happy for this moment

16-months-old

marie-leaves

marie

henry-leaves

“Be happy for this moment, for this moment is your life” – Omar Khayyam

I’m sitting outside in the crisp fall air, watching my children run carefree through crunchy leaves, under sunny skies in our backyard. Seeing them find joy in simple pleasures, and in nature, reminds me to pause and do the same. I know that these moments…these are the ones that will replay in our minds as we age, they will be remembered as the best days of our lives. I’m so thankful to be conscious of this. Autumn is a season of transformation, as is life. I find extreme bliss and melancholy simultaneously this time of year. Time is fleeting-be thankful, and be happy for the moments.

the pumpkin patch

pumpkin-picking

pumpkin-picking

marieprofile

 

Fall is in full effect here in Pennsylvania…mother nature is really showing off! We couldn’t miss the photo opportunity of first time pumpkin picking…especially on a beautifully brisk + sunny day. Understandably, the kids enjoyed picking pumpkins more than apples. Down at their level, they were able to touch, climb, and play. It was quite adorable watching them (seem to) confer on which ones they liked best. As they see things for the first time, we’ve developed new eyes for the world around us. It’s one of the most magical parts of parenthood in my opinion, and I can’t get enough.

stars + stories

g-nancy-pyjamas

 

As the daughter of a librarian, I couldn’t be happier about my children’s love of books. I started reading to them before they could see past their noses, and even though at the time I felt a bit silly doing so, I’m so thankful I did. They devour books-in our laps, together, and even sitting alone in the quiet (which I find amazing at only 15 months old). Reading is a huge part of our day, but especially upon waking and before bedtime. This weekend we all piled into bed with our pajamas and favorite reads…and of course I grabbed the camera. The light was just too good, and the kids, too beautiful.

 *marie + henry are looking super cute and comfy in g.nancy star pyjamas*

a bushel and a peck

apple-picking-with-toddlers

apple-picking

marieapples

 

I’m still in disbelief that Marie + Henry are 15 months old…and yet there are so many experiences to be had! Almost every day brings a new first, and this time it was apple picking at our beloved local orchard. They have loved apples since they first began eating solids, so we were excited to show them the source. Late in the season picking certainly has it’s advantages, such as deliciously ripe winesap apples and the field all to ourselves! In regards to the post title…I grew up with my Mom singing the “bushel and peck song” to me, and I now sing it to my children (they love it). That makes three generations of bushel + peck singing, as it began with my grandmother. Hopefully they will continue the tradition!

I love you…a bushel and a peck
A bushel and a peck though you make my heart a wreck
Make my heart a wreck and you make my life a mess
Make my life a mess, yes a mess of happiness
About you, about you
‘Cause I love you a bushel and a peck
You bet your purdy neck I do….

(this is a chorus I had not seen before, so true)