Happy Golden Birthday, Nolen!

 Happy birthday, Nolen!  This week, Nolen started drivers ed.  It has been pretty painful because it is 4:00-7:00 every night.  Nolen gets out of school at 3:40 then has to drive straight over to class.  He has complained every day, but this will be the best birthday gift.  His freedom behind the wheel will be a huge treat.  I have prayed long and hard about Nolen being able to drive.  When he was diagnosed with autism, I worried that he wouldn't be able to drive or have many of the normal experiences that most people experience.  

Nolen is truly kind.  He loves so deeply.  He has been getting more and more into the bible and has found a new sense of purpose in allowing Jesus in to his life.  He has been very successful at creating roblox games for other kids.  He has made more than $3000 this year.  It is pretty amazing.  I am extremely proud of his hard work.  He also started school at Early College Academy.  It was a rocky start but he has finally got his legs underneath him.  He is doing really well and has made friends.  

Today, we just went and got his permit and then got menchies frozen yogurt. Nolen wanted to eat at Panera Bread so we all met there for dinner and enjoyed yummy food.  It was a nice and quiet birthday.  I love this sweet boy of mine.  I am so lucky to be his mom. 

 

An Autumn Hike and a Girls trip

 I have been doing a lot of running with my friend, Pam Martinez.  She is truly the sweetest.  I love spending hours running with her.  My friend, Lauren Lighthall, asked if I would go on a hike with her this week.  We went south to the Fourth of July trail.  So many people told us it was the most beautiful trail during fall.  We drove nearly two hours to see that we had just missed the leaves changing.  It was a little bit of a disappointment but we had a great time.  

I also went on a whirlwind trip with the ladies who lunch to Farmington to visit our friend Shannon Holley.  She moved away this summer and our group have missed her so much.  We drove up early Saturday morning, stopped by her house, went to lunch, and then off to the Temple.  It was a great day.  I am so blessed to be surrounded by amazing women who I can call my friends.  They truly make my life easier.  

 

Halloween

 Halloween is loosing its steam.  My boys are growing up and they care less and less about the traditions we have celebrated as a family over the years.  It is a part of growing up and it is hard for me.  I want my kids to enjoy spending time with me, but I think, more and more, this means I have to meet them where they are not where I am.  We went to the ward trunk or treat and had some fun.  Nolen dressed up as a box and Edward dressed up as an army guy.  Stephen handed out candy on Halloween and I walked part of the neighborhood with Nolen and Pearl.  It was a great night.  I will miss these days.  People tell you that as your kids get older you will feel deep sadness but it is hard to comprehend when you are in the thick of raising your kids.  I knew the time would go quick but I wasn't prepared for how sad I would feel as they grow up and move on.