The excitement of the boom

There is something about living in western North Dakota. It's an optimistic, opportunistic feeling in the air. I think everyone can feel it, and almost see it sometimes.

When driving north from Dickinson through Watford City to Williston, the growth and development is amazing. In the (almost) two years that I've lived here, the landscape has changed so much. I can't help but comment on it every time.

It is exciting to be a part of this new thing. All of us new North Dakotans are experiencing it together, and I'm really enjoying it. I can't imagine living anywhere else right now. Sometimes it is hard to be away from family and an established church, but we've made our own family and church.

Many years from now, we will look back on these times and remember the oil boom. We are lucky to be a part of it.

*pics from S family camping at Lewis and Clark State Park near Williston. Barrett sure enjoyed himself, and Mark and I did too.

Title-less today, I guess

Beach day! We haven't gotten to the lake very often, but it sure is fun when we do!

 Barrett fell in a mud hole. I went to pick him up and saw his face, and I couldn't help but laugh!

 Ah, baby skin. Love it.

 Quick sisters and Mom visit. So much fun!

I got to be back in MN for the town carnival. The little photography studio where I was photographed many times was open, and we tried to get some pictures of Barrett there.

 It really didn't go well. I guess he has a very large fear of bearded men in black coats and hats. I don't blame him...

The temps this week are high, but I'm still trying to get outside a lot before winter arrives. I'm not even anxious about it coming. I'm starting to realize that I like all the seasons, and fall is a favorite!

Mom stuff

I know some people that have multiple children and make it look so easy (Joce!). How do they do it? I think one can be hard, although it's a whole heck of a lot easier now than when he was tiny.

I read this blog today, and I could totally identify with how hard it is to get out of the house some days, and the never-ending to-do list. There are always a million things I COULD be doing, but usually just one thing I want to be doing: sitting on the couch with a good book while Barrett plays contentedly on the floor nearby. Or going for a walk while the dirty dishes get stickier and the clothes get moldier.

How do you balance your kid(s) and your motherly/wifely duties and time for yourself and ... ?

Little boy, getting bigger

Life with Barrett is so much fun, and it keeps getting better, and busier!

He is crawling everywhere, and pulling up on everything. 

Mark's manly way of carrying him.

Barrett is also getting into everything, and of course, it's usually not toys that he pulls down.

What a sweet, sweet baby we have!

My mother and sister came out on a short road trip this week. It was so calming, soothing to have them (and Jocelyn) here. I didn't realize how much I've missed them.