today...

• the rain has begun... and according to the ten day forecast... there is no end in sight.
• we built our first fire today... it is cozy, warm, and wonderful... replacement sunshine on a gloomy day.
• i'm having great fun organizing new activities and projects for "big kids"... and am actually able to leave them out and available without a complete disaster! so many possibilities! 
• apples are winding down. there are still more to be picked, but i will just have to wait and see what is left after these storms pass through. i have three boxes that are ready and i am going to sauce now, and the rest will get juiced with the next break in the weather.
• sports are also winding down. this is the last week of practices and this weekend brings the last games of the season. i must admit i had SO much more fun than i thought i would (especially with the football). i have never had an inkling of interest in football... EVER... but... everything changes when your kid is out there doing great and having a blast with his friends. he says he may play soccer next year... and i say i will support him whatever he chooses... but could we please take this next season off? he agreed (thank goodness).
• all sorts of fun "indoor" activities piling up on my desk... just waiting for this weather.... aaahhhh... i am so ready to settle in.