Battle Creek Falls

Every time I take the boys on this hike, I wonder why I don't go more often. Seriously, the beauty is amazing. Why don't I go more often?

We were lucky to have another homeschool family join us for the journey (I get so nervous hiking alone), and it was super fun to get to know them. She was sweet enough to take a picture of the boys and I together. I seriously wonder what this hike is like in the winter. I think this year we will try it. I imagine it's just as stunning as it was today.

Idaho Falls

I have a cousin that recently moved to Idaho Falls. His wife is fabulous and I feel like we would make super awesome neighbors. One of my New Year's Goals was to make it up to Idaho for a visit. We finally made it there this past weekend.

Idaho Falls is not an amazing destination spot, but it was wonderful just to spend time away from the house in a different city (and state)! I got to attend a temple session, we went to 2 museums, did more shopping then was good for our wallet, and ate out. In other words = Glorious.

The hotel we stayed in was one of those extended hotel places. I was amazed with the size of the room. Two queens, plus a fold out couch. It also had a dishwasher, huge freezer/fridge, microwave, and dishes (even a colander and a casserole dish). If we ever go back we are staying there again. I loved it.

We also made it to the famous Reed's Dairy for a grilled cheese sandwich and ice-cream. It was fun to see the working farm in back of the building. Those Idaho Farmers know how to do it and make it super tasty too. 

Thomas Family Halloween Party

We host an annual Thomas side Halloween Party. This time, I decided to really dress up. I worked on this costume for a few weeks, and I think it turned out perfect. I ordered the dress from Walmart, but of course, it was made in China. So.....it wasn't long enough for a 5'7" American lady. I fixed it by whipping together a very quick underskirt made of tulle.

Then, I knew I wanted to buy some high heels (I don't own a single pair), but I didn't want to spend much money. We got lucky and the day the boys and I went they had this Size 11 Wide pair for only $8. They will forever be in my closet now.

Peter was going to be Professor Quirrel from Harry Potter, but once we got out the costume box from the shed he decided that he wanted to be Jack Sparrow instead. You can't tell from this picture, but he cut his hair to accommodate your ability to see the scar on his forehead. I still haven't decided what to do about fixing it. It looks fine as long as he has gel in it, but he doesn't often let me add gel to his hair.

Luke was easy, as always. He wanted to be a skeleton. I already had the bones and the sweat suit. The only problem is that the stitches come apart really fast with all his moving/dancing/jumping around. Oh well, we just have to make it through Halloween night.

We had a simple dinner and then mostly chatted the night away. For some reason, we didn't plan to do as many things as we have in the past. I guess it's what we all needed because everyone had a marvelous time regardless.

Pumpkin Patch

The day after we went to Cornbelly's we went to a new pumpkin patch in Spanish Fork. Ironically, it is just down the street from a homeschool family we grew up with. This farm/patch was so awesome! They are a working farm and this year they just started inviting families to come and have fun. 

We were the very first people at the patch this morning. They told us that their baby calves needed to be fed their daily bottles. The boys didn't really want to, but I strongly encouraged them to. It's not every day you get such a unique experience. Both boys said it was super hard to keep the calves from sucking the bottles out of their hand.

The farm also had these fabulous swings that were hooked up to one of those machines that is used to walk horses. At first, Luke was terrified of the tire swing because they are a little tricky to get onto. But, he finally mustered up his courage and had a blast. I think he was on that thing for 20 minutes.

They also had this giant slide made out of a big pipe. At the end it dumps you into a big pile of corn. These slides are always a huge hit with the boys. Actually, pretty much every kid is thrilled with them.

They also had the typical huge pile of corn to play in. This one they had dumped in coins. The boys really wanted to find money, but after searching and searching they got discourage and quit. Even I tried to find some - to no avail.

On a whim I asked someone to take a picture of all us that went (my awesome homeschool neighbor/amazing friend). I think it turned out so fabulous. My boys are wearing their normal expressions anytime they know a camera is going to be pointed in their general direction. My friend and I have had many a laugh over this pictures.

Another highlight of this place is the real wagon rides. No tractors pulling the wagon here. These were huge draft horses. At least I think that's the kind they are. Anyway, they were huge and excited to be pulling the first wagon ride of people for the day.

It was such a fun morning to go and I'm sure we will be going again in the future. It's always fun to find new places to go to, especially ones that are located in such a picturesque part of Spanish Fork.

Cornbelly's 2017

We, once again, had the chance to go up to Thanksgiving Point for a homeschool field trip. This is our 3rd year going. It was a whole lot bigger this year. Which was awesome! We were able to take one of our friends in the neighborhood, which was so much fun.

Luke's favorite activity is the big jumping pillow and the water duck races. I'm not sure what Peter's favorite place was. He and Talmadge (another homeschool neighbor friend) played a really long time in the basketball area. It was the perfect fall day to go too.

Conference recap

Conference was so amazing this year! This particular talk was my absolute favorite.

Since the boys were away camping with the Thomas side, I spent the weekend watching conference alone. It gave me a chance to also put up all our Halloween decorations. It was a fun weekend had by all.