Ruffles and paint.....

This past weekend we visited my sister in St. Louis and did we have a blast.  If you are ever around that area you need to take advantage of all the free things the city has to offer.  Every time we go we have to hit the zoo.  I love it because there is no expectations going in.  When things are free well if the kids are cranky we leave.  It isn't like we just paid $40 to get in and darn it we are getting our money worth even if we are totally miserable...lol.

Well the day was awesome.  Everyone was happy and we had a blast.  We also let the kids do some face painting (thanks Papa!).  Ana didn't get her face painted but she was too cute to not put in!

Then we headed back to to my sister, Joni, and brother-in-law, Brett's, house.  The kids spent the next 2 days raking leaves and either jumping in them or if you are talking about Nathan then it would be riding his bike down the hill into the leaves ;-).  They just LOVE spending time in St. Louis and so do we!!  I keep asking Ben if we can buy the house across the street that is for sale but he has yet to agree...lol.

While the boys and the kids had fun outside, the girls were inside sewing!  My mom has been amazing at helping teach us all the ins and outs of sewing.  I love sharing this with her.  Not only is something we all love but mom is an awesome teacher and can make anything you ask for!

Both Joni and I made table runners for Christmas and I made a quilt for Ana's toddler bed to match the girl's room and I also made Joni's birthday gift.  It turned out awesome.  Tedious but so worth it.  I found the tutorial here.  I'm sure more are in my future..... there are pleats or ruffles all the way around.

I can't say enough how much we love spending time with Joni, Brett and my parents.  It is such a blessing that we all enjoy getting together and have no problem traveling to see each other. 

Hope everyone is enjoying family and friends.  There will be a day when you only have memories left so hold on and cherish every moment you have together!!!