Missed Moments: Waterloo Pumpkin Fest

This fall was our first chance to get involved and explore our new community. 

The Pumpkin Fest was a great start!

We met with our friends who are also new to the 'Loo and explored the festivities. 

All the characters were present: junk food, cute crafts, and kid friendly activities. 

Cole cracked us all up in how seriously to took the girl painting his face when she said, "hold still."

We are confident that we've landed in a good place and look forward to planting our roots here.

We can't wait to see what else our community puts out there for us to explore!

Missed Moments: Eckarts - Round 1

My employer provided a family outing for us to Eckart's Farm in Millstadt, IL. My co-workers all met in the evening for a bonfire. We took advantage of the afternoon to visit so that we could see the sights and still get home in time for Cole to get to bed (you know, seeing as how no-matter-what-he-wakes-up-at-5:30).

First stop, feeding the animals.  What a thrill!

Cole got to live out his cowboy dreams while riding this pony.

All that cowboy stuff makes a pardner tired...

We ended our adventure at the bonfire site snacking, relaxing, and visiting

There's no better end to a fall day.

Jill Heupel Photography - Mini Session October 2010

Our beloved photographer friend, Jill Heupel, offered mini-sessions this fall to celebrate 5 years of her amazing dedication to capturing and photographing moments for couples, families, babies, puppies, etc.
As always, she caught glimpses of Cole showing his personality, spunk, love, and vigor!
I can't narrow down my faves any further....and since I am able, I want to share her amazing work.

 

 

Pretty impressive for 20 minutes in the cold drizzle!
http://www.jillheupel.com/

Missed Moments: Birthday Preparations - Yo Gabba Gabba style!

Cole's birthday fell on a Friday this year. I thought this would be the perfect time to have a small birthday party for him with the family....not thinking about preparations for a party!
With the help of my buddy (and ordered pizzas and a low key family) we pulled it off.
Cole and I made his Yo Gabba Gabba cake for his party and cupcakes to take to his last day at Miss Dawn's the following day. It was a colorful and sugar-full evening!

Magic House (found photos)

Last year in the early spring, Cole and I took a trip to the Magic House. Here are some pics I found....