Fall Time in Missouri

"Nature" is what we see—
The Hill—the Afternoon—
Squirrel—Eclipse—the Bumble bee—
Nay—Nature is Heaven—
Nature is what we hear—
The Bobolink—the Sea—
Thunder—the Cricket—
Nay—Nature is Harmony—
Nature is what we know—
Yet have no art to say—
So impotent Our Wisdom is
To her Simplicity."
~Emily Dickinson

One of the great things about living where we do is the COUNTRY!

Our house (actually it is more like a cottage) sits on 8 acres. To the south of our home is the pond. To the west is a huge corn field. Turning east is acres of woods leading up a hill. If you go north , you hit the creek. My family loves to explore the many areas surrounding our house. Nature and wildlife abound. From the deer that walks by our house, to the heron that fishes our pond. There are creatures and plants of all shape and form right out my front door. Some of the animals that I have encountered by just literally opening up my front door include rabbits, deer, snakes, groundhogs, and coyotes.

The woods provide endless hours of exploration for the kids. Our neighbors own over 60 acres, and we have access to most of the land. The woods leading up the hill is full of trails. The kids like to go quading on the trails. Our neighbors are moving their horses over soon. They want my husband to teach their daughter how to ride. He was raised on a ranch, and is proficient in riding. We will have access to the horses when they come over. Burt keeps threatening to get our own horse, but if we end up moving back to South Dakota he doesn't want to transport a horse. I guess it will be neat to have our neighbor's horses to ride. Actually, it might be better, all the fun without any of the expense or work! Can't wait until Mustang and Portia move over here.

Brendan and McKenna like to go on nature walks. Brendan likes to pick out walking sticks. This one might be a little too big.

His favorite thing to do down at the creek is to pitch rocks. The bigger the splash, the greater sense of satisfaction he gets.

Lilly is already 6 months. I can't believe how much time has gone, since we brought her home. She really is the sweetest pup. So good with the kids. Boston terriers really are the best dogs with kids. If you are looking for a small indoor dog for kids, you can't go wrong with a Boston. Lilly loves to go trailing with the kids. Sticking her nose into everything.

Lilly looks so stylish in her new dress.

McKenna's favorite thing to do at the creek is to find rocks. She is a rock hound.

She likes to find round rocks, which she uses in our ceremonies. The creek provides many rocks.

She also likes to pick wild flowers.

She managed to convince her brother that her flowers were mistletoe, and he owed her a kiss.

Fall here in Missouri is just truly beautiful. It is my favorite time of year, and I feel truly blessed.