We have been going nonstop for days and days. It has been so much fun to see so many friends.
We have spent more time at the family farm, helping Poppy repair cattle fences and riding horses.
This rolling pasture is part of over 300 acres in our family. So special and so peaceful. It seems easy to hear from God here, where the crickets chirp and the wind howls.
We usually stay until the moon rises and we can't see anymore before heading home.
A day on the farm guarantees a good night's sleep. : )
We have had several play dates. Miranda and I have been friends since 10th grade in high school. We both tried out for pom squad the same year and have lots of good memories together on the football field. She has four children and Josiah is close to Harbor in age. They enjoy playing together and doing boy things.
We spent an afternoon with David's family and missed David terribly. Joann, David's mom, is so good to have activities planned for her grand kids and great grand kids {David is the youngest of six and he has a huge family, with several of his siblings having 4, 5, and 6 children themselves.} This day, she prepared a pumpkin decorating contest. And, believe it or not, all the kids there came in first place! : )
We had another play date at Amy's house. Amy is another friend I have known for a very long time. We used to spend a lot of time together way before either of us considered having children. It is fun to stay close to those friends and watch as your lives morph and grow and develop into small families.
Harbor has enjoyed his time with Gigi, my mom. Gigi is so wonderful to get down on his level and work with him at various skills. She has really focused on writing ABC's and him practicing writing his name more.
This past weekend, I was overjoyed to spend the evening with my two best friends, Lyndsey and Brandy. They are both by far the closest girlfriends in my life. Lyndsey and I have pictures of us playing together as infants {our moms were bridesmaids in each other weddings back in the day, as we were bridesmaids in our each other's weddings} and Brandy is a friend I have had since Jr. High. They both know me better than most and have always been great listeners and encouragers in my life. So thankful for them!
Brandy gave me the prettiest picture frame and Lyndsey bought sweets from Rick's Bakery. Lyndsey and I ended up talking until 1:00 am after dinner. Whew! I haven't done that in a long time. : )
My mom has enjoyed spending one-on-one time with Harbor. Harbor is very laid back and easy going. He loves "workbook" time, as he calls it. He is super easy to teach. Being his mommy is just a joy!
Today, my mom's sister, Cathy, had us all over for lunch. Since we won't be home for Thanksgiving, {first time in 30 years I won't be with my family on that day- so sad to be away, but excited about our family of three making a new tradition and clinging together, thankful nonetheless} she made some of my favorite Thanksgiving foods. Wasn't that so sweet of her? I had hash brown casserole and stuffing, which I LOVE!
We have been having lots of fun!
And with one week remaining before we take the train home {so excited to take the train! What an adventure that will be to go cross country!}, we are living in the moment and grabbing every chance to go and do and see. Being a social butterfly is easy when you know you will return to the city, just another face in the crowd. But, I do miss my new home and David and the hustle and bustle.
I was asked in my Q&A post if we planned on having more children.
I know we waited longer than most to have Harbor {7 years}. We believe there is a time and season for all things under the sun. We have approached growing our family with prayer and careful consideration, as we feel the Lord has led us to do. Living 1,000 miles from family presents its own challenges now as we will be without help, but we believe that God will sustain, uplift, and empower, as He is our Help. So, yes, we are seeking God about the next step for us in that area. We would love to have more children if that is the will of God. I guess we will just have to wait and see! : ) We are certainly not anxious as we know God's plan for our lives, regardless of the situation, is far more superior and righteous than anything we could dream for ourselves. It feels good to just rest in Him.
Have a great week!
