Monday, November 14, 2011

Autumn Fires


The cozy feelings that Autumn evokes are what I love so much about the season, with the warm hues of yellow, orange and red leaves on the trees and the glow of a toasty fire offering respite from the crispness of the air and the darker nights. And, it's hard to not get excited about all that is ahead...favorite fall recipes, the holidays, and wool sweaters to keep us warm. 

We've been storing our pumpkins on the mantle. We'll use them one by one in the coziest of recipes. 


Here's our favorite pumpkin. After carving Graham's and Margaret's names on it we've watched it grow through summer into fall. We'll bake a pumpkin birthday cake for their one-year birthdays next month. 

Our other favorite pumpkin recipes are pumpkin soup, pumpkin bread and pumpkin pie.


Even a wooden giraffe enjoys a nice fall fire. 

 xo
Posted by Catherine at 9:23 AM
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85 comments :

  1. I Do DeclareNovember 14, 2011 at 9:26 AM

    Love your carved pumpkin!

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  2. A Vintage VineNovember 14, 2011 at 9:27 AM

    The babies have grown so much, they are darling! Love the simple mantel, the pumpkin give a pop of color that's perfect for fall!

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  3. Emilie's daughterNovember 14, 2011 at 9:30 AM

    Oh, Trina! Your "babies" are so beautiful and of course your husband very handsome! I also like your fireplace and the idea of carving the pumpkins! I cannot believe that your sweeties turn one year next month! Fantastic! Enjoy your family! You are so lucky! Christa

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  4. Low Tide High StyleNovember 14, 2011 at 9:38 AM

    I'm so jealous, we don't even have a fireplace in this house! Yours is lovely, and oh my have your little ones grown...so cute!

    Kat :)

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  5. Bluebells and LavenderNovember 14, 2011 at 9:45 AM

    I love your autumnal fireplace with the pumpkins and I especially love your babies, they look cute! Happy autumn evening!

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  6. AnonymousNovember 14, 2011 at 9:46 AM

    Oooooun amazing pictures.
    :)

    http://fernandahauagge.blogspot.com

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  7. AnonymousNovember 14, 2011 at 9:48 AM

    The fireplace is beautiful but it could never compare to your precious babies!! God is good. He is definitely restoring the years the locust ate. :) Off to check your recipes. ;)

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  8. Dee StephensNovember 14, 2011 at 9:51 AM

    love you pumpkin post too! That picture is a framer!

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  9. Erin~Just*GrandNovember 14, 2011 at 9:53 AM

    Thanks for the dose of toasty warm fall ideas. All of your pumpkins are delightful! Lucky you!

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  10. SusyNovember 14, 2011 at 10:15 AM

    A beautiful autumnal setting. Hard to believe the babies are almost one.

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  11. LynneNovember 14, 2011 at 10:23 AM

    Your mantle is perfect, love the straw wreath and the carving with Graham and Margaret's names is unique. I would love to kiss those little toes. Your almost one year olds are scrumptious!

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  12. SunnyNovember 14, 2011 at 10:30 AM

    I love, love, love that wheat wreath on your mirror over the mantle. Did you make that?

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  13. Vickie @ Ranger 911November 14, 2011 at 10:34 AM

    Only you could make white look sooo cozy! The addition of babies and toys completes the picture.

    ( Anxiously awaiting my Country Living Christmas issue.)

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  14. The BloggerNovember 14, 2011 at 10:36 AM

    What a cute idea! Love the mantel!

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  15. Chrissy...The Apothecary ShopNovember 14, 2011 at 10:37 AM

    Lovely post...and yes those last three are just darling!!

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  16. the gardener's cottageNovember 14, 2011 at 10:51 AM

    hi trina,

    you guys belong in a magazine, oh wait you are in a magazine. your home and lifestyle are stunning and the last pic just makes my heart melt. xo janet

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  17. Susan @ Real Girl DesignsNovember 14, 2011 at 11:13 AM

    "Your" pumpkins are adorable, and the ones on the mantel are a nice touch too :)

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  18. Main StreetNovember 14, 2011 at 11:17 AM

    Wow...What a beautiful post!

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  19. Blondie's JournalNovember 14, 2011 at 12:12 PM

    This really is a beautiful post...you have such a lovely family and home!! Enjoy fall!

    XO,
    Janie

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  20. VU Design StudioNovember 14, 2011 at 12:17 PM

    Amazing post....M and G are getting so big!!!

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  21. A Hint of HomeNovember 14, 2011 at 12:31 PM

    Love the glow of the fire! Your pumpkins are adorable! All three look happy in their element all snuggled in the chair.

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  22. AnonymousNovember 14, 2011 at 1:31 PM

    Oh those babies!!!! I just want to bite them. They are growing so fast. Will you be having Thanksgiving and Christmas at home? Have you traveled with babies yet? It's an adventure! :)
    xo Dianne

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  23. Robin JohnsonNovember 14, 2011 at 1:44 PM

    Snuggling up by the fire is one the best things about autumn. Your pumpkins look so festive all arranged on your mantel. So pretty.

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  24. SarahNovember 14, 2011 at 2:28 PM

    Absolutely beautiful. Where did you get the giraffe? My 2-year-old is all about giraffes lately. Thanks!

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  25. 24 CornersNovember 14, 2011 at 2:50 PM

    The pumpkins look so wonderful on your mantel Trina...and the babies pumpkin turned out so sweet. One day Graham & Margaret will see this and be so thrilled...I hope this becomes a yearly tradition, it's so special.
    Love seeing all the toys...and of course, the babes with their daddy!
    xo J~

    (We're supposed to get snow later this week...you?)

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  26. The Country CardinalNovember 14, 2011 at 3:05 PM

    I knew I could come here for some cozy comfort.

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  27. An Urban CottageNovember 14, 2011 at 3:39 PM

    The making of a birthday cake from the M&G pumpkin is a wonderful tradition. I hope you continue that every year. It's so sweet!

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  28. Curtains in My TreeNovember 14, 2011 at 4:41 PM

    Look at those cute barefoot babies

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  29. So Sunny DayNovember 14, 2011 at 4:49 PM

    the carved pumpkin is such a great idea! I will have to remember that for next year's garden pumpkins.

    ~ Emily N. from "too Blessed to Stress"

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  30. Vintage HomeNovember 14, 2011 at 4:58 PM

    OH your sweet children are growing so! Love your fireplace!

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  31. TriciaNovember 14, 2011 at 5:14 PM

    That first photo belongs in a magazine! Pumpkin birthday cake is right up my alley~ delish. :)
    xo~
    T

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  32. CatherineNovember 14, 2011 at 5:43 PM

    Hi Sunny,
    The wheat wreath is something I found at Home Goods several years ago. I bought two and love hanging them this time of year.

    Hi Dianne,
    Yes we are spending both holidays at home. Family is just too far to brave traveling!

    Hi Jessica!
    I hope not! I'm not ready for snow quite yet. But I know that it can come anytime now. Stay cozy up there! xoTrina

    Hi Sarah,
    The giraffe is from Melissa & Doug - they're online but sell their toys just about everywhere.

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  33. for the love of a houseNovember 14, 2011 at 6:23 PM

    sweet, sweet, sweet!! love your pumpkins!

    xojoan

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  34. A Cozy Cottage in the CityNovember 14, 2011 at 6:31 PM

    Oh you and all of your "pumpkins" are just precious! You are all so blessed! LOVE the fireplace with all the vibrant hues around! Happy Fall!

    Hugs,
    Jessie

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  35. My Little BungalowNovember 14, 2011 at 6:57 PM

    Adorable -- from the pumpkins on the mantel to the three pumpkins posing for their photo!
    I hope you'll post some photos of the babies' first birthday!
    Claudia

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  36. Amanda GailNovember 14, 2011 at 8:43 PM

    Can't believe they're 1 next month! Is so nice to drop in and see how you're all doing, they're growing up so fast! And, your home is lovely, as always :-)

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  37. AnonymousNovember 14, 2011 at 9:57 PM

    This post was so poignant....I just loved it! You are blessed. So are we... that you share it all with us!

    Linda @Lime in the coconut

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  38. red tickingNovember 14, 2011 at 10:35 PM

    trina.... love the pumpkins but i am dying over the feet!!!! p r e c i o u s.....

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  39. LindseyNovember 14, 2011 at 10:37 PM

    Beautiful post:)

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  40. Anne At HomeNovember 14, 2011 at 11:56 PM

    Hi Trina
    Have just found your blog - what a lovely home and family you have. My husband and I also battled infertility for years and have been lucky enough to have 2 beautiful girls (one from IVF, the other a total and utter natural surprise at the age of 44!). Its spring here (Australia) but I love your Autumn fire. I look forward to reading about your winter as we swelter over the coming months!
    Anne

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  41. LPCNovember 15, 2011 at 12:12 AM

    Well hello cute babies! With extra cute little toes and extra cute chubby cheeks!

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  42. pve designNovember 15, 2011 at 5:06 AM

    I want to paint my brick at our fireplace white. What color white is your fireplace painted and what color is on the wall. Looks lovely during all the seasons.
    pve

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  43. White VerandahNovember 15, 2011 at 6:06 AM

    Oh every single one of your pumpkins are just divine - well done on all of them!!

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  44. AnonymousNovember 15, 2011 at 6:13 AM

    What are the most beautiful babies! It has a beautiful home, the urge to go there to see my! You have a nice blog! I follow you!

    Besos,
    Cristina

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  45. rkbsnanaNovember 15, 2011 at 6:43 AM

    The most beautiful pictures I have seen in a while.

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  46. AntiqueaholicsNovember 15, 2011 at 7:25 AM

    Loved this post. The mantel looks beautiful with the wonderful little pumpkins. Margaret and Graham are adorable. I can't believe they are a year old. Our three girls are in their twenties, but I have so MANY fond memories of those early years. It was truly the best time of my life.

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  47. Heather @ newhouse, newhome, new lifeNovember 15, 2011 at 7:28 AM

    The pumpkins (both kinds) look warm and cozy in front of that beautiful fire. I like how you have painted everything white to make the colours in the accessories in the room really pop.

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  48. APONOVICH & JOHANSSONNovember 15, 2011 at 8:18 AM

    How inviting!

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  49. JoyceGNovember 15, 2011 at 12:28 PM

    I love how comfortable your babies are on your husband's lap - it's clear they spend a lot of time there! And Margaret's left foot pointing off in another direction - adorable!!!!

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  50. Brooke @ Blueprint BlissNovember 15, 2011 at 2:49 PM

    Precious family.

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  51. Mel's Designs from the CabinNovember 15, 2011 at 2:51 PM

    I'm number 50 Commenter!!! Wow, that's a lot...your fireplace is pretty...your twins are sweet, we have twin 16 yr old granddaughters...fun times....cute kids...it only gets better with age...Mel's Designs from the Cabin

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  52. MagdalenaNovember 15, 2011 at 4:07 PM

    Lovely photos, lovely family :-) Greetings from Poland :-) M

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  53. AnonymousNovember 15, 2011 at 8:28 PM

    Your babies are so cute! Just wondering...I'd like to paint our fireplace brick white but am worried that they will turn black from the smoke. Have yours ever discolored?

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  54. BlairNovember 15, 2011 at 8:40 PM

    Your pumpkins are absolutely adorable:). I can't believe they're going to be a year old!!! It's too fast! Your home looks so lovely, all decorated for fall. And I love the Melissa & Doug toys by the fire- so cozy:). Enjoy your pumpkin recipes, and please share!!

    xox, Blair

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  55. Dear LillieNovember 15, 2011 at 11:46 PM

    Love your pumpkins on the mantel and your beautiful little pumpkins! I can't believe they are almost one!

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  56. CatherineNovember 16, 2011 at 12:19 AM

    Dear Anon,
    Ours hasn't discolored so far although I wouldn't mind if it did. I like the worn in look a bit more than the freshly painted white.
    Trina

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  57. Susan FreemanNovember 16, 2011 at 4:45 PM

    Precious!

    Hugs,
    Susan and Bentley

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  58. TedraNovember 16, 2011 at 10:47 PM

    You have such a beautiful home and beautiful family :)

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  59. Trish BannerNovember 16, 2011 at 11:25 PM

    (sigh)

    so beautiful. i know i can always find inspiration from your posts... thanks for sharing :)

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  60. UnknownNovember 17, 2011 at 12:35 AM

    Love your fire place. I'm in a fireplace obsession at the moment and have just finished revamping mine. Only problem it's 30 degrees here on Oz
    http://myhomedreaming.blogspot.com/2011/11/finished-fireplace.html

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  61. AnonymousNovember 17, 2011 at 4:43 AM

    wonderful home- wonderful family! Your blog is great
    Elma from germany

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  62. whitney @ thecurtiscasaNovember 17, 2011 at 8:11 AM

    What a great fireplace! I love the pumpkins on top, I always want to put a pumpkin or two but it ends up looking lonely. Lining the whole mantle is a great idea! cute blog, just found it :)

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  63. Mary LouNovember 17, 2011 at 1:33 PM

    Love these photos.

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  64. DianneNovember 17, 2011 at 7:57 PM

    I love the photo of Daddy with his two pumpkins! So sweet.

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  65. AnonymousNovember 17, 2011 at 8:58 PM

    Trina, I just got my Country Living!!!!! Oh my gosh, it's a keeper for sure. Your home nd fmiy are so precious. I am loving it! xo Dianne

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  66. AnonymousNovember 17, 2011 at 9:45 PM

    What a wonderful happy life you lead. You are so very blessed.

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  67. AdrienneNovember 18, 2011 at 12:26 AM

    Your little pumpkins are so sweet - the precious little ones who have blessed your life!
    ~Adrienne~

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  68. AnonymousNovember 18, 2011 at 8:00 AM

    Oh my what wonderful pictures - the children are growing so! Just got my copy of the December issue of Country Living Magazine. So beautiful - I just love the entire spread - gorgeous! As I read and looked at each charming page, I felt like I was looking at my friend's house - so proud of you and your sweet family!

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  69. LandbohavenNovember 18, 2011 at 8:58 AM

    Jeg kom tilfældigt forbi din blog.
    Hvor ser det hyggeligt ud ved pejsen.
    Tak for kigget.

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  70. whitney - see shop eat doNovember 18, 2011 at 11:57 AM

    gorgeous pictures, and everyone looks so happy!

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  71. Paul Gervais de BédéeNovember 18, 2011 at 12:46 PM

    Don't forget pumpkin risotto!

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  72. Virginia Country HouseNovember 18, 2011 at 12:58 PM

    Trina, such terrific pictures. We love your style!

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  73. WhosyergurlNovember 18, 2011 at 2:12 PM

    Love your house.
    Those babies are ADORABLE.
    And, hubs is pretty cute, too!
    xo, Cheryl

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  74. UnknownNovember 18, 2011 at 3:54 PM

    Yummy, all of them!
    Happy autumn, Happy birthday, and Happy Thanksgiving!

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  75. Debra HallNovember 18, 2011 at 9:05 PM

    such a lovely post.....
    Love your three favorite pumpkins ;)
    Happy Thanksgiving!
    xo Debra

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  76. WhiteWhispers2uNovember 19, 2011 at 1:01 AM

    Just a note to let you know I enjoyed your spread in the Country Living Magazine.I too live in the country close to Portland.

    Your lil ones are growing so fast.Enjoy it goes fast, mine are now 20,18 and 12.The last 10 years just flew~ Cheers Kim

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  77. Toyin O.November 19, 2011 at 1:04 PM

    Great picture, adorable family.

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  78. andrea@townandprairieNovember 19, 2011 at 4:02 PM

    I just loved the bright cheerfulness of this post! andrea@townandprairie

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  79. Teresa KasnerNovember 19, 2011 at 10:03 PM

    Greetings, Trina.. I just read about your family and your blog in Country Living -- I love your white clean bright style! I live in Corbett, Oregon and do a blog also. I invite you to visit when you have a moment. I have bookmarked your blog and will return. Have a great holiday time with your two little treasures! Teresa

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  80. DawnNovember 20, 2011 at 7:07 AM

    So lovely and bright, Trina! I love the little pumpkins...all of them. :)
    Will write back to you asap!
    And congratulations on the Country Living feature, I hope I can get my hands on a copy over here.
    Hugs,
    Dawn

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  81. AnonymousNovember 20, 2011 at 2:27 PM

    Love, love your fireplace & mantle decorations.
    The simplicity of it far outshines all of the overdecorating I have recently seen. Great job!!

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  82. WindlostNovember 20, 2011 at 4:21 PM

    What a gorgeous home and family!!! You are so blessed it makes my heart smile. :)

    xo xo Terri

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  83. AndreaNovember 20, 2011 at 6:36 PM

    I just saw the lovely article about your family and house in Country Living Magazine. Well done.

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  84. AnonymousNovember 20, 2011 at 10:30 PM

    I couldn't wait for my Country Living to arrive in the mail. It finally came on Saturday, the spread on your home was amazing. It is so beautiful, your blog is my all time favorite. Have a wonderful holiday with your family. I know I can't wait until mine arrive, I have 2 grandsons...they are 3 and 1. Mickey in PA.

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  85. loverNovember 29, 2011 at 7:18 PM

    Twins............
    Do they sleep with you all?
    I found that my lovely nursery, never got used they sleep with us for years and bathed in our bathroom until just a year or two ago, now they are teenagers.....


    xo
    m

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Thank you for leaving your thoughts. Kind regards, Catherine

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