Fall pictures, at least

Since I'm due to post Christmas pictures in about a week, I figured I better get some fall pictures up here!

But first we want to extend a horribly belated, but huge thank you to everyone who participated in CURE's September event. We were able to raise more than $3,000 in memory of Hayley (wow!), and she's actually pictured in this month's CURE Report (a welcome surprise to open the newsletter and see her smiling face!). If you didn't receive a personal email, please accept my apology - there were a few emails I didn't have (J&K - that means you!) Please know how much we appreciate your support. It's made all the more meaningful because it's been a really rough year for all our former cancer buddies, and it's more apparent than ever how desperately research is needed. At the moment, two more old friends are in the thick of difficult battles. Please keep Merrill (www.caringbridge.org/visit/merrillking) and Jack (www.caringbridge.org/visit/campjack) in your prayers. We spent lots of time in the hospital with these sweet families in 2004, and it hurts our hearts to know that they're back at it again.

As for us, its is hard to believe this December will mark five years since Hayley's home-going. It's an odd sort of milestone to reach. It seems impossible - and somehow wrong -that we could have lived without her that long. And though the pain is no longer as sharp as it once was, she is still missed every day. Reminders of her are everywhere at Christmas - happily so. Her stocking hangs with all the rest, and the angel ornaments are slowly but surely going to require their very own tree.

In spite of the inevitable ache this time of year brings, I have to admit that I feel truly joyous at Christmas for the first time in a very long time. Jacob is TOTALLY into every aspect of it. We have never laughed so hard as decorating the tree with him this year. He literally couldn't wait to do it. In fact, one morning (after putting the tree and lights up the night before), we found him with the entire bottom half of the tree covered in ornaments. Make that 2-3 branches on the right side of the tree covered in 30 ornaments! He has also assured me that there's no way he's crying on Santa's lap this year becuase he "gets it" now. We shall see!

Meanwhile, Riley is growing like a weed and is 8 months old now. She has the biggest, gummiest smile, and might just be the most ticklish baby ever. How she laughs and laughs (and loudest for Jacob, of course). She is also a force to be reckoned with. Tug-of-war with contraband items is her favorite activity! And she also seems to have an unusual fondness for eating paper. Argh!

More on all that later. For now, pictures!

First, a few stunners of Riley at 7 months from our talented friend Alisha (www.agrgallery.com).



(I love how you can see her two teeth in the big grin!)


(Neither Hayley nor Jacob ever sucked their fingers. Riley's actually a paci girl, but every now and then, she'll break out the two fingers. I was so excited to have it captured on film!)

And here are a few pics from our fun fall escapades... I promise a more detailed update soon!


Jacob, 3 1/2



Our littlest pumpkin - Riley at 7 mo.



Fun lovin'



Showing off his creation (Gingerbread house to follow!)



Check out her muscles! ; )



Sweet siblings



Superman!!



And sweet kitty!



Thanks for checking on us!

PS - Thanks to those of you that let me know about the Sphors!