Love's Nest

These are a few of my favorite things...

2010-08-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas- Planning!

2010-08-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

Well folks, it's time for "Thrift Share Monday" and I have to say..."I'm excited!!!".
Last Thursday I went back to the local estate sale one day before they opened to the public as I knew they were going to take out some more items. When I arrived I walked to the back area since I didn't really spend too much time there the week before. As I walked back I immediately saw the cutest vintage doll rocking crib! I gently smiled and picked it up thinking how cute that would be for Christmas. Then, to my delight I noticed something else. It was the oddest big wooden box that was partially open and looked like it had some drawers inside. I opened it up a bit wider and wow...it was a steamer trunk for doll clothes priced at only $16!! Score!!! I then went up front to ask the price for the crib. The owner said she was gonna tag it for $20 but would give it to me for $10! Score!!!As you can probably tell, this Mama is still excited about it-lol! Two great items for only $26 dollars.
My plans? Well, I thought this is a great way to get a jump start on Christmas items. I am going to clean up the rocking crib, make a new mattress pad for it, a new pillow, and a doll quilt. Imagine how cute that'll look under the Christmas tree! My plan for the doll steamer trunk? I will be making clothes for my little ones dolls, put them on little hangers, maybe make some shoes and accessories and put them in the drawers. Imagine how cute that'll be when they open it up!!
I'm excited to take something pre-owned and "Doll it up"- pardon the pun! What a fun project it'll be! I look forward to showing you all the finished projects :D

Breathe in...breathe out...

2010-08-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

This Mama still has much to catch up on in the department of moving in. It's the oddest thing. You'd think with half of our storage unit broken into and stolen, I should have no problem organizing our new place and the remainder of the storage unit. That however is not the case. The new place is an apartment more then half the size smaller than our old house. It's actually pretty relieving in a rather odd way. I've been simplifying and trying to only keep the things I really want to. It's kind of like a fresh start. I guess it's all a matter of perspective. So...my to do list for the remainder of the month...

Order the items necessary to get home-based business started- I'll share more of that once it's ready ;D
Get Nature Table Set up- I kind of have it done but not the way I want and to be honest...I'm tired of looking at the old winter pic I have up in my blog-lol! It has been a while for us to regain our bearings.
Finish organizing craft supplies in Utility Room
Go through Mama clothes and donate what I don't use anymore!!
Move Furniture around in babies room
Actually fix up Mama's room- as I've been working off and on in the other rooms and always seem to neglect my own!
Tag Winter children's clothing for upcoming consignment show in September :D

Now to breathe in...breathe out...and remember to smell the flowers!

Enjoy your Sunday!!

Cleaning Naturally! - Re-post

2010-08-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

When I first had Little Bear, I started to become more aware of the cleaning products we were using in our home. So I began to make sure that I was buying eco-friendly and babysafe products. It was important to me because I knew that my little guy would crawl on the floor (where he would inhale those products), dropping food then picking up and putting back in mouth (therefore, picking up any residue with it), and anything and everything else toddlers and babies tend to do...then put their hands back into their mouths.
It wasn't until right before I had Zoe did it really come to my attention that I could be making my very own cleaning products-go figure! Why hadn't I thought of this before? The funny thing is, while nesting I kind of...well, really got into this show on the BBC called, "How Clean is Your House?". The ladies made their own cleaning products out of really simple, already in your pantry ingredients. I began to find recipes on line, through books, friends (thank you Kelly!), etc. It was not only fun, but it felt great to not only know that "I" made it, but the fact that "I" knew EXACTLY what was in it! My goodness, not only was it simple, but it has saved us loads of money at the same time!
I thought I'd share a few of my fave's with you-Brandy, this one's for you hon!

Alice's WonderSpray (from Clean House, Clean Planet by Karen Logan)

Combine the following ingredients in a 32 oz. bottle

Dissolve tsp. borax in 28 oz. hot water or less

Add 1/4 c. White Vinegar-preferably Heinz (since it's made from grains)

1/4 c. liquid soap-your preference (I use Mrs. Meyers either geranium or lemon verbena)

10-15 drops lemon or lavendar essential oil for scent (I use lemon)

This is an all-purpose spray and works wonders...hence the name "WonderSpray". I absolutely love this stuff.

Floor Cleaner

(I got this from one of my on-line groups a while back and have loved it ever since!)

1 gal. Hot Water

2 tbsp. Liquid Castille Soap-I use Dr. Bronner's Peppermint

1/4 tsp. Your choice of mixed EO (Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Citrus and/or Tea Tree)

Blend in a bucket and Mop

Laundry Detergent

1 c. Borax

1 c. Washing Soda

1 grated bar of Dr. Bronner's Castille Soap

I've been using this recipe for quite some time now. It's a non-sudsing recipe and I've not had any problems with it so far. I did have to go back and use my old detergent for one load, since I ran out and didn't have time to run to the store to buy the last ingredient. Anyhow, DH's pants were in that particular wash and I noticed the water looked pretty murky. I'm not sure why???? Maybe it was his pants. I think I'll try a load of my clothes and see if that happens. I'll let you know as it just happened today.

There are so many more, but these are some of the one's used the most in my home.

Please feel free to share any of your homemade cleaner recipes in your comments. I'd love to hear about them!

Beeswax Summer Candle Tutorial

2010-08-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

This is a great project to do with your little one's. These types of candles look great for summer nature tables or for nautical/beach decor.
First thing's first...make sure you get the right size shells. These shells ended up being to small!
I didn't realize it until I put the wicks in AND again after pouring the wax in...the wax will probably flow out of these little guys. So if you're using them for your nature table, get larger sizes of at least 3"-4" in diameter. Mental note to self for next time!
Place wicks inside shells with " ". I actually left a bit too much of the wick on so that I can cut them down after the wax has set.

Chip the beeswax from the block into chunks. You can easily do this by hitting it with a hammer. Place it in parchment paper first so that it doesn't stick and you keep the pieces from flying out. It doesn't take too long to melt...

Pour the wax into the shells.

...Voila!
Now to find larger shells. I just can't have candles that "look cute" without being able to use them and worry about the wax melting out-lol!
Have fun and enjoy your new summer candles!!

Thrift Share Monday

2010-08-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I've decided that since I'm a thrift girl too, why not join the wonderful Apron Thrift Girl for her Thrift Share Monday's? So here it is...my first Thrift Share Monday post. Written in a flurry of typing before I go to work!!
As some of you may know, I used to be an antique's dealer and vintage clothing dealer. I've taken an extended sabbatical -lol, from doing this because I've since become a mother. Trying to make it to the estate sales sometimes before 7 a.m. with a baby or small child, just doesn't really work unless you have help. Trust me, I've tried!I still go nowadays, but it's for personal items these days. I just can't get rid of the thrift bug. Nor do I care too!Every now and then I get to go in these estate sales if it's being done by one of antique malls that I've sold at or even people that have known me from my antique dealer days. Last week, to my delight, I was able to get into a sale...even though it doesn't start until this weekend :D
I had to completely restrain from not buying a lot, but I did want to share a couple of items that did manage to come home with me.Such as these adorable juice children's juice glasses...

What can I say? I have a weakness for vintage kitchenware!
I also love enamelware and found these two cobalt blue enamelware canisters. What will find their way into them?

Yummy Blueberry Pie

2010-07-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Alright, don't tell me you didn't see this coming-lol! Yes...yummy blueberry pie made for baking day :D Wednesday's are our baking day here. It's my day off of work and I'm more relaxed to time the time to try out new recipes and make old favorites! Little Bear absolutely LOVES baking day. Whenever we've planned an event or an outting, I'll say with a bit of intensity, "Guess what day it is?". It almost never fails for him to answer with excitement, "IT'S BAKING DAY!"
My little chef at work...I found an absolutely YUMMY blueberry pie recipe here. I mean, it was titled, "How to make the world's best blueberry pie". How could I pass it up? The thing that is so special about this particular blueberry pie, is that we picked these blueberries as a family, baked it as a family and enjoyed the "Fruits of our Labor" (pardon the pun) as a family!

...and let me tell you, it was absolutely delicious!! I used a different crust recipe that I had in one of my old "Country Living" mags.
We couldn't wait to eat it, once it was out of the oven so I didn't even get a picture of the finished product before we sliced into it and ate!
I think it's safe to say, we are pretty much a bunch of blueberry freaks-lol! That would be my fault. I've always absolutely LOVED blueberries since I can remember. As a matter of fact, blue is my favorite color! When I was a kid, I always wanted to be "Blueberry Muffin" when playing with my "Strawberry Shortcake" dolls.- lol!
Nothing like blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream. Dig in!!

Annual Pick 'n Gather Fest!!

2010-07-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love festivals!! Every year we go to the annual Pick 'N Gather. This is held at a local organic cherry & blueberry farm. It's such a fun event. We decided to keep this tradition and go together as a family...the way we have the past few years since this event has begun. We had a wonderful time! There were belly dancers and bands.
Papa and Ladybug really enjoyed the shows!
Little Bear was picking blueberries as fast as he could eat them! lol! Good thing Mama was also gathering blueberries for our baking day!

The cherries were as delicious as ever...
There's a river that run's through the property. Everyone is always encouraged to go out and play! Considering how hot it gets out here, you could only imagine the amount of families all along the river cooling off at the festival! Relief from the heat!!I'm really glad that even though DH and I are currently separated, we have still decided to hold on to some of our family traditions. It really means a lot, not only for ourselves, but for the babies as well.
The sun had wore us out and it was time to go home! All in all, it was a great day!

A Beautiful Blogger Award!

2010-06-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank the lovely Marisa over at Getting Back to Basics for awarding me a "Beautiful Blogger Award" back in March. I'm embarassed to say March, because I was so excited to see this, but as many of you know, have been so busy with the recent transition in my family life. This is actually my first blogger award and so I'm very excited to finally post this!!!

The requirements for accepting this award are as follows:
1. Thank the person who gave you the award.
2. Pass this award along to 15 bloggers you've recently discovered and whom you think are fantastic!
3. Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award.
4. Share seven (7) things about yourself.

Now Marisa has chosen to pass this along to 7 bloggers and share 7 things about herself. So to honor the person that has awarded me, I'd like to keep it the same as well.

7 Bloggers that really inspire me, in no particular order, and not all have been just discovered. However, they are all beautiful bloggers to me! Check them out...I'm sure you're gonna adore them as much as I do!!

1. It's A Good Thing Thank you Brandy for sharing the beauty of motherhood!
2. A Small Tribe Thank you Marina for your gorgeous pics of much inspiration!!
3. Natural Suburbia Thank you Linda for sharing all the goodness of your life!!
4. Syrendell Thank you Jennifer for sharing such wonderful ideas for homeschooling and the beauty of your wonderful family!!
5. Garden Mama Thank you Nicole for all the beauty you bring and share with us!
6. Bluebirdbaby Thank you Erin for so much inspiration that you have given me!! Your blog is such eye candy to me!! I LOVE IT!
7. Frontier Dreams Thank you Nicole for all the crafty inspiration and beauty of being a mama that you share with us all!

Now to share 7 things about myself, hmmm...
1. I'm a Waldorf Ed. parent
2. I love crafting and cooking
3. I use to be an antique and vintage clothing dealer (before babies). I love antiques/vintage!
4. Have been secretly wanting to move to Oregon for many years now.
5. My dear hubby and I have recently seperated (as a matter of fact, today is our 8 year anniversary) I don't know if it's permanent or not?
6. Would love to some day homestead and be completely self-sustaining (well, at least for the most part)
7. I'm an old school punk rocker ;D

Wow...that was easier than I thought-lol! I usually don't expose too much about my persona other than my mothering side, however, I'd like to start posting other facets of myself as well. We'll see! Maybe I'll just start another blog all together for that-lol!

Thank you!

Where Do We Go From Here?

2010-05-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Life has taken a major change for my family since I've last posted. For starter's we are no longer moving to Portland, Oregon because my husband and I have since separated. It was my choice. A rather abrupt decision, which was very difficult for me to make. I just got my own place with my little's and am beginning to turn it into a home.
I must admit, I wasn't going to blog anymore. I was going to leave it behind. Everytime I would read one of your lovely blogs, it would make me cry! Which is why I had also stopped reading blogs! I would read about the things everyone would do as a family and it would just hurt so bad, because those were the same things "we" would do as a family. It was as if I were (and still am) in mourning over the loss of the beautiful family we once had. I have to admit...we had an absolutely awesome family. I adore my family. As husband and wife...we just lacked much! I don't know if I've made the right decision, but here I am. A single mother of two. I'm fortunate that DH is very active and I know will continue to be a very active father.
Now that I have my own home again. Slowly but surely I've been unpacking (which is painful, because it seems to me that "EVERYTHING" holds a memory). Last month most of our stuff was stolen from our storage unit, so I am needing to rebuild my Waldorf items. Our home life/lifestyle has been in chaos for the most part, and you really don't know how much I am looking forward to bringing in our rhythms again.
As of today, I've decided to start blogging again. I thought for a quick second of changing the name, but you know what? My home still is a "Love's Nest", no matter what! Why change it? I make my life and the life of my children what I want. If something isn't the way I like it, then I need to change it. Lately things have been chaotic, therefore, I am taking steps and action into changing that. This blog will help me refocus on the things I've always enjoyed with my family. It's just that now, our family dynamics are a little bit different...and, even though I don't know what the future holds for us all...it's gonna be alright.
As for now...it's time to rebuild the "Love's Nest".

The Wellness Tree "Angel"

2010-01-16T12:27:00.000-08:00

I've created this Angel for the wonderful Kelly for whom the "Wellness Tree Project" was inspired by. Kelly is a fellow mother ,blogger, and crafter who is currently fighting cancer. The wonderful Nicole of GardenMama has organized this sisterhood of fellow mothers and bloggers to make an ornament that will be hung on a garland for Kelly. These ornaments are made with love that we each have not only as a compassionate person, but as mother's who give our hearts and prayers to Kelly and her family. Kelly, we see you in the perfect healing light and love of God.

You probably see the little card that the angel is holding. On this piece of paper, I've written the "Prayer for Protection" that I learned from our church. I've changed the "US" to read "YOU".

The Light of God Surrounds us,

The Love of God Enfolds us,

The Power of God Protects us,

and the Presence of God Watches over us,

Where ever we are, God Is AND All Is Well!

-Amen

I'm back & December in Review

2010-01-15T12:12:00.000-08:00

I finally feel I have time to sit down and take a breather! Really all I can say is that I know I am blessed to have my beautiful family and our health. The new year will bring a move to the area that we have been wanting to go to for quite some time. We are all very excited!
I also have to say that I know it has been a while since I've been posting. I've really missed it! However, I have been keeping up with following blogs which has kept me inspired and smiling to hear how everyone's Christmas month has been! I just felt that with everything being so busy here, it felt so much better to just sit and read everyone's blog, than to keep my own up. But...I'm back! It's good to be here again :D

Our December was great! I had a birthday mid-month which was nice. Papa and I went to "The Nutcracker" with some good friends and I must say, it was a wonderful evening!
Here we are right before leaving...

Christmas was awesome! We had such a relaxing day. The babies awoke as we all ran out in anticipation to see what Santa had brought. I just LOVE Christmas morning.

We ended up having Christmas Linner-lol! I made our feast early for lunch since we were having Christmas dinner at my sister's house. When we arrived later that evening we had another wonderful feast and played family games until later that night. We really had such a great time! I hadn't spent time with this particular sister and her family in a number of years, so it was really something to have both our family's together again- what a blessing!
Here's to affirming a wonderful and blessed New Year to Everyone!

Goodbye Dear Max...

2010-01-08T17:26:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night was a very rough and heart breaking night for our family. We lost our dearest little Maximus. It's the weirdest thing, and I still don't understand what happened? He was completely fine, then when I went into my bedroom an hour later he didn't look fine at all. I was too scared to move him, so I asked Papa to check on him. Poor little Max's head and body was completely limp. He had lost control of his bowels, had no muscle control, and could not breathe will at all! Papa picked him up and put him on our bed, while I ran to call the emergency center at the Animal Hospital. All we could do was hold the little guy, as he looked up at me and would give a little meow with whatever breathe he had. I am so heart broken!!

When we arrived the assistance took one look at him and yelled that they had to stabilize. She quickly dissappeared into the back. Not even what seemed like a minute later, she came back out and said nevermind to the front desk woman. They asked us to go into a little room so the vet could speak with us. She came in and told us that Max had a viral disease that is at this point incurable. She said it's common with strays as Max was a stray for the first six months of his life. It just didn't make sense! As some of you know, we found Max on Papa's birthday at the end of November. We took him to the vet and they put him on meds for various ailments. We thought he was going to be around for a long time. We did ask if we could say or goodbyes and well...the rest is just too hard to share.

Max was such an awesome cat! Anytime my little Ladybug would cry, he would go run to check on her. Anytime I was lying down with the kids or we would all play on the floor, he would always run over to us and play or lay down with us all. It was as if he was one of the kids...you could see that he thought so. He was always very affectionate with me. He followed me everywhere and would always sit in whichever room I was in. In fact, he always slept on the floor, next to my side of the bed. I would always here the little jingle of the bell on his collar right behind me. He was a precious sweet spirit! We love you Max and we thank you for blessing us with your presence in our lives. You have definitely touched our hearts and our lives! "Vaya con Dios" my sweet little Maximus kitty. We love you! You are always in our hearts!!

Sharing the love with some Etsy Mama's!!

2009-12-27T19:30:00.000-08:00

For Zoe's birthday earlier this month we decided to do something a bit more special. Instead of the usual big birthday (like we had for brother's first 2), we decided on an intimate family gathering. We invited a few close friends along with both my sisters' family's and Grandpa and his girlfriend. We wanted to hold in reverence that special day for the celebration of the birth day of our baby girl. It was so nice and so much less stress than the big birthday parties that we have held for Baby Bear's first two! I love Waldorf ed. and am so appreciative for the influence it has had in our lives and lifestyle. It's so us and continues to help us achieve that balance that we crave in our lives. This was our first "Waldorf" birthday :D
I talked dear hubby into taking part of the funds that we would normally spend on a party and instead buy something special for our baby girl. I heard about this wonderful Waldorf doll maker...Nancy at Dragonfly's Hollow on Etsy. She makes some really beautiful dolls. We did a custom order to have her make a doll that resembles our little Ladybug. I named her Lola. In memory of my Aunt Lola who bought me my first doll when I was 10 months old. My Aunt died of cancer not too much longer after that. She was my Dad's favorite and closest sister and from what I know of her, she was exceptional! A big hearted, full of love and a very joyful woman. I obviously don't remember when she gave it to me, but I can tell you growing up...I carried that doll with me EVERYWHERE! That doll was my baby up until the very moment I stopped playing with dolls :D In fact, I still have her. She has since been smashed in the storage that my Mom had her in. Therefore leaving her not in a position to be played with-unfortunately :{
Now, I know that my little Ladybug is still to little to play with her doll, but I'm hoping that it'll be something special that she will hold on to throughout her years. Her special friend that she will always know Mama and Dada bought for her very first birthday. Maybe even someday she will give her dolly to one of her own children, but that is for many, many years down the road :D
Here's our little Ladybugs lovely Lola... sorry the lighting on the first pic was so bad ;)

I would also LOVE to share with you some other very special Mama made items. Now these are not made by me, but have been made by another Mama and made with love all the same! I'm going to rave on about her, because she truly is a wonderful and very special Mama! We have come to absolutely love everything she makes. You can almost feel the love when you open the package!! This here is about Linda at Mamma 4 Earth. She really has some beautiful EVERYTHING-lol! She knits up beautiful Waldorf inspired toys and farm animals. She has her own yarn shop; Pure Wool where she sells her wonderful knitted hats, animals, has gorgeous yarn and now includes beautiful roving and sells handwork supplies as well! I think it's safe to say, it's our love and appreciation for sheep that has bonded us :D
I'm doing two themes for the little one's this Christmas. One is kitchen and the other is farm play. When I had first seen Linda's sheep on her blog I was tickled at how cute they were. Then one day, at one of Jennifer of Syrendell's workshops, I was able to see one of these amazingly cute little fella's in person. That was it! As soon as I came home, I went on her etsy site and drooled a bit-lol! I shared with a friend Linda's etsy shop and we placed an order straight away. By the way Linda, she originally bought the doll for her son, but has since found out that she is having a baby girl! The doll she bought from you will be her daughter's first doll :D
The sheep family that I just couldn't resist. They will go into little Ladybug's stocking.

Linda also made the cute chicken to play on the farm. Thank you Linda!!
With all 3 birthday's, Craft faire, and Christmas crafting, I am just waiting to begin to spin this BEAUTIFUL fiber from Linda's shop! I'll definitely take pics of the yarn I spin, as soon as I can get to spinning some more- which will be VERY shortly :D Thank you dearest Linda for everything!!
I love handmade and if your reading my blog, I'm pretty sure you do too!
Please go check out these wonderful etsy shops from some very talented Mama's!
By the way, Jennifer of Syrendell has two etsy shops as well; Syrendell-featuring some very beautiful handmade toys, crafts, fiber arts, aromatherapy and harp music from her very own talented hubby-Rick. Also check her other shop out tlwoldc - which features many of her gorgeous crocheted and knitted items!
I am fortunate to have met Jennifer. Rick and their lovely children! Truly an amazing family!!

Enjoy the sites everyone!

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree!

2009-12-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

One of my absolutely favorite times of the year is the Christmas season, for many reasons!

This is also our first year incorporating "Advent" into our family tradition. We have been reading "Mary's Little Donkey and the Flight to Egypt", by Gunhild Sehlin. We also found the Advent calendar that goes along with this book. So far it's been a great! I didn't get a chance to light the candles everynight along the second week, but I did pick it back up the beginning of the 3rd. I've been really enjoying reading about all the different ways people celebrate and the different traditions out here in blog world. I've learned quite a bit, especially in regards to the "old world" traditions in relation to what a lot of the waldorf family's celebrate. Some great stuff that I really look forward to in the years to come, especially as the little one's get older and can enjoy it more!

This past week we decorated the house...

I absolutely love decorating for Christmas! It's really so much fun :D This year I decided to do something a little different. We did most of our home's decorating first, including lights the day after Thanksgiving. Then last weekend Papa prepped the tree's. By the end of the day he and Ladybug were so tired that they had actually fallen asleep a bit early. Baby Bear also had fallen asleep promptly at his 7 o'clock bedtime as well. Then about 8:30 p.m. , I woke him up to help Mama decorate the tree's. I put on some Christmas tunes, made us both some warm milk with honey, and we had ourselves a great time. We really needed some time together alone and it was so nice! He kept getting so excited to help mama!

"Mama, I so excited!!", he kept saying as he'd open and close his little hands, just waiting for me to give him the next ornament to hang. It was really soooo cute!!

"Me too Son!", I'd reply in the most honest and sincerest way, because really...I was also very excited to decorate as I usually am!

It really was great and much needed bonding time for the both of us. When Papa awoke, we showed him the tree's with excitement! We actually both held hands and ran down the hall to Mama and Dada's room to wake him up and show him what we had done!

I usually have a few tree's around the house. One being my favorite "Kid's Tree". I'm not sure why I started calling this the "Kid's Tree", because I started this way before we actually starting having children. In fact, it's so cute that I think if I were a kid, it would just be a big tease because everything is really not supposed to be played with-lol! This year I actually placed the items that could handle some tiny hands on the bottom of the tree..."just in case".

This particular one has a lot of vintage ornaments, which were and continue to be so much fun to collect by scouring many an antique store and antique malls during the Christmas season...I so love it! As many of you know, I love antique's and vintage items so much, that I use to be an antiques dealer in my pre-mama days. So being able to still go and enjoy two of my favorite things with my family is so awesome! I've also found some other fun newer ornaments throughout the years to add to this tree as well. I've found some glass rubber duckies that really add something special to it. I've also collected glass mushrooms, which look great with all my Christmas "Pixies".

Here's our big tree! This one is so much fun to decorate. Every year we add amother decoration to commemorate the year. Be it the 1st year Papa and I started dating, our honeymoon, all the way to the Christmas I was pregnant with our first, to both our little one's first Christmas each! It's so nice to pull out the memories to share during our holiday season!

A Community Christmas

2009-12-15T15:36:00.001-08:00

Last week I was involved as a craft vendor in what was put together in a week's time event named, "Community Christmas". My gal pal Mama Ruck and an acquaintance of ours had put this event together to help other Mom's who have some type of home based business network and sell items . Since the event was put together in one week's time...there weren't that many people there to buy. On a VERY positive note, it was a great social and networking time. I was able to meet some of the other local mother's in the area that have a part time at home business, be it retail or handmade. It was a lovely evening! I made a little bit selling my beeswax ornaments, lip balm, and one of my essential oil blends. Plus, I absolutely LOVE to barter, so at the end of the event, I was able to barter some of my items with some other Mama Made goodies. A tiny toddler travel pillow for my Baby Bear in the pirate motif- he's really starting to get into pirates and a barrett for Ladybug. However, my favorite trade was the cutest little waldorf bunting pocket doll for little Ladybug's stocking. Isn't she adorable? We still need to come up with a name...hmmm...

Here are a few of the items I made...

This little apron will go to one of my nieces. It has a place for her crayons and a matching little bandana to keep her hair out of her face while she's being artistic!

One of these aprons will go to Baby Bear, since it was originally meant for him anyways. I was going to buy more of this same fabric. It has a matching potholder. It'll go with the kitchen items that go with his Santa brought gift...

"Santa, please bring me my kitchen". I love his wording. As if it's already his and Santa's just the delivery guy-lol!

This hat will be re-worked for my niece. I just need to make it a tiny bit smaller. It'll look really cute on her :D

The lip balm I made was in a variety of eo's, such as peppermint, floral, and citrus. The extra one's will definitely go out as part of gifts :D

I know this is going to sound kind of silly, but I was secretly hoping some of these items were not going to sell-loL! With just a week's notice, I was crafting like crazy-still lol! Oh my, it actually took some time away from my Christmas gift making that I knew was time I was going to have to make up for. You see, if these items didn't sell, then I wouldn't have to make more of the same items as gifts :D This kind of puts me a little ahead of the game since I do tend to procrastinate, so it all worked out wonderfully! Yes, I'm silly like that :D

Happy Birthday Zoe!!

2009-12-12T22:38:00.000-08:00

Last week was my little Zoe's first birthday :D

Words can not describe the joy that you have brought to our lives. Words can not describe the happiness you have brought to our family. We love you and everyday I am grateful and know that I am blessed to be the mother to you and your brother. I love your beautiful smile! I love how when you don't get what you want, you scrunch up your face and pucker your mouth and make that funny little breathing noise! I love how girlie you are, you're quite the princess! I love that you have brought such a wonderful balance to our family! I love that you are such an affectionate baby! I love that you, for the most part only want to be held by Mama and Dada! I love your sweet spirit! Thank you for choosing us to be your family! Thank you Zoe Grace...we love you!

Happy very 1st Birthday Zoe!!!

Crafting and Taking Care of Family

2009-12-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

I so want to blog about my little Ladybug's Birthday, but until I can...here are some pics of more of the items that I was working on last week for her birthday.

The template for her birthday crown was found at Skip to My Lou. I used the crown template, then followed my own design for the crown itself. Most of it is machine stitched, except for the upper stitching along the top of the crown and the star above the "Z". I was also able to make a really quick tiny one for her birthday babydoll "LOLA". I used my own quick template and tried to make it somewhat similiar, but simpler.

As for this week, I was asked to be a vendor at a friends "Community Christmas" party. It was kind of last minute, but I was asked last week. Of course my little one's birthday prep came first, so last week was dedicated to the garland, crowns, etc. So, I just started to try and put together some craft projects to sell items THIS FRIDAY!! I know...not much time. I guess I'll be crafting like a mad woman the next few days-lol!!! I just started tonite-me oh my! Silly, but I'm hoping to get to network and hopefully make some cash before Christmas. Not to mention, my birthday is also coming up next week! With all this house stuff, I'm glad to be keeping busy and focusing my energies on productive and positive things :D

I made a few quick children's pot holders. It's the first time I tried making them, so I think they didn't come out half bad-lol! I know now is probably not the time to try and make new items, but there will be a "Pampered Chef" lady at the party and I thought...why not try and make some kitchen items to add to the mix along with matching children's aprons? I will also have beeswax ornaments, beeswax polish, beeswax candles, some crocheted children's hats and samples of scarves and other hand work for custom orders. I will also be making baked goods! I have my work cut out for me this week!!

I also was able to make some Elderberry Syrup tonite-finally! I went in on an order from Mountain Rose Herbs with a couple of other Mama's. We all ordered the Organic Elderberries and Organic Elder Flowers. The order came in a few weeks ago and I've been waiting for the chance to get to make a recipe that was given to me by another mama. The recipe also included freshly grated ginger! It came out soooo yummy!!!

Some Completed Projects!

2009-12-06T13:57:00.000-08:00

Last night I was finally able to make my Little Bear's pillow. I decided to make him a regular pillow with bamboo filling. I then used the "choo choo" fabric to make a little pillowcase with a big "T" for Tyler! This gives me the option of being able to make and change more pillowcases, as he tends to be a messy little guy-as most boys are-lol!
I also was able to get the machine to embroider his name on it. I was in a big rush to get it to him before bed, as I promised it would be done. This was before I knew we would be out all day-loL! It is perfectly proportioned to his bed :D
When I showed it to him he said the most adorable thing..."OH thank you Mama! I'm so proud of you!". Now how cute is that? I couldn't help but giggle. "I'm proud of you too baby boy!".

Here is Ladybug's Birthday garland. It isn't finished, but it was all I could do to put it up on her birthday. I'd like to put it up in her room, so I do want to still add and complete it. Unfortunately, a good portion of my morning last Friday was taken up by the old homeowners, trying to collect rent on the home that we are living in, which has been auctioned off last week. Little did they know, that I was prepared for something like this (unfortantely). I did seek legal council and so now they have been advised to show proof that the "Old Owner" bought back the house. He's a property investor and had let 4 homes in our area go last month! Then our dryer broke down :{
Afterward, I decided that since it's Ladybug's birthday...after the last incident all by noon...we officially declared it "ZOE DAY!", with no further discussion of anything negative...at least to not let those things affect our happiness in the celebration of our beautiful little girl's 1st birthday :D

1st Week of Advent

2009-12-06T13:53:00.000-08:00

WIP's and One Completed

2009-12-01T23:56:00.000-08:00

I was able to squeeze in a real quick project, by making some beeswax ornaments for an advent swap. They are inspired by Homemade Serenity :D

Tonite's WIP's...Little Ladybugs Birthday Crown and Little Bears pillow

I'm gonna have to finish my little Ladybug's birthday crown tomorrow...as little kitty Max has had an accident all over the playroom floor through to the livingroom floor. Ahhh...good times!

This one here is totally unrelated, but a special request by my little guy. He asked Mama for a new pillow for his little toddler bed...I mean his "Big Boy" bed. He chose his own fabric as well! "Choo choo's Mama! I want the choo choo trains!", he screams right when he see's it. Oh son, I'd give you the sun and the moon if you wanted.

Stay tuned for more...

Maximus the Cat

2009-11-28T20:19:00.000-08:00

Wow, so much has been going on since we found out about our move! It's almost as if everything has been in overdrive lately. I haven't really packed anything. I'm barely starting to post my for sale stuff on craigslist and/or diaperswappers...that's not to mention the BIG yard sale that will take place as we get closer to the date; whenever that is? I guess I should say, whenever we find out...more or less?
I really have lots of blogging to catch up on. I did get a chance to change my header on Thanksgiving. However, I guess most of my posts will be WIP's or something similiar, considering how close we are to my little Ladybug's birthday AND Christmas. Not to mention, Papa just had a birthday this past week as well.
So...with that said, we do have a new addition to the family. His name is Max...after Maurice Sendak's, Where the Wild Things Are-Max, Max...after my favorite college instructor and advisor. Max after Mad Max-lol! He's the cutest little kitten! Funny thing is, when we first got him, I thought he was a she-lol! So I named her "Nikita". We then took "her" to the vet to get an exam and found out "Nikita" is a boy! Good thing we only had him for 2 days, before getting used to that name.
We kind of found Max and Max kind of found us. Poor thing is half the weight he is supposed to be, had an infection and fever of 105 degrees, and has a REALLY BAD case of ear mites. After visiting the vet on Wednesday and giving him his meds, by Friday he's been running around and being quite the kitten :D Even our dog Kaya loves him...and she really does not care for cats, unless she's broken her leash on a walk to chase after one! So naturally Max is at home with us. Right where he's supposed to be :D
Welcome to the family Max!!

Sorry for the photo. I promise to have a better one up soon :D

Wishing you a...

2009-11-26T11:20:00.001-08:00

Turquoise handspun yarn

2009-11-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

I have this other type of wool that I bought for my felting stash because it was soo pretty and I figured that I'd use it for something. Well, it struck me the other day that I could probably spin it up without carding it, as I think it's already been done? You know, I'm still new at all this so if your following along and don't know either, then you get to learn with me-lol :D

It seems to me that if I were to card this wool, it would probably break. With that being said, I thought...why not? It ended up spinning very nicely and gave me this beautiful turquoise! I'm in love!!

Swaps

2009-11-17T14:30:00.000-08:00

These are my little sheep that I was working on this week for an handmade animal swap. It's actually the first time I've used pipe cleaners and this method to make anything out of wool roving. I did needle felt a little, but it was mostly a winding method found in this book. They could be used on the nature table or for farmyard play.Here are my little sheep grazing through pine trees-lol?
Do they ever graze through pine trees...hmmm? Well, I bought the trees last weekend at a Christmas Craft Bizaar. One of the mamas from our local Mom's Club was there with her Dad who makes these. Not to mention he's thoughtful and painted them with non-toxic paint :D Thank you! As it was a deciding factor-lol! Aren't they cute ?

As for the "For Mom's" swap that I participated in...I made 2 types of aromatherapeutic foot bombs. Just like bath bombs, but for your feet. I ended up accidently getting one back as one of my swap items and was so bummed to see that they didn't really make the 2 shipments! I should've packaged them better. Oh well, live and learn. I'm just hoping not everyone's ended up like that:{Here's a look at all the goodies that I received in my package.

Yes, we have some VERY crafty mama's! Thank you ladies!!

Setting the twist...

2009-11-14T16:05:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know this is going to sound funny, but since Jennifer thought me to use the drop spindle back at the end of September, I've been sooooo itching to set the twist and get started on spinning some more. Well, you know how it can sometimes go. So much to do in so little time. Well, that itch finally became intolerable and I finally contacted her to remind me how to do this. Here it is stretching and drying...hooray!! It feels so exhilirating and I still have yet to use it. I don't know what it is about this, but it's really an indescribeable feeling to have this yarn that you've spun all by yourself!! I really can't remember myself, but I'm going to probably compare it to when my little guy does something for himself and he turns and looks at me and says, "Mama, I did it aaaaallllll by myself!", with such a sweet grin on his face. I think it's the sound in his voice and that grin that I'm so relating to-lol! I found the spool for only $1 or $2 bucks last month and thought I'd wrap the yarn around it just for show, now that it's dry. So here it is...

...my very first handspun yarn and as Tyler would say, "I did it aaallll by myself" -lol

Seriously though, it really does make me happy :D

What do you wish to dare?

2009-11-11T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today is Wishcasting Wednesday and Jamie Riddler asks us, "What do you wish to dare?".

Wow...once again, perfect timing Jamie! For my first Wishcasting Wednesday I had discussed us wanting to move to Oregon. Well, it seems as though the opportunity has arisen!

We are renters here in our house. We moved to this much bigger house, while I was still pregnant with my little guy. We thought now that we were starting our family out, it would only make sense to get a bigger place. It also made sense at the time, NOT to move out of state due to the fact that he has job stability AND insurance. We finally made our way to Norther Oregon for vacation a few years ago and absolutely fell in love with the town we had wanted to move to. It was a sort of preview vacation-lol!

Since then we've also added Zoe to the family. So here we are...3 years after first moving in and what do you know? Yesterday we were served papers that this house we are renting is going into foreclosure! We are on a lease, so they can't just give us the boot, but it is the sign we've been waiting for. I figure, if we're going to move, then we should just move...why not? We do not have family in the area, nor do we have jobs there...yet. As of yet, we don't even know how much longer we have here? But they do have to give us a 90 day notice. It's scary and so I wish to dare to take this leap of faith, to move to the place that we have been wanting to move to, for a number of years now. I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. Though it was sudden and yes, I felt like I had the wind knocked out of me when I found out yesterday...I really feel that this is the time for us to make that leap and to dare to know that all will be well :D

Throughout the Week

2009-11-08T22:00:00.000-08:00

A little something Mama's working on for an upcoming swap...

I found these at an antique mall in the foothills of the Sierra's. It will go nicely with the kids new kitchen that Santa will be bringing them. It's a creamer and sugar set, but I figure they could use it as a pitcher and canister...

I found one of our new fave books for only $1 at our favorite consignment store in the foothills right out of Yosemite National Park; my Super Score of the Week! It's an old library copy, but we still love it...

A scene from the book...

A vintage baby quilt that was gifted to us from the antique mall owner that I use to have a booth at shortly after Tyler was born. She soon after became one of Tyler's "Grandma's". It's one of my favorite gifts and now his comforter for his first big boy bed...

In his Sunday clothes...

Shhh...Little Man taking a his first nap in his new toddler bed. Mama here trying to hold back the tears and allow them to grow. Thank goodness we still bedshare at night :)

Acorn Children

2009-11-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

I made these cute little "Acorn Girls" for our seasonal Autumn Nature Table Swap. It was fairly simple and fun to do. I was inspired to make these from the wooden acorn children fingerpuppets that we made at the Dell with Jennifer and her family.
Here they are awaiting shipment...

Bon Voyage, my little acorn girls! May you bring smiles to your new families :D

Wishcasting Wednesday!

2009-11-04T20:14:00.000-08:00

Today Jamie asks us "What do you wish to experience"? This question is the question that has actually been going through my head this past week. It to often seems that I am beginning a project, doing 50 million other things, then getting burnt out before I can complete my main project! This really leaves me with a feeling of chaos. Not having a visual completion of what I've been working on, really throws me off. Mainly, reorganizing our home and decluttering.

The other thing is that of not being where I want to be as far as time management and being able to take the time to do what's important to me. For example, taking more tea times throughout the day with Tyler, which we both really enjoy. Getting back into what rhythm we were creating. Today was our first baking day in well over a month! This is something that he always looks forward to...Wednesday- Baking Day. So I guess what I really want to experience is the comfort of order and balance.

Jingle Balls!

2009-11-02T12:30:00.000-08:00

I've kind of been in crochet mode lately. I've always loved those knit balls that I see, but never buy because I think to myself..."I'm going to learn to knit real soon". However, one of my mama friends taught me to cast on and knit last year just before I had Zoe and...well...I never learned to cast off-lol! So there I was, stuck with this scarf with two knitting needles attached to it-(lol even more)! I actually still have it around here somewhere, with the needles still attached...waiting to be finished ;D
Needless to say, I don't know why I had never thought about crocheting my own? And that's what I did. A few weeks ago I decided to give it a go with some organic cotton yarn that I had left over from making Zoe some washclothes from last year. Voila! What do ya know-I did it! Mind you, I can't really read patterns, so I don't even try to. Ok, so I can read VERY simple patterns just a wee little bit, but not so well. I mostly come up with my own patterns. If one were a professional, you could probably see where I could've improved on decreasing in a spot or two. However, to the novice's eye or even to those that don't crochet...well...you really can't tell.

Oh yeah, so back to the balls. I just started off as I would a beanie. Then midway, I started decreasing as I went around. I stuffed them with wool and put a bell in the middle. To my surprise Zoe absolutely loves her new ball (s). If she were a cat she'd be in heaven! It actually wouldn't be a bad idea for a cat owner friend. You know, just throw in some catnip with the bell :D
Anyhow, I say ball (s) because I ended up making another out of pink and white varigated cotton, and a bit bigger. It's suppose to be for her stocking, but both little one's were playing with it the morning after I made it. Hmmm...I wonder if I stashed it away real quick, would they just forget about the large one until Christmas-lol! I really have so many other things that I need to quickly start on, if I plan on getting all my "Mama Made" gifts done in time. Not to mention Baby Girls birthday is coming up VERY soon!!! Me oh my how they grow like weeds! Now to also start planning for her 1st Birthday!!

Yummy Potatoes!!

2009-11-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

The other day I told DH there are some things I'm going to be doing this winter; learning to knit, learning to weave, learning to spin on a wheel, re-arranging to entire house, and I'll be baking more bread and making casseroles. It's such an odd thing to just come out and say, but I know what I feel like doing now that I'm out of my summer slumber.
Last year at this time I was just about 9 months pregnant with Ladybug, so I was nesting and prepping the nursery more than I was cooking-lol! Although, I was eating quite a bit-loL!
So yes...here we have another baking recipe, but it's oh so good!!

Mama's Au Gratin

2 sweet potatoes

2 lbs. of new potatoes

3 or more turnips

1/3 c. butter

1/2 pint of heavy cream

3 large leeks

1 tsp. of nutmeg

1/2 tsp. white pepper

salt to taste

1/3 c. whole milk

1/2 to 3/4 c. of guyere cheese

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Butter a long casserole dish.
In a skillet add butter, milk, heavy cream, sliced leeks until melted. Then add all ingredients except the cheese. Cook until the veggies are a bit tender, about 10-15 minutes. Then add everything into the casserole dish. At this point throw in all the cheese and mix. Place into oven for 40-45 minutes. Voila...enjoy!!

If you're a meat eater you can also add some applewood bacon to it. Once cooked, just crumble it in the mix!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T16:10:00.000-07:00

Autumn Harvest Festival

2009-10-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

The little one's attended a Harvest Festival/Halloween Party the other night, hosted by our Mom's Club. It's our biggest fundraiser of the year, from which we adopt a family for Christmas, buy them food and Christmas gifts for the entire family :D
Poor Tyler awoke the next day saying his tummy didn't feel so well. Hmmm...I wonder how that happened-lol? Well, at least he asked for some mint tea with his breakfast ...he's learning-lol!
Here are a few pics of us...

Happy Halloween Everyone!!

Creative Family in the Dell

2009-10-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

Last month we attended a wonderful workshop, hosted by Jennifer & Rick Tan of Syrendell. It was a great experience for our family as we had an awesome time and learned quite a bit in a day! The workshop was geared for families with little tots. There was an intro to Waldorf Ed. along with philosophy of Rudolf Steiner.
As a family we were able to learn, hands-on about the "Wet on Wet Method" of painting with watercolor. This is something that I've been wanting to learn for a while, so that Tyler and I could do this together. I really found it helpful. Dada really enjoyed the watercoloring alot more than he thought he would, which was really nice to hear. This means that Dada and Tyler will be spending time painting together.

We also had craft time- I learned to spin yarn from a drop spindle! Another thing that I've been wanting to learn for quite some time. The drop spindle was so much fun! I'm so looking foward to making some more of my own handspun yarn. It's so meditative and fullfilling to create with fibers. I can't quite put my finger on what it is about it...it just is. Jennifer is actually going to be holding another workshop next month on fiber arts. I'll get to learn to spin on the wheel at that one *grinning in anticipation!
We did have some outdoor craft time too with the little one's. Here we made some cute little acorn people with the acorns that the kids picked up from their nature walk. They turned out so cute!

Auntie Brandy with Tyler

One thing we were all able to enjoy as a family was a "Drum Circle". Though this is not "Traditional Waldorf", we completely enoyed it. I absolutely LOVE drum circles. We are a music family, so I was very glad that we all were able to share music time with every one. What a perfect way to end the day!
Jennifer and her family are truly wonderful and have such amazing spirits. Thank you Jennifer & Rick for sharing your wisdom with us.
DH with Zoe at Steiner College

Afterward, we had a chance to head over to the Steiner College...such gorgeous grounds. Unfortunately since it was Sunday there was no one there, but we'll definitely get to go again next month :D There's a biodynamic garden, a cute bookstore-and from peeking into the window it looks like they have some great stuff-lol, I just couldn't help myself! They have a really cute children's room with a playground next to it. A nice cafe, from which we had our lunch brought to us at the workshop-Vegan Enchiladas-oh so good! One of the art rooms that I looked into was very simple, but the lines were amazing and the lighting was beautiful due to the natural lighting from the skylights.
Tyler playing in the children's playground

We had a quick snack, let the little ones run around in the play area for a wee bit, then headed back home...oh, did I mention it was a 2 hour drive. Yes, but well worth it :D
The great thing is, not only did I get to share this with my whole family, but one of my best gal pals got to share and learn alongside with me. What a great Mama bonding experience!

MamaRuck and Myself

Chicken Soup with Rice...

2009-10-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

In October

I'll be host

to wiches, goblins

and a ghost.

I'll serve them chicken soup

on toast.

Whoopy once

whoopy twice

whoopy chicken soup

with rice.

-Chicken Soup With Rice-A Book of Months-by Maurice Sendak

I love this book!! I was fortunate to also get the video a while back at a yard sale that a retired school teacher held. It includes "Where the Wild Things Are" and "In the Night Kitchen". Lot's of old skool stuff that I LOVE from when I was a small child! I got the book at a yard sale for 25 cents! I gotta say, Maurice Sendak is a pretty groovy fella :D

Anyhow, this would make for a great theme for your next cooking day with your little one's! I often like to incorporate a book if possible with what we're going to bake or make. A sort of cooking or baking "Theme". It just makes it that much more fun!

My Chicken Soup with Rice Recipe...

Cook one whole fryer chicken in water . Once this is completely cooked (DO NOT throw out the water as this is your broth), debone the chicken.

Add the shredded chicken back into the broth and about 1/3 cup of brown rice, some roasted corn, garlic, sea salt, rosemary and thyme. Allow this to cook for 25 minutes.

Then add 1 bunch of Kale and 1bunch of Mizuna Greens. Let this cook for 20 more minutes then...Voila! You have yourself a great chicken soup that's not only great for fighting off colds, but very tasty too!

Mac'n Cheeseburger Casserole

2009-10-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, so today was a long day for this Mama here. We had our church's birthday today and that entailed a Spaghetti feed along with a talent show. We have an amazing and ecclectic bunch of members, so it was VERY entertaining. There were bellydancers, a blues jam, some solo performers, duos-one even did an opera song to her partner playing acoustic guitar! Even the little one's did a breakdancing performance.
After getting home and now that there's a little chill in the air...ok, not so much yet here but it is autumn. I love comfort foods around this time. Something simple that keeps your belly full and bodies warm :D I decided to make a Mac 'n Cheeseburger Casserole. Oddly enough, I don't recall having made this yet since Tyler has been born! I added some stuff here and there to jazz it up a bit from the more traditional, but that's just what I like to do. Hope you enjoy!

Mac 'n Cheeseburger Casserole

First cook...

1 lb. ground beef in Garlic w/Salt and Rosemary and one onion
Once cooked add for just a few more minutes...
12 oz. can of crushed tomatoes

1.5-2 cups of water

2 tsps. Worchestershire

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. chipotle powder

1 bell pepper cut up

1 bunch (or however much you want) each of Spinach and Mizuna Greens

add this...

to ...

2 cups of uncooked elbow pasta or any other pasta you like in a casserole dish.

Cook at 400 degrees covered with foil for about 50 minutes until the pasta is tender.
After it's done stir and then add 1/4 cup of whatever cheese you like- I mixed Guyere, fresh parmesan, colby and some goat cheese crumbles over the top. Let it sit for a few minutes to melt it.
The chipotle powder gives it a south of the border flair, but I think next time I'll leave it out and add a dash of nutmeg in it's place. I also think that adding the 14 oz. can of undrained stewed tomatoes may be my next try instead of the crushed tomatoes and not include the extra water since the can of stewed tomatoes should have enough h2O if not drained. Either way, this recipe still came out great AND what a great way to sneak in some greens for those that are picky eaters-lol!

Enjoy!!

Sneak Peek - Just for Moms Swap!

2009-10-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

I haven't joined any swaps since I had last hosted the "Mushroom Swap" back in April. I know, it's been quite a while! You know what I think I really like about swaps, especially here? It's that it encourages me to try new things that I've been wanting to do anyhow...but with a loving deadline-lol! Now that summer's over and autumn is here, I've really been feeling the need to create once again.
The first swap I joined up after my long hiatus is the "Just for Mom's" swap. I have something that I have been wanting to try and make for quite some time and what do you know...here's the perfect opportunity-hooray!

So here's a sneak peek at my concoction...

I don't want to show you anymore, in case you should know what it is. I'll post pics after packages have been received along with what I've received.
Ahhh....I really missed this :D FUN, FUN, FUN!!! I really had a great time with this :D

The Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-19T15:41:00.000-07:00

Every year we go to our favorite local pumpkin patch here in the valley, "The Bear Creek Pumpkin Patch". I have to admit...it doesn't quite feel like autumn until we come here and kick it off-lol! Ok, so it's really more of a tradition, but it is our favorite pumpkin patch.

Here's to sharing pics from our trip today.

We started coming here since Tyler was 7 or 8 months old. So this is his 3rd year and Zoe's 1st.

Here's a pic from Tyler's 1st year here.
Now here's Zoe's 1st year here :D

The kids had a great time! I made Tyler this crochet pumpkin hat last year. I think next year I'll make Zoe one to match.

Zoe before storytime...

Here they are having a straw sword fight, going through the corn maze, and making maize...

Here's Tyler the Pumpkin King!

Happy Autumn!!!

Pumpkin Baby Tutorial!

2009-10-12T17:05:00.000-07:00

This is our first autumn doing a seasonal nature table. I'm really excited about it, as we are just getting our playroom re-organized. I was going to needlefelt a pumpkin, but thought this would much more fun!

Here's a tutorial to make your very own "Pumpkin Baby".

First, I used a peg person for the base and head. I then used wool roving and needlefelted it loosely into place. Then I took the orange wool and wrapped it around as to not let any of the natural wool coloring show through.

I needed felted a basic pumpkin shape. Now because I wanted a smoother look, I decided to wetfelt the pumpkin just a bit. Next I threw her in the dryer for a good 5 minutes to tighten the fibers. Once dry, you can needlefelt the lines of the pumpkin.

Since I didn't have any felt lying around, I decided to needlefelt some green wool roving onto a foam block. This gave me a small sheet of green felt, that I could cut and make the stem hat. I glued it on and Voila!

This would make a wonderful addition to any nature table! Enjoy and happy crafting!! If you have any questions, please feel free to email me and I'll be glad to help :D

Fairy and Gnome Homes

2009-10-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Last month Dan and I coordinated some children's workshops for a spiritual retreat that we took up in the Sierra's. We had such a great time! I must say, we only were able to attend one of the adult workshops (that dealt with Chakric meditation and some inner-child work...which was actually pretty heavy stuff), but it was a great one! Since we headed up the children's workshops, the entire retreat was very refreshing for us. The schedule's for the weekend left plenty of time for people to relax. Nice mountain air, late night and early morning swims...ahhh! I could really use another retreat about now-lol!

There were a total of 3 workshops that we personally ran out of the 4. We started the day with some yoga for the kids. Instead of doing our sun salutations, we used the "Yoga Planet" deck from Barefoot Books. We chose a few of the cards from each element to work on with the children, which was a lot of fun for them since some were in game form. As you can see...we had a few of our "mountain friends" watching....

Our second workshop was really the one I enjoyed the most. We did a "Fairy and Gnome Home-Building Creativity & Imagination" workshop. It was fun to see the different style of homes that everyone worked on.

Here we have "Pine Cone Palace"...

Next we had a gnome home, which I thought was really interesting. We had a 6th grader working on this one and she decided to recycle a lot of different manmade items that she found in the woods to create balconies on the tree and as seen here, a slide! It really made me happy that she had thought to do that.

Our last workshop was a nice "Nature Walk" after lunch.

Now even though it was a "Spiritual Retreat", it was really for the adults. It was requested that I come up with crafts or things to keep the children busy, while the parents had their workshops. Really though, I think we had more fun with the children's workshops than the adults did at their own-lol! Not as though their workshops were necessarily suppose to be fun, but I had a few ask if they could come along and build fairy homes with us! We did enjoy our time up there. What a great way to end our summer and the kids had a blast!

Completing Projects

2009-10-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

I had taken some time off of blogging since we had been so busy with life. Over the past 2 weeks, once again, I am purging our home - major decluttering. This time, with even more of a critical eye to what I want our home to not only look like, but what I want it to feel like. It's so good to be back blogging again and it's especially great to be back here on Wednesday's Wishcasting with Jamie Ridler. So today she asks us..."What do you wish to complete?". That's simple. For me...I wish to complete the projects that I am currently working on. I wish that this overhaul will also be completely satisfying to what I hope to achieve in our home. It's always the beginning that is easiest for me. Then when it comes to all the little things and finishing...well...that's when I start feeling weighed down. So I hope to complete this project with great ease and to achieve the look and feel that I'm hoping for :D

Blessed be my friends!!

Weekend Finds

2009-10-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the weekend of super scores...

On Saturday one of our neighbors had an estate sale because they are moving out of state. We were actually on our way to the Saturday Farmer's Market and while passing by had seen a watering can that I wanted. I decided to turn around and stop. Good thing I did, because for a very, very reasonable price, I scored this lovely oak dining set!

It has the extra leaf with the two captain's chair's and 4 regular chairs. I'm more of a walnut wood type of gal and a bit more modern, but even I could appreciate that it is a very pretty set. We really needed a new dining set. As luck would have it, I picked Dan up a really great Troy Built lawn mower for only $20...another great score!! Dan's just broke down not too long ago, so the timing was perfect. Even Dada couldn't complain about that :D

On Sunday we went to the annual swap meet held in downtown Hornitos, Ca. It is a historical town that was the where the hustle and bustle use to be during California's gold rush. I LOVE going to this swap meet! It's only once a year, so I always go :D There are vendor's from many towns that come to sell, and people from many towns that come to buy. I have to say, I was VERY pleased by my purchases here.

One lady had just about everything that I love and the prices were jaw droppingly low!! Here are a few of the items that I scored from her.This basket was filled with all this and more! A beautiful L.L. Bean Lavendar fleece pull over= .50, Ryka outdoor walking shoes =$1, Teva's=$1, beautiful Eddie Bauer riding styled boots= $5...all in mint condition, and a number of other items ALL for $35!! Can you believe that! It was definitely a gold mine for me! Uh oh, I'm sounding like that master card commercial-lol!

From another booth, I found all these cloth napkins... a little over 30 of them for only $5!This dish towel was only $1 at the same linen's booth. It reminds me of Babar...isn't he so cute? I think about the person who put all that love and time into embroidering this towel. I wonder what she was like. Did she have many children? What was her life like? How gratified she must of felt after completing her project! What other crafts did she enjoy? I find myself thinking of things like that more and more, because I know all the love I put into my projects. There's that connection with these other women that made these items, or used the crafting tools, and yet I know nothing of their them or their personal life story. Ok, so I'm a bit dorky like that...I just can't help it-lol!
Even Tyler found a new instrument all on his own for only $1...

The funny thing is...over the past few weeks, I've been seriously purging our home of items that are no longer useful either to ourselves or to our lifestyle. I've generally been avoiding any type of thrift buying, yard or estate sales, etc. However, I have been keeping my eye open for those items that we do need or want. It's wonderful how when you actually make the room for it...it comes! I love how that happens ;D

Antiquing in the Mother Lode!

2009-10-02T15:19:00.001-07:00

Yes, I'm back and it has been a while if I do say so myself! Things have been a bit busy here, as life tends to be at times. However, I must say that I have missed everyone and look forward to catching up with many of you!

This past weekend, we went to the lovely little town of Sonora, Ca. I absolutely adore this town. It's in the sierra foothills, not too far from Yosemite National Park. We actually went to say our goodbye's to some friends that are moving back east. Now of course since we were already there, I had to stop in and take a peek at some of my favorite little shops. I ended up finding a few things at one of the antique shops in Jamestown later that day.

I absolutely fell in love with these two flower girls, that I couldn't pass them up! I can already see them at one of our spring tea parties. They appear to be airbrushed onto flour sack towels. I think they're adorable.

I also found the cutest little cornucopia to add to our nature shelf.

Since our nature table needs to be fixed, I am temporarily using a shelf for the time being. So far, so good! I was thinking of needlefelting some tiny pumpkins and gourds, but I think I'll wait a few years after they get past the stage of trying to eat everything tiny!

So with that, I just want to say it's good to be back!! Happy Autumn!!!

The Antique Roadshow!!

2009-08-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday one of my long time dreams came true! I know it may sound a bit silly to some, but I have always-I say ALWAYS wanted to attend the "Antique Roadshow". I am pleased to say that Saturday the 15th of August, that dream finally came true-lol!
My goodness what a fun time!! I was utterly impressed by all the attendees. The energy there was amazing. Everyone was so giddy, yet contained themselves very well, so it was not overwhelming. People were discussing their items left and right. Stopping one another to take a look a items. There was no pushing, no fussing. Even when an item wasn't what one had thought, you would still see a smile on people's faces. People actually cheered one another after long waits in line to go get the appraisals and congratulated each other. I was so very pleasantly pleased and impressed. It was a fabulous time!
In the pic is one of the appraiser's with one of my textiles. It is a set of two. This here is folded, but is a handpiece done for a card table. I had the era correctly, but wasn't sure of the total worth. I bought the little one for $3 and the larger for $5. They ended up being a worth of $75 and $125! Not too shabby, if I do say so myself. I absolutely love the needle work, so these are staying in my personal collection. I had also taken a piece that I was hoping would be a museum piece. Turns out it is...a museum gift shop piece from the 1920's. There goes our retirement fund! loL! My other piece was a Haviland covered vegetable dish, that I was dating late 1700's to early 1800's. It turns out it was from the 1800's and one of the better pieces he has seen from this collection. I was pretty close! It is such a beautiful piece and is only worth $20?? I've seen them on Ebay for more? I was glad to know that I can now use it for Thanksgiving this year. I was so glad to know that other than my faux museum piece (yard sale find), that I was pretty much on the nose dating my items! I'm getting quite good at that :D
One of the highlights of the day, was that I did get Mark Wahlberg's autograph- double :D
He is the show's host and not to be mistaken with Mark Wahlberg of Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch aka Donnie Wahlberg from NKOTB little brother...ok, now I'm really laughing out loud! Everyone in our line was quite shy, so leave it to me to walk up to him and casually say, "Mark, would you mind giving me your autograph?". He was so nice and had his little Sharpie pen ready *Giggle! I walked back in line as the ladies around us had to see his actual autograph. I let them know we were on a first name basis *giggle again. I tell you, I felt like such a schoolgirl at the show-so giddy! As I sit here typing and retelling the story, I'm blushing! My goodness! I'll save face and not tell you about how my gal pal Kelly and I became so nervous behind the camera while filming our feedback and couldn't stop giggling again after that. It's so weird how things like that can happen. Ohhh...good times I tell you! Good times :D

What door do you wish to open?

2009-08-12T14:33:00.000-07:00

Today Jamie Ridler asks, "What door do you wish to open?". As soon as I read it, I knew exactly which door-the door of opportunity!

The opportunity to make our dreams come true!

The opportunity for us to be in a better financial situation, without losing anything!
The opportunity to write in my blog a bit more!

The opportunity for creativity!

The opportunity to homestead our own property, in the area we would like to move to!

The opportunity to start the business that I've been thinking about lately :D

The opportunity for peace in this planet!

Many blessings to all!

What do you wish to make room for?

2009-08-05T12:49:00.000-07:00

Today is "Wishcasting Wednesday" and Jamie asks us...

"What do you wish to make room for?"

I have been decluttering quite a bit lately and continue to do so. I feel like it's time to clear out everything I've been holding on to that no longer suits my life and move on. I also was a shopaholic (Thrift stores, Estate sales, Yard/Garage Sales, and pretty much any sales). I used it for therapeutic reasons. Now don't get me wrong, I still like a good sale every now and then, but I'm just not obsessed with the thrill of finding treasures. I now have my own treasures here at home - Now that I'm a mother it's my family. With that, I've been "Letting Go" in order to make room for good in my life...and it's really about time! I'm glad I reached this point of being ready to let go!! With things more organized here at home, I can actually walk in and I feel like I can breathe. The chi is really starting to flow!

I heard a talk around the same time of my "Letting Go" post, in which the speaker had mentioned that in order for a person to receive the good things in your life AND the things you want, you need to make room for them-physically, emotionally, and spiritually by letting go of what you no longer need.

What do I wish to make room for? I wish to make room to receive the many more blessings we are about to receive both individually and as a family! Room for our dreams to manifest.

I also wish to make room for creativity!

Blessings to all of you!

Self-expression

2009-08-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

Normally, I don't post about these types of things, but today I just couldn't help but to think of how unique each and every person out there is when I read this. Sometimes we just all need a reminder every now and then.

I read this little booklet everyday called, "Daily Word"- or at least I try to everyday. I love reading it for early morning meditation . The reason why I love this booklet, is that it is of the "spiritual" nature. Nothing forced on you. Just spiritual. I can remember a time when I was much, much younger, someone gifted me a subscription. It has a scripture at the bottom of the page and at that time I wouldn't read it, because I was turned off (at that time in my life) by anything with a scripture in it...but that's another story for another day. Then a few months before the subscription ended I picked it up and that day's daily word spoke volumes to me...it spoke to my spirit. This little booklet often speaks to me and coinsides with whatever it is I happen to either be going through, or whatever it is I've been reflecting on- don't you just love when that happens! I love to find the beauty and truth's in all things and beliefs.

Today's word just makes me think of how truely special each and every one of us are. Sometimes it's just the little things.

The word is... "Self-expression"

I am the one and only me.

I may not think of myself as a creative person, but I know that I have unique talents and skills to share.

For instance, art may appear on a canvas, or it may appear in a meal prepared with love. Some hands sculpt clay or play a musical instrument, and some gently hold the hand of a child. Wisdom can be found in books, but it can also be found in quiet conversation across the kitchen table.

I am creative in my own unique way. As I more fully express who I am, I bless others, and blessings flow back to me. I am creative, productive, and open to divine inspiration. I give my gifts to the world.

Cooking Simple

2009-07-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

I haven't been blogging as much as I'd like to lately. I'm still decluttering...getting ready for another yard sale this weekend at a friends house. It seems that this past week has been a bit overwhelming with so much "other" stuff going on! Whenever things get a bit overwhelming I usually tend to dive into a project of some sort to help keep me focused. Other than the first recipe that I'm sharing, I've been all about cooking without a recipe lately. Don't get me wrong, I love my cookbooks (especially vintage cookbook's) and have my favorite routine recipes, but this past week it's been about using my own imagination, but keeping it simple. I was up for the challenge and I must say...it was a sweet surprise! My skills are all starting to come together nicely. I thought I'd share a few friendly recipes with you. The ingredients are in bold.

Ok, so this first one was one that I had obtained from our CSA newsletter a few years ago. We absolutely love it and have not had it in a while. I forget how yummy these are, so I'll share this one with you first. Children usually LOVE these and what a healthy alternative to those greasy fast food french fries.

Carrot Fries

Preheat oven to 400 F. Then you simply take your carrots and cut them up like french fries. You then cover them in olive oil. Do not be stingy with the Olive Oil, but do not overdo it either. Then you sprinkle sea salt and some pepper. Put in the oven for about 30-45 mins. depending on how roasted you like them and Voila! The sweetness of the carrots with the salt is very complimentary so be sure to not be stingy on the salt either. I myself usually do not like to use much salt on my food, but this is one of the few times I'll put a regular amount. The carrots that are purple, yellow, and dark orange are all super sweet for this recipe. However, we usually don't get them until fall/winter so we used regular ones which are still good. Enjoy!!

Fish Taco's

You can batter up the fish with pureed carrot's or beet's then roll them in panko with salt. Fry them up!

Next cut up some cabbage, cilantro, and red onions. Mix w/either mexican crema or sour cream if you can't get the first. I put in a pinch of chipolte powder and cumin in the cream before mixing it with the veggie mix.

Next place fish in a tortilla, then add the cabbage cole slaw-Yummy!

If you're a vegetarian you may use tofu instead of fish.

Stuffed Chicken

This here is a super easy recipe. I don't know why I never thought of it before?

All you need to do is...

Preheat oven to 375 degree's

Chicken breast- butterfly cut then put olive oil over with salt and pepper.

Sliced zuchinni & tomatoes into rounds stuff into the breast. Then you throw over the tomatoe's some chopped basil. Throw into the oven for about 45 mins.

When it's done, you throw in a slice of mozzarella in leave in oven for only 3 more minutes. Remove and voila!

Quesadilla's with a flair

This here is very simple, but filled with flavor! First you take corn - I prefer roasting the corn first. Mix it with diced red onions and cilantro. Put in in a tortilla with shredded mozzarella cheese. I added chicken, but if your vegetarian you can leave it out and it's just as good. Next you put the quesadilla into a frying pan with hot olive oil. Slightly brown each side and enjoy!

I know that these recipes are quite simple, but when I feel that there's no time to cook or try some elaborate recipe (which I also love to do!). These here recipes are great for the busy mom. If you ever run out of idea's, give one of these a try. I think you'll be in for a real treat. Not only simple, but super tasty! Happy Cooking!!!

These Are The Days To Remember...

2009-07-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

Today is "Wishcasting Wednesday" and Jamie asks us, "What do you wish to remember"? It seems to me that so often I'm singing along with Natalie Merchant to that song, "These are the Days" by 10,000 Maniacs...

"These are the days you'll remember. Never before and never since, I promise, will the whole world be warm as this. And as you feel it, you'll know it's true that you are blessed and lucky. It's true that you, are touched by something that will grow and bloom in you. These are the days you'll remember. When May is rushing over you with desire to be part of the miracles you see in every hour. You'll know it's true that you are blessed and lucky. It's true that you are touched by something that will grow and bloom in you. These are days. These are the days you might fill with laughter until you break. These days you might feel a shaft of light make its way across your face. And when you do you'll know how it was meant to be. See the signs and know their meaning. It's true, you'll know how it was meant to be. Hear the signs and know they're speaking to you, to you."

My children are still babies and hopefully we will add a few more to our little clan. For us, "These are the days". I wish to remember these days with fond memories of a magical childhood for my children and in the future... my grandchildren and great grandchildren will hopefully have our influences. I wish they will look upon their lives as well and think..."I had such awesome parents!" The days do go by so fast and it seems that everytime I blink, my little one's have grown another inch! I wish to remember our family's life filled with joy, love, and laughter. I wish to remember the warmth of the love in our lives! I must admit..I also look forward to the many more warm memories we are creating!!

Blessings to you all!

On a completely different note, if you are a lover of vintage items, please see my previous post for a giveaway ending August 2nd.

Monthly Giveaway...For Vintage Lover's

2009-07-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

This month's giveaway is from the vintage clothing booth I use to have at one of our local antique malls. I still have a lot of stock, hence my idea for the "Vintage Lounge". I plan on holding on to some of the items for my monthly giveaways, since I haven't been crafting that much this summer.

I have here a lovely vintage hat. It is black with little bouquets and black netting. I know it may not suit everyone's style, if anything you can always gift it to a vintage lover in your life. I love picking up things for friends if it's something I see and know they would love!

Just leave a comment to enter.

I will close sign ups Sunday August 2nd at midnite Pacific Time. I will anounce the winner August 3rd. Good luck!!

Congratulations to #8 One Happy Family who said...

What a great giveaway- count me in!!! It's absolutely perfect.

I picked the winner using random.org in order that comments were left.

Thank you to all who entered and please keep a look out for this month's giveaway!!

"What do you wish to tell the world?"- Wishcasting Wednesday

2009-07-22T08:18:00.000-07:00

Over at Jamie Ridler's for Wishcasting Wednesday she is asking us, "What do you wish to tell the world?" What a awesome question! I feel it's important to think about the world. Mother Earth as well as all her children. It is important to LOVE as this is the strongest energy that we can give to one another. It is important to respect and honor, as with this we allow each person to be themselves without judgement and we would nurture our planet. It is important to live in the now. I strongly believe in that saying..."The past was yesterday, the future is tomorrow, but today is a gift that's why we call it THE PRESENT". I feel it's important to always keep an open mind, because the day you think you know it all is the day you stop learning-there is always something to learn. I feel it's important to believe in your dreams. If you always believe AND see it in your minds eye...it will manifest. I feel it's important to tread lightly. Think about how you contribute to our planet. I feel it's important to honor our children, for they are our future. Teach them these things and surround them with love. My wish; Close your eyes and see our planet surrounded and filled with the energy of love, so that she may heal, so that we may have peace, so that we all live our lives with light and love in a positive and love filled environment, and see the innocence in everyone. Always LOVE...through love all things are possible! Blessings to you all my friends!

4th of July Weekend Camping and Beach Day!

2009-07-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

On the weekend for the 4th of July, we were invited along to a camping trip with Brandy and her family and friends from A Better Tomorrow at Big Basin Redwood State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It's such a beautiful place to visit! This was our first camping trip with another family that has a child, so I was very much looking forward to it. The boys had such a great time together playing the entire time! I mean, wow...isn't that what childhood is all about? They were just too cute!!
It's interesting camping with another family. Schedules are so different and the entire dynamics of our regular routine changes to adapt to everyone else. There was another couple there that we talked a lot to as a kind of "getting to know you" basis. We didn't go venturing or hiking, which is our norm. It was fun and interesting at the same time. The funny thing is...it wasn't until I got home and really got to reflect on our weekend did I realize that there was a lot I would of done differently. I guess that's how we learn. When your a guest, you really don't know if it's ok to go about your routine. I guess that shouldn't matter much. Sometimes I tend to forget to just be myself. We do plan on taking another camping trip with them and this time I think I'd like to plan out some activities and focus more on the kids. All in all it was a very relaxing weekend for us and I've learned a lot about co-camping.

Our final day in Santa Cruz, I was able to take my family to one of my favorite beaches in the area. I love it because it's not only beautiful, but it's pretty isolated as well :D We spent the day playing in the water.

Tyler had an absolute blast with the waves coming in and touching his feet. Eventually he just sat and let the tides come up to him- he just laughed and laughed! I love the sound of his laughter and to hear his excitement was such joy!

He and Daddy made stick houses (Beach Fairy homes?) in the sand...

...while Zoe and I put our feet in the sand. It was her first trip to the ocean. It was so cute how she would react to feeling the sand. Her toes would go this way and that, trying to register what it was as her feet felt sand for the first time. It's always amazing to see your little one's reactions to their first experiences with nature. She really enjoyed herself at the beach. Hmmm...she's more and more like Mama!

I walked along the beach and collected some treasures to bring back with us. I found all types of neat shells and what-nots.

On the way back up a big hill to where we parked (Tyler by the way was determined to go up by himself...and he did!), he began to give away almost every single item I had collected. At first I began to feel a little bit upset inside...I mean, afterall, these were things that I would bring back to add to my shell collection of our family trips to the beach, items that I planned on making jewelry with, things to add to our summer nature table (as soon as it get's fixed that is)! Then I thought, "WAIT! Isn't this what you have thought your son to do? Share. Share...of course. Look at him. He is so kind and was so happy to see the little girls get so excited by everything he was giving to them." Of course!
Then I realized that I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast, it was almost 6pm and my hypoglycemia was kicking in. Not to mention my moon had finally come to visit since I've been pregnant with Zoe...Silly me!

Wishcasting Wednesday!

2009-07-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

I just joined up with Jamie Ridler and Wishcasting Wednesday today! I think this is such an awesome thing she has going here. I do believe that we have the power to co-create and through such things as affirmations we are able to create our own reality. I know not everyone will agree with this, but then again, that's the beauty of everyone having their own path. Either way, "Wishcasting" is very agreeable to my nature. I'm pretty excited about joining in! Especially since I had just found out about this through some of my fellow bloggers-please see blogs I follow, because there is more than one. I've seen the button on these blogs, but it wasn't until two weeks ago that I decided (or had the time rather) to check it out. Jamie was just getting ready to start her new website.

So here we are...her first 'Wishcasting Wednesday" on her new site! Today's wish is..."What do you wish to invite in?".

I wish to invite in prosperity, so that we have the means to do what we dream of. This would entail our move to the Portland, Oregon area and beginning our own homestead. We dream of raising our children here. We would love to have a small farm of both veggies and fruit. Animals-sheep for wool, cows for raw milk and other products, and chicken for their eggs. We've been thinking a lot about this more and more. Originally, we were going to move to Portland this past March, but that fell through. We've had our hopes on this area for quite some time and plan on moving there within the next 2 years, hopefully sooner. I invite this dream to manifest!

Farm Animals

2009-07-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago we attended the "Heartland Festival" in Stevinson, Ca. I tell you, it was a full day and loads of fun! We live in a farming community/city, so we do get to see plenty of farm animals here and there, but Tyler had many firsts at this one! He learned more than even I had expected and was able to really get some hands on.

Here he is brushing a baby cow...

He was looking at me to find out if it was ok to brush him. I'm just happy he wanted to know!

He learned about baby piggy's...

He held a baby bunny...

He even rode a horse for the first time!

and even got to ride doubles with his best bud...

There was so much to do and see at this ranch! I've never been to a ranch quite like this one. The owner has quite an array of hobbies and interests. I'll leave you with some snapshots of what we saw while there.

Some areas were set up like an old ghost town...
A jail cell near the public restrooms and bar...

The garden and bird area...

...yes, there were even stage coach rides foronly $1! There was everything from how to compost booths, organic farmers & food, crafts for all ages, a petting zoo, music bandstands with some really awesome old timey bluegrass bands, vendors (Yummy "Hey Honey Lemonade"). Thank you Double T Acres for hosting the Heartland Festival! I couldn't have thought of a more fitting place. We so look forward to this event next year!

Some new Mama projects!!

2009-07-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!! Today I was going to blog about either our trip to the "Heartland Festival", our 4th of July weekend, or a new recipe that I created today...but...that'll have to wait. So here I am, sharing a couple of them with you!

As some of you may or may not know, I use to be an antique's/collectibles and vintage clothing dealer. I use to have a booth in our local antique mall. It was very fun, considering I really love it all! I closed up shop last summer due to the recession and not having the time to dedicate to scouting new items, since I now have babies. Try hitting up an estate sale with a baby and a 2 year old. It's just not happening! Besides, my prioirities have changed. I'm more focused on my children, motherhood, and learning to be quite the homemaker :D

I've saved a lot of my stock. In case I plan to re-open, sell at flea markets, or anything of that sort. As some of you may also know, I've really been on the decluttering rampage, to simplify our lives. Well, lately I've been coming up with some really great ideas of what to do with my stock and have finally found something that suites me perfectly. I'm going to have a "Vintage Lounge" in my home. One of our rooms is going to be cleared out for an evening. It'll be invite only, with a wine bar, speakeasy or poetry reading section, and racks of vintage clothes, shoes, purses, knick knacks, etc. for sale. Two of my girlfriends have agreed to join in so that we can mix it up. They're on the decluttering rampage too, so this works out so perfect for us all! I'm really excited about this and hope that it will be a success! Oh please wish me luck!!

The second thing I want to start up is for all my apron loving friends out there in blogworld.

I would like to host an "Apron Swap". I can either pair you up, or we can do a "Trade Classifieds" - where you post what you have (apron-wise) and what type of apron you would like to trade for. This would be for aprons you already own (vintage, new, childrens, etc.) and would like to trade. We can post pics in a flick'r group for the classifieds. I don't know about you, but I absolutely love aprons! I would like to get some feedback and take it from there.

My third project that I'm looking into is to begin a local Crafter's Guild. This one seems like it would be very time consuming at first, however, once we get a Board of Trustees, or whatever it is that Guild's have, then it may get easier. I want to help network our local crafter's and hold bazaar's, since we currently have nothing like this right now in our small city. This one is still up in the air. Hmmm....so much to think about!!

These are my idea's this week- lol! I just felt that if I put it out there, maybe something will click. What to do, what to do???

Johnny Appleseed

2009-07-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

I found this really great recipe for Johnny Appleseed Cookies that are about the cutest little things you've ever seen...they look like little apple pies!! I found the recipe in an old cookbook from Apple Hill Recipes. This is from the Apple Hill Festival in Placerville, California. Every year they have a Festival and every year I vow to go, but somehow end up missing it! It's ok though, I'm super determined to make it this year :D What is it about festivals that I love so much? Maybe it's the community. Well, not so much the actual community/town, but the gathering of people to share in festivities, food, dancing, music, food-oh yeah, I said that already-lol! Kind of like Christmas season or something.
After deciding Tuesday night what we were going to bake for our Wednesday afternoon baking session a.k.a. "Baking Day" (Tyler loves baking day!), I decided..."why not make it a Johnny Appleseed Day?". We have the book that is shortened for first time readers that went along perfect with my plan. After he woke from his nap, "Mama, it making day!" as he calls it. Bless his heart! We got into a little circle on the floor with the baby (or rather a triangle-lol) and read the story of Johnny Appleseed. Although he may not have gathered much from it, I definitely will keep this as one of our faves. Afterward we sang the good 'ol "Johnny Appleseed Blessing" that I learned when I was a kid in girl scouts. It goes...

The Lord is good to me,
and so I thank the lord...
For giving me the things I need,
the sun, and the rain, and the appleseed.
Yes, he is good to me! (at this point we all would shout "DIG IN!").

Then we baked these little darlings...

Johnny Appleseed's Filled Cookies
-Apple Hill Recipes-
1/2 c. butter 2 1/2 cups sifted flour (make sure you measure after it is sifted!)
1 c. sugar 1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 eggs 1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. cream Thick apple butter
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix shortening, sugar and eggs thoroughly. Stir in cream and vanilla. Stir flour, baking soda and salt together until thoroughly blended. Stir into egg mixture. (If the dough is too flaky, just add a little more cream). Chill at least 1 hr. Heat oven to 400 degrees. Roll dough about 1/8" thick on lightly floured surface. Cut rounds with floured cookie cutter 2 1/2" diameter (or use a child's sized cup or juice glass). Place half the rounds on lightly greased baking sheet (or baking sheet w/parchment paper). Top each with a rounded teaspoon of thick applesauce or apple butter. Make slits in remaining round. Place these remaining rounds over the filled rounds. Press edges together with tines fo a fork. Bake for 8-10 mins.

They sort of taste like shortbread cookies filled with applebutter. So if you like shortbread cookies, you've absolutely got to try this. I think they would be so cute for a children's picnic or tea party!

A Homemade Life

2009-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

It's finally here! I'm one of those people who love our local library. It's such a great resource. I don't know how many books I've been checking out from there lately-mostly crafting and cookbooks, but it's been great. So...I've been on the waiting list for quite some time now for, A Homemade Life- Stories and Recipes from My Kitchen Table, by Molly Wizenberg a.k.a. Orangette , and...it finally arrived. I just got it and already I can't put it down. Although I did put it down to make one of the recipes for banana bread with chocolate chips and crystallized ginger-mmmm. If you haven't heard of her and like to cook , then you may want to take a look at her blog. She hasn't been posting for a while, but she does have some great...no wait, super yummy and super easy recipes for those that like to cook and try new things.

It actually couldn't have come at a better time. I've been on this baking kick lately. I think...no, I know it's because of our "Wednesday Baking Day", that Tyler and I have after he awakes from his afternoon nap. I've been getting my inspiration back to cook and bake. Normally this does not happen until winter. I don't know what it is about winter, but once it starts to get cold I'm all about cooking, baking, and a nice glass of wine! During the summer it's often so hot where we live, I'm usually just trying to keep cooled down since Mama doesn't do hot all that well. Anyhow, it's here (both my motivation AND the book) and I like it! It's gonna be a yummy summer. The other thing I've been wanting to learn how to do so badly is both canning and pickling. Don't ask me why I've been yearning to do this so badly, but I don't know? I want my hubby and babies to open up the pantry and see it filled with all that summer yumminess all for them to enjoy throughout winter, compliments of Mommy. I guess it's an extension of my love for them. Yeah, I think that explains it best...an extension of my love.

Forest Creatures

2009-06-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

While we were at Lassen Volcanic National Park, Tyler learned a lot about forest animals.

What was especially great for him was to see the wild life in person. Every morning we had dear foraging around our campsite. At first he wanted to run to them (such a brave little guy!). So we had to teach him to just stay quiet and watch, if he didn't want to scare them off. There were a couple of different chipmunk breeds that lived in the nearby trees. He really got a kick out of them. They are so much tinier than the squirrels we have around our home. I have to admit...they were quite cute!

He saw geese up close for the first time...

We saw two frogs mating...or is that a baby on it's back?? While on a hike...

On our last day, we went to the Visitor's Center at listened to a presentation regarding the local wild life. It was very informative, but meant for kids, so they had some hands on. It was great! He felt red fox pelt and beaver pelt. He also held a beaver skull. There was a taxidermy of a bobcat that they allowed the children to pet. They taught them about the environments they live in, ie. den's, lakes, etc., and what type of effects they had on their surrounding environments and eco systems. Obviously Tyler is a bit too little to understand the latter, but he did get some hands on at the presentation, which satisfied his curiosity! At the end, because he was able to name some of the animals, he was given a Jr. Chipmunk Ranger sticker.

"Look Mama...a sticker!", Tyler says. That's my little guy!

Below is the ranger that gave us the presentation. She's holding the beaver skull that is there to show their teeth. He was so fascinated by it.

The other thing he kept doing while at our site was play with his dino's. He's really getting into them. So we're trying to teach him their names as well. He had brought along his tiny shovel and rake (their smaller than gardener tools) and he would dig up the dirt, get the rocks and make a circle around his dinosaurs. It was really cute. I like to think he was making them a circle for protection. Then again...that could just be me-lol!

Being that our little one is still young, we are trying and researching much in the different styles of teaching and learning. In other words...I'm very new to unschooling. So what I may or may not be doing in the "Summer Unschool" project may be how it's done or may not be, but I'm learning about it all the same. Despite what we end up going with our chosen education method, once it does come time to "officially enter Pre-k"-earthschooling, homeschooling, unschooling, a waldorf school...I do want it to be waldorf inspired. It definitely has had a positive effect on Tyler overall and is so in tune with our families philosophies from what I have learned thus far. I also know that what may work for him may or may not work for Zoe. I try to keep an open mind an am always willing to learn. Therefore, please feel free to give me your input or suggestions on anything. I feel it's great to share...that's how I learn about new things and hopefully other's may too! There's so much out there in the world of education that I never knew about before I had my babies. It's pretty amazing stuff!

Volcano Hopping!!

2009-06-26T19:44:00.000-07:00

As you may know, we went camping last week for our yearly Anniversary camping trip. This year we stayed at the beautiful Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California. It was such an awesome place with so much to offer. We stayed at Manzanita Lake, which is at the north end of the park.

I so look forward to this trip every year. I call it my "Sanity Trip". That's because for this one week we're out in nature, rejuvenating our spirit by being more in contact with mother earth minus the daily distractions of anything electronic or draining otherwise. I always come back from this trip feeling so new again! It's kind of hard to explain, but I tell you...I've been a fish out of water where we are currently living so it's nice to be out there at one with nature. I'm a fire sign, so I need that balance. What can I say?

We were only able to stay for four days, but that's all I needed to get that feeling back. We also went to Mt. Shasta on the last day, but I'll tell you more about that later. The first 2 days we did get some hiking in. It seems like every five miles of the park would be completely different than the rest. Like this here lily pond...

Right next to this...

next to this...

Then there was the "Sulphur Works"-delightful smelling area-NOT REALLY! Thank goodness we were camping about 30 miles from that area. It smelled like...you guessed it, rotten eggs!

There were barriers keeping you from getting to close, because it was boiling out of the mountain.

There was so much to take in, all on one mountain area! It's amazing...mother earth never ceases to amaze me with all that she has blessed us with!

On our 3rd day, we took what we thought was a seemingly short hike...3.2miles. The first 1/4 mile was fine, but then we started having to climb some steep areas along the cliff. This would've been fine, if I didn't have Zoe in my front carrier. My goodness, my legs felt like they were going to give out by the end of the hike and Zoe gained something like 100 lbs. -lol!

We hiked to this remote waterfall...

Our 4th day at the park was great! Tyler became a Jr. Chipmunk Ranger - I'll tell you more about that in our next post!
We then left for Mt. Shasta. Did you know that Mt. Shasta is considered a sister mountain to Mt. Fiji? I had not a clue until we arrived. It is actually a spiritual mecca of sorts. There is said to be many vortex's in the area. We ventured around the town for part of the day, then decided to head back home once it hit dusk. It would be much easier to drive home, when the little one's would be asleep.
I can't wait to go back and venture the mountain! I tell you, there's so much there that it'd have to be a trip on it's own. I'm very interested in finding out more about Shasta. It's also claimed to be a place of great healing strengths, and so much more. Hopefully, we'll get to go within the year. I'm very curious about that place.
All in all, it was a great stay. We are definitely going to return before the summer's end to hike those trails that were closed -Boiling Lake from Kings Creek trail, and Bumpass Hell.
We are soooo looking forward to it!

Sharing the love- Fellow Bloggers

2009-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Since we've been gone this past week, I had some catching up on reading the blogs that I follow.
There's so much interesting stuff happening here in the blog world, so I thought I'd share some of the stuff that I am involved in and would love to share with you. You'll read more about them as soon as I get a chance to blog more in depth.

Over at Nicole's - GardenMama there's a very lovely giveaway for "Mama AND Child" sized aprons. They will be neutral in color and are from her very own collection. Thank you Nicole for sharing the love!

Over at This Vintage Chica; she is doing a "Summer Unschool" project. It's an opportunity for those of us who want to give unschooling a try, if for anything-the summer. It's also an opportunity for other's to network and share what they and their families are working on. Personally, I'm quite excited about it. As I'm sure my little guy and I will have a great time learning whatever it is he wants. And a great opportunity for me as well. I know that her starting this has upset some of the "Unschoolers" that subscribe to her blog, but along with that, she did interviews with some of those very same people, as they themselves wanted to educate everyone on what it means to be an "unschooler" full time...to live it. We signed up for this a few months ago and have been looking forward to begin! I hope to learn a lot from these ladies. If you have a chance or are interested, please check it out.

The last thing I would love to share with you today was started by Mel at From Clutter to Shine . I first read about it from Through the Eye of the Needle. Thank you Jenell! It's about female empowerment and support. It's about overcoming and reaching new heights in one's own life. It's about growth and our spiritual journey. It's about life and sisterhood. It's the "Sisterhood of the Purple Bicycle." It's so what I need in my life right now...that connection with like-minded women, who are on that same path. Thank you Mel!

Happy Father's Day, Happy Anniversary + Book Winner

2009-06-21T08:43:00.001-07:00

Here is a pic of my Dad (Grandpa raised me) from back in the day. He looked like quite the hipster! I was very fortunate to have had him in my life. He was a self-made man, very gentle, loving, had an awesome sense of humor, loved unconditionally, always gave words of encouragement, believed in me, taught me that I could do anything I man could do-even better, taught me I could achieve anything I put my mind to, he could really dance, was quite the charmer, was loved by everyone who met him-My Daddy...Happy Father's Day Pops!

I would also like to wish my dear hubby a Happy Father's Day! Dan-you are the man!

When I first met him, I knew he would be a great father. In a lot of ways he reminds me of my Dad-same mannerisms, caring and gentle. He really enjoys being a father and is absolutely amazing with children. Not only our children, but all children love him. When my nephews and nieces come to visit, they usually run right past me screaming, "Uncle Dan!!!"-funny how that happens-lol! I'm proud to have married such a wonderful papa! Happy Father's Day Dan!
Here are a few precious papa moments...

Happy Anniversary Dan! Today we are also sharing our anniversary with Father's Day. We have been married for seven wonderful years! Though it has not always been a bed of roses (pardon the pun), we have loved each other through it all. He has not only changed my life, but has helped me to become a better person. He balances me out and has taught me to enjoy the simple things in life. I owe a lot to this beautiful man that I married. Thank you Dan and Happy Anniversary Honey! I love you!!!

Now for the winner of the contest...Congratulations MamaRuck!
I used random.org and assigned everyone a number in the order they commented. However since this is my first giveaway I would like to have all entrants please contact me for a special surprise!
Thanks for sharing your wonderful precious moments!!

Camping Trip & Giveaway!

2009-06-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

This week we're on our annual week long camping trip! This is my favorite trip of the year. Not only is it rejuvenating (since we're in nature all week long), but it really gives me the balance that I need to get me through the remainder of the year. It's actually our Anniversary on June 21! So every year to celebrate our anniversary, we go on a week long camping trip. This is year number "7"! I feel so fortunate and blessed to have married my soul mate and best friend. I am so grateful to have him in my life. Happy 7th Anniversary Dan!! This pic was from our camping trip last year. We went camping along the Northern Oregon Coast and the Columbia Gorge. Here's Dan and Tyler while hiking along one of the many beautiful trails along the Historic Highway.

I was pregnant with Zoe at the time. That day we hiked up a mountain 1 1/2 miles from one waterfall to another named "Fairy Falls". I just kept pushing myself, because I wanted to see "Fairy Falls" so badly-lol!!

I know it'll be a bit harder hiking with her that far this year since she's a bit heavier than what she was at that point-lol!

I share all about our camping adventure when we get back.

Until then...while spring cleaning, I found an old cookbook that I never used and would like to give away to someone who would use it. There are some great recipes, but I'm just more into either vintage cookbooks or rustic cookbooks. So this one goes!

The last day to post a comment will be 6/20 at midnite. I will announce the winner on June 21st-Our Anniversary! All you have to do is share your most memorable anniversary story. If you're not married, you can share your most memorable or romantic date.

I know it's just a used book, but I myself would really love to hear some of "your" most treasured moments. Good luck!

Baking Scones

2009-06-10T21:21:00.000-07:00

I'm really liking this Wedensday afternoon baking time with Tyler! Our Wednesday rhythm seems to be coming together quite nicely. Today we baked blueberry scones, mmmmm...yummy. I found this quick and easy recipe for scones from "The Pooh Cook Book", by Virginia H. Ellison Every recipe includes honey as an ingredient!

We did tweak it, just a little. So here it is...

Blueberry Scones

(In the book they're just Cream Scones)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

1 1/4 c. unbleached sifted all-purpose flour

2 1/2 tsp. double-acting baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

3 tbsp. butter

2 tsp. honey

2 tbsp. sugar

1 large egg

1/4 c. light cream

1 c. blueberries or any other fruit (add whatever amount to your discretion)

First sift the flour, baking soda, and salt. Next cut the butter into the flour, until it looks like coarse meal.

Then mix the honey, sugar, egg, and cream together. Add to the flour mixture

At this point you may add your fruit.

Mix together, but do not overmix. It really does not need that much mixing.

If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Place the dough on a floured working surface. Pat it until it's about 1/4" thick.

Now you may cut into your desired shapes.

The book recommends making shapes of Pooh and his friends. Then transfering it to the dough and cut out the shapes.

Lucky for us , I had picked up a "Winnie-the-Pooh Cookie Book Baking Set" from a local thrift store while back, brand new for a couple of dollars. So we already had the cookie cutters. Not like you can really tell what they are suppose to be once they're scones, but it was fun for Tyler...ok, for myself as well-lol!

You know, growing up I had always liked Pooh. I just think it's too bad the way he has almost been exploited by all the marketing :{

Oh yeah, back to baking. You bake them for 10-12 minutes, then voila! Eat!!!

This recipe yields 4 scones. It's a very simple recipe that's easy to make, can serve as a base recipe-easily adaptaple, and quick when making with little ones. I was even thinking how quick and easy it would be to make for your company's breakfast or tea. They don't have to know how easy it was!

Anyhow, enjoy!

Letting go

2009-06-08T20:51:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been feeling the need to rid myself and my home of anything weighing me down. I've been having this strong urge to purge our home of anything we no longer have use for. I want to make our home simpler and free from the clutter. There are things I am ready to let go of...things that I no longer need to hold onto.

Do you ever hear something that you know was meant for you to hear at that particular time and for that particular moment in your life?

That's pretty much what has been happening to me lately. I keep hearing that in order to make room for new things in your life, you need to make room by letting go of what you don't need. I know that applies to me in so many ways.

I use to be an antique dealer and vintage clothing dealer. I quit my business last year because I no longer have time to work p/t and try to maintain my booth at a local antique mall. It takes a lot of hours of scouring estate sales, flea markets, thrift stores, yard/garage sales, and any other sale you can think of. It was fun and occupied a lot of my time BEFORE I had my babies. The problem was, I loved it so much...well, I held on to a lot of STUFF that I liked and didn't want to sell. That STUFF, took up a lot of space=clutter! Augh! I became a collector of sorts. Now looking back, I realize that I didn't want to let go and this was my way of having some control. Let me explain...

Dan and I married in June '02. The week of my wedding I found out a very, very close dear friend of mine had passed away-he was only 26 and I was expecting him to be at my wedding along with his father (who had RSVP'd). Then a month later I lost my Dad-which is of course still very difficult to deal with to this day, but it has gotten easier. You see I was for the most part raised by my grandparents, so my grandfather became my Daddy and I owe much of whom I am today to both my Mom and Dad (Grandma & Grandpa).

This weekend we started our spring cleaning...hey, technically it's still spring until the 22nd :D I have slowly been letting go of so much clutter and clearing out things that I have held on to for a long time that has been weighing me down. I always think I'll have a need for these things later, but really...these material items are not worth holding on to. If I need them again later, they'll come to me. Why carry them around for years just in case I may need them, when someone else could use them? So, as I began to remove items from my home and throw away lots of junk, I started to physically, emotionally, and spiritually feel lighter. I began to feel free, like I could breathe again! Then it struck me! I am at a stage in my life where I am feeling it's ok to release those things that I no longer need. You see, it just wasn't about these material items. It's about the things/tools that I used to cope through what I needed to go to. I wasn't ready to let go then, so I collected and I cluttered. Now, I am a mother and remain a happily married woman. I have a family. I am ready to move on. I am ready to let go. I release and now I am ready to make room for more good in my life.

Don't you just love those aha moments?

Oh..."What a long strange trip it's been".

Blueberries!!!

2009-06-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

It's blueberry season!!

My favorite fruit. Those yummy, yummy blueberries!! This past weekend we went to a "Pick'n' Gather" Riverdance festival. It was held at an organic blueberry and cherry farm. We had a great time, even though it was so darn hot! We actually decided to arrive early to save us some time from staying out in the heat too long. We enjoyed listening to a variety of musicians...

This was a really great 2 piece acoustic blues band-I'm ony sorry that I can't remember the name. We were able to cool down and enjoy some music and dancing. There were a lot of information booths out there as well as local artisans. One of the main river's from our area actually runs through this huge farm, so you could actually take a hayride out to the river and play in the water! We enjoyed some great food and drink-all local. There were even free seedlings for the little one's to plant in a biodegradable pot to take home.

All in all it was a great event, which we attend annually. This is the 3rd year. The first year it was held, Tyler was the same age Zoe is now. So it kind of has special meaning for us to attend each year. It's as if this annual event grows along with our family.

Before we left we did get to go blueberry picking. Yummy, my favorite part..mmmm.

PC Breakdown!

2009-06-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let you all know that my PC is sick! I'm taking her to the Dr. either today or tomorrow. Until then...wish me luck! Hopefully we'll be back and blogging in no time ;D

Getting into the rhythm of things!

2009-05-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

New Wednesday afternoon ritual...

The more I learn about waldorf parenting, the more I love it! Back in March I bought the book Beyond the Rainbow Bridge . It was recommended to me by our first parent/tot class at a nearby waldorf school. Ok...it wasn't neccessarily that "nearby". One hour away, but it the closest one to where we live! In this book I learned about rhythms of the day. "Of course!" I thought. It makes such perfect sense, and yet we've had somewhat of a struggle to get a morning rhythm down. Thank goodness, I came across a few waldorf homeschooling groups on Yahoo that were discussing this very same thing. I took a few notes and wrote down some of the routines that some of the other mama's have shared, which works for them.

Morning Rhythms
Rhythm 1

Creative play
snack
circle time
morning activity(M.baking, T.painting,W.modeling,TH.soup/salad, F.handwork)
outside-walk in forest and creative play

Rhythm 2

Morning:
Breakfast (one child helps me with clean up)
get dressed, make beds, brush teeth
Morning circle time (includes flute playing, bean bag math, rhythm games, singing, poetry recitation, singing, story telling)
Fee play and/or nature walk
Snack
Main lesson work (8 year old) / drawing (6 year old)
Free play
Lunch (the other child helps me with clean up)
Afternoon:
Wet on Wet Watercolor Painting (Monday), Baking and Spanish class (Tuesday), Handwork and Modeling (Wednesday), Homeschool Co-op (drama, circle games, art and other) and Yoga class (Thursday), Free day, play days scheduled with friends (Friday)

Again, these two morning rhythms are examples from two other families.
I am working on our daily rhythms and what works best for us on certain days. It's a process as I'm sure many of you know. I'll let you all know what type of routine/rhythm we end up with.

One thing we have just started is Baking-Wednesday afternoon. Today was our first and we really enjoyed it! We baked chocolate chip cookies from a recipe found in The Lakehouse Cookbook, written by Sting, his wife Trudie, along with their chef Joseph Sponzo. Lot's of yummy rustic recipes from their working organic farm. Great book!

It went a little something like this...

"Ooh Mama! What's this?" as he's pointing to the chocolate chips.
"That's chocolate chips for the cookies", says Mama.
"Oh, I like chocolate chips!", he says.

Then he points to the flour, "Ooh, what this?".
"That's flour for the cookies", Mama explains.
"Oh, I like flour!" Tyler says with such enthusiasm.

"Ooh, what's this?" he asks again, while pointing the the wheat flour.
"That's also flour, it's wheat. It's also for the cookies.", I say.
"Oh, I like also!", Tyler says with such conviction.
"Oh honey, you are just too cute!", Mama says with a chuckle.

I am the Mushroom King!!!

2009-05-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

I am the Mushroom King...I can do anything!Here is a pic of Tyler in his "Mushroom Crown" that we received from our "Mushroom swap". We also received that gorgeous playsilk from an earlier "Earth Swap". We are getting everything divided up to get them ready for mailing. I will post pics once they're in the mail.

This way I don't ruin any surprises other than this one sneak peek-he he!

By the way, a friend referred us to this site named Green Baby Bargains. They email you a bargain a day of something that is...well..."Green". I have purchased from them and have been very pleased with what these mama's are doing. Why not check 'em out? Green Baby Bargains rock eco mom's!!

Kite's 'n Camera

2009-05-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful Mother's Day. Things have been so hectic as of late, that I actually was able to enjoy a nice slow day with the family. It's funny that as one grows older, we learn to just slow down and appreciate the time we have with our loved ones. This year was extra special that I'm a mother to two babies now-I am blessed!

Today was a nice windy day. You know, not to windy or cold. Just that perfect, nice, cool breeze. We took a walk to a nearby schoolyard, so that Daddy and Tyler could fly a kite.
Tyler loves flying kites with Daddy!

Zoe and I went along for the walk. It was her first time riding in the wagon. As soon as we started walking, she was able to fall asleep until we got there. At 5 months old, she just sprouted her first tooth! Here she is gnawing on her rattle...relief!

...and just hanging out with mama.

With that, I came to the conclusion that I need to get a new camera. How do I jump from that to this you ask? Well, I know how much I hate bringing out my old Kodak Easyshare. I notice how it deters me from using it, bringing it along, having new batteries charged (since the battery door is loose), therefore I miss many photo opts. It only has 3.2 megapixels-talk about old skool! I also notice Zoe doesn't have a bazillion pics, such as Tyler did when he was a baby. Now that I have this blog, it's been something that I've been meaning to remedy.

I've done my research and I think it's between a Nikon and a Cannon. What to do, what to do? After all...these are my family's keepsake memories.
Then again, it could be that I recently read a blog (I wish I could remember who) in which the person talked about taking a picture of dirty dishes and their camera made it look like a work of art...maybe I just need to wash my dishes! lol!!

What type of camera do you use?

In the Garden

2009-05-06T20:17:00.000-07:00

Today was such a lovely day. I had such wonderful company. Zoe was busy playing with her playsilk, being as cute as can be.

As you can see, Tyler was a busy little bee. "I help Mama!" he says with a big grin. "Yes, you help Mama". As all children probably do, he loves playing in the dirt. He's learning all about how to grow plants. He likes it too!

So while they played...

Mama played in my little garden. It's my first very own vegetable garden. I've always grown herbs which are pretty simple to take care of, esp. basil. We are growing a few different varieties of tomatoes-boy are my friends and neighbors goingt to love me when these begin to fruit! I'm also growing pepper, yellow onions, oregano, basil, chives, and cilantro. So far everything has survived it's first two weeks, so that puts a great big smile on my face. I'm hoping to get better and eventually grow a much bigger garden. For now, this one makes me very happy! Everyday I look out the window to take a look at how they've done over night-as if their suddenly going to grow huge like in "Jack and the Beanstalk"-lol. I look out the window and have a big smile on my face, because I unlike my grandmother, do not have much of a greenthumb. Embarrased to say, I really have to attend to my plants in order for them to just survive. My grandma on the other hand, can practically clip a leaf off of a plant, stick it in water and before you know it...it's a whole new plant!!!

Funny how that works out. Oh how I wish it was hereditary and Oh how I love my gramm's!! Afterall, she did raise me most of my childhood. I get a lot from her, just not the greenthumb.

I do have two mama's to thank for this garden. This Vintage Chica for her inspiration http://www.typepad.com/services/trackback/6a00d83451d45f69e201156fe55d7e970b

(Sorry, I don't know how to do that "Here"-click and it take you to the link. So embarassed!)

And last but definitely not least...Brandy- The Rucker Family for her Dad's awesome tomatoe and pepper plants. Thank you Brandy and Bruce!!!

Gnome Swap

2009-05-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

I made these miniature wool felted food sets for our gnome swap. I figured everyone was probably going to be making little gnomies, so why not do something different? Don't gnomes need to eat too?

First I was thinking of making a little table and chairs from wood and boiled linseed oil. This would've been too bulky to send 5 sets to the hostess. Besides, a lot of little one's either have little doll tables or improvised tables. Then it came to me...gnome food, to go on those tables. Yeah! So I ended up wet felting some of the fruit and needle felting the rest. It was fairly simple to do. I must say they came out pretty good, considering this is my 4th felting project, since I started a few months ago. I LOVE felting. It really is fun and very forgiving. If you haven't yet, check out your local waldorf school store for materials. Another great place that a girlfriend of mine gets her goodies at is http://www.weirdolls.com/ Lot's of natural goodness! Check out their website if you get a chance. They even have an entire section on "Crafting with Kids"!

On a completely different subject, we got our pics back from a session back in Jan/Feb. I'm so excited! They came out great. I posted one of them as my profile pic. I just had to share it. It's one of my fave's. Aaah...such precious moments!

MayDay Festival

2009-05-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time at the MayDay Festival at the Sierra Waldorf School in Jamestown-Sonora. It was our first family MayDay festival, so I was especially excited!

It started off raining that day, which is great for the valley since we so badly needed it. Figuring it would be even colder, since we were heading off into the mountains for our celebration. We dressed warmly.

Tyler kept making me laugh, because after this first pic (I of course wanted to take more than one!) I would squat down to get a better pic without too much background and what do you think he'd do...you guessed it! I'd squat down to take the pic and he'd squat down and say "Cheese".

A classic example of how children mimic everything we do!

We had such a wonderful time that day. Tyler was able to play with the other little ones at the school. They would go in groups and look at the animals-chickens and lambs. We made flags/banners. Dada kept Zoe nice and warm...and out of the rain! We did make the floral wreaths-at least mine was. Tyler's was made out of grape leaves and a few herb flowers.

We ended up having to leave right before the dance took place, but were able to stay long enough to hear the children's grade choirs sing songs welcoming in Spring.

MayDay Activities

2009-04-27T17:43:00.000-07:00

So I've seemed to have lost my camera and must apologize for not making this post appear more inviting-augh! I think I know where it is...hmmm....Anyhow, we've had such a fun-filled weekend. One of my girlfriends got married and I (for the first time) was a bridesmaid :D
I wish I would've brought along a movie camera. My little guy is just the cutest. He really is just so sociable. Going in and out of the different tribes attending-chatting, sharing his grapes, and breakdancing! Yes, he was actually breakdancing...my 2 year old! Children are just so amazing...oh how I wish I would've brought our movie camera.
Mayday is quickly approaching. We are going to a "MayDay Festival" at the nearest Waldorf School. It'll be our first MayDay celebration as a family. I so look forward to Tyler joining in on the Maypole dance. I'm going to make some crowns for the family. The males will wear leaf crowns strung together simply by sewing thread through the tops of each one. The females will wear flower crowns strung together the same way. I'll be sure to take some pics to share!
What is everyone else doing for MayDay? Please share!

The Blog Oath and some!

2009-04-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

So everyday that I don't post, I think to myself "I need to post today!". Then the day goes by and before I know it another day has gone by. Which brings me to the conclusion that posting in my blog has to be a committment for me. Therefore, I am making a public pledge or "Blog Oath" to not allow more than two days of non blogging go by. You see, if I write it publicly...well, then I can't allow myself to not do it. Oh the psychological games we play with ourselves-lol! Please don't get me wrong, I love it all...it's just finding the time to take the time. With that being said...

This past week we had and a "Spring Element Swap". With Earth representing the element. I decided to make these wet felted wool earth balls. It's also perfect timing for "Earth Day". I can't wait to check out what everyone else has made. There are some very crafty mama's in the group. I'm just lucky to be able to try my hand at new crafts- a la natural! It really has given me back some much needed "Mama Time". It's important to take time for oneself and the things you may enjoy doing. I think sometime's we tend to forget about ourselves. So, I'm very glad to have found that again. It creates an important balance in my life.

On Easter Sunday we had a "Cake Walk" at our church. Talk about fun! I've never done one before and was pleasantly amazed at what a great time everyone had. Especially the spectator's!

I absolutely love vintage cookbooks, and since I also signed up to bring a cake for the cake walk, I decided to try something out of this old Betty Crocker cookbook. It has some great cake decorating tips! I'm sure many of you have seen this cake before, but it was my first time trying it out. Technically, it is rather small so I did use the second round as the bed of grass to lay the bunny on. I just dyed some of the same coconut shavings green to make the grass on the first layer. Then added the undyed coconut on the bunny itself to make the rabbit's hair. It was really fun to make and surprisingly easy! Of course I had to take the pic with Zoe in there, afterall...it is her first Easter.

Red Fish, Blue Fish

2009-04-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

We've been taking turns being sick-5 days at a time, so I apologize for not posting in a while-whew! Glad that's over!!

Today is a new day and I have to say, I'm feeling great! I've joined up with Michelle at http://www.greenkitchen.com/blog/ and her fabulous idea of taking pics of crafts you've made in a particular color and work your way through the rainbow. (If you get a chance you've gotta check out her site...tre' cool!) Since there are no rules my pics may not all be of crafts, but...they will begin with it :D

Therefore I bring you "Red fish, Blue fish". The waldorf inspired fishing game!

I made a number of these sets for an Easter Craft Swap that I was involved in. The idea was to make something that could go into an Easter basket. This is a dominantly natural materials crafting group (with some exceptions), so I used 100% cotton flannel, wool for the stuffing, and abalone shell buttons for the eyes. Oh yeah, and yes...I did ship the stick poles with each set. I actually had to think twice, when they asked if I was shipping anything that could injure someone-lol

They're actually very simple to make.

For the fish:

You simply cut out a pattern for the fish. I embroidered scales with shing starts at the end of each. Then sew on eyes or embroider using a french knot stitch. Then you sew it together with embroidery floss. I used only 2 threads and a blanket stitch. Stuff it with wool. Don't forget to sew washers onto their mouths.

Pole:
You can take a stick or dowel and tie a string around it. I used Martha Stewart's baking twine. Then add magnet to the bottom of the string. Then Voila!

I got the idea from the book, "Creative Play for Your Toddler" by Christopher Clouder. This is a great book for anyone into Waldorf education or natural parenting. I highly recommend it as a great resource for making your own natural toys. It get's Lovesnest's 5 stars approval!! If you get the chance...check it out!

Books, books, books, and more books!

2009-03-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I'm a geek like that! Today we had a book swap over at a friends house. There was suppose to be a whole bunch more mama's, but only 3 of us ended up involved in the swap. So I promised Dan I wouldn't bring back anymore - we have a whole lotta books already ;D But hey, I just couldn't help myself. So check out a few of the books I got...
SCORE!

Speaking of which, I've recently become obsessed with our on-line library system. There are just so many craft books that I've been wanting to buy and really I would be spending rediculous money if I were able to get everything on my wishlist, so...you guessed it, I've been getting gangs of books in from other counties mostly shipped into our local library. I've got even more on hold, some of them like Amy Karol's, Bend the Rules Sewing I'm on the waiting list #14th in line-Oh can I wait that long...hmmm!

Anyways, here are a few of the books that I've gotten from our library...way cool stuff ! This is a great resource that I haven't been taking advantage of until lately. It also satisfies my hunger for new books :DLastly, but definitely not least are Children's book's. Ahhh...we've discovered "Barefoot Books" through one of my girlfriends whom has become a stallholder (seller-rep) for them. They have such beautiful books. She started selling them in December (?), but here are a few that we fell in love with...

Ok, so I guess you can't call it shameless self promotion if you're promoting a friend right ;D

If anyone is interested, here is the link to Brandy's Barefoot Webpage...

www.mybarefootbooks.com/brandyrucker

So now you all know about my secret "Book Fetish". Hopefully, there's something in there that you'll find usefull or will like.
To top it off, I'll end on a note that Dan usually says when he wants to sound like a nerd...

"Reading is FUNdamental". LOL! He's just as bad as I am!!!

Wow...check these babies out!

2009-03-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

I love Thursday's! Thursday's are my Friday's, since I don't work again 'til Monday. Better yet, they're also the day of our CSA's pick-up. Going out to the farm to pick up our box is kind of like Christmas. You get this huge box and you don't know what you're getting...ooh how exciting! Today we received some super huge carrots in our box-amongst other produce. Check out Tyler! Their almost bigger than him.

They're definitely bigger than Zoe...

Absolutely too cute!!!

Anyhow, my poor babies have not been feeling well. Mostly Tyler has been sick and now Zoe has a cough. As for Daddy and I...very little energy...augh! It's ok, we should all be up and running around in no time;D Besides, today has been the perfect "Spring Day". Warmness and Sunshine...the birds are singing...okay, I'm beginning to sound like a Disney Song, so I'll stop! lol

I've included a recipe from the family who runs our CSA-Michelle at Rancho Piccolo - If your in the northern central valley of California (Merced/Modesto/Stockton/Oakdale/Turlock) area and are interested in joining, please click on the link below. They're an absolute wonderful family! We're proud to be a part of this CSA.
www.ranchopiccolo.com

Irish Stew
1 tbsp olive oil
2 lbs. boneless lamb shoulders, cut into 1 1/2 in. pieces
1/2 tsp. salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 large onion, sliced
2 carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks (optional)
3 cups water or as needed
3 large ptotatoes, peeled and quartered
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
1 cup coarsely chopped leeks
chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
12oz. Guiness stout
1 cup pearled barley

Heat oil over medium heat in a large stockpot or dutch oven. Add lamb pieces and cook, stirring gently, until evenly browned. Add Guiness Stout and season with salt and pepper.
Add onion, carrots, barley and parsnips and cook gently alongside the meat for a few minutes. Stir in the water.
Cover and bring to a boil before turning the heat down to low. Simmer for 1 hour or longer, depending on the cut of meat you used and if it is tender yet.
Stir in potatoes and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, before adding leeks and rosemary. Continue to simmer uncovered, until potatoes are tender but still whole. Serve piping hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

If you're interested in finding an organic co-op/csa in your area, please visit www.localharvest.org

So here it is...

2009-03-11T19:44:00.001-07:00

Alrighty then...so I finally gave in. You know it's only been a few months that I have indulged my newest addiction-the world of blogging. I have been reading some great blogs from some great mama's, crafter's, foodies, and fellow thriftstore junkies. I've received such great inspiration to finally try that sewing project, make that toy, try some great new recipes, etc. So now here I am, ready to join in and hopefully pass along some of this goodness to others who may be interested in reading my journey.
I'm a Mama to two beautiful children. Tyler 2 yrs. old and Zoe 3 months. I've been married to my wonderful and supportive husband for almost 7 years-Dan. He sometimes likes to refer to himself as Danimal-lol!
Anyhow, I work part time as an office mgr and am beginning my journey into being a community doula. I'm technically one right now, but will be practicing next month, as I've just had my own little one.
I just started to dive into the world of crafting. I use to when I was waaaaaayyy younger. I've gotten such great inspiration in my life again with the birth of our little one's. It's amazing what type of change babies can bring into your life-beauty!
We are into attachment parenting, natural, sustainable, and as much as possible organic living. Just getting into waldorf-parent/tot classes and so far it's been a perfect fit! We don't try to confine ourselves into any category as to not be close minded about anything. But this is where we're at right now in life. Motherhood has opened up so many chapter's and doors for me and I love it all!!! I've finally found my calling.
There's so much more I can say for this introduction, but then again, there are so many days to write...so...that's that and here it is. My first blog entry. I'll include crafting projects, recipes, what's inspiring me, day to day living, basically a big old mesh of our Love's Nest.
Welcome!