Amazing Apples

So this is actually two posts in one. We'll start with:
Amazing

When Julia was born I felt that there was this dramatic shift in my life. I'm sure that all mothers feel this way at the birth of their first child. Suddenly this child is born and becomes the center of your universe. It is no longer about you but it is ALL about that baby. It's survival is completely put on your shoulders. It is an overwhelming and claustrophobic feeling that is difficult to even put into words. I must say motherhood is truly the most fulfilling and rewarding thing I have ever done but it is hard not to lose a bit of yourself through the process. I think it's safe to say that all moms' greatest struggle in life is finding that balance of giving everything to your children but still cultivating your individuality and having achievements of your own. I am just constantly impressed by the mothers around me and how they have been able be incredible mothers but still do something pretty incredible themselves.
Well today I must celebrate a mom/sister in law/friend. Natalie is just the most down to earth, funny, great person that is a fantastic wife and a mom to an adorable little boy and found time to do something extraordinary. She has published a book! She is the most unpretentious person I know and acts like she just weeded the garden rather than have a book in a hardcover. I know that it was hours and hours of writing and more hours of editing and then sending to different publishing companies and knowing they were reading those words that meant so much to her. Of course this all happened when her little boy was very little and her husband was starting med school. I am just so proud her accomplishment and I am so excited to read her book.

Congratulations Natalie!!

Here's her blog
And here's a link for the book
And now the second part of the post....

We have been apple picking at the same place, same time of year for three years. This year made me a little sad as we were walking through the orchards telling Bryan that we potentially only have one more fall here. I can't believe how time slips through your fingers.

So for nostalgia's sake this was Julia her first apple picking trip September of '07.

This was Audrey on her first apple picking trip September '08.
And here we are September '10 and they are just getting bigger...no matter how many times I tell them to cut it out.

Julia took a picture of Bryan and me. Can you tell?
Bryan and his girls. He's too good to us.
I look old in this picture. Time is slipping away from me too gosh dangit. Dang crow's feet!
Julia's pride and joy was this giant apple. And what in the heck is she wearing around her neck? Why do I not filter this stuff before I start taking pictures? Is it a monkey?
We went to the tent to purchase apple butter and apple salsa...yumm. the girls found this giant chair and pretty much hogged it the entire time. They have no shame even if the other kids want to sit on it. No shame at all.
We went to this beautiful river trail after the apple picking where...
Audrey kissed the frog, who thankfully did not turn into a prince, went home and took a nap and lived happily the rest of the night because our Buckeyes won.