So, I have been going to this mom’s group for many years now (www.momsmorningretreat.com)…and throughout the years, the topic of mindfulness and how we can be more present in our lives seems to take center stage.  I always think about mindfulness as someone taking the time for themselves, doing yoga, meditation or amazing self-centered (not in a bad way) things.m  I never have fit that mold.  I am looking forward but not necessarily rushing through something so I can be moving forward to the next activity.   I feel fairly present when I am doing things, although I know my phone is a major distraction – chalk that one up to my self-diagnosed ADHD.  I don’t like time to myself because I get bored.  I soul is nurtured by interactions with other people.  This is a tough one, as I feel like I should want to have time to myself, to just BE and get deep. 
I brought all this up in my mom’s group today, pegging myself as the most shallow person in the group because I don’t want to do all the “mindful” things and would rather be with others.  Tuns out, I AM being mindful – thanks Jenny, for pointing out this blog.  Not only are we having the experiences, my cup is being filled…but I’m reliving them through this blog!  Go figure!

 We made the annual trek to the pumpkin patch this morning – spur of the moment decision after seeing the weather forecast calling for a week of rain.  Guess the sunshine couldn’t last forever, but we sure were enjoying it.
Loaded up the short ones, drove to the pumpkin patch and made our picks.  I guess I should feel badly that it only took 15 minutes, but I’m really ok with it.  Got the pictures (except for Carlos’ individual, but we will recreate that out in the yard) I wanted and the kids found their keepers.  Now for the carving and seed roasting.
Today has been a whirlwind of cleaning, tidying and getting ready to put all of the Halloween decorations out.  Love this holiday!

Dee and I had to leave Levi and Carlos’ soccer game early to volunteer up at the Island School Carnival and of course, got a call from Carlos after the game telling me how he had scored his first goal of the season.  I can’t believe I missed it! 
Yesterday, the coach emailed me with this video clip….made my day!!!!

Erin and her buddy Bridget

 We LOVE the Island School Carnival.  Great day of family fun, seeing friends and letting the kids loose to play wholesome down home games.  Erin and Trey got their hair brilliant colors, they all ate a bunch of cupcakes and treats and came home exhausted.  Good times, can’t wait for next years!

Erin gets more cupcake from Auntie Kris

Kim perfects the Cindy Lou Who look

“sisters”

Our friend, Cayley, won the Chicken Drop (where you bet on what number the chicken will poop!)

Trey sporting some awesome hair

Erin petting the chicken…she LOVED it

Trey and his buddy, C.J. make their guesses…turns out CJ won!