Happy Fall Day

If you are a caramel apple fan, as I am, you will love these Caramel Stuffed Apple Cider Cookies. (Click here for the link to the recipe.) I'm not sure if I should thank Brittany for showing me this recipe or curse her. These cookies are dangerously delicious!

See the gooey goodness seeping out of the center?

You have to eat them slightly warm. If you don't eat them all as they come out of the oven, it takes just a few seconds in the microwave to soften the caramel. I wouldn't recommend eating them cold, unless you have strong teeth which are free from caps. You probably won't have many leftover to get cold though.

And your house will smell so yummy and Fall-like when you're baking them.

Time For Change

After almost 8 years, and 100,000 miles, it was time to get rid of the old Taurus and try something new. We went looking for a Ford Escape: not too big, decent fuel economy, and all wheel drive. What we found was something slightly bigger and in better condition for less money. When they offered $3,000 for the old car (without fixing the windshield or the dents) I really couldn't refuse.

I learned to drive in a small van, back before they were mini, and this kinda reminds me of that. I pulled up to the mail box to pick up the mail yesterday... brought back memories of delivering news papers in the old van. (I didn't even hit the mirror, Dad.)

This is our new Dodge Journey. It seats 7 and has tons of fun features. I love all the hidden storage compartments, especially the drink cooler in the dash. The sound system is amazing and the bluetooth will be handy. The miles per gallon is a little less than my car was but not by much. And with fewer miles and the all wheel drive, Scott feels safer about me transporting the children in it. I feel the need for a road trip!

First Day of School & Just For Fun

While reviewing the pictures on my camera, I realized that I failed to post Zane's first day of school pictures. (Shhhh. Don't tell him.)

It was a beautiful, sunny morning so he has kind of a squinty smile.

We decided to wait one more year to start kindergarten so preschool here we go again. Zane loves his preschool group! This year there is one other boy so it's even more fun. Although, he really didn't mind being in a group of all girls.

After a couple poses Zane was ready to go.
"You're going to make me late, Mom!"


Sunday, after church, I made the kids pose for a couple shots outside. Their tummies were growling but they still smiled for me.

I made this dress for Brittany (at age 3) when my brother got married. Morgan wore it a few times and it's been hanging in her closet simply because I don't know what to do with it. I just can't bare to get rid of it. Morgan pulled it out and put it on Sunday. A little short for her now but it looked SO cute with her leggings. Maybe she will wear it a few more times before we find it a new home.

And isn't he the MOST handsome little man you have ever seen?! I think the bow tie makes him look so grown up. (I'm hoping to make a few more soon.)

My 2 favorite little people!

Mother - the best job EVER!

{ Comfort }

I recently read John chapter 11, raising Lazarus from the dead. I have read this story many times but some things, that my heart needed now, stuck with me this time.

As Mary and Martha mourned the loss of their brother, Christ came to them. He didn't tell them to be strong and overcome their grief. He saw their tears and he wept with them. He felt their pain and sorrow and mourned with them.

I know that Christ feels my pain and sorrow as well. I believe that he mourns with us also. When we weep, he weeps with us. Christ provided the Atonement for us to take away ALL of our pain and sorrow. It is through the Atonement that we are healed - our hearts comforted and our tears wiped away.

I love Revelation 7:17 - "For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes."

I know that He does wipe away the tears and brings peace to our hearts that cannot be found any where in the world. It is that peace that gives us the faith and the strength to continue on in the adventures of life here on the earth.

When we ask why - why did this happen, why do I have to go through this - the answer is always the same: "Because you accepted the call to come to the earth at this time." I know that all experience can be for our good. Even those experiences that are tough to bear, can bring about the greatest blessings when we put our trust in Jesus Christ.

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

John 14:27

Best Weekend Ever!

Baptism Day, finally here.

Sunday, after church, Morgan and her friend Garrett were baptized. They were the last two in their Primary class to turn 8 so it was a much anticpated day. The Relief Society room was packed, standing room only, as so many from the ward stayed after for the baptism. And on a Fast Sunday too I might add. It was a wonderful experience and the spirit was so strong in the room.

All dressed in white.

It was so great to have Brit and Levi here with us. The house was full of laughter, food, and love! We used to watch a show on TV called "Who's Line Is It." It's not on anymore so Brit pulled up some clips on YouTube and we all LAUGHED until we CRIED.

And we had some more birthday fun! The nerf gun was a big hit with everyone. New game at our house - the kids run and Dad tries to shoot them with the nerf darts. Fun!

It's hard to believe that 8 years ago this girl was a cute, chubby, little baby. Now she is all grown up! She has such a sweet spirit. She's a good helper, kind to her little brother (most of the time), and has a strong desire to do what is right. She is a beautiful young lady!

We love you Morgan!