Our own Harvest Festival

I've always appreciated welcoming the seasons with enthusiasm. This year as the leaves were falling and Halloween was upon us, we spent a great deal of time outside, playing in the leaves.

I miss the big old maple tree that used to be in my parents' front yard. In order to collect enough leaves for an adequate jumping pile, we had to steal some from the neighbors. Imagine their disappointment when they came outside to find their entire lawn had been raked and taken to our yard! Yes, I'm joking. Bob, our neighbor, was elated!

Both Maya and Sam were all smiles after an afternoon of fresh air, earthy leaves, and sunshine. Ah, the joys of autumn.

Later that evening we completed our own Harvest Festival by carving pumpkins. Yes, mine had its traditionally sinister grimace and Aaron's pumpkin was strangely reminiscent of Pinocchio (see photo) but we had a great time. We even enjoyed some toasted pumpkin seeds as a late evening snack that evening.

The Pumpkin Patch

The Autumn weather was glorious for our family trip to the pumpkin patch on October 10th. Blue sky, puffy white clouds, and temperatures in the 60s. Fall at is best!

Whidbey Island

In our attempt to find time when the four of us can be together on our own, the Russell family made the short trek to Whidbey Island a few weeks back and spent the day enjoying the sunshine, beaches, parks, ice cream parlors, and the ferry ride back to Mukilteo. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed the time together.

Going Back to Pullman

The third weekend in September we drove to Pullman to spend the weekend and see friends. One of our most fun adventures was a trip to the Latah County Fair. Maya was sad to see that the carousel wasn't included in the rides this year, but we still had a great time.

Later that evening we had a wonderful dinner with friends and helped Lydia celebrate her sixth birthday party a few days early. Happy Birthday, Lydia!

Maya's First Day of Preschool

Is it possible that my sweet little girl headed off to preschool already? She was all smiles on her first day.

Looking rather hip, I might add.

The Island Cafe

In a battle for first place, my family would certainly win, but I think the Island Cafe might just come in a close second. When we are in the Portland area, staying with my aunt and uncle, we regularly frequent this wonderful little spot located on Hayden Island on the Columbia River.

Even my grandma, who is 90, enjoys herself fully, feasting on beloved seafood while watching boats go up and down the river.

My wonderful aunt, after finishing her meal, always takes the kids to feed the ducks and walk around the docks. Aaron and I get to sit back, relax, and enjoy a meal in quiet.

We are all smiles after a wonderful dinner together.

My wonderful cousin Andrea and beloved Aunt Sue.

Sam tries to steal a drink of Dad's margarita, and I don't even notice. Sneaky, silly boy. I hope it was delicious!

90-year old Gonna LOVES being with family. And indeed, she's one of those who taught me to love family gatherings.

Here is Aunt Sue, with Andrea and Maya, feeding the ducks

There is something special about family traditions that bind us together and make memories that last a long time. Being at the Island Cafe with my family does just this. I'm thankful for this beautiful place, but even more thankful for the community and love of Aunt Sue, Uncle Doug, Andrea, and Gonna.

The Oregon Coast

We LOVE the Oregon coast. This week we met our good friends the Dolencs for five glorious days at the beach. The first two nights we camped in a campground (yes, we deserve a round of applause for camping with two four-year olds and two babies) and then we spent the last two nights relaxing at a beautiful beach house. It was a fantastic time.


We all spent many hours on the beach walking on the sand and playing in the water.




Sam was still getting used to the cold water on his toes. His sister, on the other hand, absolutely LOVES the beach. She would have spent our entire trip running in the waves.



The kids enjoyed our time in camp too. Many an hour were spent playing with games and toys on the ground and in the tent.



The weather couldn't have been more perfect--August at the beach is SO beautiful.


We felt blessed to have such great time with our family and our friends this summer.