two hands:

Project Life: Weeks 2 and 3

2012-01-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

So... apparently I decided to absent from the blogging world. The winter storm, a sick little one, and a good case of January doldrums took me out of the game for a while. I'm back, though, and wanted to share the last two weeks in Project Life. Week Two had a lot to do with Stinky starting dance classes and Mommy School. I used some of his artwork and the box from his dance shoes, as well as a recipe we tried together. I also started using bullet points for each kiddo to tell a little about their week.

After finishing Week 2, I noticed that I'd been a little absent from pictures, so I made a bit more of an effort to get in there for week three, having Stinky take a picture of a group of us, and using my Facebook statuses as a part of the layouts. This is something I'm going to continue to work on though, so it's not all outside looking in- so I seem a little more present in my own life.

My goals for the next week are to be more present in the pages (and life, really), and to embellish a little more, make the pages look just a little less flat, maybe even try adding script to the pictures before I have them printed. Thanks for checking them out!

Sunday Inspiration

2012-01-14T21:33:00.001-08:00

Project Life 2012: Title Page and Week 1

2012-01-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

title page

I decided to approach scrapbooking from a different angle this year, and am trying out Project Life. The page protectors make it really quick to record the week. You can get the page protectors on Amazon, as well as kits, but the kit didn't fit into my plan to use what I've got as much as possible, so I've been using paper on hand to make the journalling and embellishment cards. More on that on a later post. Putting together all three of these took me about an hour.

week 1

What I didn't expect is how much the boys love looking at the pictures, and Stinky really likes to have his recap read, and to tell me more about the drawings I included in them. So far, so good. Project Life is on both of my lists for the year- keeping it up to date is on the first list, finishing it on the second.

2012 Projects

2012-01-05T01:00:00.000-08:00

I wrote yesterday about my "do it first" list of goals for this year. Today, I'll show you the others that I have in mind. Going left to right and top to bottom, let's take a look

Project Life: I am using her page protectors, but my own album and making my own filler pieces. I couldn't justify buying what I could make well with what I have on hand. This is on both lists. The first, to keep it up to date. The second, to finish at the end of the year.
Bow Ring: Did you know WBH is a jewelry teacher? It's as awesome as it sounds. This time, instead of just asking, I'm going to make it with his help. I am a little worried I'll develop a crush on the teacher.
"Believe there is good.../Be the Good": going to turn this phrase into a sign for our house.
Lightbulb Terrarium: How adorable is this? I love it!
"Brother...Superhero": the quote is by the author of the Arthur books, and I have just the space for it in the boys' room.
Tuxedo Tee: I have several white shirts that have been stained by little hands. Combining them to make this. I may dye it after that, come to think of it.
"Always" Tee: I love the subtlety of the Harry Potter reference here. A t-shirt and some freezer paper stencilling and I think it will be awesome.
The Lady Kina: This will be my first sweater, and I'm a little nervous, but the directions are pretty straightforward.
The Wave Blanket: I have this on both lists, and on needles now. It's starred on the 'do it first' list, because it's a big project and it's heavy and so hurts my hands after too much time on it. As long as this is a work in active progress, I'll be okay if I move on with just this left on the 'do it first' list
The Starboard Skirt : I love the pleat, though I don't know what kind of fabric I'll do this in for certain, it has so many possibilities.
Book Planter : This, with some slow-growing succulents, might be perfection.
The Dress: I'm not sure where I'll go with this- either view C, a little MadMen-esque, or use view A as a starting point to knock off a Shabby Apple dress. Maybe both?

So that's the list. Like I said, some are a few hours, others long term. I think it's a nice mix.

Craft Hoarder

2012-01-04T16:57:00.000-08:00

Confession: I'm a little bit of a craft supply hoarder. I have a lot of supplies bought with good intentions and great ideas in mind. So before New Year's Eve, I wrote some projects down that I had supplies for that I need to finish before I can buy any supplies for projects that aren't on the list. Then WBH reminded me of some other ones. I capped the list at ten.

Two of the items on my list are on my Pinterest board of the12 projects I want to compete in 2012, so added up, that's a minimum of 20 in the next year, allowing over 2 weeks per (though some are on-going, and others will just take a few hours. I love goals and seeing them laid out! I'll post the \

Pinterest projects later on in the week.

That is what's on my (rather crowded) crafty horizon at the moment.

Tunes on Tuesday: Heaven when we're Home

2012-01-03T15:44:00.000-08:00

"There's no such thing as perfect, and if there is we'll find it when we're good and dead."

It's the time of year where we'll all thinking of changes. This song seemed to fit with that. Change can be good if you need it, but don't forget to be gentle with yourself. I hope you'll like it, too!

I Made it Monday: Long Promised Dress

2012-01-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

This dress was NOT a christmas present. This dress was a birthday present for my sister's thirteenth birthday. In July.

I showed her the Valentine Dress design from Built By Wendy Dresses, (a really, really cool book- try to find it at your library). We discussed a few alterations and color choice, and I finally got it done in time to give it to her. On Christmas Eve

Oh well, right? Also done that week were Aidan's birthday "mint chocolate Grinch cupcakes." My hands hurt for two days after piping these. These were for his family party, his friend party is coming up later this month.

What's on your crafty horizon this new year? I'll share my list later this week.

(linked at 733, skiptomylou and MommybyDay)

Running Out

2011-12-30T22:28:00.000-08:00

It's New Year's Eve and I'm not sad to see the year go. This year has been hard. Sometimes in a challenging, time to grow way, and others in a way that is just hard with nothing to be done about it. I feel like sending it off with a "Good Riddance! Don't let the door hit you on the way out!"

Without a doubt, there has been beauty in this year, but looking back at it, I remember the hard more than that. 2011 and I need some distance between us so that I can remember the good.

I have a good feeling about 2012. Even if the Mayan calendar says it's all over for us (it doesn't), I believe we'll be going out strong.

Happy New Year, friends. It's going to be happy, I can feel it.

Happy Birthday, Stinky

2011-12-23T17:04:00.000-08:00

Dear Stinky,

Now you are five. It's a number that might be small, but has a lot about it that is just so big. That bigness suits you, though, as if your age was finally starting to match the huge personality you were born with. Your creativity this year has exploded, and we are constantly gifted with projects and works of art, as though you can't contain everything you have inside of you. You are generous and loving, and such a good big brother. I marvel at your memory- how sharp and clear it is. Sometimes we won't understand what you're talking about, but with further discussion, we see that it's just something we've forgotten,

You are the boy who taught me that the saying is true, to be a mother is to allow your heart to walk around outside of your chest. This year has proven that more than ever, as with your growing independence my heart walks just a little farther away than it has before. I love the snuggles, hugs and kisses that you give so willingly, and I love watching you learn so quickly. We love you so much, Stinky boy, and I am so, so proud of you,

Love, Mom.

Merry and Bright and Imperfect this Christmas

2011-12-22T01:25:00.000-08:00

The last two years, I've joked "may your days be harried and bright." Sometimes Christmas can feel that way. In the song I shared last week, the lyrics Why so scared that you'll mess it up? When perfection keeps you haunted, all we need is your best, my love. That's all anyone ever wanted jumped out at me. We've made some changes, some tough decisions and taken a step back from some things, and I was very worried about other's opinions, very scared I would mess it up. So I've let some things go, and it has felt almost like I was letting out the breath I'd been holding just to prove that I could.

There have been things this Christmas that have gone undone. Advent Calendars, Christmas baking, card delivering, some books to read and some movies to watch have all been absent. There have been no handmade gifts this year, and I'm surprised at how okay with it I am. I'm breathing it away, reminding myself that my children won't remember not having them- they would remember a mom who lost her mind because we didn't. I know that years from now, gifts will be sitting in the pile to take to Goodwill, and my boys aren't old enough to miss the things we've decided to skip.

I hope they'll remember family time together, brother shopping at the dollar store, making s'moreos on the stove, and paper snowflakes hanging from the ceiling. There are enough things to worry about. I have decided that for me, a perfect Christmas won't be one of them.

And that, in a way, makes it perfect.

Merry Christmas from the Telford Home.

May your days be Merry and Bright, and imperfect, too. Give yourself that gift this Christmastime.

Caption This: Holiday Edition

2011-12-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

Caption this: Rotten and Stinky at the Festival of the Nativity this year.

WBH's Suggestion:

"Do you think anyone will notice that we switched the hebrew kid for a white one?"

Your turn!

Sunday Inspiration

2011-12-18T03:30:00.000-08:00

Tunes on Tuesday: Love is Christmas

2011-12-13T09:50:00.000-08:00

As part of my epic birthday weekend, I won one of Passionista's amazing mixes. Christmas music is my favorite, but not WBH's. This song is probably my favorite on the whole CD. It's so beautiful, and really speaks to how I feel this year. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

I Made it Monday: Socks, Snowman, Swag Bucks and Cinema (sort of?)

2011-12-12T01:24:00.000-08:00

After my first trial pair, and the the pair for my mom, I got some brightly colored yarn and worked up a nice pair for myself. They kept me busy backstage while the play was going. I love their brightness, their mismatch-iness, their warmth. I like that I can knit socks now. It makes me feel pretty awesome. Now ends of the other extremities, I have a pair of mittens almost done for my little sister.

Stinky helped me whip up this guy, this week, too. I kind of think he's adorable, AND I cleaned off the front of my fridge. Plus, it's all felt, so it's going into a baggie and will be ready for next year.

This week is bringing about some changes for us. I don't know how much I want to write about it, but it's not been an easy time. We'll get through it. It'll be good. I'm working on my swagbucks a lot to keep under budget for Christmas gifts. We enjoyed movie nights with friends and themed food:

A Christmas Story: "Who's Mommy's Little" piggies in blankets and "OooooHHH Fudge"

Elf: A snowflake cutting party, with our take the four elf food groups (candy, candy corn, candy canes and syrup). We did waffles w/syrup, candy, and candy canes, but left out the candy corn and brought in lots of bacon.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-12-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Not such a terrible job. Most Days.

2011-12-07T01:00:00.000-08:00

I love being a mom, it is the best job I've ever had. It's also the worst job I've ever had. As I write this, I've kicked both boys upstairs for a nap and a rest, just to have an hour's worth of peace, and a chance to clean up after Hurricane Telford. That's right, I want to be alone so I can clean. So this is what 30 is like.

The two of them have been cycling through their Jekyll and Hyde side so rapidly that I'm imagining the story of the boy and the tigers, in which the tigers run around a tree so fast that they dissolve into a pool of melted butter. I'm afraid my little ones are going to melt away soon. Rotten is playing cute games, chasing us with a camera, saying 'Cheeeeeeeees!" then shrieking at the perfect pitch for me to feel my ear drums try to off themselves. Rinse and repeat. Stinky is doing things that he knows get him in trouble, then pointing them out, as to challenge me and see if I will stay consistent. Then he turns an empty diaper box into a present for Santa- "A hay holder for his reindeer. He must need lots of them." His giving nature isn't always seen by others, and that breaks my heart.

Then today, listening to Christmas music I heard they lyrics "Mom is watching children growing, another Christmas going by" and became really choked up. Christmas has snuck up on me this year- how is it only two and a half weeks away? It makes me wonder, will the day that they start junior high, the day they first ask a girl out, the day they leave home feel like that? Am I letting the Hyde overshadow the Jekyll and wishing the crazy away too fast?

This job is so, so hard. Being project manager of two tiny, but loud lives is insane. Who would ask for that? Still, this is the crazy I asked for. The benefits aren't just in the future. They're in the times I see Stinky overcome challenges, and the way that Rotten runs to kiss me. They're in the sweaty sleeping kid snuggled up against me, in learning read and taking first steps.

And by the way? My co-worker really is super hot.

Tunes on Tuesday: The Friendly Beasts

2011-12-06T01:00:00.000-08:00

I love this song. I love the idea of everyone's gifts being so unique to them, even the beasts. I love this arrangement, how it all builds. I hope you love it, too!

I Made it Monday: Free Christmas Printable

2011-12-05T01:00:00.000-08:00

Trying to think of low-cost gifts for the holidays, I was inspired by some Christmas song subway art- I wanted to do some word art with lyrics solely from hymns. Then I wanted them to tell the story, not just be jumbled. I think I managed to get there. It's the first time I've done anything like it, and I'm pretty proud. It's 8x10 and created in Picnik. I think you can print them at Office max on cardstock for 60 cents. Add a dollar store frame, and you've got a gift for less than two dollars.

Print and share away!

Sunday Inspiration

2011-12-04T01:00:00.000-08:00

...and today is mine.

One of those weeks.

2011-12-01T21:35:00.001-08:00

It's been one of those weeks. Stinky is having a hard time. I am having a hard time. Rotten is having a hard time. Poor WBH is the eye of the hurricane- which is a hard time, for him, too. I've put my efforts into controlling the chaos as much as I can.

My birthday is this weekend. I'm almost 30. I didn't complete my list. I don't think I even did half of those things. Next year's will be a little more realistic, I think. I'm a little bummed, but WBH and I have a good weekend planned.

Back with Sunday Inspiration and more next week.

Tunes on Tuesday!

2011-11-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

Oh, we do love a good dance party. On days when we're all about to blow our tops, sometimes the best thing to do is to put on our special Telford Family Dance Party Mix and let loose. I love, so very much, watching both boys go crazy. It's the best solution to a bad day, sometimes.

Grooveshark is one of my favorite places on the internet- it's like making those mix tapes from high school without having to wait for your favorite song to come on the radio, and run to hit record just in time. Oh, the things my children won't ever know the joy of.

You can find our family mix here. I hope you'll enjoy it, too.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-11-27T11:32:00.001-08:00

found on pinterest

Week of Thanksgiving: The Center of our Home

2011-11-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

It was a $20 thrift store find. I saw it and it stuck in my head all day long. Sure, it was worn and halfway through a really shoddy finishing job, but I knew it would be perfect. I brought WBH back with me, crossing my fingers it would still be there, asking if it was something he could take on. That night it was in my car, travelling back with us. WBH refinished the top, sanding away remnants of red and neon green to showcase a pretty, herringbone top.

I love our kitchen table. It sits in what is probably the closest to the center of our home that anything could get. It is where we play play dough, fold laundry, and work on work on projects. It is where we make and break bread. I love our kitchen table and all of the living we do there- as I wiped it down four or five times today, I became grateful for it, and the life it is witness to.

Week of Thanksgiving: Rotten

2011-11-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for my Rotten.

He is my sour patch boy: first sour, then sweet (then it starts all over again), but when he is sweet, he is oh, so sweet. He is playful and teasing and snuggly. He expresses himself between signs, words, and expressions that can't be categorized by either. He loves to wave and talk to everyone he sees. His strong will is going to serve him well, someday, if only we can survive it now. I'm especially grateful for the way he's been sleeping almost through the night most days. I love his ginger hair and funny attitude.

Week of Thanksgiving: Stinky

2011-11-21T09:46:00.001-08:00

I am grateful for Stinky. I am so lucky to be his mother. I am grateful for the opportunity being in a play with him has allowed us to talk about faith. He always surprises me with his understanding and unique perspective. His sense of humor and irrepressible desire to be a friend make me so happy. His tender and loving heart make him sensitive, and make me incredibly protective, but I am grateful that he has that trait- it makes him kind and will bring him great things,

Sunday Inspiration / Week of Gratitude

2011-11-20T11:56:00.001-08:00

A Very Important Issue.

2011-11-19T18:00:00.001-08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Puppies vs. Babies for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

There are many important issues facing us today. The Republican primaries, Occupy Wall Street, Demi and Ashton splitting. Today, though, I would like to talk to you today about an epic battle you may not know about: Puppies vs. Babies. Specifically, the war to be named cutest.

You know I'm going to side with babies here. Have you seen mine? Even on their stinky, rotten, terrible horrible no good very bad days, they find a way to be cute. Then again, I know some dog mamas that would argue in favor for their four-legged children (some days, even over their children with just two legs). They're furry and sweet. They give you unconditional, slobbering love, and best of all, they don't really talk back at all.

As for me, I'd love to be Switzerland and say that the cutest thing that you'll find is a baby WITH a puppy. Look at Rotten up there with Clyde. Can you tell me that their cuteness doesn't multiply by being next to each other?

Unfortunately, the time to submit photos has come and gone, but you should make your stand in in the Puppies vs. Babies online contest. Tell me, which way would you cast your vote?

More Awesomeness from Tiny Prints!

2011-11-18T16:18:00.001-08:00

Tiny Prints is thrilled to announce the 3^rd annual Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest! I

You can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of $1,000 cash, plus a $500 Tiny Prints gift certificate.

In the Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest, they are looking for the cutest photos in the following categories:

· Cutest Baby (From ages of 0-24 months)

· Cutest Kid (From ages of 25 months - 10 years old)

· Cutest Family

· Cutest Couple

· Cutest Pet & Owner

Hurry! The entry deadline has been extended to November 21^st! After that, they will open up the voting to their community.

You can enter the Tiny Print Talent Search Contest via Facebook or on our website. For Official Rules, click here.

This is a compensated post. Back to normal posts next week!

Heads Up!

2011-11-17T09:47:00.001-08:00

Yes, my dog's bed is a futon mattress. It's the only thing big enough and that he can't tear up. well, can't tear up too easily.

The play (and life) has kept us super busy this week, but I've got some more opportunities for compensated posts, so those are coming, just giving a heads up. Next week, I've got Week of Gratitude coming up and other things. Have a great week, drop in for some interesting things to check out, and we'll see you soon!

Christmas Cards

2011-11-14T18:29:00.001-08:00

image found at tinyprints

I'd love to say that I'm putting off all things Christmas until after Thanksgiving, but then things feel so rushed. So instead, I'm trying to start early. Presents are being made and planned, and I'm definitely thinking about Christmas cards. In the craziness of a second baby last year, we didn't get ours out, so I'm eager to send them this year.

Everyone loves getting mail, and Christmas cards are such a nice surprise when when you go out to the mailbox. I tape them up on and around our front door. When Christmas is over, I say a prayer for each sender and their family in the new year. It felt awful to just get rid of cards that were sent, but I think it's nice to send them good wishes.

At Tiny Prints, I really love this Merry and Bright card, especially in this bolder color option, but they have hundreds of options so you can choose what works best for your family.

Small Print: this is a compensated post written in exchange for cards.

Hell's Angel

2011-11-10T09:51:00.000-08:00

It's pretty clear that after last night's rehearsal, Stinky is more likely to be named a hell's angel rather than any other kind, but he sure is a cute one. You're invited to come see us in "Savior of The World" for the next two weekends. I'll try to make sure that he doesn't sing peace on earth with the peace sign, but no promises.

I'm just wearing this. It's still me.

2011-11-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

T Family Rule: Cross-dress all you want, but you can be sure I'm getting a blackmail picture.

Stinky wore this at preschool, while driving cars around. It was a kind of awesome preschool day, kids cross-dressing and cursing (F was the letter of the day. What starts with the fff sound?). Like he did on Halloween, when in costume, he was quick to correct people "I'm just wearing this costume. I'm still me."

Sunday was hard. Mom crying in empty church classrooms hard. Part of it was bad choices on his part, the effects of time change, and a conflict that I don't look forward to addressing, but has gone on long enough. Both boys were sent to nap immediately after we returned home, while WBH and I regrouped and discussed the fiscal benefits of eating our young. (It's a good thing they're a tax credit. Meat is expensive) That night, with Rotten in bed, Stinky was back to himself. Having lost screens and other privileges that day, he became a one-man art machine, helped me bake cookies, and went to bed easily.

Monday, he was like a different kiddo. He was helpful, and kind. He listened. We spoke to an elderly woman as Stinky pet her dog at a store. She told us that the dog was her only family since her sons had died. He quickly said "I'm sorry that happened to you. That's very sad." He was helpful and kind to his brother. Then, when we got home, he put himself to bed. Monday, his attitude changed, as if to say "I was just wearing the naughty kid costume yesterday. I'm still me." It would be easier if he could just put on a villain's costume, though, to remind me that those choices aren't the real him- the empathetic, incredibly likable kid, full of creativity and kindness.

I Made it Monday: More Socks

2011-11-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

These lovelies are a pair for my mother, whose feet are almost always as cold as mine. They're a little uneven, but better than the first pair. Rather than being toe-up like the first, though, these were top down, and I really prefer the toe-up technique. So much easier to finish. Anyone else? My next pair will be for me. A really pretty variegated pink and yellow. It's so cheery and bright.

They'll have to wait a while, though. I have so many irons in the fire right now. So many projects that need completing, so little time to do it in, so many ideas with out the time or resources. And that's not even mentioning Christmas or a play that just happens to be opening this weekend. Nonetheless, things are being crossed off the chalkboard and that feels good.

Where are you at, creatively? Too much to do, or too little inspiration?

Sunday Inspiration: Simple Things

2011-11-05T21:16:00.001-07:00

free printable available at Capital B

Have you committed to serve someONE yet?

Pumpkins by WBH: 2011

2011-11-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

This year WBH offered his pumpkin carving services at really reasonable rates- here are several of the ones he finished. Enjoy!

Wishing you a SUPER Halloween

2011-10-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

Luigi and Mario, (and their parents, too) are wishing you a SUPER Halloween. After the festivities, we grown-ups are facing a mini-horror of our own: a flea infestation, courtesy NoNuts. Wish us luck, it's been/going to be a lot of cleaning and laundry. Back tomorrow with a pumpkin recap from WBH.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-10-29T15:28:00.001-07:00

found here

Help the ONE.

2011-10-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

I was listening to the news on the radio after preschool drop off. The hosts were discussing the "Occupy" protesters, and what it is they're after. Earlier that morning, I'd seen my friend steve post a picture of the protesters side by side with a picture of starving third-world children. It was on my mind, the reminder that even in hard and frustrating times, we are privileged to live as we do. So, I started a facebook group. I wrote :

My name is Rachael, and like you, I'm a part of the 99%. I'm frustrated about the economy, unethical business, and the fact that my family scrapes by while basketball and football players have tantrums demanding more money. However, I'm not here to take a stand, or occupy anything. I believe that both sides of the argument can agree: there is always someone worse off.

If 99% of Americans took one day, one afternoon, or one hour to stop taking sides and help someone else, we could accomplish so much. We might not change national policy, or cause a massive economic shift- but we might change someone's life.

I'm committing, and asking you to commit, to serving some ONE on November 11, 2011 (11.11.11) I won't reccomend any cause in particular. Choose what you're passionate about, or where you can meet a need. Please share our photo and pass on this challenge. Let's "be the change we wish to see in the world."

So, I hope you'll join me in this challenge. There is always someone who needs help. If you can't give money, give time. Donate things you aren't using to an organization that will be able to reach those who need them. Help a neighbor. Do something. Right now this group is holding at 40 members. I would love to see it reach 100 by the 11th- a symbol that our efforts reach past the 99/1 percent divide.

Just a verse and a chorus, please.

2011-10-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

This child- this bright eyed ginger child- may be the death of me one of these days. The walking, the reaching new things, the rotten "I have something I shouldn't!" scrunched up shoulder run. He may just be the death of me. Even with all this new found mobility, though, he's still a mama's boy. Several times a day, he comes to check in with me. He toddles over and tries to climb up me, no matter where I am. I scoop him up an he presses his face into my neck, and his soft squishy body into my arms, and I can almost hear him say "just a verse and a chorus, please." So I sing to him, and then he's ready to tear up the world for another hour or two. Then he comes to check in again, and we sing and snuggle for another verse and chorus more. Someday, I know I'll be chasing him asking "oh Rotten, just a verse and a chorus, please?" so I try to soak it all in while I can.

I Made It Monday: Sock it To Ya

2011-10-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

Dudes. I knit a sock.

It's just one, and it's not very good, but I broke through the 'socks are too complicated for me' mindset, and powered through, and I knit my very first sock. Oh yeah, I did. I found episodes of a show I love online, and as I knit, and thought 'just one more episode!' it got later and later. Suddenly it was 3:30am, I was out of new episodes, and I had shaped a heel. I finished this morning.

I won't be using it for anything but slippers, but I'm glad I decided to give it a try. I used Silver's Sock Class, and that spelled it out really clearly. It's a great place to start. Now to let my hands rest, and tackle the other.

Remaining An Artist

2011-10-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, a library book jumped off the shelf and into my hands. Does that ever happen to you? I saw it, and before I knew what was happening, I was poring through the pages of Twyla Tharp's The Creative Habit. Reading this book has been mind-changing. I've had to take breaks to process what I've read, and how it applies to me.

I wrote in my On Belief post "I believe in the power of creativity, and that it resides in everyone." I've heard many people say they're not creative, and it makes me sad. Creativity is a gift we're all born with- like our muscles, it grows stronger the more we use it. It isn't only creating a beautiful work of art or writing a world-changing poem. Creativity is finding a new way to teach your child something, it's the surprising meal you create when you stare into the fridge and pantry two days before payday. It's inherent in everyone, and mothers have to exercise this gift more than anyone I can think of. Pablo Picasso said, "All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." It's so true! The day-to-day can block the innovative skills and wear us down. This has been on my mind this week as I read Tharp's chapter on breaking out of a rut.

Stinky had been asking to go to the Museum of Glass for weeks. We drive past its stainless steel cone almost daily, and curiosity got to him. They have a collection of child-designed pieces that was perfect for him, and this week's Third Thursday Artwalk allowed our family the chance to go for free. Exploring, I found this panel:

Now, if you'll humor me for just a minute, and re-read it, replacing the word artist with mother. Go ahead, I'll wait. How awesome is that? Now think, are you playing? Are you getting what you need to fire up your imagination? I'm challenging myself to allow more room for creativity and artistry as a mom by seeking those things. I'm finding it's breaking my out of my ruts and helping me to find that mojo as Mom.

As parents, we are the creators of the life our families lead. It's an awesome opportunity and terrifying responsibility. So start today. Make the most of it.

I Made it Monday: "I'm Batman!" Knit Beanie

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

I finally gave in and joined Ravelry. Because, you know, I needed something to distract me from all the sewing projects that actually need to be done. Then, I went and joined the Hat of the Month group. Again, because I needed a distraction. Fortunately, this one took only two days of casual knitting while I watched TV. I surprised Stinky with it the morning after I finished it. He ran around in it that day, singing "nanananananananananananananana BAT MAN!" Totally worth the procrastination.

The pattern is the zsa mask pattern and it is so unbelievably simple- this would make a great beginner project.

shared at Made by You @ skiptomylou.org

Sunday Inspiration: from my life

2011-10-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

This week, in a rare quiet moment, I was praying over some things that were weighing on me. Before I could end, Stinky's boy soprano rang out from the next room, singing a song from VeggieTales:

"God is bigger than the boogeyman, He's bigger than Godzilla or the Monsters on TV. Yes, God is bigger than the boogeyman, and He's watching out for you and me!"

I laughed into my folded arms until tears came down. Or, maybe I cried until I laughed.

Cookie Friday: Chocolate Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Frosting

2011-10-13T23:28:00.000-07:00

I made these for some of my husband's students last week. I wished I hadn't sent so many away!

Chocolate Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Frosting
1 stick butter or margarine
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
3/4 cup milk
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt

Adapted from a Family Circle recipe.

Preheat at 375. Line baking sheets with foil. Blend the first five ingredients. Mix remaining four ingredients in a separate bowl, then add to mixer by the spoonful. With a melon baller, drop cookies onto cookie sheets with lots of space and bake until just cooked through (about 7-8 minutes. I tap the center very lightly with my finger if I'm not sure.) Allow to cool completely.

Frosting:

2 Tbs. butter or margarine.

1 package cream cheese

powdered sugar (1 to 1 1/2 cups)

food coloring (optional)

Blend first two ingredients, then add powdered sugar to desired consistency (thick is better than thin, I think. Otherwise, the cookies can slide). Frost the bottom of a cooled cookie, then top with a second cookie. Repeat until all cookies are paired.

Let me know if you give them a try. I loved them!

Shared at skiptomylou.org

On Belief

2011-10-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

On the topic of faith, sometimes I feel a lot like Stinky in this picture- there's a huge ocean around me, but I'm looking at the small stuff on shore.

I believe in family. I believe that it extends beyond genetics and time and death.

I believe in love, and that you don't choose it, but you can choose to nurture it or not.

I believe in miracles- big and small.

I believe in my chosen religion, but I don't believe it is perfect. I'll gladly discuss it with parties who are curious, but not antagonistic. I believe that my time is valuable and fighting over faith wastes it.

I believe in carbs.

I believe that it is okay to question and doubt.

I believe conversation is always better than conflict.

I believe in equality, and I try to reconcile that with my faith. This is something I've tried for more than a decade. I believe there is an answer, but none that I've reached have set right in my heart. I keep looking and praying.

I believe that being defensive accomplishes nothing but building a wall. I believe you can soften someone's heart more by being a friend than you can by being an enemy.

I believe in the power of creativity, and that it resides in everyone.

I believe in cookies.

I believe in a God who loves you and me. I believe it's cool if you believe in one that is different, or don't believe in one at all.

I believe in your right to believe in whatever gets you through, and I hope you do, too.

I Made it Monday: Old Favorite

2011-10-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

Life has dictated that I will be in a 'sitting' phase for a while. Pain and kids, what can you do? It's a challenge for me- I'd rather be getting things done, so I'm faking a sense of accomplishment by knitting dishrags. The rhythm of the needles, the counting 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, loop, becomes meditative and relaxing after a long day, and in my life as a mom, finishing something, anything, that isn't undone five minutes later is so, so gratifying. TV is almost guilt free when I knit. I'm using the same ball band pattern I did during my de-stashing month. I guess we go back to the standards. I love playing with color combinations, and it's nice to have a little stash of gifts for holidays and thank yous. With any luck, this sitting time won't be long, and I'm glad I can feel like I'm doing something.

found on pinterest without a source. if you know it, let me know!

Sunday Inspiration

2011-10-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

via

Next time, we'll know

2011-10-07T13:01:00.001-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TracFone for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Our cell phone service has gone downhill. It's frustrating. The company we're with has locked us in under a contract, and even though we don't use anywhere near the minutes we've paid for, we're not able to change it, because they don't offer a plan with less minutes. It feels like such a waste. When our contract is up (not soon enough) we'll be making a change.

One option we're considering is TracFone. They offer plans with no contracts, credit checks, or activation/cancelation charges. So many features are available, ranging from a basic "candy bar" style phone, to phones with 'smart' features. You can choose to pay as you go, or get a monthly plan- but again, no contracts or cancelation fees.

TracFone also offers Calling for no additional cost to more than 60 international destinations. You can also purchase the option to double the minutes for the life of your phone for a one-time fee of $19.99, but some phones include this great deal.

It's the least expensive way to one and use a cell phone. That's why next time, we'll know to look there first. Here's what Real TracFone customers have to say: <iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dt-8JfPjbm4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Hello, October

2011-10-06T01:27:00.000-07:00

Hello, October. I'm so happy to see you. The day the calendar turned, I woke up feeling better about life. We had survived September. We are back at preschool. We are back to work. We lit the pilot light. We haven't perfected our new routines, but we are quickly getting there. It feels so good to be October. A few items of housekeeping, then something fun to share.

First, now that Rotten has recovered from his surgery, Stinky's got some weird stuff happening. We go to see the specialist tomorrow- could you pray for an easy, non-surgical solution? It would be great if it were something simple. I mean, is it ever simple? It would just be nice if, this time, it was. Update: He's okay. It's a simpler solution than even we thought.... it's just going to be a messy weekend at home.

Second, medical bills stink, and we're trying to get creative with them. One way I'm trying to help out is through Social Spark, a service that pairs bloggers with advertisers. Occasionally, you may see a sponsored post here on the blog. Social Spark came highly recommended, and it was really easy to put together a post with the information they gave. You can find out more about them here.

Finally, changing the calendar page sparked something very nest-y in me, and I have taken up freezer cooking. Dinner time always seems so insane, and I have ended up cranky and throwing reheated stuff on their plates with a really bad attitude. Trying to combat that, this week I covered 2 weeks- plus of stuff for WBH and Stinky's school lunches, 4 dinners, and 3 breakfasts (then again, who doesn't love breakfast for dinner?) If you're interested, I'm keeping score of all my freezer-friendly recipes on this pinterest board. Now, if only my house can recover magically while I'm at the doctor tomorrow. What? A girl can dream

That's about all I've got. Fall feels good now, doesn't it?

Our Animals with Some Animals.

2011-09-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

One of the perks of WBH's job is the educator passes we can get, including passes to the fair. While we felt like we might go crazy in the crowds at times, we we glad to take the boys, because ...

Stinky caught (and pet) a fish!

Rotten gave us this look when we tried to have him pet a goat

("With my HAND?! That's disgusting!")

but was more open to the idea of seeing a duckling.

This kid... he's gotten so big.

It was a lot of walking for little (and medium and big) feet, but we got this picture on the way back to the car.

Priceless.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-09-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

found here

What I Wore Wednesday: 21 Day Challenge, Round 2

2011-09-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

I'm re-doing the 21-day challenge again. I'm enjoying it a lot more this time around- often, I think because I have more places to go now that we're out of summer. Not to be too cheesy, but the challenge has been awesome- I dress better, I feel better, and I find I've been treated with more respect. I plan what I'm wearing a head of time, which has me more organized. Not to shabby.

Here are a few of my favorites so far:

Top row:

Day 10: save a closet orphan. good for a sick day: comfortable, but presentable.

Day 7: layer accessories plus a new dress for church. necklaces wasn't my fave, but I liked the outfit.

Day 6: Get creative: skirt cut from an ill-fitting dress

Bottom Row:

Day 5: belt it: favorite outfit so far, will be a go-to.

Day 2: tuck it in, also featuring my re-mix slacks.

Another change? Taking a picture everyday has made me realize that I'm ready to make some other changes: Weight Watchers starts again on Friday.

Stinky's last first day of preschool

2011-09-21T12:52:00.000-07:00

2009

2010

2011

It's very surreal. What a boy he's become.

Shock and Awe

2011-09-20T01:00:00.000-07:00

How about something more awesome after yesterday's complaints? This is one of my favorite memories from the summer. A ballet corps was performing at the farmers market. We were sitting to the side of them, in the area they used for the 'wings' of their stage. Stinky watched nicely for most of it, but a few minutes before the end we saw him covering his face. When we asked him why, he said "Because that guy's butt is just hanging out of his pants!"

I'm so glad my sister-in-law got a picture of that moment.

September Mourn

2011-09-19T12:11:00.000-07:00

Transition, I am learning, is something I do not do well. I love to go places with my kids, and they're usually great once we get there. I struggle with getting all of us out the door with the appropriate supplies for the day without getting snappy at everyone. So it shouldn't surprise me that in spite of a deep love for autumn, September is not my favorite month. It's a month of constant transition.

First, WBH goes to back to work, which is a change for all of us in schedule, and in not having a second parent at home. Then, just as we've gotten used to that change, Stinky's preschool starts again. I love the return to routine, but dread shifting gears.

I've been dreaming up ways in my head to change my attitude about this time of year. Do I try to make it more fun by starting new traditions? Should we do a back to school feast and discuss our goals and dreams for the school year? Do I fill my home with autumnal scents by baking up a storm? Do I get nest-y and do a very belated spring cleaning and get out the fall decorations as soon as the calendar page is turned? Or do I allow myself to wallow in the sulky feeling that inevitably hits me on WBH's first day back at school for a little while, then move on once it's passed? I think the answer lies somewhere in the middle ground, but I haven't found it yet.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-09-17T22:05:00.000-07:00

found in this shop

So, that's my plan for the week. How about you?

Stinky on Stage

2011-09-15T22:12:00.000-07:00

I used to do a lot of theater. It wasn't uncommon for me to be in rehearsal for one show once I was performing another. After I got married, it slowed a little, but once I was pregnant, it was a little bit harder to find roles (C'mon, a pregnant nun in The Sound of Music would add a lot of depth, and you know it). After Stinky was born, I played Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. That was a little more than four years ago.

I've missed performing, so on my 30 before 30 list was to get back on stage. This time, though, I get a bonus: Stinky will be with me. I hoped that we would get this chance, and heaven knows this kid loves attention. We're in rehearsals for a production at church to be performed just before Thanksgiving, and I'm really grateful he and I get to have this opportunity. I got a little emotional at rehearsal tonight, thinking about it and hearing the director's plans for the kid's chorus. I can't wait to see him perform, I hope he enjoys it as much as I have.

I Made it Monday: Rotten's Duck Birthday Party

2011-09-12T01:37:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I thought doing a birthday party, Rotten's surgery, starting rehearsals for a play, and WBH going back to work all in one week wouldn't be a big deal. It was. It was a pretty stressful week, and as I look at the pictures of me from Rotten's party, it showed.

However, I think the party went off pretty well. We let kiddos play outside, then came in for the traditional birthday stuff. Here's how it looked:

favors - inside each bag was a rubber duck (colors coordinated on the outside, so you could choose), and some cookies (below).

Cross royal icing off my 30 for 30. We'll try again, though!

Unfortunately, our cakes were ill-fated and we had to call in a ringer.

Rotten didn't mind.

Until it got in his eyes.

Shared at sharingtime, skip to my lou

sunday inspiration

2011-09-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

source

Recovery

2011-09-08T14:27:00.000-07:00

Rotten and Duck-Duck snoozing before surgery.

Rotten had surgery yesterday. He did really well, but spiked a pretty scary fever after (I believe in the power of ibuprofen and prayer! Thanks, friends and family). Today he is playing, climbing, and all the things he usually does, only resting in between more frequently. Oh, and he has to be help on my lap and fed morsel by morsel, but I guess that's his right. Dude's junk hurts.

If I don't get to posting the rest of this week, you'll know it's because I'm snuggling this boy, or giving attention to big brother who is a little jealous of all the attention little brother is getting. Or I've passed out from the stress of this week (we also have preschool meetings and Rotten's birthday this weekend! No big!) .I have so much catching up to do, and I look forward to getting it posted. Some time.

Darnit Day

2011-09-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

Today is Darnit Day. WBH's first day back at work after the summer always finds me sulky and a little unsure what to do with myself. So... let's think about baseball. We tried to make up for our bummer summer start by cramming in as much fun stuff into the last three weeks of August as we could, and baseball was a big part of that.

We were able to go to not just one, but two ball games with the boys. Rotten isn't sure what he thinks about it yet, except that he likes clapping and yelling.. Stinky, on the other hand, was awesome. His attention span for the game kind of amazed me. At one point, he turned and said to our friend Tealah "I think I could do that" and asked us for a baseball bat.

Aidan got a game ball from a preschool friend that we took back to the second game and had it signed. He has been bragging about it since.

Thanks to Hope, Tealah, Bryan, Jason, Jim and Heidi for the great times at the games, and Rick and Jadyn for sharing the ball!

There are more pics from cramming summer into three weeks, and I've got to get up the pictures from the last week of the 21-day challenge. I'm re-doing it with some friends starting today, but won't post pictures daily here- maybe as a What I Wore Wednesday. WBH also took on the boy's bedroom as a project this summer that is almost done, and it looks amazing! I'm excited to share it. This week my posting may be sporadic, as Rotten has a minor corrective surgery tomorrow, and I'm not sure what he'll be like the rest of the week. Wish us luck?

Favorite Pictures: August

2011-08-31T13:04:00.001-07:00

1: fearlessly jumping to Uncle Bubba

2: C is for C-monster

3: summer footwear

4: WBH and Bryan at the zoo. Almost as tall as a polar bear

5: "Today is the big day. I'm finally going to ride a zipline."

6: On stage for the zoo preshow

7: poolside with Grandpa

8: Bopping Mimi's face with the popcorn bowl

2011-08-31T02:42:00.001-07:00

I know my blog is a little off today. I'm working on some changes... and it's not something that comes easily to me, so it's currently at "good enough for now, not going to make you want to take out your own eyeballs." Thanks for bearing with me!

Day 16: menswear

2011-08-30T15:36:00.000-07:00

First, I completely love this picture. Just saying. I'm really, really in love with this. Really. Okay, moving on.

My menswear history starts in 6th grade, where I read in a magazine that menswear was the next trend. So I stole all my brother's clip-on ties and wore them all the time to school. It didn't work out well. Menswear still isn't my favorite, so I girlied up the sweatervest and slacks with ballet flats and some ruffles. Loved it!

And this picture. The breeze caught my hair, I found the perfect word... Love it. Okay.

21-Day Challenge: Day 15

2011-08-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

I love the look of scarves, especially in hair. So, I was excited to give this a whirl. Bun in back, long bangs ahead of the scarf.

Super awesome on bad hair days and cleaning days.

I used this tutorial that's been popping up all over pinterest lately, but it makes you feel silly for not figuring it out before you read it.

21 Day Challenge: Back on the Wagon (a small catch-up)

2011-08-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

This outfit was for the monochromatic challenge. I'm surprised at how much black I own. Leggings are Target, dress was made for me by my sister.

Today's challenge was to copycat a look we found online. I really loved this outfit over at A Reason to be Fabulous.

lic

And here's my take on it:

The sheath dress was a Goodwill find, cardigan... I think DI? I've just had it forever. Couldn't find a belt that was thin enough, so I took a satin skinny tie and tied a bow. I also need to take pictures before church, as wrestling with a baby for 3 hours can do a number on your look.

Some women like a purse dog. I'd love a purse that big. However, I don't reccomend this accessory. You wouldn't believe the maintenance...

To mimic her bling, I put on this necklace WBH made me for a pageant interview outfit. It's pearls, and Mt. St. Helens emeralds (glass made from the ash of it's eruption).

I fell off the wagon a bit this week- Doctor's appointments, days away from home. I like the way I look when I put in more effort, but it takes just that- extra effort, planning ahead. And somedays... well, some days I was hot and not feeling well, so I just put on a giant t-shirt and stretchy pants and reverted. I'll play catch-up more tomorrow. Tomorrow's challenge is a new hairstyle. I'll be searching Pinterest.

One Year Old: Rotten

2011-08-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Rotten,

Most days I can't remember what life was like before you. It has faded into a blurry former reality. I can't picture our family without you here. I do remember though, in the months before you were conceived, a time when my health went out the window, forcing me to slow down and let go of a lot of things. I wonder some days if that was you, yelling from the other side "It's my turn! I'm ready!" Now, when you see Daddy and me playing with Stinky, you can't stand to be left out, so you rush over with your full-speed crawl to join in.

At one year old, you are playful and willful, coy and funny. You love nothing more than to tease us, but it makes you so mad when you don't get your way. I wonder where that stubbornness could be from? We'll say it's from your dad. You love being chased, books, tickles, ducks and open doors. You hate to be restrained, left out, or put to bed. You are a chow hound and refused baby food as soon as you realized we had something different. You're not sleeping through the night yet, which is hard sometimes. Maybe soon?

I can see the wheels in your head going non-stop. You discovered the foot stool the other day, and that if you push it places you can reach more things and see out the window better. This is terrifying (both the act, and the intelligence it represents. You sign "milk, food, all done, more, dog," and say "dad, mom, aidan, dog, and duck." Well, you say them clearly enough that we understand. You're a mama's boy, but are finally learning that others can be pretty good, especially your best friend Grandpa Charlie. You really, really adore him.

You are a joy in our family- you've stretched the love we had for eachother, and filled in a part of the family that was missing. Thank you for a beautiful year, for teaching me, for stretching me, and for loving me.

Day 8: Mix Fancy and Casual

2011-08-22T14:02:00.000-07:00

Let me first say that I had declared today a "stay home and scour the house" day before she announced the theme. My plans and the theme don't exactly mesh, but hey, I'm game. Old pageant tiara + hubby's shirt from when I was in the pageants = awesome cleaning outfit.

The shirt says "My Girlfriend won Miss Auburn and all I got was this lousy t-shirt."

I don't wear this in public.

Day 7- Layer Accessories

2011-08-22T13:57:00.000-07:00

I like this challenge. I threw together some of the flowers I made for the ill-fated craft fair in a cluster...

added my "Ruby" pearl necklace...

and managed to work in my re-mix item! This is my favorite outfit so far. The sweater didn't last long because it was so hot at church that it put the fear of hell into me, but I'll re-do this as the weather cools.

Day 6: Get Creative

2011-08-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Friends, it was HOT this day, and we went to the zoo. That's all I have to say for myself. The skirt was my 'get creative' attempt. It was a hand me down dress that was too short, so I sewed a t-shirt on the bottom and wore it for a while as a maternity skirt. As a result- I look pregnant while wearing it. Fail.

Day 5- Belt It!

2011-08-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

Confesson- all the pictures going up today were taken today. The batteries in my camera died this weekend. I kept up with the challenge, though, so here they are! This one, I made the weirdest face ever. So I cut off my head.

The challenge was to belt it. I have this dark red leather belt that I really like, but am not always sure what to do with. So I paired it with this purple top. I mostly like it. Except for the way it makes me look like Dolly Parton's competition. That I didn't see so much when I put the outfit together. So I'm not sure. What do you think?

Day 1- Remix Something

2011-08-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is out of order. I did wear this, however, but the picture I had Stinky take for me was.... stinky. Anyway, I'll remix my white button-up a minimum of 3 times during this challenge- voila!

21 Day Challenge: Day 4

2011-08-19T08:43:00.001-07:00

The challenge to color block was easier that to previous days- though I don't know if my black skirt counts. Oh well, it got me dressed, right? This outfit made me feel all nostalgic for performing in an annual 50's/60's revue at the dinner theater- tee-type top with embellishment, roundish skirt, tennies. This outfit took me everywhere yesterday- Farmer's market, trolley rides, boat dock, park with the boys. It was a busy day, and this was comfortable enough. It reminded me of why I love wearing skirts in summer, why I need to do it more!

Salt Water Cure

2011-08-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

"The cure for anything is salt water- sweat, tears, or the sea." - Isak Dineson

We'd alread had more than enough of the first two for the day. So I threw the boys on the car, even if to hear the screams echo off any surface other than our home.

Rotten first started noticing animals at the zoo maybe a month or two ago. Recently, he's started showing a preference for ducks. The pond at Pt. Defiance Park has a good-sized flock, and he will just stare at them, then clap excitedly, and (see above) try to catch them from his stroller. His first birthday will be duck-themed.

Stinky, going against his nature, wanted to sit very still "so the ducks will be by me" and it worked! A few minutes later, a female mallard came and sat in the sunny patch to the left of him in the picture. We've been reading Make Way for Ducklings so he decided she was Mrs. Mallard.

Next, we drove to Owen Beach, where Rotten and I disagreed about the edibility of pebbles for most of our time there. Eventually, I got him to clap when I'd make one splash in the water.

Stinky spent most of his time working on a raft consisting of three pieces of driftwood. He managed to balance himself on it, but it sank every time. Our troubles were cured, at least temporarily, because they were hungry and sleepy when we got home, and I got some peace, at least until dinner time.

21 Day Challenge: Day 3

2011-08-17T11:52:00.000-07:00

Today's challenged pushed me a little, too as we were supposed to mix patterns. I don't own too many, but I have seen these two pieces on my bedroom floor near eachother and wondered if it would work. I liked it a lot. I wore this to the library with Stinky this morning, and it was way easier than expected. I'll wear this again.

21 Day Challenge: Day 2

2011-08-16T01:42:00.000-07:00

Day number one's picture was garbage, as Stinky isn't such a hot photographer, I'll have to re-create it later. Here's Day #2: Tuck it In (alternately: Already pushing Rae way out of her comfort zone). Also please ignore the hair. It has multiple personalities, and this one was singing "If I were the King of the Forest."

So, since we're tucking, I went loose- loose tee, loose jeans. Belt (custom buckle by WBH) and purple ballet flats. As a concept, I like it, but I feel a little uncomfortable. Not my favorite, and I can't promise how long the shirt stays tucked. Good to try, though, right?

this summer

2011-08-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

This is Stinky with his Aunt Mimi at the lake today. Naturally, on the day I forgot to grab the camera, but I like the almost impressionist look I captured on the phone. That and the life jacket strap that's giving Stinky a wedgie.

This summer has been a disappointing one. Having WBH home is always awesome, but so many things have fallen through, that it's been tricky to maintain a good attitude. That's why the blog has been a little neglected- why share the grump? Now there's only three weeks left of the summer, and I find myself sulking at the thought that he's going back to work, yet looking forward to a new season, and the chance to get back to routine. I'm trying to pull myself up by my bootstraps, remember the fun things, and try to make the most of what's left of summer.

As part of my pull-out-your-head-and-fight-the-slump attempt, I'm participating in the 21 Day Challenge at Freckles in April- I dressed to match my attitude, which is to say I looked like garbage unless I was going to church. I'll post my first outfit later today, or tomorrow, as Stinky's not so great with a camera phone, WBH is helping my dad refinish floors, and Rotten would rather eat the phone. You can learn more about it here:

Sunday Inspiration

2011-08-07T04:15:00.000-07:00

source: perfect sentiment

Favorite Pictures: July

2011-08-03T04:02:00.000-07:00

1. a visit to the temple

2. stinky's pioneer day outfit

3. rotten learns to 'zerbert' bellies (what do you call them?)

4. stinky's favorite downtime

5. sunshiney face

6. stinky and WBH with the water bottle rockets

I Made it Monday: Doll Clothes

2011-08-01T03:50:00.000-07:00

We don't get much call for doll clothes in our house, so when I needed to make a baby shower for a friend pregnant with their second girl, I was excited to sew these up. Both sisters will have sweet matching monkey dolls, and I thought they might like some matching outfits.

Congratulations, Elizabeth! I can't wait to meet Little Sister!

Sunday Inspiration

2011-07-31T04:09:00.000-07:00

Please let me know if you know the source for this. I found it on pinterest and thought it was too lovely to keep to myself.

Bummer Summer.

2011-07-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone. We're sick and tired. Again. This has been a bummer of a summer.

I'm having an attitude problem.

I'll be back to posting again the first week in August. Until then, have a fantastic last week of July.

Seeing More With Smaller Eyes

2011-07-20T01:38:00.000-07:00

Being a mom changes how I see the world. I don't think any mother would say anything different, but the best times my worldview has been changed, it has been by seeing it through the boys eyes.

We discovered a bug on our storm door. It was huge, as bugs go, and had a hairy stomch. It wasn't at my eye level, I might have missed it. But for Stinky, this provided almost an hour of occupation. We took pictures, counted legs, watched with a magnifying glass, and finally identified it courtesy Google images- a long-haired june beetle. We had a similar experience with a bird last month- a northern flicker with bright red cheeks (meaning it's male). Just the other night, Rotten followed and ant all over the path in the backyard, until it disappeared into the grass. Seeing how eager they are to learn about the world makes me slow down, and I love it.

Un-Do

2011-07-19T19:05:00.000-07:00

card found here

This week has been less than fun. WBH said to me, late one night "this hasn't been a great summer vacation. " Poor guy, it really hasn't. I'd like to just un-do the last couple of weeks so we could repeat them, could do better, unfortunately, life's keyboard has gone missing.

More stuff, happier stuff, tomorrow.

uh-uh

2011-07-13T03:10:00.000-07:00

Rotten decided I shouldn't shower alone

It is morning and I am watching Rotten crawl to all the 'uh-uh' places. The spots where he pauses and waits for my response. On hearing the 'uh-uh,' he chuckles, but moves to the next 'uh-uh'. Later, when he is tired, 'uh-uh' will not be met with a giggle, but with a head-thrown-back cry that can only be interpreted as "you never let me do ANYTHING!" but the morning giggles are a sweet way to start the day.

Giveaway Winner!

2011-07-11T15:15:00.000-07:00

Congratulations........

Can I bring the stuff Saturday to the baby shower for you? Everyone else, thank you for commenting and talking me up on Facebook- you're awesome. Now go get a free slurpee!

Evil Stinky would approve.... crazy kid.

I Made It Monday: No-Cost Wall Art Do-Over

2011-07-11T01:18:00.000-07:00

This is what the big wall in our living room used to look like:

It wasn't bad, but it wasn't really us, either. So I decided to use what we had to change it up. Lucky, we had four Ikea frames the matched, searched the house and internet, played with my Cricut, and came up with what you see below!

All of the pictures are 'matted' on fabric from a sheet.

On the left are lyrics from Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds." My pregnancy with Rotten had a rocky and scary beginning, and I was terrified of the possibility of another miscarriage. On the morning of our first big ultrasound, I woke with that song in my head, and couldn't get it out. Two hours later, we saw his heartbeat going strong. I worked that up on my Cricut.

On the right is a map of Argentina, where WBH served a mission for our church. I printed that offline and backed it with paper to matched the couch. Dig me, following the map trend.

On the left is the front of a throw pillow I made that was too small for the form. I love the way the frayed edges look under the glass. On the right, a print I got for my birthday, while we were working to get the drug-dealing jerks off of the block.

I'm really excited about how it turned out, and proud for not spending a cent to put it together. It feels much more 'us' now.

This Moment: He Heard His Voice

2011-07-08T01:46:00.000-07:00

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

4 years later

2011-07-07T23:10:00.000-07:00

Stinky, summer 2007

Stinky, summer 2011

Same hair in the middle,

Same enviable lashes,

Same drool running down the face.

Same Sweet Stinky.

So, I did a craft fair - GIVEAWAY!

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

Last weekend, I did my first craft fair. Being a procrastinator, I put off preparing until the week before. This meant late nights and lots of work in that time.

I got lots of positive feedback- then I made one sale. Fortunately, it covered my table fee and we used the rest to take Stinky to the bounce house. What this means for you is that I'm doing a giveaway! Yay!

Above is one of each item I made to sell:

a covered notebook with inner pocket and button closure.

a knit bow headband

a knit bow barrette

an organza and fresh water pearl flower barrette

and one pair of vintage button earrings (posts are sterling silver)

To enter, leave a comment. For a second entry, post about it on facebook and leave a comment that you did. Unfortunately, this is only open to residents of the US. Shipping can be a beast.

Giveaway closes at midnight on July 10, winner announced July 11.

Cutting the Cables

2011-07-06T01:54:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, we decided to cut out cable and switch to getting our TV from Netflix and Hulu. While there are some days I really miss the ability to turn on HGTV or Food Network and veg, or let Stinky watch Playhouse Disney all the live-long day, or fall asleep to CNN at night, this has been a change for the better in our household. We read more and get outside more. Magically, I have more time in the day. We are better at sticking to a daily routine. Our TV time is more intentional, rather than just in the background. We're more selective in the movies we buy, because we can stream them or get them in the mail. Cutting out the cable has been a process of getting 'more' - more money left in the budget each month and more time as a family.

I'm not writing this to brag, or to suggest it's right for your family, but it's really working for ours. It isn't without it's challenges, though. We taught Stinky to work the Wii remote for Netflix, and then had to teach him to ask us before each show, so that he doesn't watch things like Jaws or Child's Play. He will occasionally have a fit when it's time for the TV to go off- (a sign we did the right thing in cutting the cable, we think), but usually if we put some music on (our custom family dance party mix is a favorite), he's happy.

For me, the challenge is the other screen. I challenged myself the other day to turn off the computer from 11am until sunset. I made it eight hours, and finished everything on my to-do list- that never happens! Someday, I would love to have the discipline to have a 'no screens if the sun's up' policy- but I'm not there yet. How do you manage screen time in your family? I'd love to hear what's working for you. Oh, and if you've got Netflix favorites, please share them, too! I just finished Torchwood, and I haven't found a show to replace it.

Happy 4th!

2011-07-04T03:19:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is having a gorgeous 4th of July with their family. We'll be enjoying the backyard today- what are you up to?

Later this week I'll write about my unsuccessful craft fair, and have a giveaway. I hope you make it back!

Sunday Inspiration

2011-07-03T00:02:00.000-07:00

I hope you enjoy this reminder today. Happy Sunday!

Just For Fun- prom retrospective

2011-06-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

I was set up to get a picture of the skirt I sewed. Then my cute wedges found a pothole and the skirt and I went a tumbling down. We both survived- the skirt better than me- and Rotten, in the baby carrier was surprised, but unharmed. So. for fun, here's this instead today.

I gathered up all our pictures from the proms we've attended. these are going backwards from this year to 2004, with 2010 missing- we were unable to go. It was fun to look back on them to see what changes (my waist and hair length) and what doesn't (my step-into-the-sun-and-I-just-might-sparkle skin) . Hope you enjoy them.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-06-26T00:27:00.000-07:00

Each family prayer, each episode of family scripture study, and each family home evening is a brushstroke on the canvas of our souls. No one event may appear to be very impressive or memorable. But just as the yellow and gold and brown strokes of paint complement each other and produce an impressive masterpiece, so our consistency in doing seemingly small things can lead to significant spiritual results. “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great” (D&C 64:33). Consistency is a key principle as we lay the foundation of a great work in our individual lives and as we become more diligent and concerned in our own homes.”

David A. Bednar,

Family Hike at the Nature Center

2011-06-23T01:12:00.000-07:00

"Mom," Stinky began, "If I went deep into the woods, you would miss me so much. So all of us should go into the woods together." A few months ago at preschool, we took a trip to the nature center, which has trails to hike, animals to see in the center, and a beautiful playground. They're easy trails, and there are lots of things to see, so we decided to try a family hike, and we went into the woods together.

The trails offer options for how long you can hike, and I'm proud to say Stinky only said he was tired once when we decided to take the long route. He loved listening for and looking for the animals.

Despite this face, Rotten was a good sport in the carrier for the hike, occasionally babbling to us as we walked. Other hikers chatted up Stinky about the waterbugs and woodpeckers.

The playground at the nature center is a great bribe for "if you make it to the end of the hike and don't complain...." All of the climbers and slides are made to look like logs or trees. There's also a water pump and tree house to play in, so Stinky and WBH ran all over. Rotten mostly tried to eat bark.

We'll be back for another hike, without a doubt. Next time we plan to print out one of the brochures and explore the markers along the trails a little more.

Pardon the celebrating...

2011-06-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

But WBH is home for the summer, starting at 3:05 today, and we're ecstatic. That whooping and hollering and shouts of hooray I'm sure your hearing? That's us. We'll calm down later. For now, we're going to celebrate having him home for the next two months, as well as today being his birthday. I know I filled up Sunday's post with mush, but I'm so grateful for you, WBH! Happy Birthday to the best thing ever to happen to me!

I Made it Monday: Dinosaur Planters Tutorial

2011-06-20T01:48:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the awesome dinosaur planters that are popping up online? Considering how much Stinky loves his dinosaurs, I'm just surprised it took me this long to get around to making them.

You score a bajillion bonus points if you name the show. When I picked up the dinosaurs it was all I could do not to start re-enacting this scene in the middle of Goodwill.

You'll need:

A sharp serrated knife

Toy Dinosaurs

small cup or container to fit inside dinosaur toy

soil

seeds or plant

File (optional, but reccomended)

First, cut your container to about an inch tall and make a drainage hole

Then, draw an approximation of the shape of your cup on your dino's back. Stab and cut. Be careful, please.

Cut the hole out of his back, then file away the shredded plastic. It's optional, but it makes it look a lot nicer.

You'll have to crumple up your cup probably, but fit it inside the dinosaur's back. Fill with dirt and plant seeds, or fit your plant inside. TaDa!

I'm going to admit that I've taken out this plant from the brachiosaurus and the stegosaurus and planted basil in them. Why? Because they're herb-ivores. And you thought the TV show reference would be the geekiest part of this post.

You can also spray paint these for an added pop of color, which is fun. Succulents and herbs are a good choice for these, as they won't grow too much for the size of the container. Enjoy!

shared at skip to my lou and 733

My BabyDaddy

2011-06-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

for the days you come home and start working all over again,

or take over for me when I'm going to lose it,

for the ways you teach our boys to be men,

just by being a really good one,

for the way you overlook my shortcomings,

and help make up for them,

and for the way I look at our son's faces ,

and love them even more because they're half you,

I love you so much.

Happy Father's Day

Sunday Inspiration

2011-06-19T00:15:00.000-07:00

Clyde, protecting our refuge.

We need to make our homes a place of refuge from the storm, which is increasing in intensity all about us. Even if the smallest openings are left unattended, negative influences can penetrate the very walls of our homes.

L. Tom Perry