The State Fair!

Last week we joined Jess and her kiddos for an adventure at the fair. Now, if you've ever been to a fair (especially in our great state), then you know just the type of adventure there is to be had :) I think you could walk in the gate, sit on a bench, and be entertained all day without ever getting on a ride!

We didn't realize that we picked Columbus Day until we arrived and saw the floods of people in attendance. I know some schools were out, but not that many!! It was very crowded. And after a previous week of fall-ish weather, it was very hot. But we endured and had some fun along the way. My brother-in-law even met us for lunch for a legendary "Pronto Pup" and funnel cake. (For those of you unschooled in fair lingo, a Pronto Pup is a huge corn dog. I mean huge!)

For the rest of the story and all the fun details, see the captions below...

The brave troops (minus Lee). What is not in the picture is the additional double stroller. Try pushing 2 of those around a fair! And check out Mac's face...reckon he wanted some of Parker's cotton candy??? haha

Well, Mac wasn't allowed so much as one sticky taste, but he laughed about it anyway.

Strolling through the Ag Barn. Notice the difference in Parker and Mac's reactions!

Feeding a goat...those animals have to be stuffed after a full day of continuous carrots!

Loving to see (and point) at the animals.

Parker was a serious speedster on this ride! Did you know he was really driving that car!? haha

My sweet, sensitive child was terrified of the "big" rides. All the crazy noises scared him so badly. He buried his head the entire time we walked through the loud, crazy ride section.

Ready to go home after a hot, fun day at the fair!

Mum's The Word

Last week I went to the local nursery and bought mums to decorate for the fall season. I absolutely love fall and mums, probably because they remind me of this time of year. So, I discovered that the whole world has kept a secret from me. And I want to do my part to make sure the world hasn't kept a secret from you too! Lean in, and I'll whisper it in your ear...YOU CAN PLANT MUMS AND THEY GROW BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR!!!! How did I never know this??? I always trash my wilted, brown pots after I use up every bud of beauty. But oh no, not this year! These babies will be put in the ground after the season is up.
I would now like to take the time to give a special thanks to MoMo for letting me in on the secret!

The Zoo

Today Jessica and I took all four kids to the Jackson Zoo. Parker loves the zoo, so she asked us to come along. It was Mac's first trip to a zoo, and to be honest, I think it was my first time to the Jackson Zoo. It isn't a great zoo, but its sufficient. Definitely good enough for young kids...and mommies who want to get their young kids out of the house :)

Now, I must admit, I was a tad nervous venturing out with all four kids and only two of us. But Jess loaded up both of her double strollers and off we went. Not only did we survive, we had a fabulous time! All of the kids were terrific. Parker loved seeing all the animals, and Mac had a good time pointing at them.

Getting ready to take all of our precious cargo through the gates.

I love this picture...so sweet.

Looking at the leopard.

Sliding all by himself!

The turtle exhibit. I like their reflection in the glass.

Going on my first carousel ride with Mac...

On my second ride with Parker (yes, it makes me dizzy!)

Looking at all of the animals

The whole crew leaving the zoo

Pooped out on the ride home (in his new big boy carseat)

Party Time!

Table with the "cake ball" cake

Wonderful cake balls

Favors for Mac and his friends.

The smash cake

Digging into his cake. He wanted to throw the balls on top of the cake.

Gearing up with PePaw.

Mac's wonderful new toy from CeCe and PePaw. I am so excited...this will provide lots of entertainment this winter during cold months.

Playing on his new toy.

Some of Mac's new goodies.

Mac turned one this past Thursday, so we celebrated it BIG on Saturday. Because Mac LOVES any and every type of ball, I decided a "ball" party would be perfect. Well, the idea evolved into a sports party, and I had so much fun planning everything. Lunch was complete with hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and peanuts (typical ballgame food). And my mom had the idea to make cake balls instead of a cake. She lovingly made every one of them, stitching details and all. Not only were they so very cute, they were also so very good :)

We had a wonderful day with family and friends celebrating Mac's first year of life. I was so thrilled my grandparents were able to make it. It was my Papa's 1st real outing since his surgery. And Lia was so sweet to miss the State game just to come to the big party. Parker was soooo excited for the party, and I sure hope it lived up to his expectations. haha

I cannot believe a year has already passed us by. It has been a wonderful year filled with learning and love, and a few sleepless nights here and there :) I cannot imagine life without Mac. We are blessed beyond measure to have him!!!