Birthday Bash

On Oct. 27th, we celebrated Ben's birthday together as a family. Birthdays are so very special. We make a big deal out of birthdays! Ashley was a little disappointed that she did not get to go shopping to get daddy a special gift, so I suggested she make something for him, like a picture or a painting. Ashley said she wanted to make choc chip cookies, so after school, she made a batch of cookies. I enjoy working in the kitchen with her, she is such an eager learner. Here we are with Ben's special request: a pumpkin pie made with real pumpkin. (I baked 4 pumpkins earlier in the day for pies)

And opening presents. It is so fun to watch the kids give daddy their gift. They are tearing off the paper before he gets his hands on it. (he doesn't mind, of course)

Later Ben pulled out his trombone that he had when he was younger. This was a special request of Jacob's and they all took turns trying to make some sound with it. We had such a good time together. I realized that this is the 15th birthday I have celebrated with Ben, wow, does time fly. 15 sounds like a long time. Our we that old???

We've had some fun in the leaves, I'm sure we will get out there again for more fall fun. This was our first leaf pile of the year.

I caught this picture of Ben and Jacob playing ball together. It is fun to have some beautiful fall days and being outside together. We have so many things to be thankful for. Some of these memories I hope to treasure forever and capture some on camera. I do believe as crazy, at times stressful, this season is the best one of all. I love my kids, my little family, and I am sooo thankful for each and every one of them. I can't imagine my family being any different.