Where do all the leaves come from?

So why is it that the only tree in my back yard is a huge pine tree and yet when I looked out to my backyard there was a yard full of leaves? It just doesn't seem fair that I should be raking up leaves as well as picking up pine cones all the time! I do have to say that it was a nice way to do some cardio this morning by raking up those leaves. I love how there are always more leaves than it looks like! I filled up my yard debris can and there are still more. One thing I kept thinking of was how much I love the whole autumn season, especially living in Oregon. We have the best seasons ever! I would be so sad to live somewhere and not have that. I guess I don't like that we have almost no sunlight hours now, but in those few hours of light my view is of a beautiful place.

I am finally getting over this stupid cold! I know that we are supposed to share, but in the future if everyone could just keep their little viruses to themselves I would really appreciate it. :) Andrew told me that there are some cultures in the world where a mother will suck the snot out of their children's noses if they are congested. GROSS! I still don't know that I believe him. I told him that no matter how much I love him or our future children that will never be something that I am willing to do. Those babies can puke, poop, and pee on me all they want to but this mouth will not ever be close to sucking snot! Isn't that what that little blue sucker thing is for anyways? All you moms out there, think about that one...

So, Thanksgiving is just around the corner and my sister-in-law had a little get together at her house and we made "Thanksgiving Blessing Mix". I would be selfish if I didn't share the recipe with all of you out there in blogger land.

Bugles: Shaped like a cornucopia or Horn of Plenty, a symbol of our nations abundance.

Pretzels: Arms folded in prayer and thanksgiving, a freedom sought by those who founded our country.

Candy Corn: The colors of maize, the sacrifices of the pilgrims' first winter. Food was so scarce that settlers survived on just a few kernels of corn a day.

Nuts or Seeds: Promise of a future harvest, one we will reap only if seeds are planted and tended with diligence.

Dried fruits: Harvest gifts from our bountiful land.

M&M's: Memories of those who came before us to lead us into a blessed future.

It is so delicious! I made up a bunch and sent it over to Andrew's unit. Make a batch today and share it with your family and friends--enjoy!