Sweet Home Days

Photo Week: Day 2

2012-01-28T00:00:00.003-05:00

Photo Week: Day 1

2012-01-27T00:00:00.003-05:00

As we head for some family fun I am going to share a photo a day. Hope everyone has a wonderful week.

8 hours

2012-01-25T20:42:00.000-05:00

CT Science Center Homeschool Day!

We arrived at 9:00, right when they opened. I think we were the second family there.

We left at 5:20, after they had closed. Yes we were the last ones to leave.

A day filled with friends, water play, roller coaster building, Legos, experimenting, hurricanes, pinball, ski practice, ball runs and so much more. The theme was forces and motion so we attended a few interactive classes on those, but mostly spent our day investigating on our own. This was the first time we had ever been here. A VERY full day indeed. 8 hours to be exact.

Goodnight my friends.

little perks

2012-01-24T21:55:00.000-05:00

One of the perks of joining the Co-Op that we did was that we get free admission to a children's museum.

We have been to this museum numerous times over the past 7 years. I think I first discovered it when Will had just turned one.

The boys were so excited to go this afternoon after classes. It had been several months since we had last been. We had the whole afternoon to play- the fun we would have. Or so I thought.

What used to capture their attention for long periods of time no longer did. Will was done with every room within 15 minutes. I remember having to drag him out of each room so we could explore the next area. My heart began to ache as I realized how much my baby is growing up.

Landon was content for longer but he would follow William wherever he went. Within two hours we were ready to go home. We'll need to find other museums with a broader spectrum of interests. Oh, the bittersweet feeling of knowing we most likely will not be returning here again.

my first handmade book

2012-01-23T08:26:00.000-05:00

I am trying out some new crafting these days and have decided to try and make a few books for family members.

This is my first attempt and I thought it came out pretty good.

I used three sheets of nice drawing paper, a decorated scrapbook page that I cut to size and glued with adhesive. Then I bound it by making holes with an awl and then sewing with embroidery thread. Finally I added embellishments on the front, spelling out the recipients name. A very simple and quick gift but hopefully something that is useful.

Sunday Smiles

2012-01-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

giveaway: Knitting Books

2012-01-21T10:00:00.002-05:00

In my decluttering mode I came across some books that I wold live to share with one of you. I know that there are some knitters out there who read the blog.

Patterns for Knitted Hats by Betty Lampen: Has sixteen patterns for kids. Very cute hats.

The Lucy Bag: Pattern for a very big bag made from wool and then felted.

Dog Hand Puppet: Very cute puppet. My boys have one and love it.

So if you would like to receive these three little pamphlets please leave a comment by Monday night. I will select a winner and announce by Tuesday! Thanks and good luck.

Homeschool Coop

2012-01-20T16:06:00.000-05:00

We decided to join a coop for the Winter/Spring session. We started this past Tuesday and the boys were so excited. They are each taking 4 classes.

William:

Icky Sticky Science, Lego Building,Gym Games and Artist Trading Cards

Landon:

World History-Medieval Times, Lego Building, Arts and Crafts, and Artist Trading Cards

They both enjoyed all their classes and it was fun to meet some new friends.

I help Landon with two of his classes but then I get to have a few minutes to myself during the other two. Hopefully some time for knitting. Still have jackets that I have been working on for way to long.

decluttering

2012-01-19T17:07:00.001-05:00

I am still trying to simplify and declutter. I have been working in the living room and dining room on our books. We LOVE books but sometimes you just need to sort through and organize and let go...

While I have been busy with this project, Landon has had hours of uninterrupted play and has created battles from the revolutionary war( thanks to Liberty Kids program). William has been busy listening to books on CD. He loves a good story.

Then there has been a few hours spent outside...

Feeling very relaxed and ready to watch a movie and eat popcorn for dinner! (Eric is out for the night)

games: Battleship

2012-01-18T00:00:00.001-05:00

I don't think this game needs much introduction. It's been around forever. But it is a great time to see the two of them having day long battles. William is learning patience as Landon becomes better acquainted with his numbers and letters and then learning how to say them as a coordinate.

I even taught them to say "You sunk my battleship!" Remember the commercials???

scrapbooking......by the boys

2012-01-17T00:00:00.009-05:00

Today is our day to stay home and recuperate from our busy weekends. A day to relax, organize and play. I usually have an activity planned in my head that I would like to do with the boys if it seems right. But today they had their own plans, which was perfect. After spending time looking at my scrapbooks,(they wanted to see what exactly mommy did all weekend), they decided it was time for them to work in their books. They were so excited to be able to crop, stick and write about their lives. I could never get the same amount of enthusiasm if I had made the decision of "we are scrapbooking now".

Remember my post last week about letting go. Well when I have days like today it totally reassures me that this it the way for us. The boys were interested and excited about what they were doing and learning along the way. I let go of what I had planned. I went with the flow of the day and it was such a wonderful morning.

weekending: Mama's Retreat

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

Eric says it was baby steps, I say it was HUGE. I went away this past weekend by myself for the first time ever since having the boys. I was seriously having second, third and fourth thoughts. I was suppose to leave on Friday so it would be two nights away. Eric took advantage of the time off however, and left me Thursday night to head up to Vermont with the boys and Gritty. So now I was going to be away from them for three nights. Plus, I was alone in the house for the first time. No one to keep me company--- not even Gritty. This was a giant leap for me. I stayed up extremely late on Thursday so that I could fall asleep the minute my head hit the pillow.

I woke up on Friday, had a quiet morning and then headed out for my retreat. It was going to be weekend of scrap booking. Something I so need to get caught up on and be inspired by again. It has been so long since I have done anything. Right when I got to the the Inn I got set up and started. It felt awesome. I was so excited to be preserving our family history once again. I have been doing many digital scrapbooks but there is really something I just love about using my hands to create. It does take time but it is so well worth it. And I so love how the boys enjoy looking through the albums over and over. I am definitely going to try and figure out a way to do it more at home. We are just low on space. I keep visualizing my own studio(one day), but for now our dining room table and cabinet will have to do.

After a long day of scrapping, I headed back to my room to read and get some rest.

I have to say I did much better than I thought I would. It was nice to be focusing on something I love. Eric was great and would call me morning , noon and night so I could talk to the boys and him. But it was awesome to come home and get the biggest hugs from my boys and "I missed Yous".

Sunday Smiles:new apps

2012-01-15T00:00:00.001-05:00

A new to us Christmas present where the boys can play some new games/applications while traveling.

it's all special

2012-01-14T00:00:00.001-05:00

I have so many cute little dishes that can get hidden away in the closet for something special.

Why not make every day, every moment special I asked myself?

While preparing the boys' snack I chose to use these dishes from my mom. They have history. They have meaning. They're special.

Because it really is special to be sharing this life with my two boys.

Our Morning Walk

2012-01-13T01:09:00.000-05:00

We usually just take a walk around our neighborhood with Gritty but a few times a week have decided to head to the local woods.

It's a bit more peaceful. Refreshing. Contagious. Beautiful.

A wonderful way to start our day.

letting go

2012-01-12T00:00:00.003-05:00

As the new year began I had high hopes that we were going to get more scheduled and have a set routine. Over the past week I have been so stressed about what "needs to get done". Trying to fit it all in and sticking to my time chart, instead of sticking with my heart. Instead of having fun with the boys and let the learning come naturally, I am trying to force it on them. All the things I wanted to avoid from having them in a traditional school setting.

I read too much and always think I should be doing more when I know that I am doing enough. We do have times of focused learning where I suggest the activity. It is all good but it does not need to be on a perfect schedule.

I woke up, took a deep breath and told myself that it's time to let go of the high expectations. It only allows more stress into the house instead of more love and laughter.

We lingered a little more. There was a quiet peace. Letting go is good.

games: Postcards from North America

2012-01-11T00:00:00.001-05:00

One of the many new games we received for Christmas. We are loving it. You travel across North America by following a colored path or flying by airplane. The goal of the game is to be the first one to turn over 10 postcards. In order to turn over a postcard you must reach a certain destination. Either a major city or a popular landmark. It's a great way to become familiar where major cities and famous landmarks are. William already has told us about a dozen places he is ready to visit. I had fun playing which is always a plus.

warm weather for January

2012-01-10T00:00:00.002-05:00

The weather has been a bit unpredictable so far this month. We had a few days of warmer weather and the boys were enjoying themselves outside playing a little soccer.

paper making

2012-01-09T00:00:00.009-05:00

We have decided to start using some science kits this year. I had bought a few when a local toy store was going out of business and was just waiting for a good time. Will has expressed quite an interest in doing experiments. We took out what we had and have decided that one afternoon a week we will devote to these science kits. There are 12 sets with three kits each so it will take us through the year. Plus they are anxiously awaiting the kits that Grammy and Grampy bought them for Christmas. The Magic School Bus kits. Both sets are from the same company. The Young Scientists Club. So it all should coordinate beautifully.

The first kit we did was on Recycling.

Both boys already know so much about the topic but we have never made our own paper before. It was pretty cool how it all turned out. I enjoyed making the colored paper and have some ideas for making more and using it for some scrapbooking projects of mine.

The Process:

tearing paper

soaking paper

blending it to pulp

scooping out to dry

spreading out the pulp

soaking up the extra water

making it flat

the results

Sunday Smiles: Greetings from the Mountain

2012-01-08T00:00:00.006-05:00

war of the worlds

2012-01-05T21:52:00.000-05:00

The boys have been spending their early mornings this past week setting up "war of the worlds". Each day they add something new. It has been interesting listening to them play. Always a wonder of where their imaginations will lead them.

snuggling with the past

2012-01-04T22:50:00.000-05:00

I love blankets. We have a ton of throw blankets. Ones we snuggle with every day. Ones that are hidden away in the attic because I haven't had the room to keep them downstairs. Since we are now spending most weekends in Vermont I have had to come up with bedding for that house. Thankfully those tubs in the attic have been patiently waiting for me.

They open up the the past. Blankets that have been made over 40 years ago. They were made when I was born and put away so I would have a wedding gift one day from my Grandma. And a baby gift for when I had children. I wonder how my Grandma did it. Making so many blankets while raising 6 kids of her own. And I am not the only one who has benefited from her wonderful crocheting. I know all of my brothers and sisters and cousins all have a blanket or two from her. And there are way over 20 grandchildren.

Now her great grandchildren get to use them. A small connection to the Great Grandma they never knew. I love looking at them on the beds. It brings back memories from my earliest childhood.

I would like to think one day I could do the same and make blankets for my grandchildren yet to come. I have never tackled a big blanket. Baby blankets, yes. But big ones will need many hours and lots of time. I should probably get started now:)

weekending:outdoor fun and celebrating

2012-01-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

We were skiing the past two days but the afternoons and evenings were still filled with much business.

Sledding with Daddy:

The dog who longed to get out:

Dinner out to celebrate the New Year:

My very last picture of 2011:

Sunday Smiles: castle blocks

2012-01-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

inspirational books

2011-12-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

On my shelf as the New Year begins tomorrow I have several books that I hope to read each morning during my quiet time. I read Simple Abundance this past year by Sarah Ban Breathnach and really enjoyed it so I am looking forward to Something More and Romancing the Ordinary, also by her.

When I make the effort to get up just a little bit earlier than everyone else and have those few precious moments to myself to wake up, read and take in some thoughts, my days seem calm and smooth. That is really what I am looking for this year. A more quiet, calm and loving life with my family and friends.

Wishing you all a wonderful start to 2012!

trains

2011-12-29T21:12:00.000-05:00

We had some friends over for a visit today and after a bit of playing we decided to head to the local holiday train exhibit. We have been going several years now and it never gets old for the boys. Every year it is like the first time they are seeing the trains and watching the marble run. It is such fun to watch them and see the sparkle in their eyes.

lunch and bowling

2011-12-28T21:08:00.000-05:00

A day out with friends whom we haven't seen since summer. School gets in the way! Anyways since it was vacation week we were able to have a lunch date and then off to an afternoon of bowling.

I love how all these kids have not seen each other since the 4th of July, yet they all got along so well and had a great time. I love hanging out with the moms, although the conversations are a constant of interruptions. I have know the moms for over 20 years. We only see each other a few times a year but it always seems just like yesterday we were together. So glad that our own kids get along so well.

Photo Card

2011-12-27T21:11:00.001-05:00

Bright Stripes Cheer New Year's

Personalize your Christmas photo cards at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

weekending: Christmas Celebrations

2011-12-26T20:37:00.000-05:00

We had a quiet, relaxing three days of family, good food, gift giving, and home.

last minute crafting(thanks Grammy)

tree decorating

dinner table, (set with lots of treasures from my mom and dad)

presents

cousins

Christmas morning

waiting at the top of the stairs so patiently

oh, the fun begins

They were good days just taking it all in. Wonderful to have Daddy home and not be having to rush anywhere. Times to cherish and remember.

Wrapping Up Numbers

2011-12-23T08:00:00.003-05:00

We are all about using what we have and decorating our own paper. I have had these Christmas stickers for over 7 years now. I got a ton, I mean really a ton, when some Odd Lot or something was closing down years ago. Anyways after deciding upon a ribbon, Landon wanted to decorate with stickers. (He just loves to stick.)

As I sat there watching Landon wrap his present to William I was simply amazed. It only reinforced the idea that there really is learning in everything. If you look closely (some are hiding behind the bow) you will see that he had to have equal amount of stickers in each box that the ribbon so perfectly made.

He was making equal sets without using worksheets or any direction from me.

I just love this life learning thing:)

Holiday Book Collection

2011-12-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

I usually try and go to the library and stock up on holiday books for us to read. I just didn't get to it this year, but as I went through our own bookshelves, I discovered we have quite a few of our own books to celebrate the season.

Every year we add one more to the collection. This year it was: The Cricket and The Shepherd Boy by Reg Down. We love all of his Tiptoes books and so I knew it would be a wonderful addition.

Having our own collection is wonderful. Every year it is like reconnecting with an old friend whom we have not seen in awhile. The boys look forward to reading them over every year. The one book that is not pictured is 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. I have it tucked away ready for Christmas Eve when Eric will do his traditional reading right before bed. Our traditions are small gestures but they are ones that I hope the boys will remember fondly as they grow older.

Holiday Card Display

2011-12-21T21:18:00.000-05:00

doing

2011-12-20T20:56:00.000-05:00

A week has past and what have we been up to. I worked last week which always makes the week a bit of a blur. Then we were in VT over the weekend as will be the norm for the Winter.

Trying to get ready for Christmas which has kinda sprung up on me. I always say I am going to be so ahead of the game and it just doesn't seem to work that way. So we have been trying to enjoy this week. Anticipating the weekend with joy and not anxiety because I didn't get it all done. I have been telling the boys that I just can't do it ALL and that is OK.

We have been reading by the fire, playing with trains for days, catching up on games, baking cookies,spending time with friends and stacking a whole lot of wood: building forts really.

Living life.

a very creative day

2011-12-13T21:51:00.000-05:00

We were home with our little lady friends that we babysit on occasion. It was a busy and active day of such wonderful imagination and creativity.

There was kitchen play with a soup restaurant and a tea party.

A tepee with hunters and camp outs.

Painting like a professional as William puts it.

Sidewalk drawings with maps and scavenger hunts.

Knitting.

Pearler beads.

And lots of outside play.

Definitely a great day at home.

Winter Weekends

2011-12-12T00:00:00.004-05:00

After full days of skiing we get to come home to a place in the mountains. Our home away from home for the Winter months.

It is a quiet place with a pretty amazing view. I love walking Gritty at night because I can see thousands of stars.

After a little snack the boys head back outside to play in the yard.

It is quite the adventure for us.

Take a close look at this next picture. It is a wonderful view but if you look down by the road you will see our black Nissan at the bottom of the driveway. Yep. It is about a 1/4 mile walk up the driveway. You could drive it if your car would make it but ours does not. We tried. We ended up in a the ditch next to the driveway. AAA came and pulled us out. At 12:30 am. Quite the adventure.

Instead, we all get a bit of exercise trucking our stuff up to the house.

It is loads of fun, especially when you are slipping all over the place because your Uggs have no traction, and a yellow hound dog is way too excited that she pulls you like a sled dog, but there is no sled. Or you have to carry a 30 pound tub of dishes. My sweet husband is wonderful! Not one was broken. Quite the adventure.(our new motto)

Through it all we are just happy to have place to sleep and be able to spend so much time in Vermont this Winter. And of course we are making memories with lots of stories to add to our family's history:)

Happy Monday to all. Hope it's an adventure!

Sunday Smiles

2011-12-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

learning about states and countries

2011-12-09T08:49:00.001-05:00

Landon traveled to Egypt this week and did some excavating while William stayed state bound and learned all about California. They both love doing these activities. Its fun and educational all at the same time.

hanging in there

2011-12-06T08:44:00.000-05:00

We are still here. I just have not been wanting to write. Not much to say. We have been staying home just doing day to day stuff. We also have been SICK. Sore throats, coughs, runny noses, ear infections. This has been keeping us up through the night, so our days have been slow.

We have been snuggling by the fire, reading, playing games, trying to do some crafting. We have such a huge list of making to do before the gifting. Not sure if we will get it all done though. We'll just do as we can and try to enjoy the days as they come.

whew

2011-11-29T16:32:00.000-05:00

So we arrived home from our trip nicely. One little problem: the boys are sick. Eric is on the mend and I am beginning my way down that path.

Then this week we have the kids that I watch on occasion. It's been a long time since I have had them and this time there is a new addition. A six month old baby girl. The boys are wonderful with her. They love playing with her and are a big help when I need it. It has been interesting when all five are here. I really am enjoying myself.

I am also trying to get at least one group activity done a day. Yesterday the boys wrote in their circle journals. Today we made Advent countdown calendars. I got the idea from Family Fun magazine.

I took plastic bubble wrap and cut it out so there were 24 circles. Then the kids picked out the colored stickers and put them on. I wrote the numbers for some. Will also decided to decorate the outside around the bubbles. The directions had called for white stickers and then to decorate them in holiday colors. But sticking with the motto of "use what we have", we used a variety of whatever there was. I think it looks festive and the kids are excited to hear the "pop" every day as they countdown the days.

Thankful

2011-11-26T20:18:00.000-05:00

*Thankful to be home safely after driving 23 hours straight.

*Thankful to be sleeping in our beds tonight.

*Thankful the house is safe after being away for 2 weeks.

*Thankful for the warm fire Eric built right when we walked in the door tonight.

*Thankful for two weeks in the warm sunshine, making some pretty silly memories.

*Thankful for a peaceful week of open ended playing and lots of reading.

*Thankful for two wonderful people (parents to us, grandparents to the boys), that open their home with such hospitality.

Thankful my boys still enjoy being with their Mama.

all the little mickeys

2011-11-23T11:47:00.000-05:00

We saw Mickey in lots of different shapes and places.

the last 8 days

2011-11-21T21:10:00.001-05:00

This is where we spent the last 8 days. The boys were so very excited and have been anticipating this trip for several months. My in-laws have been counting the days to this trip ever since William was born. It is one of their favorite places to go. It was one of the biggest trips I ever had to plan. Usually we just exchange our timeshare and take it from there. There was so much more planning for this excursion.

It was quite the experience. I can't say that Eric and I were loving the whole trip. A bit overwhelming and way too many people and we went during the off season. I can't even imagine the summer months. The boys had fun but, they too were on sensory overload. Many of the rides were frightening for them. One of their favorite things was seeing the characters and taking pictures with them. The days were exhausting. We would leave our cabin by 8:00 and not return again until 8:00 or even later some nights. Mid week we took a break from the theme parks and went to the water park. This was a huge hit. Water is all they needed and it was so much more relaxing.

I am glad that we experienced it and hope that they remember going with their Grandparents. We may visit again, but just for a day or two and probably not for several years.

I am learning more every day how I like simple things. Slower pace. Quiet times. Peace.

Today the boys and I stayed put. We read, rested, walked the dog, played with cars. It was pure bliss.

on the road

2011-11-20T22:14:00.000-05:00

We have been traveling the past week. It's been a pretty "Magical" time. Will share all about this coming week, but right now we just need some relaxing time to rest.

time away

2011-11-11T07:50:00.000-05:00

Hi I will be taking some time away this week to spend some crazy but fun time with the family. Hope everyone enjoys their week.

anticipating

2011-11-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

We are getting ready to head out for a bit. Any guesses where???

moving slowly

2011-11-09T08:00:00.006-05:00

This week we are preparing for an exciting adventure. I promised myself I wasn't going to get all flustered. Just taking one day at a time. I am trying to prepare all my lovely food from the CSA and store it away so we have it for cold winter days. Making sure laundry is ready. Spending time outside enjoying the beautiful weather that we have been having(almost 70*). Trying to make things stay normal so everyone is relaxed and things can come together nicely.

During these days I am finding what seems to me more time although there is certainly many preparations to be done. The boys are finding things to do independently as well as being very helpful in the cooking , cleaning and general work around the house.

I am taking time to breath- not rush against time-. Slow and steady. Finding comfort in our ordinary days.

stuff, stuff, stuff

2011-11-08T08:00:00.003-05:00

Over the past year I have been trying so very hard to cut back on our intake of stuff. And to let go of things we no longer need. That was my goal for the year- to simplify. I'm doing a pretty good job. During the month of October I sold almost 50 items on eBay and made an easy 350.00. Just on things we had in the house. Mostly stuff from the boys when they were younger. I have finally accepted the fact that we are good with 2. Although if more were to bless this house that would be great and if that time ever came we could easily find the things we need, through friends and thrifting.

But I digress.

Anyways I recently was at a friends house and there was NO clutter. Nothing. The house looked so fresh and clean. The essentials were there. I loved the way it may me feel. I know we have way too much stuff and am going to try even harder to clear out. The boys are swimming in toys that they only use once a week/month. It won't be easy but I would like to try and cut our stuff in half. I want to enjoy even more of my time with the boys and not be constantly picking up things or tripping up over them. I would rather be experiencing life than worrying where things need to go.

I'll keep on plugging away and hopefully we will get there someday soon.

wide open world

2011-11-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

The boys were in their glory the other day as we played in friends big backyard. They explored and imagined. It was a beautiful day to be in the world. I am grateful that we are able to enjoy it and share it with friends. Happy Monday to everyone and hope you all enjoy the world this week.

Sunday Smiles

2011-11-06T20:46:00.002-05:00

pretty little package

2011-11-06T20:45:00.000-05:00

I went to visit a friend the other day and had made my pear crumb cake as little present. I don't keep paper plates in the house and needed something to carry the cake on. I used what I had on hand. A priority mail box wrapped in paper. The cake was wrapped with parchment and a bow was added. A quick idea that I thought was rather cute.

a good living day

2011-11-03T22:05:00.004-04:00

Today we had an outing to a wonderful show. The Shangri-la Chinese Acrobats. It was absolutely amazing how the performers jump, bend and balance. I would definitely recommend the show if it comes to a theatre near you. The boys thought it was great. And shortly afterwards while we were spending some time at an old favorite beach, they were practicing all the stunts they saw during the show.

We came home to bake granola, pear crumb cake and make soup. Noodle, Tomato, and Turnip. No one but me was interested(in the soup). It seems that I am making a new soup or baking a new treat every day. We have all these fresh fruits and veggie from our CSA that need to be used up. My high hopes of canning and preserving didn't happen this year. Hopefully next. I still have much learning to do and still a canner to buy before I can actually do any of it.

Next there was some game playing and wood stacking. The two of them were so proud of themselves for bringing it in and stacking all by themselves. We are all learning that helping around the house is an important task to be done.

And of course reading - we are currently loving the Lyle Crocodile books. A bit a time with Dad and off to bed.

A good day just living and learning along the way.

Circle Journals

2011-11-02T20:12:00.001-04:00

This Fall we decided to start a little project with Grammy and Grampy. We love writing letters to them and of course receiving them. However the ones we get seem to be all over the place- under beds, in books etc. So in hopes of being able to look back on a period of time we created our Circle Journals. The boys and the Grandparents anticipate their arrival each week. We spend at least an hour on ours as they carefully plan out what to write and how to decorate it. It is a mixture of art and writing. Something that has been so fun to do. Hopefully something they will treasure for years to come.

a simple notebook from staples

our note explaining the idea

a few pages that they did

collecting leaves::collecting stories

2011-11-01T07:31:00.000-04:00

The simple act of collecting leaves. Walking around the field for 45 minutes with my little babe. Holding hands. The same route over and over. Every time finding something new. The excitement. The joy. The pure innocence of being 5. Reminding this Mama that he is only 5. That looking at leaves with a variety of colors is the neatest thing in the world. Each one has its own uniqueness. Each one different. Just like us. Listening to him describe them and compare them to things in our world. Sharing this special time with him. Being in the now is exactly where I want to be. These moments are precious and few. These are the stories I want us to cherish.

The leaves sit on our dining room table as a reminder to simply enjoy living and loving together.

Halloween Night

2011-10-31T21:28:00.000-04:00

Robin Hood and Chief William

snow and carving time

2011-10-31T08:00:00.004-04:00

The boys were out by 8:30 yesterday morning to play in the first snowstorm.

A sculpture Landon and I created. Titled: Country Dog and City Dog. Inspired from our trip to the Museum last week.

Then later in the afternoon we were carving pumpkins.

They are so excited for tonight and I don't even have any goodies to give out yet. I guess we will be heading out to the store soon. Yikes!

In The Kitchen this Week

2011-10-30T21:44:00.000-04:00

New recipes.

1. Homemade chicken soup to warm our colds.

2. Corn Fritters

Sunday Smiles

2011-10-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Note: This was taken earlier this week when it still was Fall and not the Winter that came yesterday to New England.

unbelievable but true....

2011-10-29T21:08:00.004-04:00

SNOW! In October. And a lot of it!

A great day to start our first fire, snuggle and watch a movie!

saturday soccer

2011-10-29T08:00:00.005-04:00

It is hard to believe that the soccer season is almost winding down. It seems like it just started. This is William's third year playing already. It has been amazing to see the transformation from a cluster of bees following the ball to actual passing and some good teamwork.

He has been getting a lot more playing time this season and it's a bigger field. At games end, he is a pretty tired boy.

Fairy Tale Birdhouses

2011-10-28T14:15:00.001-04:00

Recently we went to one of our favorite Autumn activities. Every October the Florence Griswold Museum has local artist create sculptures all over their grounds. This years theme was Of Feathers and Fairy Tales: Enchanted Birdhouses. There were over 44 birdhouse based on wonderful fairy tales. The boys had a great time studying the birdhouses and then trying to guess which fairy tale they were based on.

I love our discussion as we look at all the birdhouses. The boys are appreciating the different styles of art. They are gaining an understanding of how every person interprets the same story differently.It is really pretty awesome.

Also on the grounds they always have some type of fun pretend play for kids.

We also took part in an art class where the kids were to create their own birdhouses.

My boys have snow on the brain.....

ski lodges

This is our third year going, I guess making it a tradition almost. The grounds are so beautiful and peaceful. Easily one of my favorite days.

our dream playground

2011-10-27T12:00:00.002-04:00

There is this playground that we get to only twice a year or so because of the distance from our house. But the boys absolutely love it! Landon had been asking to go there for over a month, so when a beautiful day presented itself we took a little road trip to enjoy the day.

It is actually called Johnathan's Dream Playground. A playground that is built for all children. It was one of the first in the country but I know more and more of them are being built. They are now known as boundless playgrounds.

I love it because of the huge construction tires that are used in the play structures. The boys create obstacle courses and time themselves as they play. Then there is hide and seek, adventures in the sandbox and on swings. It truly is a place you can spend endless hours. I love just letting the boys have the freedom to wander and be.

If you are ever in the Hartford area of CT you should plan to check it out.

a few good shots

2011-10-26T16:57:00.000-04:00

Some good snuggle time with Dad.

Pumpkin Party

2011-10-25T18:06:00.001-04:00

The boys and I decided to have an pumpkin themed party. It was great. They both played a huge part in the planning and organizing including the setup beforehand. Then during the party William was great at explaining all the games and activities. It was such a fun afternoon!

Painting Pumpkins

Pumpkin Toss

Leaf Treasure Hunt

Pin the Stem on the Pumpkin

Pumpkin Balance Walk

My favorite- Donut Eating

Having to wait while everyone got their donut was hard.

Ready Set Go

This was such a fun time and a great day weather wise. Always fun to spend an afternoon with friends.

Whirling William

2011-10-24T20:12:00.000-04:00

A few years ago while riding bikes we gave the boys a few nicknames. William's stuck as "Whirling" because he goes all over the place like a crazy tornado. It doesn't just go for bikes.

Him and I had a chance to go for a walk/roller blade ride alone this past weekend. It was fun to just hang out and give him all of my attention.

However, he was living up to his name of whirling all over the place. He almost pulled me down as he reached for my hand to stop him from hitting the road. Yikes.

But it was all good. We chatted and held hands for much of the way. I love this sweet boy who made me a mother 8 years ago. And I love that he still loves being with his Mama. Hope it lasts so many more years.

My First Blog Award

2011-10-23T16:59:00.000-04:00

Thanks so much to Mama Tea over at The Hmmm....schooling Mom for nominating little ol' me for an award.

Specifically the

The Liebster Blog Award started (sometime in the recent past) in Germany to encourage traffic to hidden gems of blogs with 300 followers or less. So it is an award you receive, but also an award you give (share the love kinda thing). If you receive a Liebster Blog Award you are asked to choose 3-5 other bloggers and link back to the blogger that gave you the award.

This is so much fun to be spreading the love with other bloggers. So my picks are:

Kim at Frog Creek- Although someone whom we see personally ,its always fun to see what they have been up to. So many fun adventures they have! Plus my boys love seeing pictures of their friends.

Shel at One Sweet world. Not having any girls myself I love to see what her sweet girls are up to. It's always fun to see what they are creating.

MJ at Wander Wonder Discover. I love MJ's creative pictures and her writing. Every time I visit her blog I get such a wonderful feeling and totally inspired.

You can check out more blogs that people are nominating by clicking back over to Mama Tea's page.

Sunday Smiles

2011-10-23T08:00:00.001-04:00

shopping list in use

2011-10-22T17:04:00.000-04:00

unexpected surprises

2011-10-20T21:11:00.000-04:00

Today, what was suppose to be a quick stop at the library turned out to be a wonderful surprise. We stopped to pick up an audio book for our car ride and decided while we were there we would get Landon his own library card. I had been promising for months now that the "next time" we were at our branch we would get one. It would just take 2 minutes. He was so excited to have his own blue card like Mama and Will. Then he got a sticker.

Then he got a goodie bag!

I had no idea they gave out goodie bags. We were all in such awe. The best part is that Landon loves Curious George and has most of the books, but he did not have this one. How perfect was that.

It was just one of those things that makes you think, Wow! Libraries are so cool!

just delighted

2011-10-19T12:00:00.002-04:00

A few weekends ago we went to Vermont for the day. After having to be in a car pretty much all day, the boys were thrilled to discover one of our favorite spots had a carousel. They were so happy to be on one. We've only been on one a few times. It was fun to watch them just "be happy" with a simple little ride.

The wonder of childhood!

quality of the day

2011-10-18T21:28:00.000-04:00

We all started a little slow this morning. Needing to catch up on some sleep and the house needed a bit of attention today. We wrote a letter, enjoyed computer games, played baseball, vacuumed, and organized. By lunch everyone was feeling a little better but still a few grumps were running about. So we decided a beautiful afternoon need to be enjoyed. We decided upon a bike ride.

Followed by raking and jumping in the few leaves we have.

The fresh air and activity changed everyone's attitude.

The night was content. I made my first homemade butternut squash soup, which I thought was divine, but no one else agreed. There was creating and stories. Hugs, laughter and love.

Some days aren't always what we would like them to be, but only we can decide how we react to it and have the power to change it.

I leave you with a quote I recently read:

To affect the quality of the day, that is the highest of arts. - Henry David Thoureau

Where Are All The Children?

2011-10-17T21:04:00.000-04:00

This was a question I kept asking myself and my friend, Kim all afternoon. We had swim class and then headed to a local playground. We got there at about 4:00. The time most kids would be out of school. It was such a beautiful day. A perfect cool, clear autumn day. We were there for 2 hours. During those 2 hours we saw 3 kids. 3! I just couldn't get over the fact that we were really the only people taking advantage of the day.

I know we are so fortunate that we live this life. We don't need to rush anywhere, worry about homework or get to bed early.

I wake up thankful everyday that this is our life.

Sunday Smiles

2011-10-16T08:02:00.001-04:00

Enjoy your Sunday!

backyard garden and farm

2011-10-15T08:17:00.000-04:00

The boys had a garden planted and then picked, made a farmers market and had Mommy go shopping. It was quite the day.

oranges

wool

This is how our days go. They take from our life and then turn it into their play. (We don't actually have a farm, but do visit them often, along with farmer's markets).

There was exchanging of money. Change needed to be made. A great learning experience, all self imposed.

Ghost Lanterns

2011-10-14T23:09:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Mom In Madison for this idea. Last year we had made Jack o Lanterns courtesy of Stephanie. It was a quick and fun activity that the boys just love. They want to make Goblins next.

lists

2011-10-12T10:00:00.002-04:00

We have been into making lists these days on the computer.

We made a menue for the kitchen/restaurant.

Which now looks like this after a morning of tidying.

We've also made lists for the grocery store. It keeps everyone involved in the shopping and its so much fun to check off what we bought as we walk through the store.

Lists are good.

last minute fun

2011-10-11T21:22:00.000-04:00

So glad my cousin, whom I have not seen in awhile, emailed first thing this morning to meet her and her girls out for a bit. It was a day planned to be at home but with rain forcasted for the next 3 days I couldn't pass up the chance to be outside all morning in beautiful 70* weather.

We ran through a hay maze, gathered a few pumpkins and just had an overall pleasant day.

I love the fact that we can be so flexible. There was no schedule to adhere to or lessons that must be done this minute. It makes living life so much better.

Sure we have responsibilities. We needed to get our grocery shopping done or else there would be no food to eat. But we also need to live and have fun along the way...

letters and numbers

2011-10-10T08:00:00.003-04:00

Landon has really been interested in his numbers and letters lately and will chose to sit and work on them all by himself. Always double checking with Mama about the sounds or order of the numbers. Thanks to Grammy we have a tub full of scrabble letters and numbers to practice with.

Sunday Smiles

2011-10-09T10:00:00.000-04:00

our newest game

2011-10-08T20:56:00.000-04:00

We picked this up yesterday at the consignment shop and have been having fun playing it. We even got Daddy to play this afternoon. It creates lots of giggles as everyone keeps getting stuck or becomes the ghost.

The object of the game is to escape the castle before the ghost catches you and you become the ghost. There is some strategy to the game but sometimes it is just pure luck.

It was a fun afternoon of game time.

blue skies, perfect day

2011-10-07T17:40:00.000-04:00

The weather was simply too wonderful to stay inside all day. The beauty of our life really is incredible. We headed to a local nature park for a nice hike.

About half way through we rested for a bit and played in the flowing stream.

We discovered this park seven years ago. While the boys sat playing I marveled at how fast time goes by. I remember many days sitting in these woods, playing on the fields, sledding down the snow hill or visiting the animals. So many times we have been to this same spot but each time is different, new and exciting. The wonder in their eyes as we listened and searched for the woodpecker among the trees, or discovered many colored mushrooms along the path. These days are my favorite time spent with them.

A deep sigh, I knew that learning from the earth was where we needed to be. That spending these days in the woods would be the memories that lasted. I still can recall the days I spent behind my house for hours with my best friend, simply lost in the world of nature.

I often wonder about the boys' friends. The fact that we only see people every so often. Are they forming the bonds they need for a lasting friendship? Do they have a best friend? Then I see this....

I know. I know they love, trust and care for one another with all their hearts. I know that brothers are friends.

It was a glorious day. Another memory amongst the best of friends.

creating time

2011-10-06T06:29:00.001-04:00

I love making things. Always have and always will. When the boys were babies and napped forever, I would spend the afternoons creating. As they started growing I loved just spending time with them creating. Somehow, someway I wish for them and myself to create every day.

The older they get, the more complicated their projects become and they wish to leave them for a bit and then go back to them. We would just use the dining room table. The only table we have for everything. I keep the supplies in the basement and we go get what we need and bring everything upstairs, and then when we are done for the day we have to bring it all back downstairs, plus find a place to put our projects for a bit.

I kept saying one day it would be cool if we had a room or place for our creating time. Well I finally decided instead of waiting to make the best with what we have. So for the past month I have been working on cleaning the basement and organizing it the best that I can. It is used for storage, laundry room, Eric's home office, workshop and now our creating area. There is still more I would like to do. I have to figure out how to stay warm down there during the winter months. But for now it is a new beginning. And we head down there every afternoon to create. It is awesome. Since we can keep projects going for a bit.

The wooden table you see will be my area. It was in my parents house, a drafting table my dad built. It needed a little TLC but will work wonderfully.

Setting up Fall

2011-10-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

So much fun decorating!

Tuesday

2011-10-04T21:08:00.001-04:00

A day at home, just chugging along with our daily lives.

There was some cleaning with lots of help.

Game playing.

Building.

Creating.

Laying in bed for an hour reading an entire book together. We are so loving this series.

There was nothing out of the ordinary today and I am learning these are the days that matter most. We weren't rushing around trying to get things done. We just let it happen naturally. The boys had hours of uninterrupted play. When it started to get a little heated I would offer up a suggestion, ex. game, read, create. We would all be together for some focus time and then they were off to their own again. It really flowed so nicely . All day long.

And now I'm off to finish my book:)

Taking it slow

2011-10-03T21:51:00.000-04:00

I was so in the mood to write all of September. I posted 29 days out of 30. I missed the last day because I was out on a date with Eric. Then the weekend came and we were all a bit slow, just taking it easy. October started without me even knowing it. Even now as I write, I had to pull myself away from my first fiction book in so long. I am usually reading some inspirational, parenting, life learning book of sorts. But I needed a fun read. So that is what I am doing and will be heading back upstairs in a moment. But I wanted to share a pictures of what we saw in our own backyard this weekend.

Yes it was the middle of the day but we don't think he was rabid or anything. Gritty scared him/her our of their home under our shed- we think. It stayed in the tree for a bit and then disappeared. Always something exciting going on.

apple cider

2011-09-29T21:07:00.000-04:00

Today we headed to a nature center to participate in a apple cider program. It was great fun and the boys loved cranking the "hopper".

It took place on a farm so we had some time to visit with the animals.

And of course climb rocks- because that's what boys do.

borrowing a post

2011-09-28T07:52:00.000-04:00

My friend over at Frog Creek wrote about Mondays Lately. We are lucky enough to be those friends who knew about the swim class. And since this Mama hasn't brought her camera with her on Mondays, you can view a few pictures of what we've been up to.

Click HERE.

If you look closely you will see my two boys playing in the mud as well.

Traveling the USA Through Puzzle Books

2011-09-27T07:40:00.000-04:00

Right now William is enjoying working through Which Way USA by Highlights. Each book focuses on a state and has a ton of puzzles to solve. We work through them together, since sometimes they even stump Mama. The first state we started with was Florida which was great since Grammy and Grampy live there. We learned a bit more about the sunshine state. It's a great way to learn facts about each state and there is plenty of practice for writing, number, and spelling. Each month he looks forward to getting them in the mail. There are two other clubs we may join in the future. A math one and a world traveling one. He loves solving puzzles!

weekending

2011-09-26T07:59:00.000-04:00

There were no fancy plans for the weekend. I let my camera sit for two days. I took pictures in my mind and heart.

William had a soccer game. There were errands to run. Games were played. The weekly batch of granola was baked. Matches of fuse ball took place. The boys re-discovered their passion for painting, but I was not allowed to see their artwork. Surprises for later this week they tell me. Grass got mowed. Ice cream got eaten. Walked to the used book store and new books were traded. Old time cartoons were watched. "Rocky and Bullwinkle" Time relaxing while mama knitted, Will and Dad each read, and Landon played. The boys "fixed" daddy with their tools. Sunday breakfast made by dad, was eaten while telling stories of Eric and mine childhood.

A new light was installed in Landon's closet so he can find his toys more easily. William helped Dad with the measuring and cutting. Eric made his signature dinner: steak, grilled potatoes and Caesar salad. The salad was made in collaboration with Landon.

Watching and listening to these moments are what made the weekend. Time spent in love and patience. The boys feeling that they are contributing to our family, which they are, in oh so many ways.

A weekend of not going anywhere but staying home to be together. Right now William thinks we have to go somewhere in order to have fun. We are trying to stress to him that fun is what you make it and it can be found anywhere. Especially at home with those you love and love you.

Sunday Smiles

2011-09-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

some great links for discount products

2011-09-24T20:00:00.000-04:00

I have been using these two sites more recently and have been getting some great deals.

We've gotten Sigg water bottles, Thames and Kosmos science kits, t-shirts, some toys and much more from Woot.

Just be sure to check out all their sites. Kids, wine, sellout and shirt.

Then there is Mamasource. I have gotten a cardboard playhouse, cloth snack bags, and greeting cards.

sticker books

2011-09-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

We have been collecting stickers ever since the boys were born. We have a big box full of them. Mainly thanks to Grammy. We usually just stick and decorate with them. The boys had this idea to make their own books and separate them by categories. A morning was spent on these books, and deciding which categories to use, how many pages should be left for each, so we can add more.

the wild animals

2011-09-23T12:00:00.002-04:00

We spent a day recently visiting the wild animals with our sweet little cousin. However I think they were really the wild animals!

The dear little one is wearing the dress/shirt I made her earlier this summer. It is the first time I have ever made a little dress. She does a good job modeling it.

Free Family Day

2011-09-22T21:13:00.001-04:00

The day started slow and I thought it was going to be a day at home. Lots of rain was predicted and I am still getting over not feeling quite myself. But as we kept looking out the window there was no rain coming down. We checked the forecast once again and made the decision to take our chances.

We headed out this afternoon to a free day at the farm. I am so glad we did. The boys had a great time. There were two Revolutionary War themed corn mazes that we got lost in, a hay ride, and numerous other fun attractions.

It ended up being hot and sticky. So much for the forecast.

I would definitely recommend this as a great day trip. They also have pick your own pumpkins. Right now they are only open on the weekends but beginning October 1st they will be open every day! Lots of fun!

Peach Bread/Muffins

2011-09-21T07:00:00.008-04:00

Another baking treat made with all our fresh fruit. It was for muffins but we doubled the recipe and ran out of muffin tins so we made a few mini-loaves. They were very tasty. By far the best recipe we have made over the past several weeks.

Others include Apple Muffins and Sour Cream Pear Crumb cake.

All of the recipes have come from the Old Fashioned Baking Book by Jim Fobel.

I was given this book as a wedding shower present and it has been used over and over again. It is definitely my favorite baking book.

It was given to me by my sister-in-law, so I think of her every time I use it! So glad she married Eric's brother.

Tuesday

2011-09-20T19:43:00.001-04:00

A day at home. Simply being.

We read, played games, had battles, used a science kit on Time, made applesauce, used our newest activity books and just took it easy. These are our normal days. They are relaxed and slow but they are good. And it ends in a game of fuse ball with dad when he arrives home from work. Smiles all around.

pizza fest

2011-09-20T07:58:00.000-04:00

We went to a pizza fest over the weekend. There were about 10 different pizza restaurants from town that we were able to taste test and then vote for our favorite. There were some interesting varieties. Macaroni and cheese, taco, and twice baked, but the boys just stuck with the basics: cheese and pepperoni.

It was all for a good cause, plus we even got a little body decorations.

And it ended with a few treats as well.

Sunday Smiles

2011-09-18T00:00:00.001-04:00

A new interest.

scenes from the phone

2011-09-16T20:00:00.002-04:00

Unloading pictures from my phone since the summer. Random shots of our life.

Little Passports

2011-09-16T12:00:00.002-04:00

Thanks to our friends at Frog Creek we have subscribed to Little Passports. Each month a letter arrives from our two friends that are traveling the world. We learn a little about the country they are in. There is an activity sheet to do, games on the computer, a picture from their travels, and a special souvenir. It is all kept in this cute little suitcase where we get to put stickers on from the countries they travel to. And inside we have a passport to put a stamp from each country. We all do the activities together and have fun learning about the countries. We have decided to let Landon keep the suitcase since William has his own special monthly club.(more on that later)

Stepping Stones

2011-09-15T21:48:00.001-04:00

A day out. A new museum. Small but all the better. We could spend lots of time enjoying, playing and imagining.

There was work to be done,

arches to be built,

an awesome ball run to gaze at for long moments,

a very cool energy lab,

and some serious water time.

They could freely discover how things worked on their own. The excitement in their eyes and voices as they discovered the path the balls would take or how the pieces would fit together was sheer joy. It reminded me to laugh and share in their excitement.

We spent 5 hours there and it was hard to tear them away. Imagine 5 hours playing- almost an entire school day spent learning in a fun and exciting environment. I wouldn't have it any other way. And to bear witness to it all, for me, is pure bliss!

Oh, and at the end of it all we stopped in at the gift store and found more Yes and Know books. How cool is that?