Pickin' Pumpkins

Our attempt at a group picture. Notice anything not like the others? That would be Cort.

Pumpkin picking seems to be popular. In fact, as I have been doing a little blog stalking, I've noticed I am a little behind with my post. This seems fitting for me, since I am currently in the "catch up with everything I can" phase of the week/month/year. Ok, it is a nonstop cycle. I get behind in one thing and it pours into the next item on my list and so on. Sort of like laundry. The cycle never ends.

Cort and his cousin, Urban.

Well, I am making this one simple. Just enjoy the pictures of the kids. This is our favorite pumpkin patch because it has a small corn maze for the kids and tons of tractors to climb. We spent a couple of hours out in the sun and enjoying it all. The best part, it is all free. Well, except for the price of the pumpkins. Which seems to be way too low. But, I would never complain about that!



Notice anything odd? Like me with a baby strapped to the front of me.
No, it is not mine and yes, I was there with a few extra kids. And no, I would never make a good mom of 5. I know my own limits.

Kicking off October

The title of my post really has nothing to do with anything, but it seems everyone is talking about fall these days. I'm just trying to fit in, really, it's hard. (big sigh) But let me move on.

A scary witch, Me, Luke, and Cort (not super willing to participate, surprised?)

Yesterday, was a little overcast, but occasionally the sun would peak through, so a few friends and I went to Gardner Village to take some pictures with the witches, goblins (aka kids) and the many pumpkins. This was going to be no big deal, then, as the boys were getting dressed, I realized we did not have Halloween t-shirts. I know, it may not seem huge, but have you met my cousin Tara? We decreased our allowed get ready time and ran out the door. We now had to make a stop. Do you know most clothing stores do not open until 10am. You think I'm kidding? I know it seems impossible that a mom and her children may be out of the house before that time, but it does happen. Seriously! After a couple of frantic stops, we found Old Navy open. The boys picked out their own t-shirts (this is made more difficult by the fact that the boys now have opinions on their clothing!) and we made it to the designated spot on time. Shocking! Somehow, we missed the crowds and managed to get a few pictures. Phew! Mission accomplished

The second activity for the day was to help my brother out with his new company. Andrew and Lori have purchased a whole bunch of bounce houses that you (or anyone you know) can rent. They thought it would be fun to set a few up and let us try them out. Andrew noticed that the size of my backyard is just a tad bit bigger then the size of his backyard. So, the party was at my house. All for the family! The boys had been talking about it for a week. Cousins, neighbors, nieces, and nephews all gathered to take part. Oh, and those who were at Gardner Village ended up at the bounce house party too. Why not make a day of it?! It was a huge sacrifice for all of them. I mean, just bring something to share, and then play. What more could they want?

There was only one rule when it came to the bouncy things. Absolutely, positively, no adults, Hunh, that doesn't seem right, I mean it was at my house. So, I decided it was my party and I could do what I want. Ok, so there wasn't a rule. I probably made that part up. Did you know grown kids can go on those things, who would of thought?!

We had a blast. Thanks Andrew and Lori. Love you guys.

Happy Birthday, Cort!

Cort turns four!!!

As usual, I'm a week behind. I just realized I had only one post in September. This a little sad, considering Cort had a birthday on the 23rd. He is all of 4 years old now. And boy, does he know it.

A few recent comments from Cort.

Cort: "Mommm, Dad put my birthday cake in the fridge."

Me: "I know, isn't Dad smart."

Cort: "No, he's not smart.'

Me: Giggle, giggle, huge smile.

Cort: "Dad, come here, hurry."

Levi walks down the hall to the bathroom and finds Cort standing in front of the sink and looking in the mirror.

Cort (who can now see over the counter without standing on a stool) "Dad, look how big I'm getting, bigger than Luke."

Levi: Just grinning at the kid who thinks he is all that and a bag of chips.

So, for Cort's birthday, Levi was going to be out of town. Our dilemma was the fact that Cort had been talking about his party and especially his cake, since Luke had his party in May. With my work schedule and Levi's traveling, we weren't sure what we were going to do. Luckily, without realizing it, my Mom came through for us (again). Lori and Greg also have b-days in September, so dinner at my mom's to celebrate was planned. Being the only kid, I didn't think the other 2 would mind if I brought along a cake and presents for Cort. Neither have complained yet, so I am guessing it was ok.

We then realized what Cort really cared about was the cake. He couldn't stop talking about who was going to be on his cake. Would it be Spiderman, Lightning McQueen, Star Wars, Scooby Doo? We could only wait and see what this very cute, shaggy haired kid would pick. While I was at work, Levi carted the boys off to pick out the cake. When I walked in the door that night, the first words out of Cort's mouth, "I got Iron Man!". Who knew?!

With presents, cake, and his cousins, Cort was thrilled, and had a fabulous party. He was given a Mr. Happy t-shirt, and changed in to it before the party started. It fits him perfectly. The kid never stops smiling. He got everything Star Wars and was sooo happy. Since the purchase of Lego Star Wars for the Wii, Cort is very much a Star Wars fan.

Cort's party was on a Sunday, but his birthday was actually on the following Tuesday. I didn't want the day to go unnoticed, even though there was no big event planned. Cort, had seen a commercial for Lego Batman for the Wii, and was dying to get the game. I've started to wonder if I wanted everything I saw on TV when I was 4. Anyway, I told Cort we were going to get him one more present for his birthday.

Me: "Cort, it's your birthday today, and I'm taking you to get one more present."

Cort: "Really." Big old grin on his face.

Me: "Yep, let's go get in the car."

Cort looks down at the shirt he is wearing, "Wait, I don't have my happy shirt on, I have to have it if I'm getting a present." We find the happy shirt, and he throws it on.

Cort: "Now, I'm ready mom." Not so sure if I am.

My top 10 favorite things about Cort:

10. He has a fantastic take me as I am attitude.

9. When riding his bike, he gets going as fast as he can, and then slams on his brakes to see if he leaves a skid mark. Thank goodness for helmets.

8. He gives the most amazing hugs.

7. He idolizes his big brother and would follow him anywhere.

6. He is 100%, all boy. Dirt and all.

5. He loves to play with his cousins and friends. In fact, sometimes, it seems to be all he talks about.

4. Kisses, he gives them and lets me give them to him.

3. I have to admit, he is definitely a mama's boy and he knows how to use it.

2. With a giggle or a smile he can get himself out of most trouble. His smile is amazing.

1. He 100% loves his family. It amazes me how much you can see it in his face and his eyes. He just lights up when he sees anyone in his family. Whether it be one of us, a cousin, an aunt, an uncle, or grandparents, he loves them all unconditionally!