Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Football Fun!

Avery's 1st football game also marked Shane's first coaching debut.   Shane was roped unexpectedly into coaching when the team coach had an unexpected military task.  As a team mom it was fun to watch Avery play but also fun to see my husband coach my son.....Shane was a natural.  A couple of game high points for Avery include a touch down, flag pull, and near completed pass.   




TOUCH DOWN!







Beautiful throw!







Pumpkin Patch Fun!

When families move parents worry about lots of things, and as silly as it may seem I worried about finding a new pumpkin patch.  Luckily a fellow mom suggested visiting Seward Farms, which checked our pumpkin patch box.  So we rented a fire pit, brought some goodies, joined some friends, and headed to the pumpkin patch.    The kids soaked up the animals and games.  One of the favorite moments was watching Amelia's face glow as she rode her horse.  She loves horses, and animals for that matter, but really loves horses.  Another moment not easily forgotten was watching Amelia totally freak out about riding in the tractor pulled, pseudo-cow barrel ride.  She thought it looked like fun but changed her mind last minute and couldn't get out fast enough.  Amelia is a sensitive soul. 
    

















Fall Fun!

Amelia's adorable little school hosts a gamut of spirited holiday parties.  Their "Fall Festival" kicked off the season.  The entire family was invited and the entire family had fun.  One of my favorite things about this school is its quaint atmosphere and small size.  Everything about this party oozed southern charm, something I have really come to love.  











This picture includes most of Amelia's kinder class.  

After visiting with a few other moms, I soon discovered that Amelia has already made a name for herself among the younger students as being a nurturing, caring member of the school community.  This makes me smile:)  



Thursday, October 18, 2012

Cousin Emily's Wedding

This past weekend we made a trip to Savannah, Georgia for my cousin Emily's wedding.  Avery and Amelia were the ring bearer and flower girl.  Avery (per his usual extroverted tendencies) enjoyed all the attention that only walking down the isle semi-solo can bring.  In contrast, Amelia has a shy tendency that somewhat mirrors the famous shy grin of Princess Di.  Overt extroversion or shy-grin style, they both earned their fair share of attention.  

The bride was beautiful, the groom witty, family was in abundance, and we enjoyed our time away from work.   

 
My husband has a hard time being serious....one of my favorite things about him!

Nick, the best man and brother of the groom, kindly helps Avery through the process.  

Every time I look at this picture I can't help but think of the future, and imagining Shane and Audrey in a father-daughter dance.

Excitement or relief, not sure which one, that the practice is over and the rehearsal dinner is next.

It's always fun to see Aunt Cathy!  She is a bubbly gal with the best laugh.


It's a rare moment when Audrey has Oma and Opa all to herself.

Unfortunately, we don't see cousins often enough.

Shoes always make a dress.

These mints found their way into the hands of almost every person in the wedding party, via Avery asking, "Would you like a mint?"  A warm smile always positively reinforced Avery to prey on the next bridesmaid or groomsman. 

Aunt Pat was the vision of calm and cool.


Avery flashing mom a warm smile knowing mom's camera was pointed his way.

Cousin emily holding a bible that has traveled down the isle with various family members many times, including myself.

These flowers smelled amazing!

Avery wondering why the "ring bearer" doesn't get to carry the actual rings.




Audrey needed a nap, but refused with a total tantrum.  This is the tail end of that tantrum.

The three sisters!


The adults wanted a family photo and Avery wanted to be a part.

The adults minus Avery.















The dress!  The Ryan sisters are all so talented and one of their shared talents is sewing.  This dress had so many amazing details.




Trick hand cuffs kept Avery occupied until our babysitter arrived.


Avery kindly sharing his imprisoned experience with his sister.