We have a politician in the making. Milah enjoyed her duties as secretary last year and threw her hat in the ring for President of the Student Council this year. Maren and I are the campaign managers and have been cranking out propoganda on a shoestring budget. As always, campaign contributions will be gladly accepted to support our candidate;) 
We moved into our home 8 years ago and since that time, we have been waging a battle with these gates. (Oh, there was a battle when we were contructing them too, but that's another story). The gates were installed to keep baby Maren safe and they are quite handy to have when other little ones visit. HOWEVER, they were forever open. If one dared trek thru the house in the dark, you were certain to catch a hip bone, a toe or an elbow on these blasted gates, causing you to mutter a disgruntled snort. One trip to the hardware store for 2 springs and the problem is solved. (Insert DUH, here) Sounds crazy, but we have all enjoyed the simple improvement.
It's time to break out the soup recipes, stock up on hot chocolate and (my favorite part) - find the flannel sheets. This morning after awaking to a chilly bedroom, I decided today was the day. After placing those cozy sheets under a fresh fluffy duvet, I had an overwhelming urge to climb back in to bed. I did resist, but have to admit that I have been waiting to go to bed all day. Sounds slightly mental - I know. By the way - aren't duvets a pain to stuff in the covers - I ALWAYS get them turned around and end up sticking my head in to see where I've gone awry.
Apparently Maren has taken to screaming at the soccer ball - a new strategy
Things are look'n festivally Fall-ish for our sale this weekend. The Rhinestone -N- Rust Barn Sale features a collection of vintage treasures and garage sale items tastefully displayed and reasonably priced. Enjoy a cup of hot cider as you browse and we will reward you with a free gift.
Think of it as an escape from football recaps and hunting stories.
