happenings

Paul is awesome. He leaves for work in the morning when I'm not even out of bed yet but never fails to brave my morning breath for a goodbye kiss. He makes me laugh, consistently and unexpectedly. He eats Halloween candy with me. He does things he doesn't even want to do because (a) I want him to, (b) the kids want him to, or (c) he's just an all-around good guy. He's patient with the kids even (especially) when I'm not. His only flaw that I've found is that he cautiously got his hopes up with Aggie football this season (he should've known better). Contrary to cultural norms, he broke out of his everyday disguise this Halloween to show his true self: Super Dad, complete with golden metallic cape and truth-proclaiming hat.

Snow is awesome. We got a little bit each morning for a few days in a row this past weekend, which was just perfect. My favorite snow attire continues to be Carson's authentic mystery-fur Latvian shapka. Charlie joined in the chilly fun for a bit (leash-free in the front yard? a rarity) but was banned to the living room when he wouldn't leave the neighbor dogs alone.

Layla put herself in charge of F.H.E. treats this week. Under her direction, apple turkeys with sour-skittle eyes were constructed. Lays took her own instructions very seriously and made an adorable turkey with lovely full mallow plumage. Carson's ended up looking like Sputnik, while Addie saw the whole exercise as a contest to see how fast and furious she could stuff marshmallows into her mouth. Victory all around.

I'm nearly 17 weeks along in expecting our 4th kid, so things around here have been pretty back-to-the-basics (translation: I haven't moved from the couch much) for the last little while. I've been often amazed by how well my kids have gotten along "without" me. The pic below of artist Layla, drawing serenely on the couch, is one of my favorites. To me, it epitomizes happy childhood times when one can find a comfy spot and spend hours in peaceful independent bliss. Which she did.

Happy fall-turning-winter, everybody.