Fall pics

Our almost one-year-old. I can hardly believe we will be celebrating his birthday this weekend. 

We are saying good-bye to some new friends from the lower Michigan area. I wish them all the best as they head back to their previous home!

What a bunch of ND cuties, huh?

ND Girls Weekend

The last time the ladies had one of these was two years ago, and I was just shy enough not to go on the trip. I've been regretting it ever since, and we finally planned another. What a blast!!

We decided on Billings, MT because it is fairly close (4 hours), there is more shopping there than Bismarck, and there was a Color Me Rad 5K happening there this past weekend. We did the run on Saturday morning (after staying up WAY too late the night before). The run was so much fun; clouds of color everywhere. Hop on over to Clare's blog for more pictures of the actual run.

Shopping, food, and lots and lots of visiting completed the weekend.

Lorina, Clare, Margaret, Alanna (Williston), Jessica, Kath (W), and Lori

At Red Robin for a late dinner

And more food- Panda Express before heading home on Sunday

Each and every person commented on how truly fun the weekend was. I agree. We really solidified our friendships, and they feel even more like the "family" they are- we are all on this ND adventure together. I cannot wait until next time!

P.S. Maybe you noticed, maybe not, but Mark and I are having another baby in February. He or she really enjoyed the weekend too, kicking and rolling anytime I was still. :)

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!