for my dream car

Everyone should get the chance to drive their dream car at least once in their life. I was lucky enough to drive mine for over two years. We had a good long run together, but it is time for her to retire to Georgia. She's off to be displayed at one of the largest after market Jeep parts manufacturing companies, or something like that. They said we could even come visit her if we want to! (Which, we totally might do someday, if we ever find ourselves in Georgia.)

I am thankful that I had two good years with her, but I am even more thankful to know that things (even the most beautiful dream cars) don't really bring lasting happiness. And thankfully, I have plenty of the stuff that does.

into the sunset

I'll be honest. I was sort of tempted to forget the kids and use this photo for our Christmas card. Ha! Can you believe that Mike took this with his iPhone? Now at least we have glorious photographic evidence that we once owned the most beautiful car ever made. You know, in case it someday spontaneously bursts into flames. (Which could totally happen, I think. I subconsciously smell for smoke every time I drive it.)

Oh Arizona, you own sunsets. And Grand Wagoneer, you own my heart.

into the desert

We loaded up the Wagoneer on Saturday for a little sunset photo shoot. Just us, the big Arizona desert, and a tripod. The kids were so fantastic that we went out for dinner and ice cream afterwards to celebrate. What can sometimes be hectic and stressful ended up being such a pleasant experience. There were happy times crowded together in that car all the way home, I tell you.

The sky started out golden yellow and ended in blazing pink glory. It was completely stunning.

I think we ended up with a few Christmas card-worthy shots, but if not,

this instagram would do in a pinch.

I never thought I was a car person.

But then the other day I found myself taking the long way to the grocery store just so I could drive my Wagoneer a little bit more. (The grocery store is only a quarter of a mile from my house, so I had to be creative.) The thrill hasn't worn off yet. I know it is just a car, but it really does make me happy every time I see it. And is it crazy that it motivates me to get dressed in the morning? This car just deserves better than sloppy pajamas or mom sweats.

I'd love to hear what your dream car is. Are you lucky enough to drive it?

date night and french toast

Wowee, Mike and I are on a roll. We've gone on a date for the past two weekends straight. I'm so proud of us. Getting everything and everyone ready for bed and a babysitter before we leave can be stressful, but it is so worth it! Saturday night we went to dinner and the apple store. I love eating food that I did not prepare. Without kids. It was so nice and easy and relaxing. 

On Sunday morning we found more eggs in the nesting boxes than we've seen all summer. That totally called for french toast. So we mixed the eggs with some milk and cinnamon and a day old loaf of bread, and we were in breakfast business. The kids were so stuffed that they didn't even beg for one of Elliot's snacks during church. I don't remember the last time that happened.

How was your weekend? I hope it was nice wherever you are. It's still too hot here. Blah.

p.s. Our favorite feature of the Grand Wagoneer is the cozy date night bench seating. It's one of the best things we've done for our marriage.

day thirteen: neutral with a pop of color

Today is my birthday. I am 32. I'm totally ok with getting older. I like what I have accomplished up to this point in my life, so my age is something I'm sort of proud to claim. Mike is taking me out for a fancy date tonight. He even booked the babysitter all by himself. I can't wait. I sure love that guy.

p.s. I kind of thought I was getting an electric griddle for my birthday, but instead, Mike surprised me with this. Can you believe it?