tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61228786388577677722012-01-20T16:27:03.963-08:00Winter 2012Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.comBlogger5361100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-66643478871803704252012-01-20T16:26:00.000-08:002012-01-20T16:26:41.593-08:00

We do love when it snows around here!  It feels not often enough, but I do see how it could get tiresome with all the constantly wet and cold everything, and all the layers to keep warm.  Oh wait, it's like that here anyway.  Nevermind.  Bring on the snow!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-53063007588618473522012-01-09T17:26:00.000-08:002012-01-09T17:26:30.562-08:00

Well, after reading/hearing about all the positive things people have done in 2011, I thought maybe we could visit last year in pictures and add to the fun.   Warning! Picture heavy post because I didn't want to spend time putting it into a collage.  It's dinnertime after all.   Sebastian: Scarlette:

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-63480771748412976142012-01-04T11:44:00.000-08:002012-01-04T11:45:26.240-08:00

So here we go again.  I know someday we will be settled, nothing interesting will happen, and I may even complain of boredom, but for now, that is not to be.  It seems that my local councilman has decided the neighborhood I live in is nothing but a "college slum" and the families that own homes here can easily be sacrificed to the expansion of the college and its housing needs.  The quite 2

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-67045778819815693072012-01-01T13:12:00.000-08:002012-01-01T13:12:59.416-08:00

decorating our tree frosting cookies many games of monopoly waiting for breakfast christmas morning at the grandparents' house We had a wonderful low-key Christmas with a few special gifts and lots of family time.  It was all very relaxing, no stress (except for Dave who kept losing at Monopoly), and a very good time over all. Our New Year's was very low key too. 

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-22528247045366395322011-12-17T12:05:00.000-08:002011-12-17T12:05:55.805-08:00

Thank you everyone for entering my giveaway and leaving me such helpful suggestions. I used the random number generator and the winners are: LM, Melissa, and Michell.  I will be sending you an email! Here is a short list of some of the recommended marking tools I found in the comments: - Chaco marker - Sewline Trio Pencil - Hera marker - A variety of erasible pens/markers - Tailor's tacks -

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-46641824675347195662011-12-12T05:30:00.000-08:002011-12-12T07:45:34.301-08:00

I think even the Grinch or those people that celebrate the holiday dressing up as Krampus would get behind Giveaway Day.  What is there not to love?!  You leave a comment on a blog and you get Free Stuff.  Free stuff you'd actually want to have.  Yay! I've got three giveaways this time.  Well, three versions of the same little wallet (so three winners), and it's up to you to decide which one

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com112tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-64074809192252453792011-12-09T11:11:00.001-08:002011-12-09T11:37:53.386-08:00

Looking through my gratitude Fridays, I realized they've started to sound a bit trite and reaching (which explains why I've missed a few), and it's because there is one thing that I am grateful for over everything else. Dave works and I am able to be home with my children.  Because of his dedication to providing for us, I get to do all the things I enjoy and not work a night shift job or

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-54547082261295821042011-12-08T06:00:00.000-08:002011-12-08T06:00:01.927-08:00

My sporadic posting wouldn't be complete without a mention of Sew, Mama, Sew's Giveaway Day.  Yes I am participating again.  What I'm giving away will remain secret until the 12th when you have to check back here.  Making my giveaways were quite a treat this year.  They fit right in with all the other gift making I've been doing for the holiday, and they were possibly the least stressful

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-90052939297781923732011-12-07T06:00:00.000-08:002011-12-07T06:00:01.497-08:00

Scarlette. on a preschool field trip, picture by family friend Our wonderful preschool teacher describes her as "a little ray of sunshine", always happy, ready to help, and plays with everyone.  Of all of that, I have no doubt.  She helps her mama pick up at the end of the day, can hang up her coat and put away her clothes, will help her brother until he gets too frustrated and takes it out

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-84846606414468765762011-12-06T06:00:00.000-08:002011-12-06T06:00:06.178-08:00

I know I've been MIA for awhile, but there's a whole lot of life and living going on around here, and I just haven't been able to make myself sit down and write about it.  Too many other things to do, fun and not.  So, perhaps we should do a quick update, even though it is a poor excuse for the richly and thoroughly documented childhoods I envisioned my children having, hah.  Starting with

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-2877749765379820542011-11-11T14:31:00.000-08:002011-11-11T14:31:56.580-08:00

 ...rides from generous preschool parents to and from the bike shop to fix the bike trailer's flat tire.  (It went flat the moment we pulled up to preschool.)  I'm not sure what solution I would have come up with otherwise, and Sebastian was sick on top of it all.  I am so grateful. ... and the family's return to good health.  We've had the first round of cold weather illness, but it was nothing

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-61144605609030652142011-11-07T06:00:00.000-08:002011-11-07T06:00:02.786-08:00

French toast for breakfast wearing our birthday crown and new wings 10am gymnastics class Haircut appointment at "mama's haircut place to get my hair shortened" Trip to the bike shop for a big girl bike and helmet (where we made sure to match our bike color to our bike helmet) with Nana and Grandpa Lunch at the "Lato place" (Francesco's-they serve gelato, hence "lato place") Home for

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-88513917135210137672011-11-06T18:30:00.000-08:002011-11-06T18:30:51.726-08:00

 Playing a little catch up here... the fearsome dragon and ferocious tiger take a mid trick or treat snack This Sunday I am grateful for the "Halloween Hobgoblin" that took the kids' candy and left gifts for them to find the next morning.  I stole the idea from a friend of mine and instituted it last year.  Getting the candy out of the house is such a piece of cake, and whipping up a little

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-47014724767793733692011-10-31T17:28:00.000-07:002011-11-02T14:34:37.222-07:00

In this college town, Halloween is a big deal that usually ends up with a bunch of scantily clad college girls freezing their butts off on their way home at 3am, and a bunch of really drunk college guys walking around smashing pumpkins. This year was no exception, and we even had someone come inside our fence and onto our porch to take one of our big ones.  We found it in our neighbors driveway

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-89440289084003852482011-10-29T15:02:00.000-07:002011-10-29T16:24:12.462-07:00

Turning 31 had no impact on Dave's ability to pull a standing back flip, as you can see.  Happy birthday honey!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-62922652335309007612011-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:002011-10-28T06:00:13.745-07:00

This Friday I am again grateful to the weather gods for the beautiful dry weather I've been biking in.  I am very aware how much easier it makes my commute, and I am trying to store up this good will for when it's sheeting rain and I have two little people to keep warm and dry. I'm also grateful to the neighbor that planted a walnut tree.  I've been harvesting them out of the backyard, and

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-74617725288390184182011-10-25T14:49:00.000-07:002011-10-25T14:49:16.725-07:00

Everything is so very Fall centered around here.  We love it! A short list: Pear crisp and apple butter Garden cleanup and garlic planting LOTS of knitting and sewing (Christmas and birthdays and all that) Pumpkins!  For eating and for carving Cold nights, warm days, and beautiful colors every where. Next up, Halloween!  We really are enjoying this season.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-85752943873902769712011-10-21T06:00:00.000-07:002011-10-21T06:00:06.174-07:00

apple gnome made by Scarlette  ...the opportunity Scarlette has to go to a preschool that is small, taught by a Waldorf trained teacher, and has, already, created such a fantastic sense of community among the parents and children ...the serendipity that allowed my three days of commuting by bike (to and from Scarlette's preschool) to be dry and relatively warm.  It's something I really,

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-18281478123353805562011-10-14T06:00:00.000-07:002011-10-14T06:00:02.351-07:00

This Friday I am grateful for the settling in of a rhythm.  It's been almost four years since I had a regular schedule, and now with Scarlette going to preschool three days a week there is a bit of a routine in our lives.  It feels good and grounding somehow.  I guess it's not just small children that like to follow a plan.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-8442939743859281322011-10-10T10:44:00.000-07:002011-10-10T10:44:44.629-07:00

birthday breakfast birthday apple pie He chirps "Morning!" and gives out hugs and kisses as soon as he gets up.  He loves to eat, and he's very ticklish.  He wants to do everything his big sister does.  He sings to himself throughout the day and he loves to play with his cars.  He's such a happy boy, such a joy to be around, I can't believe he's ours. Happy Birthday Sebastian!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-45877484180486128762011-10-07T06:00:00.000-07:002011-10-07T06:00:00.140-07:00

at Short Sand beach this September This Friday I would be remiss if I didn't write about my wonderful husband who has stepped up and helped out almost every night this week so mama could pal around with friends.  Thank you honey! Also, I am most grateful for a "child swap" agreed to by a wonderful neighbor and friend.  It means I have an entire child free morning to myself to work on the

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-60454123446141626722011-10-03T09:38:00.000-07:002011-10-03T09:54:10.929-07:00

  Early October rains.  At least I got all the root vegetables and sunflower heads inside before they got soaked.  Scarlette even helped dig up the potatoes.  Better than an easter egg hunt, she says.  I have to agree.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-36273470087191497062011-09-30T06:00:00.000-07:002011-09-30T06:00:06.645-07:00

Never mind just this Friday, this month I am very, incredibly, grateful to have had my dad visiting.  I loved the awesome birthday surprise he sprung on me, and the kids loved having their papa here everyday. Knowing that Scarlette and Sebastian know who "papa" is means more to me than I realized, and I was touched to hear Scarlette wake up the morning he left and ask me where her papa was.  I

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-4522879136211381322011-09-29T06:00:00.000-07:002011-09-29T06:00:16.868-07:00

So I thought once Scarlette went to pre-school I'd have tons of time in the mornings to hang out with Sebastian, or get crafty, basically relax a little and enjoy myself.  Hah!  Not so.  (I'm sure all you experienced mothers out there know what I'm talking about.)  There's all the same stuff to get done, plus drop off and pick up times for Scarlette, which in my case, takes another hour and a

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-26506208172846651282011-09-28T15:08:00.000-07:002011-09-28T15:08:54.149-07:00

I was resigned to staying at home this year for my birthday, instead of making the annual trip out to the beach.  I figured we could make a nice dinner, I'd get some macaroons as a birthday treat, and that would be the end of it.  Instead, I was told a few days before hand that we were going to the beach, my Dad's treat.  Oh happy day! We celebrated with my favorite foods; oyster shooters,

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-7701339169907838582011-09-26T13:46:00.000-07:002011-09-26T13:46:54.137-07:00

I can't believe how this month has flown by!  I missed a few gratitude Fridays (I'll need to make up for that), but we've been busy in such a good way.  Family was in town for most of the month, and the kiddies had a ton of quality grandparent time.  There were a lot of outings, many of them centered around food; eating it, gathering it, and very much enjoying it.  There were a few BBQ's,

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-69828140921399278492011-09-09T06:00:00.000-07:002011-09-09T06:00:03.261-07:00

This Friday it's all about the things I've done before that help me with the now... I'm grateful for the number of times I've experienced a change, and how this time around I recognized the stress for what it was (my own irrational resistance to change). And I'm grateful for all the previous times I've found myself in a room full of people I didn't know, which made it oh-so-much easier this

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-10935709345369622332011-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:002011-09-07T06:00:00.198-07:00

It's Scarlette's first day of preschool.  (We have to get up at a set time!) It's my first day of biking her there.  (Damn the cold.) It's Sebastian's first day of tagging along, but coming home without her.  (Who is he going to play with?) That is a lot of change, all in one day.  We're a little unsettled. But that's temporary. It is just the first day.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-23911877733095362002011-09-06T15:39:00.000-07:002011-09-06T15:39:59.388-07:00

We spent a wonderful day all together yesterday, picking blackberries.  Unfortunately, I got completely sidetracked by the scenery, and have no pictures of said blackberries.  Ah well, at least we have some yummy blackberry treats in our future.  And it was nice to have dada and papa with us for a change. And note to self:  Next year, remember to wear jeans and long sleeved shirts!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-49777242313175105472011-09-02T06:00:00.000-07:002011-09-01T22:39:58.307-07:00

 This Friday I am grateful for:  Moments of quite Moments of play And Scarlette and Sebastian's Papa, who doesn't mind watching and playing with them for a whole day while mama sews.  Thank you Papa!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-62745222583563716152011-09-01T22:23:00.000-07:002011-09-01T22:23:08.668-07:00

My favorite month is upon us.  The birthday season begins.  Fall and all the work it entails is around the corner.  There are thoughts towards planning of the holiday season.  And this year, Scarlette begins preschool. September is always a month full of change and busyness, but in such a good way.  We're happy it's here.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-60073854292420019692011-08-26T23:19:00.000-07:002011-08-26T23:19:52.695-07:00

My grandmother, Scarlette and Sebastian's great gramma, aka G.G. This Friday I am grateful that not only do Scarlette and Sebastian have both sets of grandparents, but they get to visit with and know all four of them.  I only had one set of grandparents and my grandfather died 8 years ago.  Fortunately I still have my grandmother and that leads me to gratitude number two.  I am grateful

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-77527269906119964982011-08-22T06:00:00.000-07:002011-08-22T06:00:09.062-07:00

 Trips to the pool and the river The feel of sweat rolling down my neck while I hang out the laundry Canning 17 jars of peach jam and peach syrup Finding 5 eggs in the nesting box and waiting for 3 more to appear Looking for all the pumpkins underneath the giant squash leaves and being surprised by a BIG one Making pesto for later Picking figs before the birds get them Painting rocks

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-64241103048889853532011-08-19T14:53:00.000-07:002011-08-19T14:55:43.496-07:00

...the chance to work on a project that stretches my skills, and is not only fun but needed... ...the abundance of tomatoes coming from my garden and our CSA box, and the quarts of fresh salsa we are eating every afternoon... ...and the time I get spend with friends and family that, if I needed to work, would be much more limited. For that I am the most grateful.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-35647957746299349122011-08-14T11:45:00.000-07:002011-08-14T11:45:35.136-07:00

I missed my gratitude Friday so I'm making up for it today. This Sunday I'm grateful for a rejuvinating break spent at the beach with the kiddies.  Their exuberance and unfettered delight is contagious and I love every second of it. I'm grateful for the help I receive from family.  Raising children is truly a "group project". I'm grateful for good friends who throw great parties.  I

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-81109438521916291932011-08-13T11:33:00.000-07:002011-08-14T11:46:13.051-07:00

Our summer feels fleeting.  So much has been/is/will be happening.  Vacations, visitors, swimming lessons, farmer's markets, canning food, keeping the garden, keeping chickens, the list goes on and the days are slipping by.  Already I've noticed the weather turning cool (a bit early for us as the tomatoes haven't even ripened yet) and the calendar tells me there are four birthdays I must start

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-8543585516764512552011-08-05T06:00:00.000-07:002011-08-14T11:13:25.009-07:00

Succulents from my MIL's garden The gorgeous weather!  It has been glorious around here, and we've been taking full advantage. The tomatoes are here (and the bush beans, and the summer squash, and the beets, and the carrots...) Volunteer sunflowers.  I didn't plant them myself but they're cheerful and happy just the same. And lastly, my husband, who stayed home with the kids last weekend

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-37443010275645452502011-08-04T06:00:00.000-07:002011-08-04T06:00:27.131-07:00

While I was at Sock Summit this past weekend, one of our chicks laid an egg.  It's about time! The white egg on the right is from Pearl, our White Leghorn.  The little one on the left is from Gigantor. (Gigantor is the name a hen gets when you let your husband name it.  I advise against that or you get a flock with names like Velociraptor and Godzilla instead of cute ones like Henny and

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-2453523857249423552011-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:002011-08-03T06:00:03.208-07:00

So generally, I'm not that interested in seeing people's hauls from various events (unless of course they've found something one of a kind that is just too cool not to share), but I do really like to support indie dyer and/or small business, especially ones run by women.  That is my reason for sharing my purchases from the Sock Summit marketplace.  I just really want to spread the word and help

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-65782890049524446182011-08-02T06:00:00.000-07:002011-08-02T06:00:01.517-07:00

Even a few days later, I'm still basking in the warmth, friendliness, and excitement that was SS.  There were so many things to do and see, I'm glad it was a full three days long (four if you count Thursday and the opening reception). I arrived Friday morning, and since my first class wasn't until 1:30, I spent the morning in the Marketplace.  Oh the wonders!  I asked a few vendors that had also

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-64124796184488848012011-08-01T11:20:00.000-07:002011-08-01T11:20:49.427-07:00

I'm still playing catch up after my incredible weekend so a post about it will have to wait until tomorrow.  However, while downloading my pictures from Sock Summit, I found a few gems that represent last week's summertime easy perfectly... found crow feather for our feather collection Oliver & S playsuits getting lots of wear carrot from the garden doing a very good impersonation of

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-45435523632237052142011-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:002011-07-27T15:58:35.354-07:00

from my mother-in-law's garden an easy, lazy week that included the perfect mix of work, play, sunshine, cool temps, good food, great company and the build up to a very exciting event that starts today (for me anyway).  I'll have show and tell next week!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-73441427378133334462011-07-22T17:04:00.000-07:002011-07-22T17:04:11.908-07:00

This Friday I'm grateful for our generous neighbor that lets us pick our fill of her raspberry patch in exchange for cleaning it up a little.  A more than even trade I think. This Friday I'm grateful for the absolute eruption of speech from the littlest that makes it oh so much easier to get him what he needs. And lastly, this Friday I'm grateful for lazy summer afternoons, perfect for

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-38506873011273636952011-07-21T10:37:00.000-07:002011-07-21T12:49:26.999-07:00

With our decided lack of sun and warm weather, I have not slowed down in my knitting like I usually do in the summer.  (I'm not complaining about the weather though!  I'm well aware we could be suffering from the heat wave that the rest of the country is experiencing and I'm incredibly grateful we're not!) I've finished 4 projects in the last two months, the last two started at the beginning of

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-79215880352705856722011-07-19T21:10:00.000-07:002011-07-19T21:10:20.482-07:00

My cupboards have been looking rather bare. We were out of jam and only had 3 sad jars of last year's peach chutney sitting on the shelves.  After today, though, I think we may be ready for this winter.  Strawberry preserves, blueberry conserves, and raspberry jam are just a few of the jars now sitting so prettily side by side in my glass front cupboards.  Even the freezer is starting to fill up

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-13069039057779621612011-07-18T10:24:00.000-07:002011-07-18T10:44:55.291-07:00

This is my garden right now. It's gorgeous and abundant (we've been eating from it almost every day), and I don't know how it got there.  I was gone for a week, and when I came back it looked like this.  What's that term?  Beneficial neglect?  My garden is proof that it works. There are some drawbacks to this method however.  Here are a few close-ups. Apparently, not everything likes to

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-66995826570505295912011-07-15T10:00:00.000-07:002011-07-15T10:00:08.447-07:00

I've missed two weeks, and I'm feeling the absence of this weekly reminder.  So without further interruption, I am grateful for the many hands that made our vacation happen and really feel like a vacation. I am grateful for the neighbors willing to take care of our chickens while we're away.  The fact I can pay them in eggs makes it even better. I am grateful for the rain we're still having. 

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-3120060086870577402011-07-14T18:22:00.000-07:002011-07-14T19:09:08.267-07:00

 doesn't mean you have to stop making.  I, of course, brought my knitting with me, but there was a major project I had in mind specifically for the place we'd be visiting (my in laws gorgeous home). I may have mentioned my mother in law is a master gardener, and has a garden to die for.  It's stunning.  Of special interest to me is the numerous varieties of succulents she has.  (I mean really,

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-91437956858473920872011-07-13T14:23:00.000-07:002011-07-13T14:23:05.694-07:00

While we were on vacation, Sebastian's grandpa casually mentioned this barbershop he liked, and would Sebastian maybe like to go?  It took me a little by surprise.  Somehow I had failed to notice Sebastian's hair was getting longer, and the only thoughts I had put towards haircuts were for someday in the distance future when I might do it.  Apparently, grandpa felt now was a better time.  My

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-72412146419903267782011-07-12T10:51:00.000-07:002011-07-12T12:36:41.283-07:00

I know I promised a recap of our travels, but this morning (as in 3am) something more exciting happened.  (At least for this mama, anyway.)  The smallest among us woke Dave and me up with a complete sentence. "I want up."  Very clear.  Quite loud.  And repeated more and more forcefully until Dave pulled him up in bed with us.  (Sebastian currently sleeps next to our bed on a floor mattress. 

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-47526786731851013012011-07-11T22:59:00.000-07:002011-07-11T22:59:43.473-07:00

I don't know about you, but it always takes me awhile to get back into the groove of things after going away.  Between the unpacking, laundry, refilling the refrigerator, cleaning up the house and the garden, etc, an entire week can go by without my noticing.  Happily, all is now sorted and we're back into a more familiar rhythm.  There are many pictures of our adventures to share, which I will

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-69404916706726731932011-06-26T19:33:00.000-07:002011-06-26T19:33:53.429-07:00

We're spending time with family.  Back soon!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-50006563594403562252011-06-24T17:23:00.000-07:002011-06-24T17:23:48.112-07:00

 I'm a little late, but still grateful for: Extra dada time for the littles   a trip to the Black Sheep Gathering where I feel in love with Pygora goats (they're cute, soft, and little) Scarlette making friends with a few Shetland ewes  and my drought resistant garden, planted for me 3 years ago by Dave's mother.  It always blooms and the only upkeep is an occasional weeding.  (Thank you

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-22848571323589618922011-06-22T18:54:00.000-07:002011-06-22T19:04:33.058-07:00

On the way to pick up our CSA box from our favorite farmers, suddenly I realize it's summer, there are leaves on the trees, a cool breeze is keeping me comfortable, and really, it doesn't get any better than this.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-53372875637605079352011-06-21T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-21T06:00:05.041-07:00

Having run out of everything last year, strawberry jam and frozen strawberries, I have to say this is just the beginning.  Today there's more picking to be done, and no one minds at all.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-83301851386004425152011-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-20T06:00:12.890-07:00

We got a chance to go strawberry picking all together.  The sky was blue, and the sun was warm, with just enough of a breeze to keep us cool, and the farm was absolutely picturesque with the owner herself showing us to the strawberry fields.  You could not have asked for a better day.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-76920977450447633112011-06-19T15:56:00.000-07:002011-06-19T15:56:16.263-07:00

We love you. Happy Father's Day Dave, and to my own dad too.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-59877534943216701322011-06-17T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-17T06:00:12.851-07:00

  This week we had sunshine, warm temperatures, extra time with daddy, an adventure of the sweet sticky picking sort, naps, extra workouts, visits with friends, and a special dinner in the works. There is quite a lot to be grateful for.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-56392989945460668672011-06-13T10:12:00.001-07:002011-06-13T10:48:09.336-07:00

  This is the last word of the 13 weeks. The last 12 weeks are all words that are supposed to be prompts to help me work on the things I don't do well.  Frankly, after 12 weeks of looking at my short-comings and seeing exactly how far there is to go, the whole exercise feels frustrating and insurmountable. I do know though, that changing into the person you want to be takes time, lots of

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-85131029064065090962011-06-10T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-10T17:16:03.843-07:00

West facing view from the top of Bald Hill This Friday I'm grateful that the waiting is over (Dave got the job!), and for the first time ever there will be a steady source of income.  Honestly, my brain can't even conceive of that yet, but it will. I'm also grateful for all the support from friends and family while we waited.  It would have been so much worse if we'd had to go this alone, and

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-6659754840060587222011-06-08T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-08T06:00:04.366-07:00

Honestly, I couldn't even to begin to guess how many times a bowl of popcorn has been dinner at our house.  First of all, it's an excellent vehicle for butter, and there are 3 out of 4 of us here that can never have enough butter (you guys can guess the odd man out). Secondly, it can't be beat in terms of ease and quickness, two attributes that go far with those of us that are constantly

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-76063779504499998142011-06-07T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-07T06:00:03.775-07:00

There's a game called "Stump the Cook" where you list a few items that are languishing in the back of your fridge and the cook tries to come up with an edible and tasty meal using the ingredients provided.  That's probably how meatloaf was invented, but I digress... I had this sort of scenario yesterday (I'm sure it's very common), where there were a few odd ingredients left in the crisper

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-12228506655005286312011-06-06T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-06T10:50:39.225-07:00

This one seems so obvious.  Just a little more patience and the day could go so much more smoothly for everyone. And the thing that gets me too, is most times I actually make the choice to have "run out of patience".  Why, when things would be easier if I made the opposite choice? This week, I'll try for more, even if it's just once. That will be a start. (If you're wondering what this

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-61158924077167883352011-06-03T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-03T06:00:19.641-07:00

Oh, Gratitude Friday, some times you make me work for it!  (But that's the point, I think.) This Friday I am grateful for a friend that lets me talk as much as I want and just listens I'm grateful for the distractions whether in book or music form, and sometimes in liquid form I'm grateful for the sunny forecast for the weekend I'm grateful that my children are still young enough to forget

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-47665801856902542022011-06-02T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-02T12:08:47.313-07:00

One is the music by Sarah Jarosz.  I "discovered" her listening to an NPR show and immediately put her CDs on hold at the library.  I finally got my hands on one of her CDs yesterday (the first one, Song Up in Her Head) and the kids and I haven't stopped listening to it since.  The cherry on this sundae?  She's actually going to be in town next week.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I can

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-51455958709547551422011-06-01T06:00:00.000-07:002011-06-01T09:09:36.631-07:00

For those of you not in the knitting world, Sock Summit means nothing to you. It definitely fills a niche.  However, let me just tell you that for those of us in the knitting world, Sock Summit is a freakin' big deal.  (I do wonder sometimes though if I'm making it a bigger deal than necessary, and then I realize it doesn't matter.  I'm a knitting geek and I like it that way.) This year it's an

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-7673826290829148742011-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-31T14:27:43.190-07:00

From the garden to the beach, this weekend was full of adventure and then some.  Sometimes a change of scenery is just what is needed. Thank you nana and grandpa for a lovely weekend!

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-77497680350790491392011-05-30T10:00:00.000-07:002011-05-30T10:00:53.949-07:00

Smile! One of my high school teachers once told me smiling produces happy hormones.  Whether or not that's true,  I've noticed when I'm smiling I usually feel great.  I don't know if that's because I feel great and then smile or the other way around, but I think it's worth trying for a week to find out. We could use a few more happy hormones around here anyway.  There is no end in site to the

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-39238120671474073812011-05-27T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-27T06:00:02.462-07:00

Today, I'm just grateful to have made it to Friday.  It's not like it was a terrible week, but the waiting to hear on a possible new job for hubby is taking its toll on the adults in the household.  We're snappy, and anxious, and pre-occupied, and worried, and tired, and trying our best to still be good parents (and not always succeeding), and at some point SOMETHING HAS GOT TO GIVE!  (Whew,

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-24867546842213124782011-05-26T08:00:00.000-07:002011-05-26T08:00:29.578-07:00

We have winners... Okay!  I used the Random Number Generator to pick 4 entries (no pictures of the random number generator, I forgot in the excitement of picking the winners, so you'll have to take my word for it), and the winners are: #254- Mama Lusco for giveaway #1 (little girl patterns) #51- Shelley for giveaway #2 (Heather Baily pattern and fabric) #32- Addie K for giveaway #3 (pattern

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-67670393454832412612011-05-22T23:00:00.000-07:002011-05-26T07:10:16.538-07:00

 Giveaway closed!  Winner's will be picked shortly and then emailed...  Thanks for stopping by. Hello, hello! Welcome to all of you here for Giveaway Day, and hello to all my regular followers (all 21 of you ;).  I have won things a number of times during giveaway days, so I felt I needed to offer a number of giveaways myself. I have 4 different giveaways for all of you, 3 sewing related ones

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com277tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-73996358610462311482011-05-22T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-22T17:12:05.596-07:00

It would be so easy to fall into the daily routine, never thinking twice, moving from one task to the next, your day planned out by the hour and what your children need during that hour....yeesh, I can feel the brain cells dying as I type that. No. Instead, I want to stay engaged and learning new things, just as Scarlette and Sebastian are learning new things.  I want knowledge...to

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-81600508438757994382011-05-20T08:35:00.000-07:002011-05-20T10:48:36.287-07:00

spring nature table It's been a week of waiting, and it may be a week more.  I'm grateful I've had practice at this sort of thing.  It takes the edge off. nest found by Scarlette   Edit: I forgot to announce I'm finally participating in Sew, Mama, Sew's May Giveaway Day which starts this Monday.  (With how many times I've won something, it's definitely time.)   I'll move my word for the

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-3411751024779477232011-05-18T09:59:00.000-07:002011-05-18T09:59:19.803-07:00

The very fun Spring Top Sewalong is just now wrapping up and I decided to participate this year.  While my top didn't even make it to be voted on, I am still very pleased with it. Picture by Dave I used pattern 3538 from Simplicity (Built by Wendy line).  It was so easy to put together and the results are very versatile.  I made the top out of a gold organza.  The thought was to have a little

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-73248919740236322582011-05-17T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-17T06:00:04.326-07:00

The front entrance to our house is downright ugly.  There's not much we can do to change its structure, but I decided I could become one of those people that has a wreath for every season hanging on the door, and that would make the entrance a little more inviting. I really want a wreath like this one (which I could make when I have the time) but it's not kid friendly, and I wanted to make

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-47534080059475361262011-05-16T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-16T06:00:03.406-07:00

This week it's all about ENTHUSIASM!!!!! That's right.  I will be that annoying person, overly effervescent, kinda hyper, a little loud...  ...just kidding. This week's word is a reminder to find something to be enthusiastic about in all situations, even less than ideal ones.  For example, I could get enthusiastic that I'm usually up to see the sunrise, courtesy of the three and a half and

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-49306557738753923502011-05-13T13:20:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:20:34.013-07:00

...the slow but sure transition to more sunny dry days, and less cold wet ones ...the near completion of hand washing all the woolens ...seeing the tail end of this particular cold that has had the kids down for almost two weeks ...and most importantly, I'm grateful that the dozen eggs were dropped on the rug, where they were only slightly cracked and still usable, instead of on the hard

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-19768089466985056132011-05-12T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:05:26.887-07:00

As promised, a little show and tell of what I made myself this past weekend, but I have to start this off saying I usually sew just for the kids. Their patterns are easier, size and fit is not quite as crucial (there's no bust to consider for Scarlette, yet), they take waaaaay less fabric, and their projects are generally quite inexpensive. When it comes to sewing for me, I always worry about

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-71420161968970477082011-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-11T06:00:01.487-07:00

 So awhile back I decided to do less posts about all the crafty things I've been making.  I made this decision based on a comment, and the thinking that the reason I keep a blog is so the far away family can see the kiddies growing up, and perhaps they really didn't care so much about the fourth or fifth sweater I knit Sebastian. I mentioned this to some friends they other day and the response

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-41844995718473152912011-05-10T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-10T11:06:28.254-07:00

For mother's day I got an entire day to do whatever I wanted to do.  Dave was the PIC (person in charge) and I had the luxury of sewing/knitting/crafting, interruption free.  It wasn't like he took the kids away for eight hours, rather, the busy-ness of having every one at home in one place was managed by him instead of both of us. It was really heavenly.  I got hugs and kisses whenever I wanted

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-55790636900457604422011-05-09T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-09T06:00:05.041-07:00

 Tranquility- don’t let the little things become big, search for peace when things seem overwhelming  This word seems like the key.  If I could just remain tranquil during toddler tantrums, or while the three year old is having a melt down because she's tired/hungry/sick, I think I could be a much more patient and understanding mother.  It's definitely one to work on. (If you're wondering

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-38179054614610857662011-05-06T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-06T06:00:03.940-07:00

I'm grateful for the reminder that all it takes is a few simple things...    ...a cup, a bucket, and water, and we have hours of entertainment.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-16877190958381400362011-05-05T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-05T06:00:06.596-07:00

She fell asleep waiting for me to make her dinner.  I tried to move her twice and each time she protested.  I waited until she was really out and then moved her to the couch.  She's been sick for a week and the recovery is taking longer than usual.  I'm hoping she'll feel better tomorrow.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-53911826441290924792011-05-04T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-04T06:00:06.703-07:00

So I was going to share this fantastic smoothie recipe a friend shared with me, but the photos did not turn out quite as planned.  In my head there were vibrant greens from the spinach, blues from the blueberries, and creamy white from the milk and yogurt, but instead I got colors in various shades of brown.  Perhaps my choice of backdrops was not ideal? Not that it matters.  The point was

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-58464468348263577042011-05-03T06:00:00.000-07:002011-05-03T06:00:13.928-07:00

 The chicks have been graduated to roaming free in the back yard.  They're still figuring out the pecking order with the older chickens, but otherwise we have a very happy flock of eight. I love watching them go about their chicken business, but I think the person the most excited to have all the chickens wandering free is Scarlette. She's been in the back yard every day, rain or shine, since

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-9091659462532851852011-05-02T12:03:00.000-07:002011-05-02T12:03:48.161-07:00

This week it's all about moderation, and while I am not necessarily following Mr. Benjamin Franklin's 13 virtues, we had this one in common.         As he put it, "Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve."  For me that to means avoid extremes in; food, drink, sleep (or lack of), behavior, and, don't hold a grudge.  The avoiding extremes I think I can do.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-73499864573591698422011-04-29T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-29T06:00:08.413-07:00

  I'm grateful for the moments of quiet, especially if it's a go-go-go type of day.  The little break when we all relax and rest, if even for just a second, they make it easier to dive right back in.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-59342235443405261982011-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-28T06:00:01.188-07:00

I finally got around to doing this project with the kids and it was even fun for mama.   Their crayons were quickly getting broken, lost, chewed on, and I was getting tired of finding them all over the place.  So yesterday morning, I sat Scarlette down and we peeled all the paper off the crayons, while Sebastian played with the paper.   We sorted the crayons by color, put them in our

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-21937503987910040252011-04-27T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-27T06:00:01.250-07:00

We've been thoroughly enjoying the bounty of spring: Strawberry rhubarb pie, strawberry rhubarb cobbler,  and stewed rhubarb (with the rhubarb coming from our own garden). And young turnips, with their greens, in a salad.  I added some extra sharp cheddar and a very tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette (from this cookbook), and we just can't get enough.  (I think I could probably just have

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-15707385891425611332011-04-26T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-26T06:00:12.996-07:00

 The fountains have been turned on down at the farmer's market and Scarlette and Sebastian couldn't be more thrilled.  Scarlette promptly took off all her clothes and ran right in.  Never mind that it's not even 60 degrees out yet. Me?  I opted to sit in the sun.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-18862235993809809912011-04-25T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-25T06:00:02.308-07:00

@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; } @font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-41699984589705251652011-04-24T09:58:00.000-07:002011-04-24T20:19:39.971-07:00

Dyed eggs, handmade gifts, an easter tree, french toast for breakfast, and a run for mama and dada afterwards.  Candy consumed?  None.  I wonder how much longer I can get away with that.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-75914582911576129782011-04-22T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-22T06:00:14.858-07:00

Our library!  We go at least once a week.  We always get a pile of books. The kids really like "story time", and mama likes the knitting time. We always go to the park across the street afterward.  Add the fact that they're both always so tired they take naps when they get home, and, well, that just adds another thing to be grateful for.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-84927482169425592532011-04-20T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-20T06:00:05.718-07:00

aka, my six chicks, who are no longer fuzzy and cute, but rather feathered and demanding.  We put them out in the run during the day and they just jibber jabber all day long.  They also eat and drink more than something that size ought too (they're kinda like Sebastian who is currently the biggest eater in the house). I was a bit worried that they were going to be wild, since we had them out in

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-35829932614373547892011-04-19T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-19T06:00:08.956-07:00

 He's not necessarily talking yet, but that hasn't stopped him from making himself heard.  And of course, he does have the ever important, "No", down pat. I admit to liking his other word, "thank you", much better, even if it comes out sounding like "gah-guh".   He always uses it appropriately, and I have no idea where he learned it.  I think these second children, they don't need any help

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-69884843874953113912011-04-18T14:47:00.000-07:002011-04-18T14:47:44.610-07:00

Appreciation. The goal of this word is to help me remember to take time to appreciate, whether it's an item, an act, a moment, etc. And if it's something some one did for me, I want to remember to thank that person for it.  I can think on a handful of times when I've been thanked for something I did, and how it made such a difference in my day.  Being that difference in another person's day

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-83574431508867919502011-04-15T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-15T06:00:14.630-07:00

This Friday, it's the little things: A neighbor that goes above and beyond while watching the kiddies when Dave is home late from a meeting, and I'm at work A husband that comes home and "takes over" so I can escape a bit The promise of this season's first outdoor farmer's market, tomorrow A chance meeting with friends that results in Scarlette off and playing while I get my first salon

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-50420451728518943182011-04-12T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-12T06:00:11.044-07:00

Two things from this past weekend stand out. First, is this: The first laundry of the season hung out on the line, because it was sunny enough and warm enough.  In my opinion, it's the best sign of spring. And second, well, I don't have a picture of it, but I really, really, wish I did. It went like this: I'm sitting in one of our deck chairs soaking up sunshine and knitting away, when I

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-64204262659275227862011-04-11T06:00:00.000-07:002011-04-11T06:00:01.599-07:00

Silence. As in silencing of myself, so I can better listen.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6122878638857767772.post-48755984037365872002011-04-08T10:39:00.000-07:002011-04-08T10:39:03.182-07:00

When I've been conversing with only a three and one year old for too long, and have lost perspective on the largeness of the world, I am grateful I can still slam on a pair of running shoes and leave it all behind.

Cinnamonnoreply@blogger.com0