While shamelessly shopping at Walmart for the Poly-Fill stuffing I regularly use, I happen to come across one of the most disturbing pieces of merchandise.

For just $5 (which is about the amount of change found under the car seats of a pervert) you can purchase something to lure children to your car.  Is the old "hey kid, would you like some candy" not working anymore?  Is it necessary to roll out the black and orange carpet and entice children with banners, ghosts and the "6ft of hanging decoration"?  I really can't say this enough...ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

I was so shocked to see this piece of trash that I took a picture (despite the odd looks from the cashier).  Really, nothing says Walmart like making an extra 5 while compromising morals.  Does the name Jacob Wetterling mean nothing to these people?

So, this year, while taking your kids out on the town, it's not so much the treats you need to worry about, it's the man turning tricks from the back of his Prius.

This weekend was filled with hard work and great rewards.

On Saturday, Jahred ran the first ever Mankato Marathon.  With time not on our side this year, he had little free time to train, but came in for a strong finish of 4:00 (four hours even).

I was his only spectator and I have to say, that was some boring terrain.  Hopefully next year they can spice up the course with some river views...anything other than 26.2 miles of waving corn fields.

Really though, it was a great event.  Best of all, as Jahred crossed mile 5, I got word of another long awaited marathon being run...the marathon only a mother can compete in!  Beautiful Baby Nora was born into our family this weekend and I was lucky enough to meet her on Sunday.  I cannot wait to get both Nora and Axel together for some long awaited cousin time!

My first gallery appearance!  Mark your calendars.

In the kindest gesture (I'm convinced only capable in a wonderful community of artists such as the Emy Frentz Arts Guild), even though I am new and quite green in my artistic endeavors, I have been asked to participate in the Resident Artists Gallery Show this year!

The show will run from November 11th to December 8th, 2010 and will feature some of the most spectacular art...seriously...I have personally forced a tour inside each of my fellow artists studios.  What I'll be entering is still somewhat of a mystery, since the last few years have been "art to pay the bills" and not "art because I want to."  But I'm stretching my legs and in my new space have a few new tricks up my sleeve.

Really, save the date for the Opening Reception!  It is entirely kid friendly, open house type of deal with a taco bar and beverages.  The kiddos can always check out Axels secret Lego stash in my studio.

Now for the bigger question...what does a girl wear her debut?!

Today pre-school was held at the "farm park."  It's a "faux zoo" housing mostly farm animals, has a playground and for a quarter you can feed just about anything at the park.

Turns out, animals are the apparent trump card to "Ms. Beth" (previously referred to as "Magic Ms. Beth), since he wanted little to do with the scavenger hunt and even the parachute seemed unusually dull.

The only participation he had in the scavenger hunt was to mount the largest rock in site and check off all the items on his list.  "DONE."  When we gathered in a group, Ms. Beth asked if anyone had seen a bug?!  Axel spoke up, "Yeah, I found a bug...in the TOILET...and I WUFFED IT!"

Wulp, so much for today's class.  I've come to the conclusion that 2 year olds don't need school field trips, they need routine and a classroom where mothers can drop them off.

** Fine, so it was a bit of fun, and I get props for being the cool Mom who brought quarters to feed the animals!

It's not often enough that I feature products from other great Mommy Shops.  But, today, with the delivery of Axels Halloween Costume, I can't help myself.

I didn't want to spoil the Trick or Treat surprise for you all, but I really think you'll be disappointed if you can't take advantage of this sweet Etsy shop before the big day!

From one of the most beloved children's books (at least in our house), Max is a loveably imaginative little boy with a larger than life personality, and a mother who loves him despite him being a "wild thing."  Axel has always loved this book, so when I discovered The Radical Thread Company and it's primary seamstress/momma Kate, I couldn't believe she had brought Max to life.

Like I said, we just received the package today and within minutes Axel had it on and a photo shoot was underway.  Seriously, take advantage of her wonderful costumes which are MORE THAN COSTUME QUALITY!  All seams are finished/surged, the materials are divine, every detail down to the whiskers and buttons are thought of, there are snap on shoe covers, the crown (which was extra) fits perfectly...and as a seamstress myself, I have to say I'm impressed!!

So, more to follow on Max (Axel) as he tricks and treats around, but I just wanted to share the wealth incase any of you are in the market for a "Wild" Halloween!