Friday Faves: Fall Flashbacks, Family Outings and Pinterest Finds

Fall means new beginnings.

I love fall! I especially love when school begins. Being a teacher I always get nostalgia when a new school year begins. It reminds me of a fresh start, a new year and a challenge to become. My absolute favorite part of teaching was helping my students realize their full potential. Being able to encourage them to try new things, make new friends or reach further than they ever dreamed possible. For me teaching gave me a chance to help them see themselves for who they could become.

I was blessed to receive that vision from on of my favorite teachers. After I experienced the thrill of learning and self discovery I was determined to pass it on. So for seven years I worked to be a builder, a lifter and an advocate for my students. I still carry that passion and try hard to connect with anyone who crosses my path.

Now that I am a mom, I hope my kids know who they are and that they have the power to become great things! I try to share that same confidence in them that I did with my students so long ago.

Fall means less crowds for family outings.

One positive thing that comes when school starts to families with young kids are less crowded venues. We love going on little excursions during the morning, especially when the bigger kids are in school. This week we went to the Hogle Zoo. We pulled into the parking lot at 9:10 and there were 15 cars. We got right in with almost the entire zoo to ourselves. By the time we left it was just starting to fill up. The animals are always so active and the kids love observing their behavior. Just make sure you take a jacket because when you go that early, it’s a little nippy.

So if you haven’t tried going on an adventure during the day, give it a shot! Your life will be changed.

Halloween Pinterest Finds

Ghost Pretzels

Halloween Harvest Chex Mix

Dark Chocolate Halloween Chip Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Candy Corn Treats