Isn't fall wonderful? Even if we do have to layer in the morning because of the afternoon heat, I still say this is the best season of all. Just moments ago I was standing at the kitchen sink to load the dishwasher and I found myself distracted. I just couldn't help but stare out of the window that looks out over the the tree grove in the left of our property. Little red and yellow leaves were twittering down with each breeze. Just beautiful!

Helen and Markus played outside climbing trees this week after school. She is getting so big. Every time I blink I think she's grown up some more. This poor mother's heart wants to tell them both to slow down! :)

Our week has been full of homework, cooking, gymnastics, workouts, reading, and playdates.

Helen wore a gift from Aunt Jackie this week. She's knows I have a "Janie & Jack" habit. I adore this lavender sweater and top. Helen let me snap a photo of her before we left for school. I know Aunt Jackie will like to see her in it. :)

Markus must have been inspired by Halloween this past week. He pulled out last years costume and begged me to dress him in the dragon. What's funny is he is so much taller than he was last year that now his booty hangs out between the top and the pants. I told him he was too big for it but he just roared at me :)

Markus and Helen have tried every afternoon to recreate the sheet tent that Chad made in the hallway this weekend.

Helen has been working hard every night in preperation for a test on Friday. It amazes me what that little mind will hold. Yesterday I rewarded her with a new DS lite game. We played Tinkerbell until very late last night.

Markus has been taking naps, forced naps I should say, in the afternoons again. He just can't keep a happy attitude unless he's had a nap. The only problem with that is that he won't go to bed at 7. Two nights ago he ended up in my room so that I could keep telling him to be still until he dozed off. He warmed my heart so many times because he kept creeping over to my side of the bed saying, "Momma I luvs you." Aw!

I've hardly had a moment to think about my upcoming weekend away. I've got to take the time this afternoon to empty the ironing basket and pack myself. I'm hoping to sneak off with one of Chad's laptops too. Maybe I'll be able to post about my trip before I even get home.

On Wednesday Helen invited some friends home from school.

We played top model, tea party, vistited Tico outside, made sundae's with chocolate syrup and sprinkles, and then finished by painting groovy girls.

The girls rode with us to gymnastics. I finally got some pictures of Helen doing her backbend kickover. I'm so proud of her success. She's tried very hard all spring and summer and it's paying off now. She's getting more confident and I can see it at class time.

Tonight we are making red beans and rice and then playing dominoe's as a family. This is something new we started this week and all of us look forward to this game time/ family time every night. On that note I better scoot. There is a lot to do before I go get Helen.

Erin