City Park | Sakura

It was in the 30°s yesterday in our small Louisiana town. So we went wandering around the City Park and murky Bayou. So awesome that I got to walk around with my lovey Izz by my side in my sling.  Normally, when it's around 95° (the norm for LA) during the summer, we're trying to find ways to stay cool rather than take a hot and humid walk in the park. Today the park was pretty much empty, everyone was inside keeping warm, but not us; this is when we deside to take a long walk. Even though it was a bit too melancholy out, to us, this is when it's most beautiful. When you can actually enjoy being outside in Sportsman's Paradise, rather than getting eaten by mosquitos or sweating from the 70° weather just because the humidity is 80%. Don't let that last sentence fool you, I do love LA, just not its bipolar weather. Thank you to my husband for taking these. Sorry to freeze your hands off. Muah! Sakura Bloom ♥ 

Farewell | November

November was an eventful month. Israel turned 7 months. The weather took a sharp turn, which meant more time spent in our hammock outside. And we love our hammock! 

The leaves from our big oak tree in the front yard started to fall out more, covering our hangout spot, so Israel was quite excited about something new he could fit into his mouth. And I was excited to finally be putting on some of his cute winter attire. Love this cowl!

Also, my animated Izz said his first word, 'dada'. Whoop-de-do, now it's 'mama's turn. Only kidding! It was a memorable moment for our books. 

November marks 1 month that Israel has been overly clingy. This never ending reign of terror (or so it seems) all started on his 6 month birthday. "Mom left the room? She's never coming back!" *sob* "Mom let someone else hold me? She's never going to take me back!" *sob* "Mom isn't laying by me? I'll be alone forever!" *sob*

I must admit, it's adorable how he wants his momma most of the time, but sometimes I could pull my hair out. I need some space; some me time. But, like I said, it has it's perks... :) 

My beautiful niece, Blakely Rose, had her 1st birthday in November, also. It was an adorable party full of mason jar salads, pink cupcakes, carnival caramel popcorn, a pink rose cake, and complete with a ball pit for all the babes. I'm so glad my family is so creative and crafty! She had cards out with a note instructing people to write a note or a piece of advice for Blakely to read on her 18th birthday. ♥

Last, but most definitely not least, November brought Thanksgiving. We went a few miles to my Aunt and Uncles for an afternoon lunch to celebrate with my mother's side of the family. A few hours later we drove 45 miles west to celebrate Thanksgiving with my husband's boisterous family. Then, to conclude our Thanksgiving day, we drove 56 miles east to celebrate with my Dad's side. I feel most connected with them. My two cousins and I were all very close in age and grew up together. I have so many great memories with them, from when Brooke ate the dreaded "yellow snow" in Tennessee, to when we put on a grand Christmas play for our parents. This is cliché, but I am so very thankful for my family and the marvelous memories we've all created. I can't wait to watch Israel do the same with his cousins.