Groovy Moments

Where Are You Winter?

2012-02-10T23:31:00.000-05:00

We have had amazing weather lately. Since winter, as we know it, has been somewhat absent I was starting to get antsy for Spring!

Let's be real though. We all know March is hammer-time for snowfall in these parts, and we're expecting a pretty decent drop in temperature through the night so we shall see... There may yet be snowball making, sledding and the brushing off of cars!

Hemming Jeans With The Original Hem

2012-02-09T16:33:00.006-05:00

I gave this a try on a new pair of too-long denim's I had bought and I'm happy with it. Unfortunately I hemmed them shorter than I feel a pair of bells should be! The beauty of this hem is I can (but really don't want to) take it out and try again as the excess fabric is still there. I'll probably let them irritate me for a week or so before I can't take it anymore, and then go to the trouble of fixing them.

I felt the excess material would become bothersome, and so I ironed the material up the leg of the jean and machine stitched "in the ditch" of each side seam. I considered a small hand sewn stitch around the perimeter but, it would take much longer than you want a hem job to, and you might end up with little dimples around your pant leg.

This works very well for a pant with a wide hem and I would definitely do it again.

A Tad Tardy on the Baby Food

2012-02-08T19:38:00.002-05:00

Oh the second child... It was all about timing. Levi was fed almost entirely homemade baby food, whereas with Owen we have been away from home from when he was 6 months old up until just under 4 weeks ago. Needless to say, he has been living off jar food until this week. Figures that he can finally enjoy basically whatever we eat and now gets a whole pile of baby food made for him!

Anyway, you can't go wrong with homemade apple sauce. All you need are apples and a touch of cinnamon. He prefers it far more than the alternative, so it was worth it.

He seems to be loving the Cheeky Chickpeas as well. Levi was a big fan. The recipe is from Lianne Phillipson-Webb, registered nutritionist and founder of Sprout Right. She teaches workshops in the Toronto area. My sister-in-law took a class with her and loved it. Being a little outside of Toronto I opted to buy her dvd's which teach the same basic steps as the workshops and provide you with the recipes.

Travel Tuesday: Postcards From Fes

2012-02-07T10:18:00.000-05:00

The Moroccan people were definitely something to write home about.
For how many times I had heard before visiting Fes that we would find it incredibly overwhelming due to high pressure from touts - namely medina "guides" - we truly never did. There have been many times on our travels, since having Levi, where I wondered if we would be experiencing the same level of care and politeness had we been without a child - our experience in Fes may be a perfect example of this. This isn't to say we were never approached for various reasons, but no one really persisted beyond our "no thank you".
There were at least 2 or 3 people, at different times, to approach simply to tell us "blessings on your beautiful children" and "may they be protected, in sha'allah (God Willing)". Each person to say these words to us expressed them with a great deal of emotion. They really meant it, and we really felt it. Very unexpected, and highly appreciated. This at a time when our defenses were down - we were sick, we were tired and, in turn, very concerned for our babies.

We owe Fes another shot, and we will make sure we give it.

Yarn Along

2012-02-01T12:55:00.001-05:00

Joining Ginny from Small Things this week.

Love, love, Loved this book. I kept it close at hand, so I could pick it up at a moments notice to read a quick page or two on everything from baking and sewing, to travel and art. Great writing, and just a pleasure to read. It is broken up into so many brief articles, which makes it an ideal read for a mom of two very busy little boys.

As for the project up above? Well, this little bit of hook-work is quickly becoming the longest running project. Ever.

Travel Tuesday: Postcards From Meknes

2012-01-31T22:30:00.023-05:00

A glimpse into our week well spent in Meknes, Morocco. An amazing, chilled out city with a small town feel, some of the friendliest people, tastiest food, and a medina just big enough to get lost, but not big enough to stay lost - perfect.

Ah, The Weekend...

2012-01-29T22:57:00.004-05:00

This weekend involved a lot of staying out of the house, so my husband would be able to have peace. He has spent his weekend days between epsom salt baths, bed, and couch, trying to find some sort of reprieve from the sudden case of pneumonia he has come down with.

It is difficult, for one little boy in particular, to avoid running in to see daddy every 20 minutes to see if he feels better, and if he would now like to play hockey, because "hockey would make [him] feel so better".
Doesn't hockey make everyone feel so better??

Here's hoping for good health for my hubby before the week is through.
Hope your weekend was happy!
xo

We heart Snail Mail

2012-01-25T23:13:00.000-05:00

Long live the hand-written, postage stamped letter. Really and truly. There is nothing quite like sitting down and sharing your whozits and whatzits through a hand scrawled note, except maybe to receive one.

My Grandma and Grandpa have kept in frequent contact by letter throughout my life, and I have kept every one.

Today, Levi found something special in the mailbox from his Grandma and Grandpa. It reminded me of how excited I always was to find something in the mail addressed to me.
P.S Mom, this is still true of me ;)

The perfect letter for a little one. She replaced familiar faces and activities with easily identifiable photos, so that Levi would be able to understand and "read" his letter.

Thanks Grandma!

Travel Tuesday: Chefchaouen Weavers

2012-01-24T20:36:00.003-05:00

There are beautiful handmade blankets for sale in Chefchaouen, Morocco. I had the pleasure of watching a few of the men work away at their looms. It seemed like such a meditative task. Ask any one of them about their work and they will share with pride.

There were many offers to visit the home of a local weaver, but we were quite happy hanging around the Ensemble Artisinal, at the edge of the medina, where we were free to walk around, compare prices, and watch the men at work.

Many men had their young sons working and learning alongside them, just as they had done next to their own fathers.

Of course, we couldn't resist leaving without one for each of our beds!

There is something so beautiful about a craft that has been handed down from generations past, family teaching family; hard working, experienced, and gifted hands delicately, and lovingly directing young fingers across the fibres, and the wood of the loom. That is what you are supporting, when you buy handmade - so incredible.

More Cloth Baskets...

2012-01-23T21:55:00.001-05:00

I actually made these 2 Cloth "baskets" just before going away on our trip.

The top one was made as a gift for a very close friend. I'm unsure of the main fabric, but the smaller piece is a Kaffe Fassett quilting cotton, and the interior is a solid brown.

The lower "basket" is for little old me. This is a special one because the material, both the small strip, and main fabrics were picked up at a little shop in Hanoi, Vietnam when we were there in 2007. I've been waiting quite a while to decide what to use it for. I'm unsure of the interior, but it is a lovely yellow floral. This basket is a reflection of two of my favourite things - sewing and travel.

Back to reality...

2012-01-20T21:00:00.000-05:00

Among many other things, travel has given me a new appreciation for home and it’s comforts. I’m not speaking of the mass quantities we tend to acquire and consume when at home, but the stuff you wouldn’t think you would miss. When I come home from an extended trip, I find the things I most look forward to are the daily tasks – washing dishes, sweeping floors, planning meals, preparing meals.

Routine can be a wonderful thing. As a child I obviously enjoyed the summer, but I looked forward to returning to school in the fall just as much as I had looked forward to leaving it. It was having a schedule and a routine again that I think I craved.

The funny thing about routine though, it won't take long for me to be over it again! Where to next? ;)

Quiet Book By Grandma

2012-01-18T21:39:00.000-05:00

One of the most special gifts received this Christmas was a quiet book which my mom put together for Levi. A lot of work was put in to this book, and it shows.

I could easily share a lot more photos, but I'll let her do that for you. She has just started a blog of her own, and rightly so as a lot of my inspiration comes from her! Pop over to FUN FABRICATION for a peek!

Travel Tuesday: Don´t Tell The Kids...

2012-01-17T19:02:00.000-05:00

A romantic dessert for two from the local Pasteleria...

Sneakily devoured in the WC. Oh yeah, sneaky cakes in the toilet. We are all about class.

This is what we have to resort to while traveling, all sharing one room, and are disappointedly forced to impose and follow through on ¨no dessert¨ as a disciplinary action.

If only Levi knew what was happening as he lay there chatting away, fighting sleep with every ounce of his ever-present strong will...

{This Moment}

2012-01-14T01:57:00.001-05:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

Blanketing Slave Lake With Love

2012-01-07T01:22:00.000-05:00

Earlier in 2011, I blogged about the town of Slave Lake, Alberta and the blow it was dealt in the form of a very destructive fire.
At my aunt's house this afternoon she showed us a beautiful hand stitched quilt that was given to her through a program called "Blanket Slave Lake With Love". I always hear about different situations where people contribute their handmades for people who have been through a difficult time. Someone invested their hard work, and their time (which is invaluable) in to creating this quilt for someone they have never met. Even more than that, a hand stitched quilt can not come together without an incredible amount of dedication, love, and care. That is an intensely personal, invested gift, and truly, who would not be uplifted by such a gift? In my aunt's words "It felt like [she]'d gotten a cuddle".

Back to the Machine

2012-01-03T22:54:00.002-05:00

It feels SO good to get back to sewing after nearly 4 months away from it. I had the pleasure of taking my mom's new sewing machine for a spin. It has a lot of nice little features that mine does not.

I love these little reversible pants - Anna Maria Horner's pattern for the "Quick Change Trousers" from her book Handmade Beginnings.

The pattern goes up to 24 months so for the larger pair, Levi's pair, I enlarged the pattern, extending the length by 2 inches, and adding (by eye) as much to the entire pattern as it seems to increase with each size. They turned out a good size, and they should fit for quite some time, especially with all the room available in length.

The materials I used for these 2 pair are from Anna Maria's Folksy Flannels collection.

This third pair I gifted to my cousin's wee one a couple of weeks ago. They were made from a vintage Star Wars bed sheet I have had in my stash for quite some time.

I love a project that let's me combine several different fabrics, as these do.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T23:06:00.010-05:00

Wow. Another year passed, in the blink of an eye.

2011 was a year of loss, but also a year of massive gain, and I have an incredible number of things to be thankful for to prove it.

*My healthy, happy, (slightly sleep starved) baby boy who has added so much to our little family with his big silly smiles, his enthusiastic encouragement for big brother's antics, and his love for snuggling.

*For my rambunctious, chatty, hilarious, and rapidly growing 2 year old.

*Our safe return to Canada after an incredible 12 weeks of travel.

*An incredible 12 weeks of travel!

*My husband as a Dad - his patience, his support, his love, and yes, even his crazy rowdy way of playing with our 2 baby boys.

*Footprints - What I mean is, the amazing impact that some people have on our lives so that even after they have gone from this life we are blessed to be left with beautiful memories, emotions, and even a permanent change within ourselves from having known them.

*That I was able to spend this Christmas with my entire family.

*That I have, to this point, been able to be at home full-time with my boys.

*My beautiful new nephew, Malikai, who I was able to meet and cuddle very recently.

*My newly announced nephew or niece, who is busily preparing for his or her June debut!

*For all of you who read and share on my blog. I love writing here. I love the communication it creates, the friends I have made through it, and the record I now have because of it. So thanks to you for the encouragement you bring by simply stopping by!

Happy New Year to you all!! I hope 2012 brings you a mountain of things to be thankful for!
xo

{This Moment} ~ Cousins

2011-12-30T14:42:00.000-05:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

Back "Home"

2011-12-22T00:16:00.003-05:00

Through my childhood and teen years I spent a great deal of time in one particular small town in central Alberta. We took a brief trip back to my second "home" for some time to catch-up, hang out, and meet my cousin's very special new baby (who I am going to go ahead and call my nephew).

It's official: We love our new little cousin/nephew!!

A great trip within a trip! xo

Christmas Market Eats

2011-12-19T17:40:00.000-05:00

We made it to a German Christmas Market a lot sooner than I ever could have anticipated. I can honestly say it lived up to all my expectations and then some. Leaving Germany was as tough for my tummy as it was for my Christmas spirit!

I could have spent many more weeks in Germany for the food alone. The markets will never leave you hungry. In fact, I'm not sure if I ever went very long without munchin' on something.

Potato pancakes with applesauce

Fried Mushrooms with a garlic sauce (My personal favourite).

Bratwurst

"Spatzle mit sauerkraut und schwarzwalder speck" - Spatzle is a German "noodle", so this tasty concoction consists of Spatzle with sauerkraut and a type of Bacon. So delicious.

Goulash was one of many incredible homemade soups available at the markets.

Chocolate covered marshmallows - We made it through only 3 of the 23 flavours, one of many excellent reasons for a return trip.

Roasted & Flavoured Almonds. We tried Vanilla, Coconut, Regular caramelized, and Cinnamon - all too yummy!

Nutella Crepe - sorry about the photo. The photo had to wait for me to have a big bite (or several).

Lebkuchen - a gingerbread-like baked treat that is a German tradition.

There are so many more that were enjoyed, but went unphotographed.

On top of it all there was someone's very first candy cane

And that same someone's very second candy cane

Neither candy cane shown is peppermint which he later declared as being "too fizz" - an all-purpose statement for the very fizzy, spicy, staticky, tingly etc.

And, of course, there were the drinks, among them the local ALT beer,

and a mulled wine called Gluwhein (available in red or white)

We made sure to enjoy each and every market's Gluwhein - which has left us with a good sized collection of Christmas mugs to enjoy our morning coffee in, and what will now be a yearly December reminder that we need to go back!

Lazy Days

2011-12-17T23:31:00.000-05:00

We have spent a small fortune at a number of pharmacies in the past week - Homeopathic cough syrups & cold remedies, lozenges, fever reducers, saline sprays, blah, blah, blah... All I want for Christmas is health for my 2 babes. For Real.
If nothing else, we are getting into a good groove of chilling out and are adjusting to yet another new time zone. Our fourth full day in Alberta is coming to a close and we have barely left our jammies - quite a feat wouldn't you say?

We did venture out for dinner tonight, and I even browsed a couple shops this afternoon so I think I am beginning to come out of my shell though in reality I am always a happy homebody. This may surprise many, as we seemingly leave our home behind on a regular basis, but it's true. I LOVE to stay home - especially on a cold, wintry day.

What will tomorrow bring? Maybe I'll get dressed before noon. Maybe.

Back In Canada

2011-12-15T12:46:00.005-05:00

We finally arrived back at our home for a brief five nights. My plans to dive full-on into the festive season with decorating, creating, relaxing, and spending time with my husbands family were overcome with the sounds of hacking, sniffling, and the constant hum of the humidifier as the scents of vaporub and strepsils floated on the air. After a whole lot of traveling and time zone hopping, our bodies finally threw on the red light and illness hit all of us like a hammer.

One more flight for 2011 has brought us to Western Canada where we will spend the Christmas season with my family. It has all happened so quickly, in a flurry of flying, visiting, packing, & unpacking, that I can't believe there are only 10 days to go. All efforts have been put towards getting healthy. Hopefully it happens soon so our Christmas spirit's can come to life, and this state of constant exhaustion I seem to be in may lift. A baby who has spent the last 2 nights nursing every hour and a half is fully wearing me down and thoughts of formula bottles and full nights of sleep have begun filling my head.

It feels strange posting blogs from our trip now that we're back on Canadian soil, but I have so many, both in my head and down on paper, that I was never able to publish due to lack of time and internet availability. For my own records I can't bear to fully abandon them so bear with me as I continue to throw down entries from our last several weeks of travel. Of course, in order to avoid neglecting my favourite time of year, I may have to delay these posts a little bit longer, and bring them back to life in the new year through Travel Tuesday...

For now, I'm just going to go with the flow and find my routine of daily blogging once again.

The Heat Of The Day

2011-12-11T17:26:00.000-05:00

Between our busy wanderings of the early mornings and cool evenings, we would sneak back to our room

to nap

to play

to be silly

to tend

to feel at "home"

to reflect

in the heat of the day

Postcards From Chefchaouen

2011-12-07T11:00:00.006-05:00

A Haven

2011-12-02T23:34:00.000-05:00

Morocco was a tough time for all of us and yet, we loved it. We just couldn't seem to get healthy. Jim was sick the entire 2 and a half weeks, and lost a hearty 15 pounds to prove it. I had no voice for about a week, and an intense cough and sore throat for the rest of it, which left me pretty sleep deprived. Both boys had an allergic reaction to nappies we bought which were strongly perfumed, Levi went through times of feeling very tired and emotional, and Owen finally came down with a fever toward the end of our stay.

When you are feeling ill and traveling, everything rests on your accommodation. The ease in which you find rest and relaxation, your motivation and, most importantly, your ability to cope are all highly affected by that room you call "home", be it for a couple nights or several.

I believe somewhere in that talk of illness I mentioned that we did, in fact, love Morocco? This had a lot to do with our accommodation, since there were many days where our adventures out were quite brief. At every place we stayed we encountered amazing, helpful people, and a clean, comfortable spot to kick back, rest our heads, and let our kids play freely.

In Chefchaouen we stayed at a little family owned guesthouse called Casa Annasr. When we arrived by bus and realised it was directly across the road from the bus station we tensed up a bit. In our experience, being adjacent to a bus station does not a lovely accommodation make. This was the exception. Our hosts were extremely friendly and helpful, sharing their computer with us, making us a pot of mint tea whenever we passed by, and were great to just sit and talk to. Levi had a great time kicking a ball around with their kids, we had an amazing breakfast every morning, and our room was very clean and comfortable enough that every day we spent the hottest part of the day (from around 1 to 4pm) relaxing and playing there.

In Meknes we stayed at a Riad called Riad Felloussia. As things were getting progressively worse in the health department, this place was very timely. The breakfast here was another crazy smorg of goodness, another spotlessly clean place, very friendly staff, internet access (though unpredictable) was available in the riad, Levi and Owen both had their own beds which meant more sleep for all, our shower was awesome, and we could sit on the rooftop overlooking the main square and take it all in - the music of the snake charmers, the crowds of people, the calls to prayer - and to top it all off, it was so easy to experience and enjoy the medina as we were staying right in it.

In Fes we stayed at Dar Fes Medina. This was the place where we broke. It rained A LOT, Jim was at his absolute worst, and when little Owen started in with a fever and began acting very different from his usual self, we packed it up and headed back to Tangier for a night and then across the border to Spain. Again, despite how horribly we felt, the wonderful people and how comfortable we felt at this riad enabled us to enjoy our time in Fes even though we were pretty much at our lowest point. Fes was our biggest disappointment due to all the plans we had to let go of - visiting the tanneries, and day tripping to the nearby mountains among them. Nevertheless, my memories of trying to supress my coughs through the long nights so I wouldn't wake one of the sleeping boys, or worrying about Jim as his weight dropped and appetite followed, are happily topped by my memories of colouring at the tables in the breakfast room, watching Levi show Owen how to crawl along the beautiful tiled floors of the common area, and sitting down to a big silver platter of biscuits and mint tea.

Through it all, we were amazed at Levi's ability to stay healthy despite his lack of nutrition (basically yoghurt, bananas, and french fries were all he would eat - chuck in the occasional pizza and cheeseburger). We voiced this fateful thought as we arrived in Tangier for our last Moroccan night. Just a few hours later (3am) our "healthy" little boy awoke scared and crying as he vomited his way through the next hour. Not cool.

Morocco 1 The Family D 0
We will meet again!

Personal Space

2011-11-22T16:18:00.009-05:00

The Moroccan people were amazing - so protective and loving toward children. Adults and children alike were constantly coming up to give Levi and Owen a cuddle and a kiss on the cheek.

At first I was okay with it - Levi had loved the attention of similar affections in Italy, so I continued to be of the mind that it was very sweet.
As it seemed to be rampant flu season throughout Morocco, we took to carrying Owen in our carrier to lessen the snuggles he received though he, as Levi once did, seemed quite happy with all the attention.

Levi preferring the freedom of his own two feet was subject to a lot of lovin´ and as he became more aware, and more prepared, he also became on guard to the point where every person who came within a short distance of him caused him to shout and run. Clearly he was not a fan of this space invasion.

It came from an honest and sweet place, but as he didn´t like it, I too started to feel bothered by it. It even got to where he would shout at every person who said hello.

This posed a slight problem because I didn´t want to teach him to accept what he wasn´t comfortable with, but I also didn´t want him to rudely shout at anyone who said hi. But how on earth can a 2 year old discern who is coming in for a kiss or a chat??

This attitude of Levi´s toward strangers has carried on into Spain, though it seems to be gradually waning as the locals in Spain seem to be a little more careful in their approach.

We never did find a solution. We would just quickly pick up our annoyed little boy, send an apologetic glance toward the offender and be on our way. As it is in their culture and to be expected there is not much more you can do, though at times I had wished there were.

I´m sure a child´s reaction changes according to their age, but also their ability to react properly to the situation and read people´s intentions.

Throughout our stay Levi generally was quite thrilled with the attentions from other children, and with each accommodation as he became familiar he became equally comfortable with the owners, and staff.

Adjusting to cultural differences is all part of the game, though this particular difference was tougher than most, and one I don´t think we ever fully adapted to.

Thank you!!

2011-11-20T11:17:00.002-05:00

Thanks for all the great comments I´ve been receiving on my blog posts, and thanks just for stopping in to check up. My time at internet cafes is very limited, so I have been unable to respond to comments but believe me I read and appreciate them all!
One thing I´m wondering...How on earth I´m going to find the time to read all the posts from the blogs I love, that I haven´t been able to read up to this point???
I´m in for some late nights!

xo

Enjoy!

2011-11-17T15:38:00.000-05:00

I felt that this needed to be shared. If not only to gain possible answers for anyone in the know (please seriously, what is being advertised?), then to simply give you a chuckle and let your mind wander through the possibilities...

Breakfast, Chefchaouen style

2011-11-16T15:05:00.000-05:00

I love a place that provides brekky, even if it´s nothing more than a cup of coffee with bread and jam. There is nothing quite like waking up to have breakfast waiting for you.

Soft ewe´s cheese, olives, fried egg, fresh squeezed OJ, bread, jam, coffee, bananas, yoghurt

Hello New Teeth!

The Breakfast View

Jim has an idea that these olives may have been partially responsible for the downward spiral of his health in Morocco, which was only further infused by the bucketloads he saw providing a fully sun-baked resting place for the towns fly population at the market. hmmm... We will never know the truth.

´Chaouen Moments

2011-11-15T11:00:00.000-05:00

You know those pre-baby days of travel, where immediately upon leaving home your whole mind and body check-in to chill-out mode, free from schedules and responsibilities?
Well, this does not happen with kids. Should be obvious I know, but alas, part of me hangs on to this dream, and suddenly I find myself wondering things such as, "What the??? Why aren´t they sleeping [as they never have before]?..."

And then comes the AHA!... We´ve actually had this a few times already and despite putting it into writing, we are destined to have it many more times, but I digress...

The AHA! moment... Oh. Right. You couldn´t care less where we are. You will still continue to laugh, cry, pee, poo, grow teeth, scrape knees, bonk your head, feel afraid, have a funny tummy, eat, not eat, want cuddles, hate cuddles, and all the while keeping us guessing and learning.

It is crazy tough having these 2 little guys as traveling companions; and then suddenly I´m watching my son kick the ball around the main square in Chefchaouen (Morocco) with a group of local kids, integrating in a way I never could, where all the stigmas of adulthood like nervousness, language barriers, and awkwardness cannot go, and I KNOW it´s all worth it.
The little bits in between the tough times are what make it worthwhile because the low lows of parenthood are with us no matter where we are, but these high highs cannot be duplicated.

Mmmm...Galao

2011-11-14T17:25:00.000-05:00

The cappucino of Italy is not the cappucino of Portugal - as far as I have seen. After excitedly ordering my first, warily ordering my second, and disappointedly (yup, one more go) ordering my third, I finally realised that the cappucino of Portugal is, in fact, a small 'just add water' packet made by a little company called Nescafe. And that, my friends, is when Galao became the new cappucino.
Mmmm hmmm...double long espresso with milk.

ps. I'm sure there is an amazing cappucino somewhere in Portugal, but it just wasn't my luck to find it, and now I´m glad I never did!

At The Edge Of The World You Eat Sausages

2011-11-11T17:09:00.001-05:00

...And browse the gift shop, buy wool sweaters, pay 50 Euro cent for a pee and, of course, have a photo stop on the giant chair.

My boys are already embarassed of me. Look at them trying to escape!

Quite a difference from our visit to the Westermost point of our world's time clock in Samoa where there is not a soul to be seen, a small wooden sign declares your momentous whereabouts, and an old aquamarine outhouse invites you to spend a few thoughtful moments with the sound of the ocean steps away.

Portugal's Cabo de Sao Vicente (Cape St.Vincent) is the South-Westernmost European point. It affords stunning views plus a touch of vertigo as you stand atop the 90 degree cliffsides staring down into the endless sea.

There were several men fishing from different points along the edge (oh, only 75 metres above the ocean) - hope no one catches a "live one".

Postcards From The Algarve

2011-11-05T16:15:00.000-04:00

Car Seats?

2011-10-23T08:00:00.006-04:00

It's funny with car seats because, at home, when the babies are safely stowed in their's, crying their cute little faces off, I feel extremely irritated that I can't just take them out and give them a cuddle while my husband drives on if I so please. After all, that's how long journeys went when I was young - sitting in my mom's lap, bouncing around our Dodge Ram like it were gym class.

Now, in practise, passengering around with our kids as though they were already in highschool (isn't that about when they are free of them?) I am highly anxious and not-at-all a fan. I would actually give anything for a decent car seat right now!

Cabbies, by trade it seems, are a different breed and pretty much exempt from following the road rules of the average person in most countries, which is a concern being that taxis are our second main mode of transport currently (our feet being our first).

The two car seats we have used, which were so graciously provided by the only car rental agency visited by us on this trip thus far were, before our very eyes, disintegrating. Literally, by the end of the day, the entire back seat and floor were covered in a thick layer of fibrous dust that poor Levi's "safety" seat had shed.
Maybe I should have just held him?

Jetlag

2011-10-22T08:00:00.002-04:00

Discovering AND appreciating a new city as we all try and find our new daily "routines" while overcoming jetlag is no easy task. The strong dose of it I was dealt this trip seems to have been the most difficult.

Being a nursing mom means when I am finally tired, but my little guy decides it's breakfast, I can't argue. Then when he decides he wants to party for a couple hours post-brekky (this being 4am Portugal time), there is not much I can say about that either.

you wouldn't think this was 4 am...

We spent our first week so up and down (mentally and physically - man Lisbon is hilly!). From energized and ready to take it all on, to completely deflated, with short tempers.
Of course, we were never hungry at the "right" times. Tired at midnight, and wide awake at 1am.

We found through it all, as we have done before,that we just needed to embrace it. Sleep when sleepy, eat when hungry, play when play was necessary (colouring at 2am, playing "toos" (tools) at 4am) -whatever it took.

Thankfully, we found synchronicity or it found us, and by the end of the first week our body clocks were finally in concurrence with the rise and fall of the sun.

Airtime With Little Ones

2011-10-21T17:51:00.000-04:00

Ah the airplane bassinet... What a beautiful little blessing. Flying to Italy with our hearty 11 month old being passed between us the entire 8 hours was a serious workout not to mention a strain on the old triceps, so thank the Lord that our 6 month old was a perfect fit. We had pre-booked the bulkhead in order to reap this benefit and it paid off. Thanks, in part, to our complete ignorance of attendants orders to pick him up every 10 minutes due to impending turbulence, he slept soundly for the duration. Please don't misunderstand this as total neglect for our baby's safety, our hands were within distance to hold him or touch him without strain at any moment, and let's be real, If you're peacefully sleeping away, would you like to be wakened so that you are both tired AND panicky? Personally, No thanks.

A Note About Leaving Canada

Leaving the Toronto airport I was struck with the fabulous idea of giving Levi a taste of home by bringing along a small bottle of pure maple syrup and making him pancakes one morning. Well, still being on Canadian soil, the idea was not just brilliant, but also entirely plausible so I popped into the duty free.
The lesson of the day: don't buy syrup at the airport.
11 bucks for a 100ml bottle?? He can have jam on his pancakes.
Part of travel is craving the flavours of home, right?

Postcards From Lisbon...

2011-10-20T17:10:00.000-04:00

Sending our love,
xo

Crafty Lisbon

2011-10-13T07:08:00.000-04:00

Browsing Lisbon for fabric was a fun adventure despite not really buying any.
I came across a few good shops, and had I not needed to be so discerning due to lack of space I probably would have left Portugal with more.

I didn't actually find any material that was so unique that I had to have it. Speaking with a gentleman at one of the shops, he told me that I wouldn't find any "Portugese" fabric pre se, as it was only produced for clothes manufacturing. Likewise, when it comes to yarn there were a few Portugese spun yarns available, but all the wool is coming from elsewhere - mainly New Zealand.

My favourite shop was called Retrosaria - Rosa Pomar, found at Rua Do Loreto, 61 on the 2nd floor(the main floor counts as "0"). (If you happen to arrive there with your baby fast asleep in the stroller just head next door for a 'pasteis de nata' and a drink until he wakes up!).
This shop is just getting in to producing their own yarn and sells a wool they have spun from Portugese sheep - though it is quite a harsh wool. I was told they are working on another, spun from a Southern breed which is much softer.
They sell some great designer fabrics, of which I bought a small bundle of scraps. Unfortunately, I am in love with one of the fabrics in the bundle, but no one knew the designer, or name. Bummer... Maybe, I should post a pic and someone may know?...
The shop also sells a ton of Japanese pattern books for crochet, knitting, and sewing. They were tough to resist- so much so, that I bought one. Shhh, don't tell my hubby. Could there be a worse thing than books to buy when all you have is a backpack?? I suppose yes, maybe a lamp... I know because I wanted one when we were in Egypt but I suppose it made sense that I couldn't buy that one.

I also picked up a few Portugese knitting pins (Aha! something local!). They explained to me that they are the alternative to draping the yarn behind your neck while knitting, which I also was not familiar with. Now, I'll give both techniques a try and see where I'm at. Maybe, it'll all of a sudden make me a crazy, super fast knitter!! Ahhh, dreams...
A woman, who I believe may have been Rosa herself, warned me to use the pins while wearing a shawl or sweater - just something that it will easily pin to - as otherwise you will be left with a hole in your top.

Despite the lack of "local" fabrics, I did pick up a couple of "Portugal" tea towels from a tourist shop for 1 Euro each to use in sewing projects. I have also seen some great tablecloths that I would love to sew with at only 5 Euro a piece. Maybe. before I leave Portugal I should grab one of them too...
No matter what I do buy on a trip, I pretty much always end up kicking myself for what I didn't buy.

A few other shops:

Rua Da Conceicao in the Baixa Ciado area, had several "haberdashery" shops, of which I learned are shops selling pretty much all crafty bits - buttons, ribbons, knitting spools, embroidery floss, yarn, needles etc. Some specific ones I checked out were at #91, 93, 95, 115, and 121.

Rua De Aurea also in the Baixa Ciado area, had a very large multi-level fabric shop called Feira Dos Tecidos. Just down from that one was a 2 level fabric shop called Retrosaria (as so many are), with a nice selection (especially on the lower level).

A small fabric shop is located on the corner at Rua Dos Fanqueiros, 69.

Keeping Up

2011-10-05T05:31:00.007-04:00

Just a brief intro to say my hubby, myself, and our 2 little boys are at the beginning of a 12 week backpacking trip through Portugal, Morocco, Spain, Germany, and finally Scotland where we will visit with family.

It is a lot more difficult to grab a moment at an internet cafe when there isn't one accessible to you post-baby bedtime, you have two jetlagged babies, and are a breastfeeding mom.

I finally grabbed some spare moments this past Saturday, mapped out an internet point, grabbed my nursing babe and headed off only to arrive at a locked door with no indication as to how long it would remain closed - even more of a kick in the butt because little Mr.Nevernaps had fallen asleep most conveniently right before arrival.

That same evening, I came upon another internet point and sat down thinking maybe, just maybe, the little baby boy on my knee would be cool with 20 minutes, okay 10 minutes of computer time.

2 seconds in, this event occurred:
In seemingly suspended motion I watched as he reached for his dummy clip (eg.paci, soother etc.), tore it from his shirt, thereby pulling the dummy from his unknowing happily soothed lips and threw it to the floor underneath the computer desk of our cubicle in a not-so-nice place.

There are many reasons why that is the grossest and saddest dummy falling disaster, but I most definitely will not get into it.

Anyway, his angry tears came on just moments later, so after the briefest of brief facebook scans, a short and sweet message to our mama's, and barely a glimpse at my email account, I was throwing down my 50 Euro cent and heading back out the door.

Four days have passed and we have since moved on from Lisbon, now chilling in the Algarve. Just down the road from us, a hotel is kindly letting us use their internet for free (or they possibly think we are guests, but I'm not sure and who am I to question such kindness?).

While I cleverly use Donald Duck episodes on YouTube as a tool of distraction for my 2 year old at the computer next to me (Don't judge..), I finally sit with a pocket of time ready to share a little with you and this excuse of a blog is all I've got because, basically, everything else demands photos and uploading is not a current possibility. So, until next time which is hopefully soon... xo

Paint with Water

2011-09-23T12:21:00.000-04:00

Remember these books??

I thought they would be a fun and fabulous easy intro to painting for my boy, but I forgot how each page tends toward a brownish green soaking mess. Ah well, he has fun and that's the point right?

If you are on a quest, as I was, I found these books at the dollar store.

I have also picked up a paint with water book that, instead of the dots, has a "pallet" on each page. This still would require a regular brush cleaning in the water jar though which, I'm pretty sure, is not something my little artist is yet prepared to do. Again, fun times are what count!

New Skirt!

2011-09-22T21:34:00.000-04:00

Fabric: An RJR Fabric from the collection "Everything But The Kitchen Sink"
Pattern: The Yard-Sale Wrap Skirt, From the book Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross

I am in love with this fabric. The collection this material stems from seems to be made up of 1930's reproductions. It has created a new love in me for vintage reproduction fabrics.

I just found this pic of what is, I guess, a piece of an RJR reproduction fabric - Amazing right?!?
And this Flickr group, of 30's and 40's vintage reproduction fabric related pics, shows a little more of the goodness I'm talking about.

Just what this mama needs...more fabric to love!

Remembering...

2011-09-11T11:04:00.008-04:00

Remembering those whose lives were taken
Remembering those whose lives were given
Remembering those whose lives were changed
Remembering those whose loves were lost

A tragic time,
Where, in the aftermath, the strength and beauty of people shined through.
We all grieved together ten years ago.
And today,
Together,
We remember.

xo

{This Moment}

2011-09-09T11:39:00.000-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

xo

The Small Object

2011-09-08T14:40:00.000-04:00

I heart our Postlady & I heart The Small Object!
They combined their efforts to give me a sensational mail day yesterday.

These 2 little wooden sewing needle cases I ordered arrived and YAY(!), Even cuter than I imagined!

Yarn Along

2011-09-07T21:19:00.011-04:00

Thank you to Susannah Conway , for her brilliant idea of The August Break - which I joined in briefly for until even that became more than my slow, sleep deprived brain could handle.
We've been a busy household packing and planning, drinking mad amounts of coffee, learning to eat food, learning to sit all by oneself, getting haircuts, and of course, NOT sleeping. Forgive me, but in 3 weeks time my blogging will, once again, become somewhat here and there. I am at the mercy of the internet cafe as of September 24th, while our little family jets off until mid-january. On the up-side, being that we'll be wandering about in new, unfamiliar territory, things may get a little more interesting around here...

This week I am joining Ginny over at Small Things in sharing what's on the hook, and what's being read.

There. Now you know, I have a not-so-secret love for adolescent reads. Oh yes, that means Narnia, Harry Potter, The Airborne series, and um hmmn, even a little bit of team Edward. Mockingjay is the third and final book in the Hunger Games series. I've knocked these books back pretty quickly for someone who has not had the capacity to read ANYTHING outside of a blog post, or very brief magazine article since 2 months into her second pregnancy.

The blanket is for my youngest son. I started knitting it maybe 3 days before his birth, took it all out about a month ago, and started crocheting it. I don't know why, I just did. I really hoped it would be finished before we left, but now I just hope it's finished before he's 10 (he is currently at the 6 month mark). :)

Country drive

2011-08-30T20:17:00.000-04:00

Chudleigh's Apple Farm

2011-08-29T22:21:00.011-04:00

The weather was perfect for spending the afternoon at a local apple farm today.

My favourite part of the day was sitting for a wagon ride through the apple orchards under the most perfect sky.

I don't know why we haven't visited this farm sooner...

Are Deer not SO amazingly beautiful??

Just one of those fascinating things that also totally make me nervous. The area where this swarm was had been roped off and sign posted to prevent anyone disturbing it. Yikes.

*Note: There is food available, but I would advise bringing a picnic.

I had to make a quick roadside stop (meaning a few inches of gravel, and 2/3 of the only lane), to capture this field on my way home. Seeing as all the "back roads" around my home are quickly losing this status due to the crazy growth of the area and the many commuters, you should know I irritated a lot of people to bring you this lovely view. ;)
xo

Chudleighs.com

LoVE

2011-08-18T10:05:00.002-04:00

Lovin' The Ribfest

2011-08-15T08:40:00.000-04:00

Hilton Falls

2011-08-13T22:32:00.000-04:00

{This Moment}

2011-08-12T16:19:00.003-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

Please feel free to share a link leading myself and others to your 'moment'. :)

Kawartha Morning

2011-08-10T19:35:00.000-04:00

Seeing Eye to Eye

2011-08-09T18:55:00.000-04:00

Luna Moth Caterpillar

2011-08-08T13:20:00.000-04:00

Looks like this may be the Luna Moth Caterpillar...

I should add that my brilliant observations on this critter are not, in fact, due to my insane caterpillar expertise, but because I googled "neon green large caterpillar in ontario". Yes, I know, I am a genius.

What on earth did we do pre-google, may I ask??

Big Boy Bedtime!

2011-08-07T18:03:00.008-04:00

Last night began with Levi being led back to his bed after appearing suddenly at our side more times than I can count. In the end, he slept soundly without any tumbles this first night in his new big boy "bed" (mattress). Hooray!
We had a very difficult time not bursting out laughing every time his little face peeked around a corner, or we turned around to see him scrambling back to his bed attempting to go unnoticed. Funny that it caught us by surprise each time...

My little baby boy. I don't want you to stop growing, but if you could just please slow down a little...

Butterfly Break

2011-08-06T16:07:00.000-04:00

Boat Ride!

2011-08-05T23:06:00.003-04:00

The August Break

2011-08-04T22:04:00.005-04:00

Truly loving this idea of a break, and yet still posting something each day. Hope everyone is loving their summer!!

When Does It End??

2011-08-03T16:46:00.003-04:00

At The Library

2011-08-02T21:01:00.002-04:00

Keeping Cool

2011-08-01T22:19:00.003-04:00

{This Moment}

2011-07-29T22:57:00.002-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Top Ten Italy

2011-07-26T20:23:00.001-04:00

Well, I could post a top 100 cause truly there are that many amazing things to see there, but if I absolutely HAD to narrow it down...

#10 - My first glimpse of the main canal in Venice when I stepped out of the train station. Wow.

#9 - St.Peter's Basilica

#8 - Michelangelo's "David"

#7 - Piazzale Michelangelo, A park overlooking the city of Florence with absolutely amazing views. Grab a nice cold beer from one of the many vendors, and just chill. Aside from the wicked views, people watching extraordinaire.

#6 - Bread, wine, olives and cheese Picnic on the grass next to the leaning tower of Pisa. No need to climb it, just chilling out beside it makes for the most perfect afternoon.

#5 - Italy Farmstay in Abruzzi National Park

#4 - Riding bikes along the wall of the old city in Lucca

#3 - Pompeii

#2 - The Last Supper

#1 - Sistine Chapel. No words.

A Doll Sling

2011-07-25T09:35:00.000-04:00

Using Amanda Blake Soule's pattern for the doll sling in Handmade Home, I put this together for my niece's birthday gift a couple of weeks ago.

I cut a rectangle of 40 inches x 20 inches. The gift was for a three year old, and it also fit my 2 year old perfectly.

I stitched together two separate slings of different patterned fabrics, and then placed one inside the other, wrong sides facing and stitched them all along the outside of the original hem to create a reversible doll sling. Just makes it a bit more fun I think.

Good thing I had a willing participant of just the right size to test it out for me! I think I may need to make another...

{This Moment}

2011-07-22T22:46:00.003-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

xo

Day Out

2011-07-21T23:59:00.000-04:00

Wednesday was a near perfect summer day. Blankets in the grass, lounging poolside, with the occasional walk in for a cool dip on a day where the temperature was a toasty 37 degrees C. and the announced heat alert was in full swing. Ouch - even a spot of shade doesn't help much when it's that intense!

Keep cool if you can!

Homemade Frozen Treats

2011-07-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

Mmmmm...Nothing quite like a frozen treat to cool you down on a hot summer day - especially when it is totally made by you, and nothing but healthy goodness!

I have been tinkering about in my kitchen lately with the help of a very willing taste tester, and came up with a few yummy recipes for frozen goodies.

These recipes generally fill 6 popsicle molds. Enjoy!
***
Peach, Mango, Orange
2 canned peach halves (packed in fruit juice)
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup OJ
1 small red mango (skinned & chopped)
2 Tbsp honey

Blend & pour in molds.
***
Avocado & Banana
1 ripened Avocado, chopped
1 medium sized Banana
1/2 cup Plain yogurt
3 Tbsp Honey
1 tsp lemon juice

Blend & pour in molds
***
Berries & Cream

1 cup Mixed Frozen Berries
1 cup Plain Yogurt
1 small ripened avocado, chopped
3 Tbsp Maple Syrup

Blend & pour in molds
***
Banana Pops
1 Banana
1/2 c plain yogurt
2 canned peach halves (packed in juice)
2 Tbsp honey

Blend & pour in molds
***
Mango Twist

1 cup Orange juice
2 canned peach halves (packed in juice)
1 ripened mango (chopped, peeled & pit removed) - about 3/4 cup

Blend & pour in molds
***

The molds I use are the star shaped molds by Cuisipro. Obviously any molds will do, but I do especially love these ones because they are nice and tidy. Being push pops, your little one only ever has as much popsicle as they can handle.

The Toothbrush Family

2011-07-18T16:29:00.004-04:00

In an attempt to convince my son that brushing your teeth is fun, I pulled this old goody up on you tube a couple days ago.

My attempts were futile, but at least l was able to enjoy watching the toothbrush family get up to their crazy 70's antics.

Levi's conclusions:
Brushing teeth? Still no fun.
Watching cartoons? Once again, confirmed. Good times.

{This Moment}

2011-07-15T21:57:00.004-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

Thrifted Find Needs TLC

2011-07-14T17:16:00.000-04:00

I found this awesome crocheted lap blanket at the thrift shop last week for 3 bucks!
The only problem is, it has a serious need for TLC and I'm not quite sure how to give it...
There are a few squares that have unravelled or torn, and the loose ends clipped.

Any links or thoughts anyone can share that may lead to the repair of this blanket would be greatly appreciated.

In the meantime, I'm on a yarn mission to work on this project. This is very likely one of those things that will sit on a project pile for many moons before it receives attention. Hopefully, one day not too far from this one I can show you how I mended it!

Loungin' Time

2011-07-13T13:32:00.002-04:00

So, it happened. My lovely little boys coordinated nap times so mama could hang out in her sewing room for a bit, and now my lounge pants are complete!

The hubby's first question upon seeing the new pants:
"Are those pillowcases?". (Uh, bed sheets actually.)

The hubby's second question upon seeing the new pants (accompanied by a concerned and quizzical expression) :
"Those are just for at home right?".

Message received dear one. I pinky promise the new loungers will not leave this house (but I can't help it, if people come over and happen to see me wearing them...).

Nap times have been coordinated; Next up is laundry folding itself, and then let the loungin' begin! ;)

*I used the pattern for Pajamas For Everyone from the book Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross.

P.S. If you are new to sewing this is the best project for you.

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Priceline

2011-07-12T21:27:00.001-04:00

We have now used Priceline to "Make [our] own price", for the third time.
This week, we booked a brief 4 night stay in Dusseldorf, Germany for the end of November.
When you are putting an offer on Priceline, you state your city, followed by the area (ie. downtown, airport, etc.), finally setting your requested star rating and then setting your price. This way you are narrowing down the places which can accept your offer.
On a whim, after some difficulty in finding appropriate accommodation, we hopped on Priceline, made our selections including a 4 star rating and placed our offer of 60 dollars per night. What do ya know? It was accepted! When I then went online to check prices through pretending to reserve a room at the same hotel, the best available rate came up at 151 Euro per night. That's a pretty wicked deal we received, and the hotel is a reliable place. We would prefer a hostel or apartment rental, but being at the end of our trip this is a welcome place to rest our heads for a few nights after what will be quite a bit of travel.
Definitely would recommend Priceline.

Previous accommodations we have booked this way were in Halifax, Nova Scotia & Portland, Maine.

Sharing A Space

2011-07-08T18:06:00.000-04:00

Thrifty Upcycle: Cheap and Easy Artwork

2011-07-07T08:42:00.000-04:00

Keep on the lookout for children's books with great artwork at your local thrift shop and garage sales. Worn or damaged make no difference when you're cutting them up. In fact, yay you for saving a book that probably wouldn't get purchased otherwise!

This would work well with old cookbooks for a little kitchen art, especially books from the fifties to seventies. Is it just me, or did the 70's have a major love for the hotdog as a main ingredient in everything?

My Birthday Boy

2011-07-06T10:59:00.002-04:00

Without means to upload my camera for the past few days, nearly made me CRAZY! Finally...

The Birthdays So Far...

Brand New

One Year Old!

And here he is, growing much too quickly...Wow. Two.

The Party...

This photo is a bit blurry - the pilons are from the thrift store @ 50 cents each, and the piece of material is Wheels by Riley Blake. I only had the one bit of fabric left, so I folded it in on the sides for tidy edges, and placed it in the middle as an accent. I still would like to use it for sewing, so I protected it with a vinyl table cloth.

Levi is sharing one of his birthday presents with a napping, unaware Owen.

Prepping for the lemonade...

I used THIS recipe.
I think for every thing we make now, we look up "Best..." on the internet. It has to be the best if you do that, doesn't it?

To avoid it getting too watery, I froze a lemon's worth of slices, and put them in the lemonade along with a bunch of frozen strawberries, and then a few ice cubes as well.

The beverage canister is from Crate & Barrel. Love it.

The materials for his birthday T-shirt are both by Riley Blake. Unfortunately, the '2' barely shows up on the background material, in photographs especially.

I did not make this cake. The bakery at Metro made it. Easy peasy!

..And so begins another year in this busy two year old's life!

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Pho-licious

2011-07-05T16:10:00.000-04:00

Pho - a delicious Vietnamese noodle soup made with Banh-Pho noodles & beef broth. My go-to was and remains to be Pho Ga (Chicken Soup).
A variety of garnishes and sauces are added to personal taste including hoisin sauce, fish sauce, hot sauce, thai basil, thinly sliced white onion, bean sprouts, coriander, fresh thai chili peppers, and lime wedges.

At our favourite Pho restaurant in Vietnam, Pho 24, which is found all across the country, there were small bags of cashews at each place available at an extra cost. I suppose they were meant for eating on the side, but we decided it was a garnish for our noodle soup, tried it, and loved it. I must admit we have even brought cashews with us the odd time to our favourite local spot here in Canada for our soup - might be worth a go if you happen to make Pho at home.

Bowl of Pho in Sapa, Vietnam

"Pho 24", our favourite Vietnamese spot for Pho. This particular photo was taken in Hanoi.

Here is a link to one person's opinion on The Best Pho in Toronto. I will definitely have to look into a couple of these spots...
We have a small local joint we love. The owners know us, and even bought Levi a present a few months back of a bowl, cup, plate & cutlery set - how sweet is that? Anyway, love the pho.

101 'One Yard Wonders' in 2011

2011-07-04T10:24:00.009-04:00

I am loving following Pink Chalk Studio's goal of completing all 101 sewing projects in the book One Yard Wonders by the end of 2011. The team working toward this goal is half way there!
Great fabrics, and awesome looking finished projects to browse through.

They also welcome you to sew along with them, posting pics of your projects on the Sew Along Flickr group page or Pink Chalk Fabrics Facebook page. Good times!

Happy 4th, friends to the South! :)

33 Years Ago Today...

2011-06-29T09:53:00.001-04:00

Hugs and Kisses to my Mom today (and every day)!
And Thanks for all the wonderful wishes I have received today.
It really does something to your soul (and your smile) when you know you
are being thought of. VERY uplifting!
xo

{This Moment}

2011-06-24T00:14:00.002-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

xo

SALE

2011-06-22T13:45:00.002-04:00

Just thought I should share the news because I *heart* this fabric!

There is a sale over at Anna Maria Horner's Shop on her Folksy Flannels and Little Folks Fabrics.
Yummy!

A Nice Easy Monday

2011-06-20T13:43:00.006-04:00

I had the pleasure of sitting poolside...

Under our new spot of balcony shade...

With a cup o' coffee and a fresh stack of crafty books from the library...

Ahhh...
Mondays really aren't meant for much more than that.
xo

Little Buzzers

2011-06-18T20:36:00.000-04:00

Though I wish this was no where near my picnic table, it sure is amazing how these nasty little buggers create their nests.

Haven't decided how I will get this thing away from here. It's putting a bit of a damper on my afternoon outdoor balcony eating. Not to play the helpless woman, but I suppose I'm going to need to lay it on a little thicker with the old hubby - make him very aware of how unable I am to smack this tiny thing away from sight.

I had a bit of an episode in our cabin outhouse with a wasps nest when I was about 9. No, it was not that bad in the way you may be thinking, but I did get stung several times on my arms, and more than that the buzzing, oh the buzzing! Don't you find that sound so incredibly threatening??

{This Moment}

2011-06-17T12:18:00.000-04:00

What's On The Cutting Table

2011-06-16T15:33:00.002-04:00

...or rather, taking up space on the kitchen island awaiting the day when my beautiful boys coordinate nap times... or when they decide to nap at all once again!

Times are a little rowdy right now and sewing is not in my near future, so I will just post a couple pics of projects cut out and awaiting attention to remind me of my days of creating things ;).

A special t-shirt for a special boy who will celebrate his 2nd birthday in 2 weeks! (HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?!?)...

Another cloth basket...

A pair of comfy lounge pants just for me (These have been a long time comin')...

Hopefully when they are finished there can be a little loungin' to go with them!

xo

Yarn Along

2011-06-15T09:09:00.006-04:00

This week I am happily joining Ginny over at Small Things in sharing what's on my needles, and what's being read. A good week for both I'd say.

On the needles is a neck warmer/hat, designed by elissa sugishita, from the book Knitted Gifts. This yarn is Noro: Silk Garden. The yarn breaks A LOT! Probably not ideal for newbie's to knitting (that means me), and I think I probably knit too tightly at times, but it is still a beautiful looking yarn and I'm managing just fine.
When I took a sock knitting class we used a Noro yarn and everyone in the class was having trouble with breakage. We were shown a handy little trick ~ basically, just overlap the two busted ends by a couple inches, wet your fingertips and rub and twist the overlapping ends together vigorously. You are basically felting them back together. It totally works!
This won't work for acrylics or cottons.

My reading. Yes, my reading! We have booked our flights so let the planning begin!!

What are you knitting or crocheting, and reading?

Vacation Thrifting

2011-06-13T22:27:00.002-04:00

I do so love visiting thrift shops different from the ones I go to regularly at home, and I do so love the many out in Alberta.

I only wish I could resist the books a little more, especially seeing as they are the worst thing to have to bring back in your luggage. Checking in for our flight back home, we had to re-arrange every suitcase and carry-on as they were ALL over weight due to my "new" books. On top of the ones here, I also picked up nearly the full set of 'Little House' books, and I brought home a stack from my mom's house from when I was little.

Anyone remember this old tape player?? I had one as a child. It is a crazy sturdy little thing and in excellent shape. My husband has been trying to get me to ditch all my tapes for AGES. Now, sitting here I can't remember if he succeeded??... I know for sure I have tons of kid tapes anyway, so this will be perfect for my boys. Our main library shut down to make way for a new one and in the process sold off a ton of old childrens books on tape to make way for a new, larger library, and I reaped the spoils!
I'm excited to add this pyrex bowl to the rest of my collection (which is courtesy of my mom). It was "fill a bag for 5 dollars" at a church garage sale, and these 3 items were in my bag along with a couple others - talk about a score!

This last photo is all the craft goodies I have collected. Knitting needles, fabric, 3 skeins of crochet cotton, ribbon, zippers, needles, buttons, thread, bias tape, among other things - all for about 13 bucks! I have heard a rumour of a thrift store in California that is strictly craft/art supplies. Sounds like the grail of thrift shops to me.

It's been a successful week!

Back To The Patio

2011-06-12T15:40:00.003-04:00

Talk about Tasty. Too bad it doesn't seem to be available in my neck of the woods. :( It'll have to be my Alberta treat. If you see this, definitely give it a try!

Enjoy patio season!!

Postcards From Alberta

2011-06-10T23:42:00.003-04:00

I have been playing with my mom's phone and I looooove this! I have NEVER wanted a cell phone, but this app for iphone makes me want one a little bit. Stuck in a wee bit of Edmonton traffic on Friday afternoon was so fun for me (says the girl who wasn't driving!) thanks to this!

{This Moment} ~ Photo Booth

2011-06-10T09:10:00.002-04:00

Slave Lake, Alberta

2011-06-09T17:33:00.000-04:00

In this recent month of May, forest fires burned strong in the area of Slave Lake, Alberta, destroying about 40% of the town. I have family who live there, and thankfully their homes still stand. We went for a visit this week, and saw the aftermath.

There is definite wreckage, but there are also inspiring stories about the help given and received. It seems that sometimes when terrible things happen, the strength and goodness of people, which is all too often vacant, shines through.
Here is a link for anyone interested in donating to one of many organizations who are assisting returning residents.

A Long Drive

2011-06-08T18:52:00.001-04:00

Sometimes a long drive is a very welcome thing.

Are pudgy baby fingers & toes not one of the most irresistable things??

All that time to stare at my sweet babes, and nothing to do but knit!

Edmonton's City Market

2011-06-08T00:26:00.003-04:00

The 104th street Market in Edmonton was a nice way to spend a Saturday last weekend, though a tad chilly for a June Morning.

I bought a tasty bottle of Raspberry Wine called THE OTHER RED, from a local winery; we munched on fresh crepes stuffed with scrambled eggs and bacon; sampled hummus, yummy cinnamon & vanilla almonds from Totally Nuts, olives, and fresh pita breads; and I bought a jar of homemade apple butter that I am saving until I get back home.

I love Farmer's Market season!

A section of 104th street is closed off for a ton of craft, plant, and food vendors, as well as buskers every Saturday, from May to October.

YC Alberta

2011-06-02T00:30:00.009-04:00

I was absolutely floored when I was able to experience and appreciate what my brother's new "job" is this past Friday. I say "quote - job - unquote" because it is crazy that he gets the pleasure of calling these events his W-O-R-K!! Absolutely amazing.

*YC is a multi-denominational Christian Youth Conference and is committed to reaching out to youth and young adults all over Canada and internationally. These events feature motivational and inspiring speakers, great concerts, powerful workshops, and lots of activities. (As written on the ExtremeDream Ministries Website)

It's so awesome when you know someone really loves what they do, especially when that someone is your brother!

{This Moment}

2011-05-28T03:14:00.003-04:00

{This moment} is inspired by Soulemama, and beautifully done by so many. It reveals a moment from our week that is special enough to stand alone, without need for expression, or explanation.

xo

Plane Trip

2011-05-26T14:00:00.003-04:00

We're heading off tonight for a much anticipated two week holiday to visit family. This will be Owen's first flight, where air travel is old hat to Levi. Fingers crossed for a flight with a few empty seats, or at least for a big, busy boy to be content sitting on his dada's lap for 4 hours!
We have a few plans up our sleeves to keep the peace including LOTS of snacks, and a new DVD just in case he isn't feeling whatever is on the seat back TV. He doesn't watch much TV at home, so when he does he pretty much loves whatever is happening on the screen, but you just never know. We also will have the always trusty paper and crayons, but it tends to be a short-lived form of amusement at this point in Levi's life.

I think everything is all packed and ready to go. I will continue to post when I'm away, but of course it will depend on all the goings on, so maybe a little less than usual.

YAY!!!

xo

Sunshine from the Inside

2011-05-26T13:59:00.001-04:00

A whole lot of straight pins, fabric scraps, buttons, ribbons and a styrofoam wreath make for a pretty fun and simple creative outlet, and maybe a bit of a mess. An easily tidied mess though. :)

Just trying to brighten things up inside, as the gray skies and rains continue outside.

DIY For The Nursing Mom

2011-05-25T13:03:00.002-04:00

If you are a breastfeeding mom you already know that basically everything nursing related is kind of pricey. It's nice to have the odd thing that helps you in being a little more discreet, as well as bits and bobs to soothe and assist, so I have poked around for as many nursing related tutorials I could find and here is what I came up with:

A Nursing Cover from Prudent Baby

A hardware free Nursing Cover from Craftbits

A "No-Sew Nursing Top" from DIY Maternity

A Heating Pad to soothe and help with mastitis and or engorgement from Martha Stewart

Aromatherapy and Breastfeeding Massage from Everything Mom and Baby

Nursing Tops from Sleeping Baby.net

Converting a Regular Bra into a Nursing Bra from Mamas Worldwide

DIY Nursing Bras from hourglassy

DIY Breast Pads from The Leaky Boob

Home Remedies for Breastfeeding Problems from Motherwear's Breastfeeding Blog

Breastfeeding Pillow Cover from Make Your Own Baby Stuff

Enjoy!

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Must Haves With Baby

2011-05-24T13:20:00.000-04:00

There are a few items I am so glad we have had with us traveling that I really think I should share:

*My sister in law lent us this amazing stroller sun shade, and I don't know what we would have done without it under the hot Italian sun. Our son was able to nap protected, in complete shade no matter where we were. The shade is called Protect-A-Bub by Kiddopotamus. Well worth it. I will not find myself traveling in a hot climate without it. It packs up into a small carrying case, can fold back on the stroller when not needed, and can be pulled right down to create a cozy sleeping space for your babe. If you are bringing a stroller, definitely bring one of these along too.

*This great, packable, cloth "high chair" has served us well.
Specifically in Italy, Highchairs in restaurants were obsolete except at a couple of tourist sights (Pompeii, and one restaurant in a central piazza in Florence were the only high chairs available to us on our entire trip).
We sometimes were able to find space to fit a small stroller next to our table, but more often they were tightly packed and there just wasn't the room. This fabric seat cover also came in very handy for feeding times at our apartment rentals.

*A small night light or flashlight can be invaluable when your little one wakes in the night and you are trying to navigate your way to them through a new, unfamiliar space without turning the lights on.
I've never used a headlamp, but thinking we will try that out for our next trip. You will most likely be sharing your sleeping space with your child or children while on the road. This can make reading at bedtime somewhat difficult, which I quite like to do. I have considered buying a small clip on reading light, but I think a headlamp might be the smarter buy as it would serve well for both reading and tending to your baby in the night. Everywhere we have gone with our son, I have wished I had one.

*A sling, or carrier. There are so many places that can be tackled so much easier with a carrier. We have used the Ergo for our last couple of trips and love it. Our only problem with it is that our child is at such a curious age we would have loved a carrier that he could face out in and see the world. Here is an earlier post where I wrote about the three carriers we have tried and enjoyed.

*We carry one bib with us, the Kiddopotamus Bibbity Rinse and Roll Bib.
It is wipeable, and rolls up into itself to pack away easily. I would definitely recommend a bib such as this. You don't want cloth bibs, it just adds to your wash load, and your weight as you would need several as opposed to one.

*A toy strap is very useful for preventing a snack cup, sippy cup, or favourite toy from falling to the ground (or for averting that fun little game of throwing toys to the ground while mom or dad continually pick them up). Here is a simple tutorial to make your own.

*If your child uses a pacifier, do not leave home without a pacifier clip. For us we never used one at home, but were so grateful to have one with us on our trip.

*The last, most important, thing to bring is: as little as possible. Since you already have your most important item (your baby) to worry about you really want little else to distract you.

This list was mainly compiled on our trip to Italy which was when our son was 11 months old.

A Not Long Enough Long Weekend

2011-05-23T22:35:00.000-04:00

Crafting messes were made

Flip-flops had their seasonal debut

Sand got everywhere as is it's tendency

My third (YAY!!) Etsy sale was packed for shipping

Plants were added to our wee garden

Some sunshine warmed our days

And a whole lot of hanging out happened

Ahhhh, the weekend...

Cup or a Cone?

2011-05-22T20:31:00.000-04:00

Why oh why did I agree to share??? This little icecream monster ate the whole giant scoop to his face!
I can't really blame him, it was his first time with a cone and he lost control. He doesn't yet know the slow, enjoyment of licking the icecream so he just rubs the big blue scoop on his lips and into his face - wonderful to see! :)

And when I borrowed it back for one quick sec to clean up the sides?...

It sure is fun to watch a little one enjoy something that immensely.

Groovy Moments

Where Are You Winter?

Hemming Jeans With The Original Hem

A Tad Tardy on the Baby Food

Travel Tuesday: Postcards From Fes

Yarn Along

Travel Tuesday: Postcards From Meknes

Ah, The Weekend...

We *heart* Snail Mail

Travel Tuesday: Chefchaouen Weavers

More Cloth Baskets...

Back to reality...

Quiet Book By Grandma

Travel Tuesday: Don´t Tell The Kids...

{This Moment}

Blanketing Slave Lake With Love

Back to the Machine

Happy New Year!

{This Moment} ~ Cousins

Back "Home"

Christmas Market Eats

Lazy Days

Back In Canada

The Heat Of The Day

Postcards From Chefchaouen

A Haven

Personal Space

Thank you!!

Enjoy!

Breakfast, Chefchaouen style

´Chaouen Moments

Mmmm...Galao

At The Edge Of The World You Eat Sausages

Postcards From The Algarve

Car Seats?

Jetlag

Airtime With Little Ones

Postcards From Lisbon...

Crafty Lisbon

Keeping Up

Paint with Water

New Skirt!

Remembering...

{This Moment}

The Small Object

Yarn Along

Country drive

Chudleigh's Apple Farm

*LoVE*

Lovin' The Ribfest

Hilton Falls

{This Moment}

Kawartha Morning

Seeing Eye to Eye

Luna Moth Caterpillar

Big Boy Bedtime!

Butterfly Break

Boat Ride!

The August Break

When Does It End??

At The Library

Keeping Cool

{This Moment}

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Top Ten Italy

A Doll Sling

{This Moment}

Day Out

Homemade Frozen Treats

The Toothbrush Family

{This Moment}

Thrifted Find Needs TLC

Loungin' Time

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Priceline

Sharing A Space

Thrifty Upcycle: Cheap and Easy Artwork

My Birthday Boy

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Pho-licious

101 'One Yard Wonders' in 2011

33 Years Ago Today...

{This Moment}

We heart Snail Mail

LoVE

SALE