Popping in!

I'm still here, really I am.

Been a very busy time here as I am sure it has been for you too! Summer is ending and everyone is scrambling to get in that last time away with the family as well as getting ready for Autumn.

School is drawing near for kiddos...that means ordering curriculum which is fun, but is time-consuming. We are really excited about what will be coming in the mail to enlarge the brains of the younger Barre's here :o)

(Aliss' birthday breakfast in bed-yes that is Ramen in the stemware-just what was ordered)

I am now the momma to TWO adult children. That sounds weird!

I lost a good friend to cancer. Went to her celebration of life ...with all of the photos of her and testimonies about her I almost expected to look over and see her sweet smile. She is dancing with Jesus now, it's just us left behind that have to get used to our days without her.

The garden is not a complete waste this summer. I shovel-turned a section (read small-er section) and have some amazing organic tomato plants thriving there. I planted them from seeds too! There coloring is so beautiful and in the morning their leaves actually sparkle. This was the first year that I have started tomato from seed. I usually buy the seedlings, but wanted to see how the organic seed would do. I am so pleased with them! I think the milk jug mini greenhouses helped tremendously.

I bought a volvo stationwagon and we are all really enjoying it. I love the gas savings!!

Getting used to not heading back to college this year after several years. Just finished up the exit loan counseling and feel a huge weight off of my shoulders. I have LOVED (!) the learning and reading books that I normally wouldn't gravitate toward, BUT there are many other areas that have gone neglected (like home organization) that NEED some immediate attention. ;o)

What are your plans as we head into Autumn? Is anyone making cider? We may be given a cider press from our sweet neighbor. I am so excited about that!

Hope your day is GREAT!
Lori