a family weekend.

I simply could not contain my excitement. The autumn leaves, gracing every inch of the valley? Astonishing. The golden bales of wheat amidst countless prairie fields? Breathtaking.

But, really, there was only one thing on my mind as we drove -- seeing my family.

I love family gatherings. They're my time time of respite, while also being my time for crazy. They're when I'm at my absolute happiest, to say the least.

This weekend was honestly one of the best ones of my life. We had not one, but two gatherings -- back to back. I was in heaven.

Gathering number one was time spent with the littles, adventuring in the bush, and a bonfire so big, you couldn't see the person sitting across from you. This, of course, all ended with a celebratory firework show in the field.

Sunday, we spent the day at Meadow's house, celebrating Grampy's seventieth birthday. 

Rustically magical would be an accurate way to describe the visit. This might have something to do with the fact that they have the most beautiful log-cabin home on earth. Hey, Meadow -- can I move in, pretty please? ;)

We took timid little Alice for a walk, which pretty much made my day.

And some photographing in the pen. Henry, the burnt-orange chicken, made me giggle. Such a little model he is.

My very favourite part? A beautiful outdoor lunch, which seemed to come straight from the pages of kinfolk. 

So much laughter, and too much delicious food for my own good. And just when I thought I could never eat again -- there was cake. Pumpkin cheesecake. If you know me, you know that there is no way I could ever turn that down.

God gave me such an awesome family. I feel so blessed.

Happy birthday to the guy who makes me smile the biggest, and laugh the hardest. I love you, Grampy. 

xo,

abbey