Almost Two

In a little over a week Chloe will be 2. Two! How did that happen? It seems like just yesterday we were adjusting to life as a family of three and now I can't imagine life without her. 

I feel so incredibly blessed to have this little girl in my life. I know it sounds so cliche, but in the past few months I've been reminded that bringing a baby into this world really is a miracle. The fact that 2 years ago she was in my belly, waiting to meet us and now she is a toddler who walks, runs, talks and loves exploring everything is something not to take for granted, and I don't. 

So much has changed this past year. A years ago she had just started crawling. Now she is a full blown toddler, into everything and full of personality.

That smile! Oh, I just love it. I love that I get to spend my days with her. It's not always easy but it's so worth it. I know this post has been really mushy, but when her birthday comes it makes me feel sentimental. The day she came into this world was rough, hard and long, but I would do it all over again to have this sweetheart in my life.

I love you so much Chloe Mae. Can't wait to celebrate your 2nd birthday soon!

Lexington BBQ Festival

Saturday we decided to head down to Lexington (about 25 minutes south) for their Barbecue Festival.    We took a trolley to the festival since there wasn't much parking available. Chloe wasn't too impressed with the trolley ride, oh well. 

She did love the barbecue though, and the juggler. They had a cute show just for children, Chloe sat for a little over 5 minutes and watched. Pretty good for an almost 2 year old.

It was fun to see uptown Lexington, and of course eat their famous barbecue. Glad we got to do something fun and outside before it gets too cold. 

Richmond

We got back from a long weekend in Richmond yesterday.

We went up Thursday for my mom's birthday, and took her out to dinner to celebrate.

These were the only pictures I managed to get the whole weekend. What can I say? We were busy!

Friday Chloe got to see her other grandparents. Friday night was girl's night. Saturday morning was my long run with friends (I got to run the first and last part of the course) then off to see Ellie cheer. Saturday night we went out to dinner with my mom and some of her friends and I had the best pumpkin pasta. I made it back in time Sunday for a dinner with running buddies. Whew! We are getting back into the swing of things here, but thankful for such a great time in Richmond with family and friends. 

Pumpkin Patch 2014

Yesterday we visited the local pumpkin patch with some new friends from church. 

Chloe was all about the baby. I had to keep reminding her she was a real one, not a baby doll. This girl wanted to rock that baby. 

We went to Chick-Fil-A for lunch and Chloe loved the play area. This was the first time she really climbed up into it. The car was her favorite part. 

On a different note I'm gearing up for a big 12 miler tomorrow morning. Got the route and lots of hills, my first reaction was "I better PR in Richmond!" Haha, but I am getting stronger, so it'll be worth it right? 

October

Happy October! 

I know I'm a little late, but I'm really excited about it being October. Fall has come to western North Carolina and I love being able to wear my scarves, hoodies and boots. The leaves are changing which means when I go for my long runs it's just gorgeous. We got to run the "Reynolda Mile" Saturday morning, between Reynolda House and Graylyn and the trees are so pretty. That brings me to another favorite of fall, Marathon Season! Training for my half is in full gear and I'm loving it. I'm where I should be for my target goal time too!

Because every 10 mile run needs a stop in the pumpkin patch for a team selfie right?

Besides from my long run this weekend we took Chloe to Tanglewood, a really big park here in Winston, and enjoyed the gorgeous weather.

They had a little pumpkin patch, so we snapped some pictures. 

Tonight we went over to a neighbor's for a bonfire and dinner. 

Chloe insisted on carrying the graham crackers for the smores over. 

Hope y'all are enjoying October too!!