Did Someone Say Fashionista?

What do you get when you mix chartreuse leggings, a flowing tunic, chocolate brown boots, and a statement piece accessory?  A little fashionista of course! 

Future Designer at New York Fashion Week

Carter's Mountain

On Saturday morning, we took the girls pumpkin and apple picking at Carter's Mountain in Charlottesville.  It was a crisp Fall morning and the chilly breeze was steady at the top of the mountain.  Our first stop was for the fresh, warm apple cider doughnuts.  They were beyond delicious!  Warm, soft, with a dusting of sugar, a half dozen doughnuts were gone in no time!  Even Madilynn got to sample her first doughnut, while Reagan of course only licked hers. 

After that we picked some apples, chose our Halloween pumpkins, and enjoyed lunch outside while listening to live music.  Although it was chilly and crowded, we had a good time. 

Gorgeous views!

Yummy apple doughnuts!

Happy 8 Months!

I thought time flew with Reagan, but this is crazy!  How on earth is my Madilynn 8 months old already?  Only four more months until her first birthday--I wish I could slow down time.  But since I can't, I plan on enjoying and savoring every single second I can with my girls.  Happy 8 months, Madilynn!

Snuggles and Cuddles

Sometimes after her bath, I allow Reagan to watch a TV show in our bed.  Last night, while Reagan was doing just that, I put Madilynn down next to her.  Within a few minutes, Madilynn had cuddled up next to Reagan.  Reagan exclaimed, "She's huggin' on me, Mama!"  She was just as pleased as could be.  Then before I knew it, Madilynn had snuggled into her sister and fallen fast asleep. 

A Reagan Funny

Yesterday we were on the way home when Reagan said she had to go potty.

Me: "We're not home yet, honey.  You'll have to hold it."

Reagan: "I can't hold it, Mommy.  I'm sitting on it."

LOL!  Cracks me up every time I think about it...!

Sweet bliss.

Dear Madilynn,

Tonight you were fussy; tired but refusing to fall asleep.  So I took you into my room and laid with you in my bed.  It was dusk, so the room was cast with long shadows.  There was just enough light to make out your tiny features.

I propped myself on a couple of pillows, and you curled along my ribs with your head heavy in the crook of my elbow.  It is hard to believe that only seven short months ago you were still nestled deep in my belly. 

You quickly settled and fell into a peaceful sleep.  It was the kind of sleep that inspired the phrase, "She's sleeping like a baby."  On this very busy day sandwiched in a very busy week, I am so happy I took these few minutes to truly be with you.  Your warm weight pressed into me, leaving a mark forever on my soul.  You curled your warm hands under my chin, as I gently traced your round face.  You have my nose. 

I listened to your deep inhale and exhale, watched your eyes flutter, kissed your forehead.  I know that I will not always be able to keep you safe, unphased by the harsh realities that you will soon have to grow up in.  But I will always remember this moment in time, when it was just me and you in our little cacoon.

Sweet dreams, baby girl.  Sweet dreams.

I love you forever and always,

Mommy

Richmond Zoo

This Saturday, we decided to treat the girls to a trip to the Richmond Zoo.  It is only a fifteen minute drive, so it is a shame we have never been there.  Saturday was perfect Fall weather and we wanted to spend the morning outdoors.  Earlier this summer, we went to the Akron Zoo with my mom, my brother, and my niece Julia.  When we pulled into the Richmond Zoo, Reagan was looking for Julia, positive that she was going to show.  After the initial disappointment, everyone had a wonderful time.

It is very different from the Akron Zoo.  There are a ton of animals, but it is an older property.  And most of the animals are not more than a shabby fence and a small moat of water away.  This was also our first outing without a stroller and it was a success!  I wore Madilynn and Reagan walked the entire time.  She was so tired that she fell asleep within minutes of being in the car.  Here are a couple of pictures from our zoo adventure.

Reagan's first joke!

Last week, I went to pick up Reagan from daycare and instead I picked up a little comedian!  Here is her first joke:

Knock knock!

Who's there?

Boo!

Boo who?

(Cue Reagan laughing hysterically at the punch line she knows is coming!)

Don't cry!!!!

She repeats this over and over again, laughing right before she delivers the punch line.  Hey, maybe in 20 years I'll have front row tickets to SNL!