But by love: September 2015

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Girlhood

This is what a 9 year old girl thinks is worth 2 months of allowance and some birthday money. Polar bear blanket and slippers and stuffed animals. So fun! Soon it will be all about fashion. Enjoying these sweet years of little girlhood!

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Hello fall!

We thought you would NEVER get here!

Monday, September 28, 2015

Cigarette soup

Tonight in the shuffle of the kids' practices, grocery unloading, and school grading, I forgot to turn down the taco soup once it came to a boil. I was so excited that I had made a double batch yesterday and dinner would be easy tonight. Here's the part that is so nutty- I forced everyone to eat it. "Sour cream will fix it! I claimed. "Add a lot of cheese!, I confidently advised. NO! It literally tasted like cigarette smoke it was so burned. I was so determined to not waste a WHOLE pot of soup, we continued on!

I was conflicted when I actually saw the bottom of the pot. Guilt vs. hysterical laughter. Worst meal ever. Later I made cookies.

Sunday, September 27, 2015

Slowly, but surely

Three of my new friends

Getting integrated into a new church is a slow, slow process. Especially at our age when kids are busy with activities, and there are no playgroups where you can just sit and talk with the other women. It has been a huge challenge for me. I was so thankful for a women's day at the lake with some sweet ladies. Beautiful message, good fellowship, and a lovely day! Praying that this time next year our church will feel like home. Until then, branching out and joining in.

Saturday, September 26, 2015

Long overdue

Date night...why did we wait so long? All of the kids were at friends. So good to have him all to myself!

Beautiful botanical gardens

After lunch yesterday we left the books behind and enjoyed one of the most beautiful places in Birmingham. It was cool, sunny, and breezy at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Lovely afternoon!