I might start every post from now until December with FALL IS HERE! I know you know, but gosh it makes me happy to wear jeans. This weekend was a fun one.
We officially said goodbye to summer as Hailey got caught picking the last pepper and biting right into it. She looked so guilty when I said her name; I wish I could have captured the reaction! She makes me laugh.
We went to a great cookout with friends on one of those perfect fall evenings. My friend, Alison, is a teacher and an absolute pro at organizing fun for all ages.
The kids played games and ran races while the parents chatted and chowed down.
There is one game we played that I must mention! Before the party, Alison hung pieces of yarn all over the yard. When the game began, you picked a partner and searched for yarn pieces, then tied them together. At the end, we measured the ropes to see who had the longest and the winners (ok, everyone) got a prize.
This is a great party game that worked for all ages (including 30 year olds…).
Know what else happened Saturday that was incredible?
What. A. Game. I was almost (ok, ok) I WAS in tears after the game right alongside Mark Richt. Once Athens gets in your blood, it stays there.
The gorgeous weekend continued with a full day of yard work for David. He might not be able to walk for a couple days, but our freshly-trimmed trees and lawn are worth it! Easy for me to say, I’m sure…
Unfortunately I wasn’t able to help out (darn darn darn it 
). Hailey and I had a party to attend!
The cowgirl-themed 2nd and 3rd birthday party confirmed why I couldn’t throw a party this year. I couldn’t pull together something this picture-perfect if I had months to prepare.
Every detail was accounted for and it was precious! There were real ponies to ride, though Hailey preferred to stick to the bounce house.
Just to top things off, I actually sat down and planned meals (cue jaw drop). Remember when I used to do that? Yeah, neither do I.
Sunday– Butternut Squash Soup with Apple, Cheddar and Arugula Paninis
Monday– Chicken Tortilla Soup with Tortilla Chips
Tuesday– Grilled Steak, Sweet Potatoes and Roasted Broccoli
Wednesday– Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Arugula, Blue Cheese and Berry Salad
Thursday– Tuna Salad Sandwiches and Salad
Friday– Out/Take-Out
So far, the week is off to a good start…
And a happy 35th anniversary to my wonderful mom and dad! 🙂
What is your favorite fall meal?
Now that I’ve pulled out my Panini press, I’m going with soup and grilled sandwiches!
Madison says
I would have to say chili is my favorite fall meal. Makes me feel all warm and cozyyy! 🙂
Tiff @ Love, Sweat, & Beers says
It sounds like a fabulous weekend. Family & friend time, good food, and a win is enough to make me happy.
Karen says
What a fun, fun weekend. I would say my favorite fall meal would be some type of chili and corn bread.
Danica @ It's Progression says
I’ve never tried apple in a grilled sandwich, but I don’t know how I’ve never thought of it – sounds delicious!
Glad you had a great weekend!
Kristen @ notsodomesticated says
That football game really was incredible. I’m not a Bulldog (I’m a Gator!) but now that we live in Atlanta, I’m also rooting for Georgia (as long as they aren’t playing Florida haha!). Such an awesome game to watch!
Brittany Dixon says
I give you major props for being able to cheer for UGA being a gator. I know personally how fierce that rivalry is 😉
Ah, Atlanta… my old stomping grounds. What a busy city! Hope you love it 🙂
Kaitlyn @Keeping up with Kaitlyn says
For your sunday night panini, did you use green apples?
Brittany Dixon says
I used gala because they are what I had, but I’ll bet granny smith would add a great tangy contrast!
Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says
Wow, pony rides?! We joke about that for our birthdays… can’t see us ever doing that. But what a fun party to attend! Butternut squash soup needs to go on our menu asap, too.
Parita @ myinnershakti says
That was an incredible game! And you’re right – once you bleed red and black, you never go back!
Glad y’all had a fun, relaxing weekend!
Ali says
I really really really need to start meal planning again too. I fell off the wagon and need to get back on. Paninis sound like a good fall meal to me too!
Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl says
I am seriously so excited about that butternut squash soup. I cannot wait to try it!
Anastasia says
That yarn game is such a cute idea. I’ll have to remember it for when my daughter gets a bit older.
A big baked potato topped with veggie chili and cheese is my go-to when fall rolls around.
Brittany K says
Oh this girl cried too! Such a good game!!!
Brittany Dixon says
I’m so glad I wasn’t alone! David was laughing at me 🙂
Marjorie says
I am seeing all that basil next to Hailey and thinking I should remind you to use it up before it gets cold. Speaking from experience, last year mine wilted and got spots before I could use it all. Basil hates cool weather. Time to make pesto! 🙂
Chili is my favorite fall dish, although those paninis look pretty awesome.
I am with you on the football love. I am an Auburn graduate, and it has been a tough couple of years to be an Auburn football fan. My husband and I actually have tickets to Auburn versus UGA. It should be a fun game, even though you guys will probably beat us again this year!
Chantal says
That backyard is beautiful!!
Are you doing Munchkin Meals this week? If so, I better get my post ready! I have plans to do it!
Matt @ The Athlete's Plate says
Lol I was actually going for Georgia in that game! Roll Tide 😉
Courtney @ Don't Blink. Just Run. says
Isn’t it just the worst when you can’t help with yard work? Darn it all!
Mmm, paninis. Now I want one for lunch!
Neil Butterfield says
My favorite fall meal is a hearty beef stew, preferably tomato based.