Simply Sara

I love it when I figure something out or get something right! As a mom, I swear that I lost some of my brain cells during each delivery. I was an A student (a nerd, basically) in school, but most of the time those days seem like distant memories. So when I come up with something creative and fun for Lucas to do while I'm busy cooking dinner, I always get excited. Yesterday was one of those "Ah Ha" moments. Hold up... I just realized that after all that hype, you guys are now expecting some brilliant idea that will revolutionize the lives of moms everywhere. Prepare yourself for disappointment if that's what you were thinking. Dish washing. That's my brilliant idea. (Yes, I promise I really was a nerd in school.) One of my favorite things about my rather outdated, yet wonderfully large kitchen (I have more cabinets than I can fill!) is the extra large double sink. I didn't realize just how big it really is until I washed dishes back at my Mom's house the ot...

I thought I would give a nod to the blogs that I regularly keep up with. When I get a few minutes, I like to read the thoughts of these ladies around the country. I don't know most of them, but strangely I feel somewhat connected. Weird? I'm not sure, but check them out sometime. Megret - a fantastic, informative and interesting blog written by my dear friend Meg. Check it out - you'll be inspired Seriously - a fun, light blog written by my friend Vanessa. Bring the Rain -I'm not sure how I came across this site, but I'm so glad I did. The posts are interesting and faith-inspiring. Make sure you check out the background story. The Pioneer Woman - Sometimes I feel like I'm reading a novel. The writer's life is so drastically different from mine, and that's why I like it so much! I particularly like the love story. Check out her cooking site too! Jake Beaty - This site is written by Jake - a good friend and gifted counselor at Newspring . If you'...

After reading a post on my pastor's blog , I've decided to make a list of things I'm thankful for, so here goes! 1. God's faithfulness - take a moment to ponder that the Creator loves you, always 2. My husband - I would be lost without him. He is everything to me. 3. My kids - Lucas and Ava have changed the way I see life. They make me laugh and cry more than anyone else. 4. People in my life who love me for me and inspite of me. 5. My Divas - you ladies inspire me, lift me up with I can't, and make me do things I never thought I would do (On a lighter note) 6. Mexican Cheese dip, chips and salsa - not just a pregnancy craving, but a life craving 7. Spring and Fall - a great reminder that God desires to give me abundant life 8. The internet - some days, it's the only connection I have to the outside world when I'm busy breastfeeding and potty training 9. My dishwasher What are you thankful for?

This is the year of babies in our family. My sister Melanie had her first baby Anna Katelyn on September 9th. My othersister Amy is expecting her second child, David Thomas, in December! It's an exciting time for us "Richburg girls"! Our Mom, of course, is loving her role as Grandma! I love sharing motherhood with my sisters! Anna and Ava are a little over 5 weeks apart, so they will have the joy of growing up together. I have a feeling matching outfits are in their future. :) Alyssa holding Ava for the first time. She was so careful and took it very seriously as you can see from her adorable expression!

Lucas's special day began with a birthday party at preschool. I dropped in to help serve the snack and spend a few minutes with my boy. I was so proud to see him get special attention from his teachers. I am so thankful for preschool and the social interaction he's receiving. Check out that hat! I tried to get Lucas to wear it all day, but he wasn't up for it. :)

The birthday festivities continued with a tour of our local fire department. Lucas invited Andrew to meet us there and as you can see, he was really excited to see him! After a tour the museum, the boys got a chance to sit in a new fire truck! We had just heard church bells right before this picture was taken. Lucas very seriously asked if a train was coming. This boy loves trains! We were so happy that Becky, Andrew and Emily came with us to join the fun!

The local fire department was so accomodating and friendly. Everyone should take a tour of their local fire station. We learned a lot and the boys had a blast. I think Matt enjoyed it as much as Lucas did! Andrew and Lucas have been close friends since they were tiny. I tried out the Baby Bjiorn for the first time and it was great! Ava slept the entire time! I think I will be using this alot while she is tiny.

Lucas loves chips and salsa so it was only fitting to have his birthday dinner at Moes. Mimi brought a cupcake and candles to add to the party. Mimi and Poppy joined us for dinner and brought Lucas a Tigger and Pooh balloon! We were way too tired to bathe Lucas tonight so he went to bed stained blue from his cupcake, full of sugar and really happy. It was a GREAT day!!!