The Yellow Door Paperie

Project Life: January 2012

2012-02-02T08:29:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of project life, but doing something daily or weekly seems a little too much for me. Plus, I LOVE the supplies. Well designed and systematic. And I know I'd go a bit crazy on them. In an effort to memory keep in a sustainable way (and save a bit of money)-- I thought I'd do one 12x12 page a month and share it with you here. So I can keep a record what joys we've had, perhaps at the end of the year I'll print them all and make a scrapbook. O my, did I just say that?!

make believe: The kids went on a "date" pretending to be Eric and I. Isabel wore 'more jewelry than mom usually does' and Truman told her that their date was important, "makes us better mommies and daddies."

weekend visit: The four of us traveled up to visit Kerry and her beautiful family. There was lots of love, conversation good food and coffee. Next time, perhaps, Truman will sleep. That will make it waaaay more fun!

date in omaha: Eric and I took 24 hours to ourselves. He surprised me with a night away, a new outfit and my nails done. Then dinner at our favorite restaurant. I think this is where Truman heard the speech about dates making us better mommies and daddies. It's so true you know.

on a walk: In the first week of January, we took a walk to visit Grandma Bonnie and Grandpa John. It was very cold so Isabel decided to wear everything she could fit on her body. She loves layering you know. It makes Truman's wardrobe of hat, gloves, coat, scarf seem so... simple.

snow play: Eric and Isabel made their first snowman together. Truman and I stayed warm and baked chocolate applesauce muffins. Then we made faces as they threw snowballs at us.

ready for bed: One night we cut Isabel's hair before bedtime. This photo of Truman clowning around (:

garden planning: Sketchbook Saturday Morning a few weeks ago, Isabel decided to plan the garden for next year. So she drew everything she would like us to grow. We're going to have to think about bananas and plums. I'm not sure we'll be able to have a exotic orchard in the back yard.

grand arrival: My bestest friend had a beautiful girl. And they sent us their Christmas video. What a treat. Oh I cried when I saw that new little bundle. Truman kept kissing the ipad screen. I can't wait to see her in March!

adventure: We were on our way to Sketchbook Saturday Morning looking for patches of snow to stop in. And half melted puddles to jump in. What a good combo for a 4 year old adventurer.

sketchbooks: We love our Sketchbook Saturday Morning. A few hours of relaxation, coffee, books, coloring, knitting.

This template is from Rebecca Cooper, a month in photos. I've made a few edits to it.

Love is like Avocados

2012-01-31T10:50:00.000-08:00

My husband, Eric went on a business trip that kept him from us from Thursday until the wee hours of this glorious Tuesday morning. And what little treat did he bring for me? Flowers? No, so much better.

Avocados and a lime. We often say in the dead of winter while eating eggs and spinach, chicken tacos, salad... "You know what would make this SOOOO much better?" The answer is always, avocado.

So tonight on my chicken taco, I'm having avocados. Avocados with love.

And I think about our life together. How we've grown. We are no longer two starry-eyed kids eating omelettes with avocados and planning our life together.

We are starry-eyed adults, living our life together. We have the two kids, the dog and cozy little life we dreamed of all of those years ago.

I was so glad to have him home. Just him. The house was set right when he walked through that back door. Lucy dog, sighed in relief (jumping and wagging her tail).

Truman woke up right away when he heard Daddy come home. Truman's little heart rested soundly, as he breathed little-man-breaths next his Daddy sneaking in between us in early-morning hours.

Our Truth: Home is when all of us are under the same roof.

Outside My Front Door

2012-01-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

After I dropped off the kids this morning at school and kid-sitting I ran back home to grab my purse. And when I walked back through the front door out to my car. This was waiting for me.

A small reminder to look at the beauty around me. That with my head down, I would have missed. It reminds me that I need to look for the beauty around me.

Have you seen beauty this week? Did it sneak up on you?

Truman Playing Games

2012-01-25T12:28:00.000-08:00

You should know a few things before you play a game with Truman.

1. The agony of not knowing is too much for him. He will peek under the trees in Enchanted Forest.

2. He will pump his fist and say a enthusiastic, "YES!" when you lose a turn in Disney's Cars boardgame.

3. He will repeat #2 in Uno when you get skipped. He will pout if you skip him.

4. Sometimes he cries when he doesn't win.

5. Once you play one time, he will follow you around saying, "Mommy, play with me??! Now? Right now?!?"

I am loving this little man and his love of games. And what a love it is.

Much Ado About a Haircut...

2012-01-24T15:09:00.000-08:00

Isabel is learning how to do everything by herself. Including washing her own hair.

Which is fine. This is a good thing.

BUT.

She has baby fine, look-at-it-and-it-tangles hair. And we have daily struggles with brushing tangled hair.

Well, one night last week-- she took a bath and so vigerously scrubbed her hair-- a whole crop of little knots came up in the back. After fifteen minutes of tears and tangles.

I said enough is enough!

And I cut her hair. Here she is a mere 10 minutes later all smiley for a photoshoot.

Hmmmm....

At least she's happy. And I'm happy she doesn't scream every morning while brushing her hair.

I guess now she can wash her own hair and brush it too!

Quotable Sunday: Lazy Language

2012-01-22T08:50:00.000-08:00

So avoid using the word ‘very’ because it’s lazy. A man is not very tired, he is exhausted. Don’t use very sad, use morose. Language was invented for one reason, boys - to woo women - and, in that endeavor, laziness will not do.
-Dead Poets Society, 1989

Quotable Sunday: a tradition started by Kyrie of Are So Happy and carried on with Kerry of Young Ones and Linnea of PeppermintAlley.

Yarn Along: The Rhythm of Family

2012-01-18T17:09:00.000-08:00

We've been in need of quiet family time. This weekend we took some time just for us. My goal for comfort + joy and together, togetherness has been pounding in my ears and deep in my heart. So loud I couldn't ignore it anymore.

I've had to stop, listen, adjust our lives and go out on a limb-- I can let life take over and I have to remind myself so often what is important. My little people are important, good food is important, spending quality time together is important, playing outside, good food! Remember I'm in the middle of making my manifesto work. And it is hard work, rethinking, retraining my work-a-holic tendencies so that I take care of my children, my husband, myself, my body.

I ordered Amanda's book a while back and it came in the mail in a divine envelope, meant for that moment in time. My ears are open, my hands are open and I am listening.

I also found this from Ida's blog, there are lots of little tiny babies in our lives. So I'm knitting away!

Peace to this House

2012-01-17T07:31:00.000-08:00

I've started when I enter and leave a place, a doorway-- whisper a little blessing, even in my mind.

"Peace to this house."

More of a reminder of how I should be. How I can quiet my mind and how I can be a peaceful presence?

Doorways I now see as a new opportunity to think about what I bring into the next space. And gently asking myself, "How can I usher peace?" With in that four word statement, gives me new morning opportunities throughout my day. And taking the opportunity to recieve grace on a hourly basis if not more than that feels so much more hopeful, at any point in my day even without the symbolic doorway I can choose to bring peace.

What can you choose to bring through your doorways today? Perhaps we can help each other walk through our doorways with hope, peace, grace, compassion. And throw off worry, gruffness, selfishness.....

Thoughts?

Photo from: jo mclure view photo here.

Thoughts for Today.

2012-01-16T06:58:00.000-08:00

Good Monday morning, my mind is whizzing and whirling with to-do lists. I'm secretly in the middle of assembling a pizza for my kids lunch. They are going to be with a friend since there's no school and I offered to bring lunch.

I actually like making a meal before the sun rises. My quotidian meditation starts early. Especially when it envolves kneeding and rolling dough, shaping and forming that glop into something beautiful, nourishing and peace bringing.

I'm so reminded this week of the pleasures of sharing a table. Coming to the table with a full heart, sharing nourishment and sharing your soul.

Have a beautiful day, my friends. Share life with someone today, a slice of early-morning-made pizza or a table... or just your heart.

Painting by michele_maule, found here.

This Moment:: January Walk

2012-01-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
--Amanda Soule

Visiting!

2012-01-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

Just saying a howdy to those who are visiting today. I had the beautiful opportunity to give back to author Catherine Newman by doing a little blog design for her. I usually don't get to give back to people who I don't really know that have touched my life with their own: through art, writing and honesty.

What Remains: Creativity

2012-01-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

As I was cleaning up last night, tucking lovies into the arms of heavy-breathing, heavy eyed cherubs, scrubbing spots of the kitchen table and swooping up arm loads of trains, I noticed something-- our desks were all filled with projects, favorite things and in short, our personalities.

The creativty we've captured in our house this week:

On my drafting table, a little painting (on a tiny canvas,
from a beautiful friend-- the slipper is from her too!),
a journal from Kerry, a painting from Truman, art supplies and a little painted
stone that says 'do small things with great love.'

Isabel's desk, found leaves, purplicious book,
2008 Madame Alexander catalog for inspiration,
her fleece coat and paper dolls.

Truman keeps his desk much more sparce.
But he's so into the stamps on his chore chart!

What's projects is on your desk, are you doing any New Years creating?

Christmas Eve will Find Me

2011-12-29T07:01:00.000-08:00

This is probably one of the quietest Christmas eve's we've ever had. It was the most relaxing day-- we ate breakfast and played with some wonderful friends, watched movies for quiet time and then we took a little walk in down the puddle jumper trail.

I can mark their height by these trees and by how far they are able to run and jump down the trail. This was a really good way to get our energy out before Christmas Eve service too.

This looks like the middle of October not the end of December. What a warm winter we've been having-- no white Christmas for us!

A quiet morning, Christmas Miracle

2011-12-28T12:38:00.000-08:00

I've been begging myself to write a mission statement for a while. But those four or five little guiding lines of text seem so daunting. I want something big, grandious, enveloping more than five lines of text.

Monday morning, the day after Christmas, I was awakened by a little lady with tears that would rival Alice in Wonderland, she could in fact have quietly cried her self an ocean. Leg cramps.

What do we do for leg cramps of this magnitude at 3:15 in the morning?

Throw them a party, of course.

Snacks and warm milk. Soft blankets, Christmas tree lights and two hours of Shaun the Sheep. We ended the early morning with our hearts righted, our legs warm and pain free and snuggling ourselves to sleep.

Isabel woke up at regular time but my old lady body (and brain) needed a bit more time to sleep. Eric snuck away with the kids on an adventure and I woke up, not fifteen minutes after they're departure to an empty house.

And I escaped three houses down to our favorite coffee shop for some thinking, writing, reading and a few of my girlfriends showed up for quick hugs as they grabbed their cup of joe.

And so in three pages in the quiet corner of the coffee shop, a Christmas miracle occurred-- a mission statement. Not a mission 'statement'-- really. What was it? A mission story? Mission bullet points? Mission land-use-planning-manual for my own life?

I named in those pages, the things I'm grateful for, the things I know make our days easier, I named the things that make life not easy. And I took an inventory of where I'm at. Spiritually, emotionally, physically and now I have an easy way to remember where I'm going.

It seems for me every season needs a manifesto. Perhaps if mission statement can be more than that. A life manifesto.

Do you have a mission statement? Some guiding principles. Things you know that help you on your journey?

*Photo captainmcdan

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

2011-12-27T12:12:00.000-08:00

On Christmas eve in a quiet kitchen I listened, "Ooooo Tidings of COMFORT and JOY, Comfort and joy!"

What if that was my goal for this year? Singing comfort and joy from the roof tops? What if we as a family under took this project?

I hope that these little words will spur on deep filling, all encompassing family joy-- hope inducing joy. And that as we give comfort to each other, to our loved ones, to our community and people we don't yet know.

Gratitude with out stretched arms-- singing commanding words through a tiny black box on the counter.

Comfort and joy.

Do you want to join me? Pick a word. And let it seep into your life this year.

I think...

2011-12-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

(shhhhh... don't say this tooo loud) I think we're healthy. And I know that we are in need of a holiday.
I'm so glad that one is on the horizon. And since we won't be traveling this year (sad but true), we're going to do a few things together.

The kids want to make cookies, build a snow man (will we have snow?!?) and I want to go on a hike. Truman always puts on his very best for walks and hikes. I should find myself a walking cape and some hiking goggles. Or a tutu (see below).

What will you be up to for the holidays? More importantly, do you have a walking/hiking costume?

Peeking out from the fog...

2011-12-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

As we drove Daddy to work this morning, there was fog all around us. Like a big cold, wet wool blanket-- and no visiblity except these dots of light peeking through.

And that is what I've felt like the last few weeks. Like there's hope of illness-free children, but it a small inadequate light drowned somewhere inside a tangled, wet, heavy, grey army blanket.

Ok, so maybe it's not so bad, but we've had ear infections, an un-named virus, the stomach flu--twice--, and most recently, strep. Five unexpected visits to the clinic and ER in five weeks.

So, I'm waving my white flag...

And I'll hold on to that little bit of hope + knock on my particle-board desk + send up a little prayer. Along with daily vitamins, rest, chicken soup for our sleep-deprived souls.

And perhaps, in a few days I can tentatively, carefully announce: We're healthy.

Together, Together

2011-11-28T07:00:00.001-08:00

My thankful heart does not begin to express the love and warmth of this weekend.

Isabel asked in the car on Saturday, "Why aren't we together, together more often?" I couldn't agree more, that's what this long weekend felt like. With no where to go and large streches of time ahead of us.

We slept in and snuggled. Made wreaths and played play-doh. Ate pumpkin pie in our pajamas. Made massive amounts of oatmeal.

One evening we watched Olive the Other Reindeer and Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer while we decorated for Christmas, Daddy even put the lights outside. But more than anything we did it all, together, together.

And that felt like home.

How was your weekend? Did you get to enjoy your time off?

Three Minutes

2011-11-22T15:26:00.001-08:00

The three minutes between getting shoes on this morning and the drop off at school, I lost my cool.

In those three minutes there were lost shoes (how!? I just handed them to you!), lost mittens (replacements for lost mittens had a hole. And then tears about said hole), a broken plate, a forgotten bear and lunch box mislaid. And then their were a few words, I wish I would have said with different 'timing and tone.'

But, I asked for forgiveness. We made a plan for what could possibly have gone different in the future.

How could we approach this better?

And I gave away my crushing guilt for a bit of grace.

And that is one of the only lessons I want them to learn. To give grace and recieve grace-- even when it's undeserved.

Because the kind of grace they gifted me with after those three minutes, wholly undeserved grace.

(photo from our last trip to California)

Weekending: Aflame with Glory

2011-11-21T07:03:00.001-08:00

I heard this poem this morning, on On Being. And it set my heart to singing.

Thanksgiving Day Prayer
by Walter Rauschenbusch (1861–1918)
For the wide sky and the blessed sun,
For the salt sea and the running water,
For the everlasting hills
And the never-resting winds,
For trees and the common grass underfoot.
We thank you for our senses
By which we hear the songs of birds,
And see the splendor of the summer fields,
And taste of the autumn fruits,
And rejoice in the feel of the snow,
And smell the breath of the spring.
Grant us a heart wide open to all this beauty;
And save our souls from being so blind
That we pass unseeing
When even the common thornbush
Is aflame with your glory,
O God our creator,
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

Have I ever told you the importance of Thanksgiving week in our little family. O wait. Maybe I have. So many life events that invite retrospective glances, but to have them all in a few day span every year, helps us mark time-- to come to this week with as much hope and expectation as we do New Years day, or the beginning of a new school year.

We started this week of so well... the group we eat Sunday lunch with came over to our house for Sunday dinner. And we had a holiday meal-- A Friend Thanksgiving. Ahh. I hesitate to say to much and perhaps my memories won't be as clear, beautiful. It was a beautiful evening.

So this week, be extra thankful. Let your memories serve you well. Give kisses and hugs, say your I love you's. Because being thankful isn't about the perfect turkey it's about all the common things that are aflame with Glory-- the people you see (or don't see) often that make the world go round.

May your heart be wide open to all this beauty this week.

What are you thankful for?

Journey into November

2011-11-11T09:43:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had one of those weeks where you want to scream DO-OVER!
But wait, don't. I don't think I'd want to do this week over.

We had a ton of things to accomplish after our 10-day vacation. And now that we're finally at Friday-- I can breathe.

{Everyone take a deep breath with me. Breathe in let the breath swirl up in you head and exhale pushing your breath out through your limbs.}

But, we have a weekend jammed full of amazing people, relaxing places and Christmas shopping.

Oh, I love the season we're in but, I'm putting on the breaks. I was reminded of the Mary Oliver poem, The Journey. So fitting. Listen to what your life is telling you.

Let's join together in the spirit of November. And I will tread lightly through this season.

Slow, November. Enjoy, November.

The Journey

One day you finally knew
what you had to do, and began,
though the voices around you
kept shouting
their bad advice ‑
though the whole house
began to tremble
and you felt the old tug
at your ankles.
“Mend my life!”
each voice cried.
But you didn’t stop.
You knew what you had to do,
though the wind pried
with its stiff fingers
at the very foundations,
though their melancholy
was terrible.
It was already late
enough, and a wild night,
and the road full of fallen
branches and stones.
But little by little,
as you left their voices behind,
the stars began to burn
through the sheets of clouds,
and there was a new voice
which you slowly
recognized as your own,
that kept you company
as you strode deeper and deeper
into the world,
determined to do
the only thing you could do ‑
determined to save
the only life you could save.

- Mary Oliver

Scenes from California

2011-11-08T10:52:00.000-08:00

Playing in the sprinklers is a thrill in October!

We traveled a bit the last few weeks... staying 10 days in California with family. Here are some of our favorite scenes from the trip (a few more posts to come!).

During a blackout, we lit candles and antique lanterns.

Grandma P's beautiful roses.

This is the scene from my run. Foothills and sunset surrounding me!

Playing at the park with Papa

Doing crafts with Grandmommy

The Sunrise

2011-11-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

As I got up in the dark of Saturday morning, I tip-toed around the house as to not wake the sleeping ones.

Once washed, dressed and bundled. I headed out on the road.

These scenes were the gifts that awaited my early journey.

This Moment: Painting and Coffee

2011-10-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

--Amanda Soule

Can you resist this face?

2011-10-20T07:21:00.001-07:00

Really, can you?

We took a walk this weekend, just the two of us before the rest of the world woke up because this is when Truman's internal clock alarms. Early morning. Cool mornings. The first day this season that we dug out our hats and added an extra sweatshirt for warmth.

I'm glad he convinced me to go out.

The bakery stop was a good idea too.

Yarn Along

2011-10-19T07:56:00.000-07:00

As promised, I'm am knitting again. I made a pair of baby booties, but they turned out spherical once sewn together, so unless these little babies have feet shaped like a cabbage patch kid, I think I'll just give them to Isabel's cabbage patch...

But! Last night I did finish this cowl-- it's so warm and cozy. The wool is just from the big blue box store and the buttons belonged to some coat at one time. I snapped this photo to send to Kerry, but I guess I can share it with you too!

Now, on to books. Last week, I finished The House on Mango Street, My Life in France and Fly Away Home (audio). This week, I've got Children the Challenge and Operating Instructions in queue.

My favorite from last week was My Life in France. Julia Child has this amazing way of making her extrordinary life seem attainable, building it with one footstep in the right direction after another. She was passionate about food, so she sought out cooking, when she was realized her potential in cooking she sought to be the best and impart her passion. One little step after the other.

She makes me believe that we too can accomplish great things, one tiny step at a time. Plus, this book is all about food and wine. Really, who doesn't love reading about food and wine...?!?

What are you reading? Knitting?

*Visit Ginny to see what she's up to!

Head in the Clouds

2011-10-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

It's the time of year that I just want to injest the light, swallow up spoonful after spoonful of the clouds.

And when I've had my fill of clouds I will lay on my back, curled up in a old love-worn quilt and watch the clouds go by--imagining unicorns, apple trees and faces into their puffy-whiteness.

Can you see the froggy face in this photo that we saw?

weekending

2011-10-17T07:50:00.000-07:00

Today: The air has changed, there is the crispness in the morning that soared in with the falling leaves and the changing light.
We spent our weekend recuperating from a blistering week and we've so far met the day refreshed. A pot of tea, crepes in the sizzling in the pan.
Two round cheeked babes, still fuzzy from sleep are sitting at the table.

This weekend:
Friday: Dinner with my best. Lattes + Watercolors.

Saturday: Early morning walk. Four littles, more water colors, paper and crayons. Soup and English muffins. Lamenting green tomatoes, but making green tomato sauce anyway. Menu planning and budgeting-- three meals a day all week long. Pizza and a movie night.

Sunday: Breakfast together. Church together. Lunch together. Friends together. An amazing dose of togetherness, just what my heart ordered.

How was your weekend?

Joining Amanda.

*The green tomatoes were mealy and bland, so I charged forward with sauce.

Yarn Along:: Sort of...

2011-10-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

I've been knitting-- well if you consider moving my knitting basket to vacuum last night and then thinking very hard about what to knit next, then of course, I'm knitting.

But, as I looked at Kerry's Honey Cowl and at this. I thought, hmmm I've never made a baby sweater and there are lots of friend's babies on the way. I should knit something. So I'm going to, perhaps that tiny sweater will end up in the next Yarn Along addtion.

But, I am reading.

I finished a beautiful book last night (after vacuuming, laundry, dishes, paperwork... you know the usual), called Plain Wisdom: An Invitation into an Amish Home and the Hearts of Two Women.

It was indeed just that, an invitation into a life of these women to share a table, to share their joy and heart ache-- learning how they lived their lives so differently and yet so similarly. The back of the book calls it a 'soul-comforting read.' And it was, it read quickly almost as if it was written as a letter.

I'm glad that these women didn't try to cast stones at the weaknesses of the 'English' or the Amish-- there was admiration on both sides, for both traditions.

If your heart needs some soul-comforting, a few recipes and some heartening verses/poems, this would be the book I'd reach for.

It's going to be a girls end to the week, starting with Girl Scouts tonight, a girl date tonight and a girls craft weekend too(love my girl friends)! I'm spoiled (and excited)!

K-i-s-s-i-n-g...

2011-10-05T07:52:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite little people, doing what they do best... mainly, loving each other.

Finding Fall, Chasing Wonder

2011-10-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

A few years ago my father-in-law bought us the movie, Bridge to Terabithia. I remembered being in fourth grade, reading that book. And I loved it. But honestly, I haven't thought much of it since.

Isabel found the DVD and wanted to watch it. So I let her. And she's been living in the magical land of Terabithia ever since, she writes stories about it, she fills her sketchbook with pictures about it and she dresses up as the Queen of Terabithia. And lately, she's even take her brother on her adventures.

On Sunday, we took a drive to enjoy the fall colors and we ended up at a little pond a few minutes from our house. The leaves were breath taking.

When she exited the car and got down towards the water, I heard her breathlessly exclaim full of wonder, "Truman, I think we're actually in Terabithia."

I have a little project going...

2011-09-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

365 paintings-- not nessisarly one a day but, I'm moving toward painting more. Ending my day with a 4" x 4" painting. Big enough to fufill my soul and communicate something. Small enough to finish in one sitting.

I only have pictures of the ones I've given away. Like this one.

New Resolve

2011-09-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

I'm wondering why everything in my life begins with a good house scrubbing. But, it does.

I think I put my excuses to bed here yesterday and I went home thinking. I can do this. So I did. I threw open the windows and doors. I tied on my Grandma's apron. And I set about to cook dinner, do laundry, vacuum and dust. Scrub and wash.

We had a peaceful, simple family meal. And Isabel says, in her impromptu like fashion, "Let's do our 'Mostly I love about yous." which means we say what we love about each individual person in the house-- Lucy-dog included. And we had extra time to read library books and snuggle before bed.

I finished up all my tasks, post-bed time.

And as the dishwasher hummed-- I sat down at the end of the night, listening to music across the kitchen table from Eric, I penned a few letters while he paid bills. A tiny date in the midst of the week.

I'm content. I just needed to realign myself, my home, my priorities.

I can't think of a better evening. Scrubbed house, gleaming heart? I think so.

*This is a little painting I made for a friend, remind me to tell you about my project!

To Tell the Truth

2011-09-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Here I am, at the end of a hard summer. We've had run the gamut of death, family illness, last minute traveling, weekends away, break ups of close friends.

And settling into school year routine, I feel like it's a steep learning curve.

And so the truth is, I would like the summer to have been a bit more carefree. Perhaps a tad lazier? Or a tad more constructive? Or absent of all the weighty conversations.

But that is not what it was. It was beautiful, in its own way. And I'm learning things I wouldn't have learned otherwise.

So I will not wish away this season, I will live with my feet firmly planted in these fall days. We will look again to what grounds us. And march forward our only motto, "Today is better than yesterday."

Weekending: What Remains

2011-09-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was encompassed by a certain vibe, if we named that vibe it would be: embrace the remains of summer.

We ate a thrown together meal of hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, spinach salad with grapes and broccoli (homemade honey mustard!) and pickles. We followed our meal with a bonfire and s'mores with crazy large marshmallows.

Saturday held a lazy breakfast, and a day in town, followed by one melt down and two birthday parties. Then we all floated to dream land together.

Sunday was just as dreamy another lazy breakfast of monkey bread muffins (recipe below), pears and cups of coffee. Church. Sunday Lunch with friends.

Later in the weekend, we took our last swim out at Paullina. It was warm, the beach was empty and there was lots of giggling.

These two girls love each other so. It's been amazing to watch them grow.

And at the end of it all, I wasn't begging for more weekend (though I'll always take more), I was really content for the weekend we had and excited for the week ahead of us. And isn't that what weekends are for? Giving some time to stop, regroup, rest and then propelling us forward?

**********

Monkey Bread Muffins
1 Can Grands homestyle biscuits
1/2 Cup White Sugar
1/2 tsp Cinnamon

Glaze:
3 tblsp Butter
3 tblsp Brewed Coffee
1/4 Brown Sugar
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Cut the biscuits into 1/8ths or smaller (about nickle sized pieces). In a shallow bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Roll biscuit pieces into the sugar/cinnamon. Fill lined muffin cups with pieces (about 6 per cup).
On medium heat in a skillet or saucepan, melt butter, mix with brewed coffee. Once combined, add brown sugar and cinnamon. Wisk until sugar is dissolved and bubbling.

Spoon glaze over each 'muffin' (about 1/2 a tablespoon).

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Turn out gently, the sugar glaze is very hot!

The Big Day: Truman

2011-09-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

What a few weeks it has been. We're finally settling into September. And now that I have Truman's first day of school photos unlocked from my camera, I will share them with you. It's hard to be proactive about downloading/uploading photos without at computer!

Truman was so excited for school, the two weeks that he had to wait and walking Isabel to school every morning was agony. "But when do I get to go to school!?" He would ask.

Finally, last week he got his chance!

And he wore his 'traveling' backpack-- which is now too small for a big boy with bigger toys. So he got to take his tiny Cars pack to school. And we all know how much he loves Cars!

He ran into school, put his backpack away and started with his day. He ran in so quick we didn't get a Mother/Son, Father/Son photo. Oh, well.

Now we have two little people, who can't get enough of school! I'm proud!

Thoughts and Musings...

2011-09-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hello my dears,

It's been a while hasn't it?

I feel like I've hit the ground running and haven't stopped, so I decided to take an inventory of what I've done since I talked with you last. The dinner above was a beautiful stopping point in this long weekend. Simple soup (recipe to follow), sweet bread (apple sauce bread on the left, chocolate chip banana bread on the right) and sliced pears. Throw in a few sweet faces, some funny conversation and you have a near perfect meal.

So journey with me as I focus on the present and treasure the beauty of the past.

Since we last spoke, I've been to California and back.
I spoke and listened to my Grandmother, bodily cared for her for a too short weekend.
Conquered two first days of school (one you'll see tomorrow!).

Thanks to donated garden produce... I canned 12 quarts of tomato sauce, 4 pints of apple sauce, 4 pints + 1 quart of pickles.
Lost one iMac (so long sweet computer).
Designed a dissertation workbook.
Knitted 1.5 washcloths.
Packed 8 lunches.
Attended a super-fun pre-labor day BBQ.
Finished reading this book.

Stopped at Pumpkinland with some wonderful friends.
Wore my new fall coat, because I was actually cold.
Made fried green tomatoes.
Painted one tiny painting.
Nursed two tiny people's colds.
Wondered when the tiny people got to be so big.
Made a batch of laundry detergent.
Drank lattes and ate pancakes with friends-- with homemade whip cream and strawberry sauce.

And I'm wondering, what have you been up to lately? Keep me up to date-- I feel out of the loop.

The Big Day

2011-08-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was her first day of kindergarten. And she loved every minute of it!

She skipped/ran all the way to school. The four of us walked together, what a treat!

We were almost late because Truman had a bit of an accident and had to change his clothes before we left. So we were the last ones to walk in. She put her things away and sat down at her desk. She used her crayons and barely said goodbye.

She just loved her little desk, her little locker and her school. I am so, so glad. She loves school and she looked like she'd been there for years. I didn't cry because it was so natural, it didn't feel like we were doing anything different. Weird huh?

O Lord, you should have seen her outfit though. She's amazing. She was definitely the most dressed up (read: flamboyant!).

*My computer bit the dust. I will probably go MIA for a while!

Greetings from the Left Coast

2011-08-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

I am sitting at my sister's desk, my family is all in this room in certain states of reading and waiting. That's how this weekend has gone, talking and eating, reading and waiting.

My grandma who's been on the cusp for quite sometime took a turn on Friday and I was on a plane Saturday morning. It's been a whirlwind, but so good, so sad and just so.... everything.

I didn't bring my camera, so I'm choosing to rely on my memories for the beauty that surrounded me this weekend.

Brushing and braiding Grammy's hair, painting her nails, painting watercolor pictures with her. All these little bits of beauty, made this sad weekend fuller, brighter.

And the fact my sisters (all four of us) and my parents were all present at dinner. Just the six of us, I'm not sure when that has happened in the last ten years. It was a gentle gift.

Dreaming:: South of France

2011-08-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

A few things have my mind sailing away to a place I've never been...
Sara Midda's South of France: A Sketchbook

(via not your average ordinary, images from google books)

And a a song:

The Family Studio

2011-08-16T07:02:00.000-07:00

The playroom has become an evolving space-- blocks and tinkers, cars and dolls are now on new shelves in the closet. Books are in the huge closet too. Actually those shelves took care of most of the clutter in the room.

For years, I've been wanting to have a family studio, some place where creativity and homework can collide. I wanted all of us to have a desk (Eric shares my drafting table with me). I used this tool storage for art supplies (you might remember it from here).

This is Truman's desk, he chose this poster to hang above his little space.

This is Isabel's desk, both desks were rescued from the elementary schools trash bin years ago (before kids!).

And my desk is getting a lot of use-- I've resolved to paint a bit every night. And so far, I've kept that resolve!

It's been a while....

2011-08-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Beloveds!
I've been having a wonderful end to a busy summer. So busy, I haven't had time to stop by here to tell you all the wonderful things we've been up to.

First off, a few weeks ago the Elders and Youngs came over for barbque. Actually the Young Ones had a sleep over too!

I find it odd to explain to people, we met Kerry and her family through blogging (Rebekah and I met my first day of college). Because it seems that our friendship developed through email and then finally through meeting face to face... it felt like we've been friends for a long time. Having my two girlfriends sharing sweet tea together at our kitchen table watching all the kids run in and out in new "spy costumes." It seemed the kids felt they'd been friends forever too.

And so a good evening is sometimes marked by the lack of pictures. I seem to only have a few blurry pictures of the costumes.

But here is the water play from the next morning!

And the coloring!

A Blue Birthday!

2011-07-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

Monday night's birthday party was so fun, low key and filled with blue delicacies. Blue cake, blue frosting, blueberries, blue lemonade. On one of the hottest days of the year, an unexpected 'gift'. A fiber-optic cable was cut at work, so we got to take the afternoon off as our internet access was down.

We got to spend a bit of the afternoon and evening creating and eating homemade pizza (with chicken and broccoli) and laughing about this little boy whose so crazy about the movie Cars that you'd think his birthday was sponsored by Pixar. (But I guess it's our family who is sponsoring Pixar?!).

And we almost got today off too, but then at the last minute got called back into work.

July is our busiest time of year, and now with half a day of work piling up on an already tight schedule, I'm not planning on being home on time for the rest of the week.

So, as I'm digging out of my own casim of work. Work! Freelance jobs! Housekeeping! I'll be a bit absent here this week. Back next week, hopefully renewed and a bit less buried.

Today, Today

2011-07-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

This morning, Truman ran into the kitchen this morning while I was putting the cinnamon rolls in the oven and exclaimed, "I'm four!"

Then, "Mimi, can I have some FOUR-year-old-juice and watch some FOUR-year-old-TV?"

And then a perplexed look clouded his face. "O wait, I'm not four until I get home from Wendy's."

I gently explained that he was indeed four all day long! And that he did not have to wait until we picked him up from kidsitting.

But as I held him today and gave him FOUR good by kisses and FOUR goodby hugs, I whispered a Thank You in my heart.

Because this is where we began with him:

this moment:: Little Fish

2011-07-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - ~~no words~~ - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. ~Amanda Soule

I met Isabel's swim teacher last night, she was the checker at our local grocery store.

She said, "Hi Truman!" (he shyly peeks from behind me!). She said, "I loved having Isabel in swim lessons! She's such a fish!"

Ahhh, it is true.

Wishing you lots of swimming this weekend. We have a heat index warnings today and tomorrow. Via baby er kiddie pools and icy lemonade! Sunscreen!

the summer we sent letters:: photo projects

2011-07-14T07:15:00.000-07:00

I've been working hard a writing little love notes to my friends and family. Not just because, I'm trying to write letters this summer. But because I want to remind them how much I appreciate them.

I came up with two fun photo mini-projects that could help you get on your way to writing more letters.

Turning Lemons into Lemonade:

I had ordered a few new photos from snapfish and for some reason, about five of them were blank or like this beautiful picture of the little man, just a half photo.

Some creative thrills with Sharpie and save this bum photo from a life in the garbage.

A Postcard for Papa:

The second mini-project was just a way to send this lovely little memory to Papa, by way of homemade postcard.

Here's a simple step by step.

You'll need:
Photo (make sure it's not the *only* one you have. If it is an original, make a copy to use.)
Water color paper (or thick card stock)
Acrylic gloss medium (mod-podge or glue will work too)
Old paint brush (for applying the gloss/glue)
Fine point permanent markers for drawing

Gather materials!

Brush a thin film of glue onto the water color paper.

Carefully place photo on top of wet glue. And press down firmly.
If you are worried about finger prints, use a washcloth to help you.

Let set a few minutes for the glue to adhere but not quite dry, then
trim the watercolor paper to photo size.

Place between two books and scratch paper to dry for 20 minutes or so.

Draw on you little love note.

I used a label cut in half for the address portion.

Address and stamp your postcard is ready to mail!

*********

Have you been sending letters too? Do you have a project or a great idea you'd like to share for the summer we sent letters?

Next week Thursday, we'll all link up and show what we've created!

Yarn along:: Water Color and Washcloths

2011-07-13T06:32:00.000-07:00

I've been knitting a little bit, just little bits and baubles for a few friends upcoming babies! I took a detour this week with washcloths. I was inspired when my twin sister started crocheting washcloths for her family.

I'm also reading Water, Paper, Paint. Run to buy this book. It probably deserves a whole post of it's own.

Today's post is short and sweet-- to see more Yarn + Reading visit Ginny.

Tasty Tuesday: A Summer Table

2011-07-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

Is there anything better than fresh summer produce? I feel like in these months where the gardens are bursting and farmers' market is bustling we are blessed with the most delicious, simple meal.

This is our typical summer dinner. Meat on the grill, roasted veggies or simple brown rice, lightly salted tomotoes, cut up raw fruits and vegtables.

On this particular night, celebrating Father's Day. We had T-bones... Catherine Newman's recipe for Ausparagus with Lemon and Parmesan (made three nights in a row), roasted potatoes, tomatoes, apple, sugar snap peas, carrots. In the words of Truman, this dinner was 'Nice and Fresh!'

What is your favorite summer produce? Do you dinners change in the summer?

*Linking up via Trailer Gypsy to:

FTLOB
All The Small Stuff
33 Shades of Green

Mud Baths

2011-07-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday, while Eric was at the grocery store and I was finishing the last of the vacuuming. I got a knock on the back door. And I was greeted by this.

Muddy-muddy children.

Laughing with delight at their filthiness! They were 'playing in the sprinklers' with their beloved next-door neighbor friends and after an hour or so, this is what it evolved into.

And instead of get angry at their mess, I grabbed my camera and a towel for their track-making feet!

And we laughed together while they regaled me about their mud-slinging adventures.

First they got to rinse off all the grass and mud. Then we washed the tub. And then they took a real bath.

And I got the mud out of their swim suits. Hooray for me! And they are still talking about how dirty they got. Hooray for them!

**********

Just a reminder about Revisiting Sanctuaries, spots are filling up. So join today!

Weekending

2011-07-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

Friday night dinner with around our kitchen table with friends.

Saturday morning park date and donutless-bakery date. Heat-induced-mild-crabbiness from 5 kids.
Lazy, quiet time afternoon. Cool sheets, special snacks and a oasis from the heat afternoon movie.
A mud bath with the beloved neighbor kids.
Mama cleaning the house.
A rinse off bath then a bubble bath post mud bath.
A late night visit from two of my favorite women-- while our Men were out together.
Sangria and coffee plus waaay-past-bedtime-children-wrangling.

Sunday morning quiet with a visit to church.
Pork ribs, cheesy-rice and fruit salad for lunch. Simple.
Another lazy quiet time-- a stack of books with my boy.
A visit to our favorite pond, meeting some favorite friends by happy accident.
Hours wading in the water-- splashing, laughing.
A quick picnic.
A sunset drive home.
Time for bed.
Laundry to wash, dishes to be done.
Reading out loud, knitting away.
Waking up to a thunderstorm-- snuggle down into safe warm bed for sleep.

How was your weekend?

Joining Amanda.

Sketchbook Saturday Morning

2011-07-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

There is something that our family loves to do. We call it Sketchbook Saturday Morning.

We sit around a table, mostly at our corner coffee shop-- we bring our sketchbooks and a pile of art supplies. Then, we spend an hour or two in conversation and giggling, drawing, coloring or painting and eating baked goods, drinking coffee (or hot chocolate).

It's a precious time during the week. It's technology free (we are most of the time anyway) and just a time to connect to each other. The conversations that we have while our hands are similarly occupied are at times deep and knowing-- but at others silly and wistful.

On our camping trip, we spent our Saturday morning at the picnic table drawing with Mommy's special pens (THEY WERE SO EXCITED)-- until it was too hot and we moved to our chairs in the shade.

It is a surreal feeling having the kids sit next to me drawing and painting. Learning to enjoy the things I love.

Do you have a technology free day/activity? How do you like to share your passions with your children?

**********

A special Thank You to Kerry for her lovely post. Go visit her to get a code for 10% off Revisiting Sanctuaries.

The rules we live by::

2011-07-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

Newsday on a Tuesday!

2011-07-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

My brain is kind of confused about what day this is-- but I'm glad to be back in the swing of things and refreshed.

We spent the long weekend camping. We needed a break. A break from everything. I think more than anything we all needed some good food, sleep, fresh air and physical exertion. Funny. I already know this is what we need, I just need to remind myself once in a while.

Before this weekend, we had a crazy crazy few weeks. My family visited and it was so good to have them! Then two weeks of running around... plus the Isabel had swimming lessons (She passed Level ONE!).

And when we got to our destination, it as if we went from running crazy to a complete stop. And um... it didn't go well. I think we spent the day and a half detoxing the crazies out of our life. But once that detox was over-- we finally had a really good trip. I feel so bad for our camping neighbors who heard,"Truman, lay down. Truman, it's not time to get up yet. Isabel, no more crying..." Grr... I digress. We made it, and we have some great memories too!

*********
I just want to let you know a couple things:

Revisiting Sanctuaries is FINALLY going to start. Sign ups are now through Wednesday, July 13th. It starts July 18th. Please join us! If you want to see what the class is about you can read an excerpt here from Rhythm of the Home.

Rhubarb Sangria--- amazing, I posted it over at What am I Cooking?

*Um, yes, I haven't uploaded my pictures yet. This photo was from our last camping trip!

This Moment:: Walking in the Rain

2011-07-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

*Our wet weather walk on Summer Solstice.

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. ~Amanda Soule

happycampers: Stovetop Lattes

2011-06-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Are you going camping for the holiday? I was just day dreaming about our three day trip coming up. Three glorious nights listening to the wind, the rain, birds and other campers. Tent sleeping and outdoor-fresh air-first-thing-in-the-morning-warm-latte drinking.

Whaaaat you ask? Lattes in the wilderness. If you travel with us,Yes!

To make our camp stove lattes-- all we need to bring extra is our Moka pot. We like to pack light, so I'm glad the Moka is small.

Do you have a Moka pot? We love, love it. It's stove top, compact and easy to use. I got ours on ebay a few years ago for $9 bucks. It brews espresso-strong coffee and we mix it with whisked milk with just a hit of sugar. Camping coffee at it's finest. (Brewing tips here).

And recetnly, we needed to invest in a camp stove. For the six years we've been married we've made do without one. I'm not sure how. We really only had one style in mind, when we went to get it --the green Coleman Stove just like my parents but when we got to the store, we found that they were all sold out. We tried the next best thing a Coleman Fold'n Go 2-Burner Stove.

And after a few uses, I think I can say we love it. It cleans super easy, cooks evenly. And the only thing I look for next time is a wind screen, but I'm sure we can rig something up.

So if you are in the wilderness having a hankering for a latte, stop by our campsite. We'll make you one for you on our new stove! My kids will even wash your dishes....

Breakfasting....

2011-06-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

Eric made us a delightful breakfast of pancakes-- regular and chocolate chip. Eggs with bacon. Lattes and fruit.

It's the normal Saturday/Sunday thing we do-- make a big leisurely breakfast and eat around the table in our comfy clothes. Taking our time to do nothing but talk to each other.

This week was special, Tammy visited from California. And on her birthday weekend no less! We were unsure, how much we'd get to see her (being in town for a wedding and all!). But It was good to share breakfast and to see Cars 2 for Truman's upcoming birthday.

The kids even made cakes to celebrate... but we couldn't get everyone back in the same place at the same time to enjoy cake together. O well, it is what it is. But we're glad we got to see her and have a beautiful brunch-- with lattes in our sweats.

And that's the perfect kind of Saturday.

A gift

2011-06-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

This spring was filled with grief, deep unimaginable grief. And now that I am a few months away from it, I think we can talk about it a little.

One of my best friends lost a precious child.

And for weeks that's all my brain could process. It still catches me, daily. The reality of it all.

In a memorial for this little one, a group of us planted a tree with the family a Royal Red Maple. Planted in the little clearing where her parents were married.

A couple weeks ago, we went to visit that Royal Red Maple. And Isabel was surprised to find these little mushrooms. Perfect, earnest mushrooms around the tree.

And she honestly believes that fairies leave mushrooms as gifts. If we wake up from a wet night to a ring of mushrooms in our front lawn, she can craft a whole story on what fairy gatherings took place.

With all sincerity she said, "the fairies must be watching out for this little tree."

Making Pies-- Pizza Pie

2011-06-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

So for the last few days, I've been waking up singing the Patty Griffin song, Making Pies.

"You could cry or die
Or just make pies all day
I'm making pies..."

So sing it with me and then visit me over to see the pizza pies I'm making with the What am I Cooking? gals.

Making pie. Pizza pie.

And tell me what your doing for the weekend... cause I'm all nosy like that (:

A thoughtful quote

2011-06-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

You say that you love rain,
but you open your umbrella when it rains...
You say that you love the sun,
but you find a shadow spot when the sun shines...
You say that you love the wind,
But you close your windows when wind blows...

--Author Unknown

Visiting

2011-06-22T06:24:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you??

My parents and two of my sisters came for a visit last week. And it was glorious.

They usually are here in the fall to see the leaves change color and to pick pumpkins or dead of winter (for holidays). But this time. They were here in the most beautiful parts of the summer. When it's still a novelty to swim, camp, visit farmers' markets, and traipse around town without the oppressive heat of August.

We had a few things on our list we wanted to do:
*go camping together
*eat bratwurst from our local meat market
*visit downtown Orange City
*have a picnic at Paullina beach
*Isabel:: "when we stay in the hotel, can we swim and order pizza??" How could we protest?

A few things had to be cancelled due to rain... but, it feels like we did all the essential summer activities with a large amount of relaxation.

And we were together the whole week leading up to fathers day. So special!

happycampers: Firsts of Summer

2011-06-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

On our first real in-the-woods camping trip, we not only slept in our tent but we had a bonfire and munched on s'mores, ate breakfast cooked on the camp stove, took flash-lighted trips to the near by 'modern' outhouse in the middle of the night (and when I say 'we' I mean Eric and Truman... I was too cozy).

And since this is the First Day of Summer, I wanted to give you a little taste of a new section, happycampers, about our adventures in camping with little ones-- I'll share some stories, tips and tricks for camping with kids (and for adults too), plus a few product reviews.

This trip we played it safe and went to a local state park-- Stone State Park-- a hidden treasure in the midst of Sioux City. This park isn't large but it's the perfect size for day hiking and for the kids to run around. Enough wildlife to be amazed but, not enough to be overly cautious.

One thing that surprised me-- the kids love to do camping chores. Truman washed dishes with me for almost an hour (after we quickly washed the breakfast dishes he found so many more things to wash...) and Isabel suggested she make the beds.

Isabel was so proud of herself for making all of our 'beds' even if she just haphazardly spread up the sleeping bags.

It rained as we slept and when we woke up in the morning, Isabel complained about the noise of the rain. I gently explained, my view on rain while camping... "I think the earth is singing me a lullaby-- to me it's one of the most beautiful sounds in the world."

Isabel breathed dreamily, some from sleep and some from my injected nature-lovin' romance, "Oh Mimi, I like that idea."

Welcome Back!

2011-06-20T07:52:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,
I've been on an unintended blogging break. But for very good reasons! So many NEW GOOD! things coming up.

But for now I'll give you a quick update to our spring/summer manifesto!

Read with the kids everyday-- We're reading Ramona the Pest (with Auntie Jayme!), Five Little Peppers and How They Grew

Read something for myself, everyday-- I'm reading Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom

Grow! Cook! Eat! Invite!-- The garden is growing, pies have been baked, meals have been shared!

Dry herbs for winter-- I first dried chives in the oven. Tutorial soon.

Use fresh herbs now-- Mint for mojitos, chives in herb dip, bits of basil on eggs, cilantro in salad...

Sing-- We've been singing as we work, as we drive and as we play.

Plant flowers-- Hydrangas, peonies and lilacs...

Be gracious to my children, slow to anger and abounding in love. I am diligently working on this, it makes for a much happier household. I heard Sylvia Boorstein's interview on On Being with Krista Tippet. She told a story about watching a family on an airplane. Their kindness to their upset child was just gracious, attentive and productive-- the child settled on her own. "Do not ask am I pleased?... {but} in this moment am I able to care for the child and myself in a kindly way?" Because getting upset and flying off the handle is not kind to me and it is not kind to my children.

Eat outside-- We went camping so we had lots of eating outside! And we've been taking picnics with Grandma Bonnie and Grandpa John plus this week Grandmommy, Papa, Megan and Jayme.

Get into the sunshine-- next time I'll go easy on this... I'm a bit sunburned today!

Let worry go-- When my heart is full of gratitude, there is no room for worry.

Farmer's Market, every Saturday-- Orange City, Sioux City and Omaha.

Coffee and tea with girlfriends-- A few impromtu coffee dates with some special girls, hopefully more!

Do you have a manifesto-- written or unwritten?! Have you been slowly bringing beauty in your life this spring/summer?

*********

I've been writing letters for The Summer We Sent Letters! Have you? It's been wonderful to get a bit of mail and to send a bit of mail (plus a few boxes)!

Repeat: WEEKENDhospitality:: Raised Donuts

2011-06-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

This post is a repeat from last April, but perfect for National Donut Day!

My husband is an amazing baker, he made these beautiful donuts for our weekly Sunday lunch.

Enjoy some delicious eye candy!

Mary

Last week we made the dulce de leche chocolate cake.

This week it was time for something new. Raised donuts, something I hadn’t made since childhood. Well technically-- I never made them, then, and don't even remember eating them. I remember cutting them and watching them fry. But still...

Borrowing the recipe from Sherry Yard's Desserts by the Yard--I found a donut recipe that I knew wouldn't disappoint.

So early on Sunday morning the process began. Warming milk, adding yeast, waiting. Adding flour, sugar, etc etc, waiting.

Kneading and more waiting.

Rolling and freezing and more waiting.

Cutting and more waiting. Then, they were ready.

The oil was warmed (though I'm sure it was too hot as I didn't have a thermometer to check it with) and the first one was dropped in. It was working, though very large and continuing to expand it was flipped and I could see it was going to be good.

After it was pulled out of the oil it was doused in espresso sugar I made by putting regular sugar in my coffee grinder and pulsed away. I added more sugar to the mixture that wasn't pulsed to get the preferred consistency of sugar.

Then the waiting was over and it didn't take long for them to be devoured. They were delicious with just the sugar topping, but we added an espresso whipped cream (with a shot of Bailey’s Irish Cream!).

The only problem that I found with this recipe? It didn’t make nearly enough. The batch did make approximately 14-16 donuts but between the 6 adults and 2 little people. Maybe next time I'll double the batch, or just not eat so many myself (I think I had 3 or 4).

Thanks and stay tuned to next week when we make something new and share it with friends.

Gardening

2011-05-31T07:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we spent about five glorious hours in the sun planting our garden. It's a few weeks late but it'll have to do!

This largest section is our main garden. We have herbs, wildflowers and hot peppers in another section. And then cucumbers, pumpkins and yellow squash in a third bed. A full back yard it is!

********

Thank you for such a great response to The Summer We Sent Letters. Some clarification: post cards, cards anything you send in the mail with a handwritten note is just perfect. Email me theyellowdoorpaperie[at]gmail[dot]com for a button. This is not a call for stringent rules-- just a challenge of connection-- to write in our own handwriting to those we love.

*********

A few things to start you off for the week:

Kerry is meal planning at What Am I Cooking?

Couldn't you just live in her weekend pictures?

Everyday journaling prompts.

This trip to Italy.

This family's adventure beginning.

Quick homemade pizza crust.

the summer we sent letters: on letter writing

2011-05-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

In the last year, I've tried to be a better letter writer. But if trying means, say I'm trying... but not really doing anything then... I'm trying hard.

But as I've been reading the Anne books, I notice how important the handwritten word was. They were thoughtful, news-filled and thrilling to receive. The type-type-type and one line emails that we receive today, though still thoughtful, news-filled and thrilling lack that personality--the recognition of handwriting when the mail box is opened. And the hand-held personal-ness of an object sent from one set of hands to another far far away.

I have a few friends who live so far away and though my heart is always with them. I'm really bad at communicating. I even said I would write.

So in the last week, I've penned some letters. And I put a few things together for my far-away friends.
I've actually received a few cards that make my heart soar, why? Because they were filled with words just for me. And stories only written to me.

This art is so important, and it will be lost unless we make a habit of sending notes to one another.

Join me if you will... here's a little button. Let's write letters this summer. Sending out little rays of sunshine to the ones we love, whether they are close or very far away.

Email me at theyellowdoorpaperie[at]gmail[dot]com if you want to join and I'll send you this shiny button!

*Photo

Yarn + Reading

2011-05-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon made up for all of Monday afternoon’s shortcomings (which were too numerous to recount, I assure you).

The kids played outside while Eric and I tag teamed dinner. After dinner, the kids helped me clean up the playroom. And they REALLY helped. Our treat for finishing the playroom was to run to the basement— ahem.... my cave of a ‘studio’-- to pick out a few special things to craft with. Given the run of the whole studio Isabel picked, three Popsicle sticks and red twist ties. Truman picked a baggie of rickrack and elastic. I grabbed a few skeins of yarn for an easy shrug. We were all happy with our treasures.

We all sat around the table with a projects in hand and the light fading from the skys, I said a quiet Thank You, for the little people I’ve been given.

Bedtime was peaceful. We stared reading J.M. Barrie's, Peter and Wendy. They LOVE that the kids are taken care of by the dog, Nana.

After they went to sleep and the house was quiet, I continued knitting a new project and listened to the end of Rilla of Ingleside and the beginning of The Chronicles of Avonlea. What am I going to do when I finish the Anne series?

**********

I’ve joined Ginny for Yarn Along... just a few days late.

Leftovers getting you down? I rolled mine up into egg rolls!

Mumford and Sons sing Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing-- the Sufjan arrangement. Beautiful.

Hope you are having a beautiful week!

*If your viewing this in google reader, I did a little design update so pop over and say hi!

EAT! Rosemary Lemon Shortbread

2011-05-19T08:27:00.000-07:00

We are full swing into our Late Spring Manifesto here-- last night we made homemade pizza, had coffee with friends, finished reading Little Women, I snuggled my little people and folded laundry with a vengeance last night.

It feels good to reclaim a bit of normalcy (and to reclaim the laundry pile)!

This weekend I have plans for more cooking. Not just homemade pizza-- but Rosemary Lemon Shortbread. My friend Tara made it for last weekend. And it was in a word: divine. Really.

This recipe inspired me to use more herbs in baking. I already make a Lavender-Almond Tea Cake which tastes like heaven... so now I'm thinking about all the other combinations that could flavor Shortbread or Tea Cakes. Any suggestions?

Her recipe is barely sweet (in a good way!), buttery, pinch of salt to round out the rosemary and enough tang of lemon to keep you coming back for more. You will not be disappointed. I asked her if she'd share the recipe so I could share it with you... and she gave a resounding, YES.

So here it is, in all it's Lemony-Rosemary glory.

Rosemary Lemon Shortbread
1 c. all purpose flour
1/2 c. powdered sugar
1/2 c. butter, softened
1/4 c. cornstarch
2 T. finely chopped fresh rosemary OR 2 t. dried rosemary, finely crumbled
1 egg yolk
1 t. grated lemon rind
1/4 t. salt

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a 9 x 9 x 2" square baking pan with aluminum foil and coat with non-stick spray. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. With a pastry blender or fork, combine until mixture is uniform and resembles coarse crumbs. Scrape into prepared pan, press lightly to compact. With a fork, poke holes around the surface of the cookie dough, every few inches. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the outside edges are lightly golden. Gently lift the aluminum foil out of the pan (once it's cooled for just a few minutes) and set onto a cutting surface. Slice into bars with a serrated knife. Transfer to wire rack to cool completely. You can also double the recipe and use a 9 x 13" pan for a slightly thicker cookie.

Spring Manifesto:: Momentum

2011-05-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent out this funny little quote yesterday about Momentum. And that got me thinking.

Momentum:: You have to reclaim it daily, hourly, minutely. And you do, so many things have lost momentum in my life. Due to a few months of reality-- in no particular order... death, grief, beauty, friendship, work, marriage, growth, moving on, staying content.

So things that I love in life have lost momentum. Cooking with joy, bedtime with read aloud books, songs, blogging here, making garden plans, creating, painting, loving, writing.... all the things that make life worth living.

When I got home from my weekend away, I was greeted with kisses from my sweet husband, a clean house, happy children, a 'decorated' room and potted Gerber daisies on the kitchen table (in that order!).

And that joyous reunion, coupled with the weekend away has given me back the momentum... Last night the simplest dinner brought me the most joy. Reading Little Women(we are almost done!). And then taking the evening to do something I never do... curl up on the couch with a quilt, a glass of milk, a warm brownie and (gasp I know) THE DOG to watch an hour of mindless TV. Then I quick picked up some laundry and changed our bed before I settled into my robe and a good book.

Life at a frantic pace is not sustainable for me.

I'm choosing to find the release valves that help me get back to what I love.

Late Spring Manifesto:: Things That Creates Hospitable Space in My Life.
Read with the kids everyday
Read something for myself, everyday
Grow! Cook! Eat! Invite!
Paint the sunset
Dry herbs for winter
Use fresh herbs now
Sing
Make homemade ravioli
Plant flowers
Be gracious to my children, slow to anger and abounding in love
Eat outside
Get into the sunshine
Let worry go
Farmer's Market, every Saturday
Coffee and tea with girlfriends
Sewing

This is just a taste of my dreams for spring, but such a hopeful taste!

Will you join me in writing your own?

Weekending: Wedding Sneak Peeks

2011-05-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

This morning came too fast and now here I am with a cup of coffee trying to dig the littles out of bed before we start this beautiful day.

The sun is shining and the birds are singing. And I am ready for a new week.

This weekend, I spent with my college girlfriends. I don't even have any words to express how much love I felt this weekend. Reconnection, good coffee, sewing buttons, eating good food!

Here are a sneak-peek photos taken by the beautiful, Tea.

[Each cup of tea represents an imaginary voyage. -Catherine Douzel

The Cafe in Ames, IA]

[Cleaning Lanterns for the walkway]

[The table aptly named, WEDDING CENTRAL by Aunt Sandy!]

[Exquisite Cut Glass center pieces]

[Three of the five Orcas!]

[Wedding CAKE!]

[Super fun hand sewn wedding accessories.]

Mother's Day and All that Lay Beyond

2011-05-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

Hello Dears,

What a wonderful week. Not in the sunshine and roses kind of way (though we have had lots of sunshine and I received potted peonies and lilacs for Mother's day). But a thankful for the quiet sort of week.

Truman was sick most of the weekend. The dreaded strep revisited our house in all it's fevery glory. And we skipped spring and dove into summertime weather, just in time for Truman to want to wrap his sweaty weary limbs about me. ALL. WEEKEND. LONG. I spent most of it no more than 5 feet from him. If I got any farther, he would yelp as if I physically hurt him.

But you know, I didn't really mind. I thought I would get tired of it. Or that I should be tired of it. But it seems, I needed the weekend (and the beginning of the week)-- to bring him more icey water cups, smoothing his hair while his temperature soared. Or to doze in the big nest of cotton sheets as we watched the umpteenth VeggieTales or read There's a Monster At The End of This Book (thank you, Grandma P).

On Tuesday, My birthday.... this little man woke up from the only three and a half hours he slept that night and said, rather hoarsely, "Good Morning Mama, Happy Birthday." As if he had been waiting all of his sleep-time to wake up with good wishes for me.

And so, the Mother's Day breakfast in bed was wonderful. Eric's homemade delights: waffles, whipped cream and raspberry sauce dotted with fresh raspberries. Plus eggs and potatoes. We all sat in a circle on the bed and had a picnic together. Now that, I can't deny was a favorite part. The cards in the mail and the well wishes for my birthday were also sweet, thoughtful and heart filling.

But quiet house, a quiet boy and a reminders of how quiet our life is... makes me burst with gratitude for the enforced break. However sweaty it may have become.

*Truman's photo taken a few weeks ago.

The World Awakens

2011-05-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

From Anam Cara by John O'donohue

This winter, it feels like spring came in quickly and before I had stopped to notice. It was here. Trees are blooming, grass needs to be cut, bonfires to be had. The mantel of winter was gently coaxed off and we are here in the newness of spring.

This morning, the windows flung wide open, I felt it. Spring in my heart. Full and overflowing with gratitude. For the cotton sheets. The warm, squirmy little man snuggling next to me begging for juice and breakfast.

This moment, I am glad for the sun shine, glad for the rain. Glad that the light has returned, being generous and gentle.

2011-05-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

Written on Sunday Evening:
Tonight, I rocked both of my babies to sleep. Truman fell asleep early with me in the big arm chair. He asked for a snuggle and a soft blanket. And then slowly breathed heavier and slower until he drifted off into dream land.

And Isabel just snuggled with me, asked to watch cooking shows on TV, then asked for a snack (peanut butter and chocolate chip sandwich), and finally if I would snuggle her in her bed. And I gratefully obliged.

And I think that was my Best Part of the day.

Here’s a bit of wonderful for you today:

Anne of Green Gables read aloud, easy to download to itunes!

Have I told you of my love for Catherine Newman? Well... Last week I ran out of things to listen to, so I listened to her Dalai Mama Blog from 07-08 over again. Every podcast, it was glorious.

Fleet Foxes new album, give it a listen on NPR. (Thanks Kerry).

Sarah Jane’s new vest. Don’t you love it?

Gypsy Forest’s lovely quilts. There is something about those wavy edges...

This beautiful headband... green and brown. Some of my favorite colors!

My first Etsy Treasury:

Pop over to see it... I had so much fun choosing the most beautiful things!

Easter

2011-04-25T09:27:00.001-07:00

We woke up Easter Morning to divine rays of sunshine and light. It's been so dark and blustry here lately.

A weekend of mourning interrupted by a morning of newness. This sunshine was given to me, as if in a basket-- tucked in with candy and hidden between tissue.

Izzo in the Sky with Diamonds

2011-04-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

Last night as we pulled into the driveway of our little home. A place I longed to be at but, was working past dinner to hit a deadline. Several in fact.

And my eyes woke up looking at those trees as I unbuckled my girl from her seat.

I noticed the light-- it wasn't the typical grey and cold. The night was brisk and the sun was casting rays of golden gifts.

Truman fell asleep in the very short ride home from the post-dinner fetching and retrieving trip of me. And he was quietly tucked in his bed. And Isabel was boldly awake.

So she and I stepped outside so I could capture this fleeing light.

But what I captured was the essence of her.

Do you see her? All stripes and 'coca-dots'? Windblown hair, it's natural slight wave slight tangle-- that cringes at the sight of a hair bush.

And her face, so expectant.

Grandma Bonnie once got a fortune from a cookie that said, "Meet each day with Curiosity and Hope."

And this my friends is the unspoken, inborn motto of this little woman's life.

Spring Cleaning in a Grey Heart

2011-04-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

We woke up to a thick blanket of snow this morning. Slushy and wet. A cry of UGH arose as we peered through the window. More snow.

It hung to your coat, the doll's hair, a backpack. And it was slippery and sloggy to walk through.

A metaphore for how life felt this weekend. Stress bubbled up from responsiblities, from feeling family health stress, from the change in seasons that just isn't happening. We are so ready for Spring.

Have I said that in every post I've posted for the last month?? I feel like I have.

And it's true. I'm waiting for Spring. Waiting. Waiting.

But, tisk tisk to me. All of my spouting. "Live in the MOMENT!" "Be PRESENT." And here I am anxious about more snow. Like my being can't hold anymore grey-unknowing.

Perhaps I just need a spring in my own heart. Spring cleaning of my intensions and emotions.

A clearing out of mind and body clutter.

From the Pantry:: Grains and the Rice Cooker

2011-04-18T09:26:00.000-07:00

This is one of our tasty lunches. Quinoa with leftover chicken and fresh wilted spinach.

I'm starting a new section I'm calling From the Pantry. I am endlessly interested in what other people keep 'on hand' to add to their meals. If you want to join me, I'd love to see what's in your pantry (refrigerator, cellar, garden... too!).

*********

Truman and I picked out a rice cooker for Eric for Christmas and it's been use 3-4 times a week since then. At first I only made white and brown rice. But now I'm cooking all kinds of grains and wheat based cereals. This is just the smallest model (read cheapest) that they sold at Walmart (eww. I know.) — no bells and whistles. The only dials and buttons? Just a switch to flip.

In trying to deepen our intake of fiber, I've quietly introduced new grains into our diet over the last few weeks. Preparing them in a dish the kids already are fond of like rice with veggies or oatmeal. I was floored that they ate real 'wild rice' this week with black rice and brown rice mixed together, shredded carrots, chicken stock, garlic and stirred in broccoli at the end. Last year my chicken wild rice soup got turned up noses and yucky sounds.

AND on Saturday I mixed cooked bulgur wheat with soy into their oatmeal. I used Rachel's idea and infused vanilla (though I really wanted to use tea-- one thing at a time!) into the oatmeal and the bulgur wheat during cooking. I made the oatmeal on the stove and the bulgur wheat in the rice maker so they could cook simultaneously. A little milk, pat of butter, pinch of salt and some brown sugar made it so warm and filling.

Here's a peek into the grain shelf of my pantry:
Arborio Rice--We use it to make risotto

Yellow Rice -- I found this at our local dollar store. It's flavored saffron white rice and it is really versatile.

Brown and Black Rice mix— with grated carrots, garlic and chicken stock to make wild rice.

Whole Wheat Couscous-- the quick cooking kind is so fast and tasty. My kids love it.

Israeli Couscous-- like balls of pasta. It really takes on the flavor of chicken stock or veggie stock.

Quinoa-- this is a grain but the light colored has the texture of couscous. The best I've ever made has been in the rice cooker.

Pearled Barley-- Barley in soup is so good, but it takes a long time to get soft. We now make it in the rice cooker then add it to the soup. Simmer a bit after adding it to the soup so it soaks up the broths flavor.

Basmati Rice-- A different length of rice for something different.

Bulgur Wheat-- Add to oatmeal. And according to the box, use it in muffins. O the possiblities.

Up next-- Heidi's Millet Muffins. O MY. The deserve a post of their own...

Do you have any grain staples you use that I could try?

Happy Cooking!

This Moment:: In the Window Seat

2011-04-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

Three little friends. Lovin' in the window seat.

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. ~Amanda Soule

Tut-Tut it looks like rain

2011-04-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

A picture of my sweet one with his balloon from school. We took a long walk around the neighborhood in search of Robins. He's affectionately named all of them after his favorite movie and his beloved daily caregiver, Lynn.

If you see any Robin's you can yell a hello at them Truman style. "HELLLLLOOOOOO, Cars-Lynn!"

*Remember last summer when he named all of the fireflies after himself?

Corner View: Home

2011-04-13T11:05:00.001-07:00

We live in the midst of a small town in Iowa. Right on the Main street, nestled between the courthouse and the college.

It's cozy in the winter. And for three seasons of the year the town is active-- walking, running biking and we have a front window to it all.

And yes the kids bikes are always out front for those warm seasons!

Sleep with the Windows Open

2011-04-11T06:13:00.000-07:00

Good morning, how was your weekend? We took some time off, resting and cooking. Resetting the house, finishing laundry... and getting things that have been collecting over the winter moved out. Ahhh spring cleaning makes me feel like there are so many possibilities.

Sleeping with the windows open gives me ideas. Breathing sweet air of growing grass in the mornings helps my brain start churning in creative goodness. So, I've been working away in my little studio (ahem... the kitchen table). And that is how this little poppy was made. Out of love of spring.

The poppy has a few other friends that are up in the store too... with much more to come. Pop over and say hi!

It happened...

2011-04-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

Magically, as if the Spring Weather brought bike riding knowledge with it-- Truman started to ride his bike... FORWARD.

I know it's so hard to believe that this little man could only ride backward-- ackwardly, frustratingly backward.

But this Sunday, he got on the Trike and just started peddling.

And a great whooop came up from the on-looking crowd!

And a big smile on my little man's face.

Weekending:: The Girls Date

2011-04-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

*Photo

We had a lovely weekend of playing with our little friend, nice weather (for a few hours!) and sunshine. Great conversation, lattes and pancakes. Burgers on the grill-- with blue cheese, hot house tomatoes and tobacco onions. Cotton sheets on the beds. Robins flying out side our window.

Ahhh, deep breath. Exhale.

Well, it's WINDY and in the 40's this morning. But I can still revel in the few hours of sunshine that gave me just a morsel of Spring.

**********

Yesterday, while Truman was playing with his future wife (oh I hope!)... Isabel and I snuck away for a date. We needed milk and yogurt for the week ahead so we took off to our neighboring town. And we treated ourselves to a boy-free dinner. And a trip to the only open grocery store. And we sat at: "The littlest booth for just two!" Isabel was so excited to be alone with just me.

Why don't we do this more often?

She talked about life, told me stories, smiled a lot and got all excited over chocolate ice cream at the end.

We talked about what will change in Kindergarten. A packed lunch! New kids! Walking to school (if we can get out the door early enough)! And things that are happening right now, more grown-up things than we like to be talking about. Sick friends and family members. Loss of our beloved neighbor's dog (such a dear-sweet dog). She said her heart hurt and frankly mine did too.

And I marveled at how old she's getting. Grieving for the little girl but so hopeful for the future. She's wise and kind, witty and humorous and has a gentle, gentle soul. Recently I commented to a friend, "CAN YOU BELIEVE SHE'S GOING TO BE IN KINDERGARTEN?" And she read deep into my soul and replied softly, "You will always be her mom, Mary. Mine is 16 and I'm still mothering, your not loosing anything with them getting older. You're just gaining."

And, yes, I am. I'm just gaining.

2011-04-01T06:33:00.001-07:00

This is how I've been starting my days lately. French press + almond milk + a wee bit of sugar.

Go forth and do likewise.

Today:: Ok with Snow

2011-03-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

Good Morning,
A quiet evening, dinner, a long walk, a sweet visitor and some good snuggles got me out of my funk yesterday.

And the sun came out. Thank you dash of grace.

*********

Today, it's snowing and choking back tears... Isabel watched with horror out the window and said, "Mama, yesterday we chased robins and rode our bikes to Bon-Bons. Why did winter come back?!?!"

Hm... My thoughts exactly. But I took a deep breath and thought about how beautiful it really was. It wasn't wet snow, it was soft and light. Catching the brightness of the just rising sun.

And I said, "So you could wear your snow boots and hat. So you could run outside in it one more time, so you could eat the snow flakes. I think the snow missed YOU."

"Oh," She said. "I think I'll be ok with snow for just a bit longer."

This Date Last Year-- We were making pasta and signing up little man for preschool.

Today:: Lovely Links for a Grey Day

2011-03-24T06:06:00.000-07:00

This morning is grey and cold. And it feels a bit raw outside, I think I feel a bit raw inside. But last night I had two wonderful conversations and a full night of snuggling with my girl. I've had my tea but, perhaps I'll go pour another cup and then add a dash of grace for today.

This weekend is another girls crafting weekend and a baby shower! A weekend full of girl time is just what the doctor ordered.

Another thing the doctor ordered? Sweet potato fries. We made some. I want more...

Why don't you look at some lovely things.

Snack Bags Tutorial

Cake Lollipops

Great Food Book Covers

Delightful Bird Ornaments for a good cause

Vintage Botanical

Nanaimo Bars

Explaining Creative Process to Preschoolers

And then there's Molly's post. It hit so close to home I choked up a bit... I had my own bout of postpartum depression after birthing Isabel. I think it's good to talk about these things, it makes us all feel so much less alone. You can see more about Molly on her blog, Mommycoddle.

Corner View: Communication

2011-03-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

A smile or a word, a drawn picture or a phone call. Are all wonderful.

But I love a deep conversation, time spent talking-- perhaps a drink-- tea, coffee, wine, lemonade in the summer.

Shared food.

Practicing hospitality. Of heart and of table.

For more corner views visit here!

Friends who make your heart soar...

2011-03-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

"I think it's an interesting question to ask one self too, you know? And the question is when is the last time that you had a great conversation, a conversation which wasn't just two intersecting monologues, which is what passes for conversation a lot in this culture. But when had you last a great conversation, in which you overheard yourself saying things that you never knew you knew. That you heard yourself receiving from somebody words that absolutely found places within you that you thought you had lost and a sense of an event of a conversation that brought the two of you on to a different plane. And then fourthly, a conversation that continued to sing in your mind for weeks afterwards, you know? And I've — I've had some of them recently, and it's just absolutely amazing, like, as we would say at home, they are food and drink for the soul, you know?"

Have you heard this Krista Tippett interview John O'donohue?

I had one of these conversations/evenings this weekend-- one that "continued to sing in my mind... that was food and drink for my soul." And I highly recommend it.

Have you had good conversations lately?

A Little Artistic Music for Your Morning

2011-03-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

Parlours - I Dream of Chicago from Des Moines Freelancer on Vimeo.

Blitzen Trapper "Furr" from Sub Pop Records on Vimeo.

A little watercolor prayer...

2011-03-11T09:49:00.000-08:00

I painted this with intention for my sister whose been very sick. And with the events happening in Japan today, it seems to have been a timely intentional painting.

Playing in the Snow:: A change in Perspective

2011-03-08T06:27:00.000-08:00

A little while ago, Eric and I picked up some cheap binoculars (which Truman pronounces BY-KNOCK-LEE-EARS). And on one snowy saturday when we needed to get out of the house, we took the binoculars and looked at things and we were hoping to see some birds.

Snow, tree branches, little left-over leaves... but no birds in site!

And leaving our warm house for a trip to the library and a stop at the grocery store-- changed my perspective. And gave me just the energy I needed to have a great Saturday.

Good Morning!

2011-03-01T06:03:00.000-08:00

Do you know what day it is? It's Rhythm of the Home, Spring launch day!

So grab a cup of tea and stop by some amazing articles:

Herbal Healing for Spring

Wet on Wet Watercoloring

PoeTree

Signs of the Robin

You can see my article about Revisiting Sanctuaries too!

I love:: A Quiet Snowy Morning

2011-02-28T06:54:00.000-08:00

Knitting and reading while the kids painted and glitter glued. Cinnamon rolls, coffee for me. A needed time together.

I love:: My Family....

2011-02-25T07:23:00.000-08:00

I ran across these pictures from a few months ago. Yikes I love my family (:

I love...

2011-02-24T06:02:00.000-08:00

I love snuggling with Trubey before the sun comes up and feeling his warm little body and sweet breath in my ear.

I love Isabel's care for her dolls, all are dressed and redressed. They even 'cleaned up their wardrobe' together last night. That made me smile.

My husband who loves to take food challenges.

Friends who warm my heart.

I am full up.

What is making you feel full today?

For Today: I love...

2011-02-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

Outside: Cold and sunshine. Sparkling Ice, light catching snow.

Inside: Warm and grey. Tea and honey.

Listening: An interview.

Learning: Today is a choice, worry is a choice. I am not choosing worry.

Thinking: About her. And how much I miss her. And movie nights.

Doing: Watercolor.

Reading: Parts or all of these.

Seeing: Beauty.

I love: coffee in the morning

2011-02-15T05:44:00.000-08:00

This morning was a coffee morning. Truman's been up since 5 a.m. and Eric is sick (but he never gets ill)-- really sick, all fever and chills, body aches and atomic sore throat. So it made for a ruckus morning.

I totally lost my cool about socks. Yep. Socks. It took 25 minutes for two un-named little people to put their socks on.

Well, we're all better now.

I have my coffee and I'm heading to a quiet office. That's something to be grateful for.

Photo

I love: Making Valentines

2011-02-14T06:36:00.000-08:00

Last night Isabel stayed up too late stamping and writing the names of every-one-of-her-friends on her homemade Valentines.

It is so amazing to watch her start sounding out words to put them to paper.

Ahh growing up!

If you want to see more I love stories... click the button to the right!

I love: Packing a Weekend Picnic

2011-02-11T06:55:00.001-08:00

Hello Loves, I've been a bit absent this week but, I did want to stop in to show you a bit about last weekend. Yes, I'm aware it's Friday. But perhaps you might use this idea on your weekend adventures!

Every Saturday we head out for somewhere. Being from Los Angeles and now living in small-town Midwest, my husband needs to get out of town sometimes. And since we are smack dab between two good sized cities, we take the opportunity to make a day trip wherever we go.

Usually, we go somewhere and pick up something for lunch. But I have been against this idea not only for it's cost, but because I don't really like the food choices the kids think we should make (golden arches sound familiar?). This week, I packed a lunch of things I know they love. Turkey sandwiches on seven grain bread, hard boiled (but still warm!) eggs, tangerines, something-out-of-nothing soup and lime-aid.

They ate and raved in the car on the way to our adventure... And there was no paper waste. Win-win for everyone.

Something Out of Nothing Soup:
2 tblsp butter
2 tblsp olive oil
1/2 a medium onion chopped fine
3 potatoes peeled and cubed
1 large carrot chopped
1 clove garlic minced
6-8 cups of chicken stock
Generously peppered
Salt to taste

In a large stock pot on medium melt butter and olive oil together add onions, garlic and carrots stir until onions are translucent add potatoes and chicken stock. Boil together until carrots and potatoes are soft. Then blend in small batches in the blender (please don't burn yourself... hold a towel over the lid to the blender so it doesn't explode the heat will make the blender lid expand and it won't hold tight). Or if you have an immersion blender, blend everything to bits until it's creamy.

Store in a thermos for your travels!

What are your plans for the weekend?

I love:: Washing Dishes

2011-02-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have this reminder at my kitchen window so I stare at it while washing dishes. It reminds me to not begrudgingly wash dishes, my internal dialogue isn't so fierce "WHY WILL NO ONE HELP ME???" and WHO MADE THIS BIG MESS??"

These questions have been replaced (most of the time with) little prayers for the person whose dish I'm washing, thankfulness for enough food to eat or just feeling the warm water, smelling the soapy-smell, appreciating this is my little bit of time alone. It helps make this mundane task, a stepping stone on my life towards gratitude.

I love:: a good deal!

2011-02-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

Hello Loves,
I just wanted to stop by and let you know that TODAY ONLY, I'm offering Revisitng Sanctuaries at a 10% discount. So jump over and start the journey with us!