ONE WHIMSICAL WOMAN: The Season for Memories

It’s funny how my love for this time of year never changes, but yet with each passing year I seem to have something occur in my life that makes me love and appreciate Autumn even more. Besides the fresh Apple Crisp, big comfy clothes, vibrant colors, new T.V shows *high on my list, and afghans (some terms should never die!), I find myself eager to see what the upcoming season has in store for me.

4 years ago, Garrie proposed to me in a quaint secluded pumpkin patch. He took me by surprise by sticking the ring inside the pumpkin, and then dropped to his knees. I was ecstatic about the proposal, and of course said YES, but the fact that he knew my adoration for the season made it 100 times more special.

And....this day 3 years ago, I was thinking life couldn’t get any better. I was a two-day old newlywed, and living in bliss. Nothing was going to take that smile off my face. I had just married my “For Certain”(and yes girls he's more than just kind-of-cute), and had just shared it all with my closest family and friends. I had a HUSBAND, which I truly loved and respected.

2 years ago was an interesting Fall. There were a lot of memories for sure, but not all were quite so blissful. I was only three months away from being a mother. I was huge, I didn’t get to enjoy a lot of my favorite fall happenings, and did I mention I was huge? However, Garrie and I were happy, excited, and anxious to meet the little man to welcome him to our family. While it was not the most comfortable Fall, Cooper is well worth any memories I can get.

It was only 1 year ago that yet added another unbelievable seasonal memory to my book. Cooper was about 8 months old at the start of the chilly season, and this was a perfect age for me to introduce my love of this special time to him. Orchards, brisk walks, precious Halloween costumes, snuggling on the couch, and enjoying the lazy days. I mean come on, isn't he the cutest little bear you have ever seen?

This year has already began to show promise for some great memories.

My parents met us at the Binder Park Zoo on a perfect fall day. It was a great day, and Cooper loved seeing all of the animals. I think his favorite part was feeding the giraffes. One monkey caught his attention, and he finally mimicked "what a monkey says" (I have been working on that one for a long time). I would definitely recommend this park if you have not been.
We also celebrated our wedding anniversary in style and had a wonderful night out just the two of us. One thing I have learned, is that you must have just mommy and daddy time. It will benefit not only your marriage, but your kid will learn quickly to trust others. FYI though......this does mean chalking up $70.00 for a babysitter. Yep this is the going rate on the streets.
The decoration's are up.
I'm pretty sure we have already wore out our welcome at the local orchard, and our window sill can barely hold anymore tiny pumpkins, because Cooper just insists I buy him one every time we go.

I'm certain the remaining of Fall will not disappoint. We are getting ready to celebrate a close friends wedding, I will be spending a lot of time with my family and friends, and I am a little afraid to admit this, but what I am most excited about this year is that that Cooper will be old enough to appreciate Jumping in the leaves!