HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!! Last night for F.H.E. we went over to G-ma and G-pa's house to carve pumpkins and watch "Sleepy Hallow" (the old version). I tried to get some pics of Krista's first real pumpkin-carving experience; did I mention how incredibly difficult--nigh impossible--it is to get 17 month olds to look up at the camara?!? Well, here's the proof! The leaf pics were taken today, and hopefully tomorrow I can post some cute pics of Krista in her costume! Anyway, we wish you all a spooktacular Halloween! Until tomorrow then!

Here's a little snap shot of our new van! We got it earlier this month and really like it! We are so blessed! Interesting side note: as many of you know, before the van we had a Honda Pilot (a very nice vehicle). Now, every time I drove the Pilot I felt the need to "pump up the volume" on the stereo and drive in the fast lane (and all that implies). When we sold it we weren't sure if we were ready to become "van people," but we thought with a little one on the way (and we don't plan on stopping there) it would be a wise investment. So, we bought this nice little Toyota Sienna, and I kid you not, from the moment I sat in the driver's seat I have felt the urge to listen to classical music and have literally had thoughts that I need to drive slowly and safely! Next thing you know I'll have my five kids buckled safely in the back, eating their happy meals, on our way to soccer practice!

Here are a few that could add a little Summer sunshine to any dismal, Fall day (If Daniel's legs in #1 don't do it, Krista's smile will--hehe)!

These were taken by my incredibly talented sister, Anna, back in September when we visited their fam in Texas. We REALLY enjoyed seeing them, and took some awesome pictures that you'll be seeing more of later. These particular pics have not been "worked on" yet and I can't wait to see how good they look after a little pp. I just wanted to say how excited I am that I only have FOUR weeks left until the baby is due and I thought these pics were appropriate since they are maternity shots! I feel really good other than the fact that my hips always go out on me and are very painful. But I can't complain; overall, I know I've got it good! We're just getting really excited and anxious!

I'm BACK! The day after I got my beloved blog set up my computer crashed. LUCKILY, we were able to restore all of our files including the 400 + pictures that we haven't developed yet! *WHEW* And although I think having my own blog is SO much fun and I missed having access to it, I really don't have much to share. I haven't taken many pics recently, so here are some more of my favorites from the past. The pic below is not too exciting, but it's always been one of my favs cuz it shows Krista doing one of her favorite things (looking at the snow outside our window) while wearing one of my favorite things (thermal jammies!).

This one's for Indie! Although you can't really get the full effect, this may give you an idea of what my newly decorated bedroom looks like. I LOVE my new chandilier; it's so romantic!

Where to begin? I must first thank my amazing sister, Anna, not only for creating this blog and taking all of these GORGEOUS pictures for me (basically any pictures that look professional were taken by her), but also for inspiring me to take pictures on my own. I am her number one fan and an eager and willing student. As you will see, I am by no means a great photographer--I wouldn't even call myself amateur--but she is slowly yet surely pushing me to be better. I hope to be half as good as her some day! (To view Anna's incredible photography, click on the link to Anna's blog to the right.) So, thank you Indie! I cannot even fathom how much time and effort you have spent in my behalf on photograhphy projects!
Anyway, I thought that I would post some of my favorite pictures of my favorite subject: my Krista Belle! She is now SIXTEEN months old (my how time flies!), but here is a little flash-back to the very beginning!