Challenging times to say the least, but still so much to be thankful for. . .

Forgive me if I get a little personal in my post this time, but this fall has been a very difficult one for my family. So many things happening all at the same time that we wonder what will happen next: an uncle diagnosed with cancer, a cousin involved in a serious motorcycle accident, another cousin going through a sad divorce, and just this week a cousin losing her first baby at only 3 weeks old to a rare disease that affects only 1 in 1,000,000. Then there is my own family: my sister who is just 15 months older than me had emergency surgery this week to remove a flesh-eating bacteria from her abdomen that the surgeon explained could have taken her life if left untreated, and my younger brother who was involved in an accident on-site at work that severed a tendon in his right hand leaving him on disability for a full month.

All of these things could be overwhelming and all-consuming if I didn't understand the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am so thankful that I know about our Savior and the love he has for us. I know that through his help and the help of our Heavenly Father, we can get through anything.

Now, to post my blessings: my family, my husband, my three sweet children (and a fourth on the way), the gospel of Jesus Christ, the scriptures, the power of prayer, my home, my country (a land of plenty), the freedoms we enjoy. The list could go on and on.

Sure, life is challenging, but the blessings definitely far outweigh the difficulties. And, it is so wonderful to know that there is One in charge who knows the whole picture, and He will give us peace and assurance in difficult times.

The Past Month

This month has been so hectic--life has just taken over! There is so much to catch up on.

First, Aunt Angela stopped by for a quick visit, and the girls tried a lovely technique that their dear mother taught them on trying to get people to stay when you don't want them to leave. . .

The girls loved their first trip to the American Girl Boutique and Bistro. They ate in the Bistro with the dolls, had their dolls' hair done, and loved looking around the store and spending their allowance. It was a dream come true for them!

Next, changing weather means lots and lots of fall leaves to rake and jump in! So much fun for the little ones!

And, Halloween: Karlie dressed up as a Colonial Girl, Abby was Padme from the Clone Wars, and Nathan was our little bat. Brandon and I went out on a limb and dressed up as a "Bun in the Oven" and "the Bunmaker". Of course, we had Abby take the pictures, and she did a great job for a 6-year-old, but you don't get the full effect of our costumes. We attended several parties and went trick-or-treating at least 3 times before the holiday was over! Nathan didn't want to wear his costume at first until he discovered it meant people gave him lots and lots of candy!

Brandon and I also had the fun opportunity to go see "Wicked" at the Fox Theatre. We really enjoyed it, and we appreciate Laura for organizing this event. We especially appreciate Angela for taking the kids to the Fernbank museum while we enjoyed the show!