We’re still in the afterglow of a great trip to see family in Colorado this past weekend. The piles of laundry are disappearing and the kids are back to taking good naps, and finally I’ve gotten to go through my photos and reminisce some of the good times. We haven’t been on a plane with them since Christmas…and travel days can be tough…here are...
I’ve taken it upon myself to do some family screenwriting lately. It goes like this:Act 1 Scene 1: garage door lifts, child runs shrieking with glee toward the street as mother frantically chases yelling all combinations of ‘stop!’ ‘Freeze’ ‘wait!’ ‘[name!!]’. Child turns a corner into neighbors yard and dares mother to hurdle waist-high shrub. And on and on.Act 1 Scene 2: [sound of...
Let it be known that I’d like to be done with hospitals and funerals for a while. While I’m at it, I’ll add breakups and unemployment to the list. Done. Thank you. The mess of things gone south for those close to us is enough to make one wonder if it’s contagious. Nevertheless, the importance of the shadows in life is not lost on...
There really is nothing like a dance party to de-stress. Especially when it’s toddlers. Especially during the after-dinner mania. The past week has been a rough one. Very needy kids, tired mama, and hearts carrying heavy stuff going on with close family and friends. Thank God for the levity amidst the mess. Next time I think I’ll DJ. And then join in and show...
I love gatherings with loved ones! We have been lucky to have a few special visits lately… First, the amazing and wonderful Aunt Patty and Uncle Bruce (were there ever two people more kid-fun?) it was a tutu and boots day. their visit included a BBQ with other fun [local] family…cousins copying and chasing each other through the grass while adults relaxed...
I’m learning how to take a walk from my toddlers….here’s what I’ve got so far. 1. The alphabet is amazing. Any time you see a letter it is cause for excitement. Point and name it (or guess). 2. When you see big rocks, embrace this opportunity for physical challenge. 5. Every living thing deserves a pause for a greeting, this especially includes people, cats,...
Today’s Favorites…. Michelle: the Waffle Maker – I love this thing! We had waffles today and they were just great. As usual. And left us wondering why we don’t have waffles more often?! We like to eat them with syrup or yogurt, or even freeze them for a quick and easy meal or snack. I want to try dipping them in chocolate for a...
So I started using a Fitbit. What is a Fitbit, you ask? It’s just magic little gadget clip on my bra strap that watches me like a hawk and tricks me into healthier choices. Instead of an angel on my shoulder it’s like having Mr. Hunter from 8th grade PE in my ear bellowing ‘pump your arms’ and threatening me with a muumuu. I’ve...
For a few decades my mom collected charms. Dozens of adventures and meaningful moments are molded into these little tokens. I love it that I can scan through her charms and remember some of these experiences because I have either been a co-adventurer or have lived vicariously through her stories. At Christmastime I decided to figure out how to get these memories out of...
For the greater part of a decade now my mom and I have made a yearly tradition of jam sessions. We’ve become a decently well-oiled machine when it comes to strawberry, olallieberry, and peach preserves. I know there are a number of methods out there…but here’s the one we follow to a T. What you need for one batch: – 8 canning jars (8oz)...
Dylan has learned to repeat “Good Morning” to me. Whitney wakes up happily bouncing. Evening walks include kids playing “stop” and “go” along the sidewalk, blooming mustard, and usually some good conversation between mommy and daddy. Another Sunday Smorgasbord gathering with our friends….this time with water table and little whispers over smoothies. Earlier, at church, Whitney was laughing hysterically chasing around a...