4 Reasons.

 4 Reasons why I am loving September:

• Parenthood is back on for a 4th Season.  Love the Braverman's.  
• Honey Crisp Apples are in season. I am dying to buy my first bushel. 
• Boots, scarves and sweaters.
• Windows are open.  No more air conditioning running 24/7.

How about you?  What are you loving about September?

Back to School

As you know, I loved summer.

And now, I am loving the routine of back to school.  This is my first school year ever where all three girls are in school all day.  Wow.  It's kind of surreal.

When my girls were wee, I couldn't even imagine what this would look or feel like.

I can hardly put into words what I am feeling this week, but here are a few main themes:

• Shock.  How did this happen so fast?  Seriously, weren't they all just in diapers?
• Scattered.  I don't even know where to begin or what to do first.
• Breathing deeply.  Feels amazing.
• Margin.  It feels so great to have margin in my day and in my calendar.

Honestly, most of the time, I feel giddy.  Ecstatic.  It feels great.  I'm not going to lie.  I know things could change for me in an instant, but for today and for this week, I am breathing deeply and loving the month of September:)

I have to say, our girls attend a fantastic school with great kids and teachers.  That makes a big difference.  No question.

Here they are on the first day:

Here's Beth on the second day.  Honestly, she is so cute I can hardly stand it.  At moments like this, I don't ever want her to grow up.  I call this her "sporty spice" look:)

In other news, we are 4 for 4 in making school lunches the night before.  That's right, the girls are making their lunches the night before.  All I can say is that this simple change has been life altering and I can't believe we didn't do this sooner.  No tears.  No stress. No yelling.  Mornings have been redeemed.

How has the first week of school been for you?

September Links

Every parent will want to read this post.  Especially if you're sending little ones (or big ones) off to school.

I can't wait to try this recipe.  (thanks Christa!)

Shauna Niequist's newest book can be pre-ordered.  Yay!

I scored big points by making my husband these last week.   They're sooooo easy. They were super delicious, but next time I think I will try these ones ( because they have even more cocoa in them and that matters around here).

Check out these chore charts.  Do you use chore charts in your home?  I just downloaded #8 to use in our home this fall.   Now, I just need to purchase some fun stickers:)

Lastly, if you are thinking about giving a kiva loan, check out this opportunity.

Happy Labour Day weekend, friends!

p.s.  This gluten free blog is on my reading list for fall.  I so need to find gluten free recipes that I can bake for my family.  Since I have gone gluten free, I have deprived them of all things baking.  That needs to change this fall.  Thanks Vicky for passing on this blog to me :)