Sweet Pickin’s Pumpkin Patch is a cute little pumpkin patch located just around the corner from our house in Kalispell. It’s so close that Rost and I rode my bike there on most visits until it became too cold to do so. This spot is only open for a few weeks every year so we made the most of the time that they were open this year.
This is probably the last chance I get to really dress Rost up for Halloween the way I choose. I love and have always wanted a fat little raccoon so chose now to make that dream happen!
Brian’s mom & grandma are both talented seamstresses and custom-made Rost’s costume from my dream idea. Unsure exactly how he’d do, Brian & I took Rost to Columbia Falls on Saturday night to walk a few blocks up and down Trick or Treat Street on Nucleus Avenue. Rost absolutely loved it and had trick-or-treating down within a few candy bars in his bucket.
On Halloween, Rost dressed up multiple times to see both Grandma & Grandpa at their places of work, a special dress-up storytime at the library, visit all the relatives here on our property, and of course, trick or trick-or-treating for a few blocks in town. Overall Rost made out like a true bandit – fitting for his character.
Another trip around the Daystar. Another new adventure was taken. While I had initially had a backpacking trip into the Crazy Mountains planned, it was sidetracked & a new adventure was formulated that included multiple days of hiking in different areas and crystal mining. Xoxo.
My second Mother’s Day was spent lounging on a boat, making friends with a duck. There was fishing too but I liked the duck more.
I have to say that this was the first holiday where Rost was really catching on to the festivities. He was wildly confused by the Easter basket left out for him but equally happy to get lots of fun treats and toys. Side note: Rost’s easter basket was actually mine as a little girl. 🙂
Baskets were followed up with a fun, bunny-themed breakfast, which I’m not gonna lie, I’m pretty proud of myself for pulling this off.
After breakfast, we all headed over to Grandma & Grandpa’s house for a second basket (from them). The Grandpa bunny left a trail of eggs to help Rost find his way.
We participated in a group egg hunt at Lone Pine State Park that turned out to be an eggcellent event for all ages but especially for younger kids.
Wow, I’m turning one! It’s like a big, colorful dream come true. For the longest time, I’ve been fascinated by the world around me. Turning one is like embarking on a grand adventure. One moment, I was a tiny bundle in my parents’ arms, and the next, I was standing on wobbly legs, exploring this big, exciting world. The first year of my life has been a whirlwind of new experiences and endless discoveries. I’ve learned to smile, laugh, and even take those tentative first steps. And now, here comes this day filled with so much joy and laughter. All these grown-up faces are gathered around, and they’re all making a fuss over me. I may not completely understand why, but I can feel their love and excitement. Maybe it’s because I’m taking my first steps, or maybe it’s because of this sugary cake they’ve put in front of me. Either way, turning one feels like a fantastic adventure, and I can’t wait to see what this new year will bring. This sure feels like a fantastic start to a lifelong journey. Thanks for coming along with me on this adventure so far. Xoxo, Rost.
My dear, sweet, baby boy, I have written you a letter & tucked it into your memory box to read at a future date. Your dada & I are so proud of you & all that you have accomplished over the last year. Tonight we shot off fireworks in your honor – just like on the day you were born – and we will continue this tradition until the end of time. Happy First Birthday! xoxo, Mama.
Christmas through a child’s eyes encapsulates pure, unadulterated magic. Their innocent wonder as they gaze at twinkling lights and vibrant ornaments reflects the enchantment of discovery. The tiniest joys—a colorful gift wrap, a soft melody—evoke radiant smiles, echoing the joy of a season dedicated to love and togetherness.
Having a child infuses traditions with newfound meaning, as our family gathers closer, bound by the promise of shared memories. The exchange of gifts becomes a language of affection, a way to express hopes and dreams for this precious life. As Rost experiences the warmth of hugs and the joy of laughter, he unknowingly became the centerpiece of a tapestry woven with love, marking the beginning of a journey through festive seasons.
In these fleeting moments, the magic of Rost’s first Christmas becomes a timeless reminder of the extraordinary beauty that simplicity and innocence bring to life’s celebrations. I am already excited about next year’s holiday season.
Appa is an adorable flying labrador retriever buffalo creature from the Avatar series. Brian once watched the entire series so I would catch bits of it from time to time. While I could not tell you much about the series I could tell you that Appa is adorable. What better adorable real-life creature to play an adorable fictitious one than Rost?
While all three of our attempts to trunk or treat failed this year the Halloween season was an overall success. Rost is already looking forward to next year’s festivities and so am I.
On her inaugural Mother’s Day, emotions swelled within her, an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of joy, wonder, and a profound sense of responsibility. The sun’s warm embrace seemed to mirror the newfound warmth in her heart as she cradled her precious child, realizing that this day celebrated not just the birth of her baby, but also her own rebirth as a mother. Amidst the tender lullabies and tiny, grasping fingers, she embraced the journey of nurturing and love, forever cherishing this poignant milestone that marked the beginning of her lifelong voyage in motherhood.
Brian’s brother tied the knot to his longtime love Jaiden this past week in a beautiful ceremony close to their home in Bismark, ND.
Brian & I flew into Montana to spend a few much-needed vacation days with his parents before making the drive to Bismark.
We spent a few fun days exploring Jesse’s new-ish stomping grounds & getting to know Jaiden’s family. Another beautiful wedding in the books.
