climb, push, and try to pick them up!

See all boy!! Ha!

There were little wagons and tractors in that same area for little ones to ride around on. The boys did that for a few minutes, in between running back to the big pumpkins!  I just hung with the little guy! It was Beau's first time at the patch! :)

Next to the pre-picked area was this beautiful barn.  It had crafts, popcorn, home decor and an assortment of little gourds and mini pumpkins laid out.  It smelled like popcorn and cider and wood..heavenly.  It was lit up with soft twinkly lights.  It was so, so cozy.  My pictures do not do it justice.  I read on the website that they host wedding and receptions and oh my word, I totally get why if that is the theme you want! Attention, Springfield brides--check it out!

 After collecting a mini pumpkin and "rattle"- it was a gourd shaped like a rattle so Hudson insisted that it was a rattle, we made our way to the play area...while stopping at the big pumpkins again, of course!

 Now I am all for making a living but man alive, when did a weekend at the pumpkin patch turn into paying an arm and a leg? Seriously?! Last year we spent over $80 on our little trip to the pumpkin patch.  And that didn't include us doing the play area.  Not here, friends.  No. Bomke's patch was seriously family friendly: clean, great staff, and gentle on the wallet.  Everything was free for kids 2 and under! Including their awesome play area.  They had swings and jungle gym areas.  They had those neat little swings made out of saddles.  And they had a corn box.  Imagine a sand box. Now take the sand out and insert corn.  Just look at the pictures.  The boys had a ball!

Can I just say nothing makes my heart melt more than a dad and his boy? 

Or my brother and his nephew  Melt.My.Heart 

 They also had a giant slide that our boys went down time and again.  Even the dads got in on the action!

Do you see the joy on that face?!

I lied.  I said I had no pictures of sweet Emmett.  I did not have any at Culvers.  I do have one of his precious face at the Bomke's.  Check out that lil' man! We got cold and hungry so Rachel took him to the car for a bit.  Sidenote--she is one of the best mothers I know. I have to put that out there.  Not because she does everything right (which she does A LOT right) but because she is so amazingly calm in her mothering. She just knows how to go with it. 

While they were in the car, we went on a wagon ride. Do you see what I mean about the sky? Cloudy? Yes. Beautiful? YES! The ride stopped at this little area with farm animals you could feed and pet! Hudson wasn't completely sure of it but he really liked seeing the animals!

We joined back together after the wagon ride and decided to do the corn maze (again, FREE for the little ones!).  We found out that none of us big kids had ever done a corn maze. I know, shocking!! We were all pretty excited about it!

Until we saw other people carrying maps. MAPS??!!? This corn maze was intense.  Like, "Don't make a wrong turn or you could be stuck in here for days!" intense!

Andrew's artistic shot 

The sky looked less beautiful and more ominous as the wind whipped the corn and we realized we were at checkpoint 2 of 10!

So we started following people with a map, and Andrew starting shooting pictures of checkpoints.  To document our journey, obviously!

Our little guys were winding down by this point and the winds were picking up.  We opted to choose from the pre-picked section of pumpkins and call it a day!

The boys with their loot!

I am so thankful to have these memories with not only my little family but my extended family too!