5 on Friday and My Birthday Guy

Before I get started on my five I have to wish the happiest of birthdays to be loving husband. This picture is actually 5 years old (from our engagement session). I chose to share it this morning because it reminds me how happy I am to be walking through this life with him.

Although I wish him the happiest of birthdays today, it isn't quite the perfect day. For the first time we are separated on one of our birthdays. He is took the cross country team to state and is gone for two days including his birthday. So far that thumb in the picture below is all I have seen of him...though we have talked several times already this morning. Even though we aren't together I couldn't have him go birthday cakeless. I wrapped this box and put it in his suitcase to be opened this morning. I loved hearing him laugh :)  When he gets back we will have to extend birthday week a little more since we didn't get to do everything we planned - new James Bond movie (including popcorn) and of course, presents.

So on to the five...another random group of things that have been occupying my day-to-day.

Linking up with A. Liz Adventures for 5 on Friday.

1.  People Making Things

My niece is busy sewing baby things for a couple of upcoming little ones. I love that she is learning to sew too. My sister just treated them to a new sewing machine. She has been sewing on an old clunker for years and she definitely appreciates the new one :) 

I know I have mentioned that my in-laws make and sell birdhouses. When we were at the farm the other night they were busy getting some ready for a sale. It was fun to see my FIL hard at work in his amazing workshop. I am inspired by their system. My FIL does all the woodwork and my MIL does the painting. The painting is done before they are assembled. All the decorative pieces are then kept in the main house and lined up on the workbench to be assembled. Notice the dormer peak perched on the end of the roof waiting for attachment. In this picture, my FIL was using the contraption in his hand to square up and attach the porches. Years of practice :)

2. Creative Differences

Our friends had a baby this week. They planned to decorate their nursery with "Wookie the Chew" by James Hance. This particular collection is a compilation of Star Wars and Winnie the Pooh. You can check out this collection and so much more - a nerd's delight!!  James Hance's website.

I, on the other hand, have a completely different interpretation on combining Winnie the Pooh and Star Wars. I made this blanket for their little guy. I hope they appreciate my attempt to stick with their theme :)

3. Fading Fall Colors

The trees are still colorful, but the peak has passed and the leaves are starting to come down - especially with all the rain we have had this week. These two trees are right outside my work. Every fall I love watching them turn to this brilliant red. What I also love about them they turn later than the rest and prolong the fall color just a bit longer.  And yes there is a house behind them...and not a small house.

Not much is left hanging on the trees behind my house. We have had a couple foggy mornings which adds a whole other level of fall beauty.

4. Hunting Cars

We are officially looking for a car. There is not much I like less than car shopping, but it must be done. Our current plan is to buy something used...modest, but decent. Then in a few months to a year, possibly buy something much newer. We have some other irons in the fire right now, so I am trying to avoid adding a car payment. I saw this one on the way home yesterday. I am pretty sure my husband would give it a thumbs down - color and body style.

5. Making Beds

I am struggling in this area...and here is why...

So there you have it 5 on Friday in my world. Hope you all have a fantastic weekend :)