Blessed Fall

 Last year I missed out on Fall due to a large belly and an unexpected life changing week and a half away with Josh. This year we are trying to live up every moment before the doom, gloom, and cold of winter arrive. We hit the park almost everyday and are utilizing the sand box to it's full potential. The sand level inside continues to mysteriously sink lower and lower. My vacuum has found quite a large amount of the missing sand despite my best brush and shake house entry protocol.  The boys are both growing up too fast. Ian now likes to actually swing, not just sit in it and rock. Tate now claims that regular swings are for the belly and are not to be used any other way.

 Once again that right leg.

 So adorable in overalls... I'm just so sad every time I get out my phone to take a picture he comes running. Denying him his phone time is the cause of 75% of his discontentment in life.

 Josh and Emily share a birthday so on Sunday we had a joint birthday BBQ bash and enjoy the weather. I made a pinata with a side for each of them. Tate sat beside me while I made it cutting paper on the floor and laughing about how funny it was to make a mess. He is improving with the broom daily because mess making is too much fun.

 Notice in the first picture how Tate is holding the bat. Baseball lessons are commencing this week. He has a lot to learn and no real interest. I think the candy at the end of the pinata was a good incentive to learn to hit a little harder in the future. Sugar is an amazing motivator.

 The post pinata pillage was a little scary for Tate. I guess the first time is always the learning curve.
He had some friends watch out for him and fill a bag.

 Blowing out the brownies in true Browning fashion. We may make that the birthday tradition at our house. SO DELICIOUS!!

 Tate and Emily... The whole night Tate asked Emily for help with this and that and was always saving her a seat. We are so grateful for our Iowa family to celebrate with!