Date Night

In the midst of a busy season, we have worked hard to keep a date night. I think it has been what has kept me sane in all this chaos. We find it so rewarding to pursue each other in fun crazy ways. Last weeks was particularly fun because we had a bake off. The rules?

1. Had to have pumpkin in it [Bryan has overloaded our porch with freshly grown edible pumpkins; anyone need some?]
2. Could be your own recipe, a spin off, or taken from someone else.
3. You could win in best time, most mess, and of course best flavor.
4. All else goes.

Bryan made Apple, Pumpkin, Persimmon Spice Muffins [his own recipe] and I made Pumpkin Spice Donuts. Both turned out delicious. I won best time, Bryan won biggest mess, and I would say it was a tie in best flavor.

Here's the recipe I used for Pumpkin Spice Donuts. The only thing I changed was using fresh pumpkin. They were super yummy! I'd give you Bryan's recipe, but I don't think he even remembers. He's a baking wizard =)

A lovely note...

to wake up to after you return back to reality.     

Nothing like a note from your love and a healthy smoothie to finish a year out strong. 

Kayaking

And what would an adventure be without some fisheye =)

These pictures crack me up. What a man! 

A Perfect Cozy Oasis

WE are such HUGE fans of Rustic Cottages. For so many reasons, but here's our top six! 

1. They have fireplaces inside each cottage and a porch for you to relax on! Perfect for a cozy weekend away!

2. The amount of free stuff they give away makes this cheap-o very happy! Free breakfast (Best waffles I've ever had)! Free Rustic Cottage coffee cups! Free 24/7 warm brownies and cookies! Free shaving cream and bathroom supplies! Free wall of movies to borrow! Free sleds to borrow! Free! Free! Free!

3. You can bring your dog.

4. Everyone there is SO nice. We always end up making friends with the staff. 

5. They have croquet set up on the lawn.

6. About 20 feet away they have beach access to Lake Tahoe. Perfect for picnics and sunset snuggles.

Looking for a place to get-a-way? This place is perfect for couples and I hear they have larger cottages for families too. Last year we went cross-country skiing, this year we brought a kayak, and next year we want to bring our bikes to loop around the lake. There is just so much to do! Check them out here!