We are still alive!

I would apologize for my lack of updates, but truth is I'm not sorry. I'm exhausted. The month of October (and the last two weeks) were my marathon. And just like a real marathon it left me feeling proud that I finished it but VERY VERY tired. We had visitors, we celebrated birthdays (4 of them!), we caught the flu (all three of us), I tried to host a baby shower, we cleaned the porch, we had another set of visitors, and then I crashed.

It has been 6 weeks since I have followed by daily routine, 6 weeks since I have worked out properly. Six weeks since I have felt like me.

Today is a much needed down day and I look forward to getting back to my routine tomorrow.

Also, SOMEONE TURNS SIX MONTHS OLD TOMORROW! And we WILL BE CELEBRATING!
Stay tuned!

Here Comes the Bride!

One of the best benefits of our growing school is new blood. This year we hired 6 new teachers and I can honestly say I love working with each of them. 

Brianna, our new 7th grade team member is getting married THIS SATURDAY! 

And as my school's part-time party planner, aka faculty social chair, I was asked to put together a small bridal shower. 

We celebrated her BIG DAY with cupcakes, punch, and mad-libs.

 Congratulations Mrs. Shaner! 

Kicking off a month of THANKS!

Each November, when holiday preparations start to take over my life, and my stress level creeps a little higher. I like to take time to remember THANKSGIVNG. And why we take time on the 4th Thursday of the month to give thanks.

So I ask, What are you thankful for?

Happy Birthday Grandmother!

October 31st is not Halloween in my house. 

We still buy candy, yes, we wear our orange and black, and we may carve a pumpkin or too...
but it isn't Halloween.

 October 31st is Grandmother's Birthday!

And tonight we celebrated with cheesecake and candles.

And we thanked God for giving us another year together.

Happy Halloween from Pippy & the Pups!

Currently working on my Plans B, C, and D

My irons are in the fire. 

As much as I say I like things to be calm and restful, to stay the same, and just enjoy the simplicity of life. The real truth is I am always looking at the mountain wondering what is on the other side. 

Three cheers for trying something new and embracing the scary.

Pip Pip Hooray!

Family is forever

We have had an amazing visit with Mr. R.'s parents. For us it was a chance to slow down and enjoy afternoon strolls, family dinners, homemade dessert and show off all the little things that Piper can do. Grandmom and Pop-pop Republican watched Pip for us Monday & Tuesday and they got their share of slobbery kisses, raspberries, giggles, growls, and Elmo. 

They say a mother becomes a true grandmother the day she stops noticing the things her children do because she is so enchanted with the wonderful things her grandchildren do. We never thought we would enjoy playing second fiddle so much!