Tate Farms

We went to Tate Farms (one of our FAVORITE places).  We picked pumpkins, went on a hay ride, worked our way through a maze, pet some barn animals, and spent hours swimming in corn cribs.  We had fun spending the day together, and plan on going again later this week.  Many, many more pictures to come!

Cotton

I love this time of year.  Although these beautiful little blossoms leave us sniffling, coughing, and scratching our eyes, I find their presence so comforting.  Fields bathed in white, clumps of soft cotton laying by the roadside weaving trails to the local gins, and fields freckled by gigantic blocks of freshly picked cotton are home to me.  I find even the slightest consistency so comforting.  This life can be fraught with mystery and uncertainty, and the predictability of harvest adds a certain cadence to the chaos. 

Family Pics

I've had some very bizarre health issues lately. It's been quite overwhelming and a little terrifying at times.  We spent a few days in the hospital, and I'm now resting at home with a whole host of doctors appointments to look forward to until we get some more definite answers.  In the midst of the chaos I have found myself lost in gratitude.  I have an amazing man that loves me and will stand beside me no matter where life's journey takes me.  He found help for me, stayed by my side for four days straight (yes he desperately needed a bath & some clean clothes, but even his smelliness brought me comfort), and he made me smile when my outlook was bleak.  I have two beautiful children.  My little family is bound by love and giggles, adventure and struggle, joy and loss, hope and experience.  I appreciate every moment I spend with them, and these family pictures were a perfect way to celebrate our friendship.

Birmingham Zoo