Bungalow 1620

We moved!

2010-04-12T16:26:00.000-07:00

Oops, I should've posted this a while ago, I think. I've been concentrating less on the family aspect of the blog and more on the photography so here! Our new blog space:

http://bungalow1620.squarespace.com/

Thank you!

Catch Up

2010-03-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

Where to begin? Maybe lots of pictures? That's always a good thing. Some favorites from the past month:

Stinker

2010-01-26T20:05:00.000-08:00

What January Looks Like

2010-01-12T07:12:00.000-08:00

Lots of hibernating.

Lots of yummy bread.

And just a little bit of snow.

Inspiration

2009-12-26T17:41:00.000-08:00

Just because. =)

Our Snow Queen received a fabulous sleigh and reindeer underneath the tree! It was an exciting time for Her Highness.

Have you seen Molly's blog before? It feels absolutely magical. Her beeswax acorns are first on my list for crafting when we start up our morning lessons again!

Speaking of which, here is a picture of my Big Kid in his Star Boy hat for St. Lucia's day! Which I know was over two weeks ago, but apparently I'm moving rather slowly as far as uploading and editing pictures these days.

Long Winter's Nap

2009-12-22T11:50:00.001-08:00

In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.
Albert Camus

There is nothing like being all tuckered out after a nice, satisfying week of friends and family.

Wishing you a belated Merry Solstice!

Candy

2009-12-17T07:48:00.000-08:00

Just look at these wonderful lollipops I found at Whole Foods--artificial color and flavor-free! My kids were in heaven.

As you can see.

Evolution

2009-12-12T19:55:00.000-08:00

I feel as if our play room is growing more and more inspired by natural materials and our quieter rhythm in this season of our lives.

Likewise, I can't get over the light in this room...it's so white and bright in the winter! I love to discover new things about our home, making it feel truly more like ours.

My Boys (and my girl!)

2009-12-07T08:11:00.000-08:00

The little one loves his window. And his curtains. And the ceiling fan! So very, very entertaining for the under 100 days old crowd.

The big one loves birthdays! And presents! And cake! And making wishes and blowing out candles! I can't say I blame him--all of those things are on my favorites list as well.

My girl loves nature and leaves and climbing. And me! (She says I love you too, mama at the end of the video.)

I don't think I could be more blessed.

Cheer

2009-12-04T05:07:00.000-08:00

A preview of our holiday card, executed and designed by myself, and finally ordered last night!

Are you in the holiday spirit yet?

Advent

2009-12-02T17:05:00.001-08:00

How is it December? This season of our life just seems to be flying by, without even a word or thought to acknowledge its passing.

My smallest boy is now three months old. I can scarcely believe it. It amazes me how much of his personality is already completely formed. I couldn't ask for a sweeter, more even-tempered third child.

My girl is almost two and she is definitely enjoying her freedom as the middle child and only other female. "Boys!" is one of her favorite exclamations, dare I say stated with quite a bit disdain. Oh, my dear. You have no idea.

Liam is very excited about the holidays. We are doing our advent activities with our morning home school work, in addition to two advent calendars. Since we celebrate St. Nick's Day, the Winter Solstice, and Christmas, we have quite a full month ahead of us! This weekend, we have a Holiday Faire to attend at the Cincinnati Waldorf School. I am so excited for him since this will be his first experience at the Waldorf school--the only school we would seriously consider if we decide homeschooling is not right for us.

This week is full of ornament making, holiday book reading, some baking and definitely a lot of singing. How about another round of "Deck the Halls" for everyone?

Thankful

2009-11-26T18:40:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like hearing "I am thankful for Mommy" at a fabulous dinner table full of friends and family. I am thankful for you too, my dear boy.

Speeding Up

2009-11-14T22:36:00.000-08:00

So many things are happening at this time of year that it sometimes feels as if we've been swept away and completely unable to adjust our course. Liam's birthday is next Tuesday and while my big four year old is excited my feelings are running more of the bittersweet variety. Then, we have a vegan Thanksgiving event here at our home with friends, then St. Nick's Day and the Solstice, followed by Christmas, the New Year and Isla's second birthday! Whew.

In these incredibly busy times, I have a tendency to shut down. I get overwhelmed at the noise, the amount of people invading my space, the needs and wants of my children magnified by their excitement and enthusiasm for what is to come. I need to remember to slow down, to not be swept away, to take a minute and celebrate the beauty of the coming winter, anticipate the return of light at the solstice and truly enjoy the wonder on my little ones' faces.

Leaves

2009-11-10T17:51:00.000-08:00

This boy! He is quite tolerant, even of my obsession with sticking him in great piles of leaves.

I love his expressions! Watching him mature from my squishy newborn to this, this LITTLE PERSON is fantastic!

Marbles

2009-11-08T06:18:00.000-08:00

I submitted our play room for the Small Kids, Big Color contest at Ohdeedoh. Fingers crossed!

Wow

2009-11-03T19:48:00.000-08:00

Another great giveaway from Garden Mama. I draw so much inspiration from her blog I don't even know where to begin!

2 Months

2009-11-02T16:21:00.000-08:00

As of Friday, Calum was two months old!

How do you pick the best one? It's definitely impossible for me.

Chub

2009-11-01T17:04:00.001-08:00

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time tonight--not trick or treating, per se, but instead at an old fashioned All Hallow's Eve bonfire extravaganza! We had treat stations for all the kids to go around and fill up their small baskets and bags, caramel apples, popcorn balls, a spooky woods walk, hay rides and lots and lots of fun in the mud.

Earlier this morning we made our farmers' market trip and loaded up on lots of yummy fall veggies, all in costume. Isla is having a hard time right now and is not the most cooperative subject when it comes to anything other than completely candid photos. But! She's really cute so we forgive her.

Calum in the Leaves

2009-10-28T19:54:00.001-07:00

Apple Picking

2009-10-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

Leaf Stencils and Nature Journal

2009-10-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the Usbourne Book of the Seasons I created a simple leaf stencil for Liam and I to practice coloring our fall leaves.

My demonstration leaf is on the left and his first attempt is on the right. I think his interpretation is much more true to the spirit of the season!

We placed these in his nature journal--a simple sketchbook we've been working on, adding any inspiration or fun nature-inspired activities as the mood strikes us.

These are leaf prints we made from collected leaves last week.

The Last

2009-10-15T16:11:00.000-07:00

The last little bits of the garden have been harvested and the beds are being readied for winter.

I believe that this time of year is a time of reflection, of moving indoors, of slowing down and waiting and watching.

Calum agrees.

A Wonderful Giveaway

2009-10-11T12:45:00.000-07:00

I've become enamored with Garden Mama's gorgeous blog and inspiring photos. Right now, she's hosting a giveaway for some really wonderful hand knits here.

Good luck everyone!

Quotable Sunday (a day early)

2009-10-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

"The American president just won the Nobel Peace Prize. By any reasonable measure, all Americans should be proud."

-Rachel Maddow

Nature Walk

2009-10-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

As a family, we're trying to be outdoors as much as possible before it becomes too cold to really enjoy it. A nature walk was the perfect excuse to get outside!

Pumpkins and Apples

2009-10-04T06:40:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, we took advantage of Ryan's vacation to visit a close pumpkin farm and apple house.

Needless to say, trying to get pictures of three wiggly children at once, in front of a festive stack of pumpkins was not happening. At least I got a picture of each of them individually!

This Girl

2009-10-01T19:50:00.000-07:00

She loves butterflies. Loves. Adores. And when her grandmother found the perfect butterfly jacket? Needless to say she was smitten.

Her new boots for the impending weather are also adored. I love the little things that mark the change of seasons in Kentucky. Flashes of red and gold amidst the green background. A new jacket and new boots that can be put to use immediately. The cool, crisp air that smells just barely of a fire burning brightly somewhere. I think this girl will be just as enamored with Fall as her mother--even if only for the great wardrobe it provides.

Yesterday

2009-10-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

My youngest boy was one month old. One month! I'm in awe.

Michaelmas

2009-09-29T19:49:00.001-07:00

Our package for the Seasons Round Exchange, sent to the lovely Erin. we received a wonderful package in return--I am so excited to share it with you, if I can convince Isla to give up her favorite bits for photographing. Happy Michaelmas!

Four Weeks and 26 Years

2009-09-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Calum was four weeks old.

Today, Ryan is 26 years old. I can't think of a better partner, a better father for my children, or a more amazing soul mate.

I feel so blessed to have so much in my life. Happy birthday, Ryan! Thank you for everything.

Fall!

2009-09-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

What does it mean for us?

The last of our heirloom tomatoes.

Our fall nature table in full effect.

And a special little pumpkin enjoying as much outside time as possible while he still can!

Whew

2009-09-20T11:08:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry for disappearing again. It seems like life with three is much more exhausting than I ever thought possible! I'm running behind on almost all of my deadlines (apologies!) but tomorrow IS the Equinox and I had to have something ready for my wee ones. Fall! My favorite season. The apples, the pumpkins, the chill in air! Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, Thanksgiving...all my favorites.

Of course we are still adjusting to a little person's presence, so things will naturally be slower and more easygoing than they have been in the past. Luckily, everyone in the family seems to be okay with that!

Park Day

2009-09-13T15:57:00.001-07:00

I feel like we are finally able to venture back out into the world! Getting to know our newest addition has been fun and I am glad that life is starting to resemble what I used to know--albeit quite different in many, many ways.

It's been quite the experiment, trying to figure out my limitations, worrying about how to best be present and parent three little ones. And I can't say that it has been easy at all but it definitely has been interesting.

Calum Goodness: Gratitude Friday

2009-09-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

I am grateful that our baby is here and that he is healthy and adored by everyone. Especially his big brother.

September!

2009-09-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost complete! Amazing. Truly, truly amazing. I have no idea where it went (although I suspect waiting on a certain little one occupied the latter half of the season...)

Isla is getting so big! She's doing her best to be a Big Kid, even if I'm not really ready for that yet.

Liam is such a pleasure to be around. He's sweet and caring and considerate. My grandparents' are particular favorites of his.

Calum is still so new but I can say that he looks just like his brother (and father!) and is so easygoing--the perfect third baby.

Our life feels very full right now.

He's here!

2009-08-31T13:50:00.001-07:00

Our little one has arrived safely, if albeit, a little tardy.

Calum Alasdhair

10 pounds, 10 ounces

22 inches long

August 30th, 2009

9:20 pm

Welcome little guy!

gratitude friday...

2009-08-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

Just checking in to say there is no baby yet. But! I am very grateful for everything that has been accomplished in the past few weeks that we've been waiting for our little one. I think he/she is going to arrive in a well-rested, peaceful home and that is truly the best thing I could hope for.

Where did the time go?

2009-08-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

We've been so busy I've barely noticed that I am still pregnant! Well, okay, I noticed quite a bit but at least this time has flown by. No one is pregnant forever and goodness knows, I will probably cherish these moments as a mother of two when I am a mother of three (!).

We've had three birthday parties, several play groups, a trip to the Museum Center, a date night for the grown-ups (which translates as a date night at Grandma and Pop's house for Liam and Isla), the farmers' market and many, many bowls of popcorn and family movie evenings when its been too hot to go out and play. Right now, we are listening to Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban while in the car and we just finished Ramona the Pest. I highly recommend audio books as a means of entertainment in the car--it feels more relaxing than music and it is so easy to get sucked into a good story that I don't even want to turn it off when we arrive at our destination! I'm not too concerned about the age appropriateness with audio books--I feel like my children have been exposed to adult conversation for the majority of their existence and something like Harry Potter or Beverly Cleary is perfectly harmless.

The baby will come when he/she is ready. I can hardly contain my excitement, but it is nothing compared to what Liam is going through right now. I've never seen a more attentive, thoughtful and absolutely delighted big brother. He is just amazing. Isla, of course, doesn't actually realize what is going on but I know her loving, sweet nature will come in quite handy with a little brother or sister. Liam wakes up every morning asking if the baby is here yet and lamenting his/her tardiness. Isla wakes up and wants breakfast immediately but I can relate. I'm not much of a morning person either.

Our Upstairs Nature Table

2009-08-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

A new month calls for a new nature table post! Okay, so it's almost the middle of the month but still! August is getting away from me--thanks in no small part to our little one taking his/her time arriving...but I digress.

The upstairs hallway is unfinished, to say the least. It needs some major renovation--something that we are hiring out to professionals (soon I hope!) Nevertheless, we love this unfinished alder bookshelf that sits right outside of the play room and holds part of our enormous collection of books. On top of the bookshelf, Liam designed his very own nature table--out of reach of Isla and perfect for all of those little things that he wanted to keep special and safe.

The Reading Nook

2009-08-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

We finally finished the play room! At least, for now. I decided that the kids really needed a lounging/relaxing area (well, I needed a lounging area for when the baby arrives at least!) so we improvised this little reading nook.

The ottoman was left in our basement by the previous owner of our house and was in very good condition. I originally wanted to re-upholster it in some fantastically whimsical fabric but it was in such great shape I couldn't bring myself to spend the money. A basically free redecoration is a-okay with me!

The current favorite rotation of books is stored in this great cedar tool caddy, which was a part of their summer solstice gifts. I think this may become my go-to present in the future--it's simple, handmade by a local craftsman and environmentally friendly (he makes them out of cedar scrap leftover from outdoor furniture.)

I'm happy with how this room has come together and I see it meeting our needs for quite a while. Quite a few more notes and resources can be found here, the play room Flickr set.

2009-08-09T05:23:00.000-07:00

I love buying handmade. Thankfully there is place for people like me to shop to my heart's content--Etsy!

For instance, this fantastic outfit of Isla's is courtesy of courtney courtney (dress) and Arfeiniel (hat.)

This hat is Isla's current most favorite thing in the whole, wide world, which to me is great news since I am most definitely a hat person. Well, at least in regards to my children. They have at least one hat for every season--most of the time, two or three.

I can't help but love this girl. Who wouldn't?

The Aquarium

2009-08-08T05:30:00.001-07:00

Petting starfish.

Visiting with a favorite aunt. Fun times for everyone! As you can imagine, things are still in limbo here as we wait for the baby. Today's to-do list could not possibly be any longer but I'm really and truly trying to appreciate what little time we have left as a family of four. This may be our last weekend of going out and getting things accomplished together for quite a while so I don't want to miss any minute of it!

Liam's First Haircut

2009-08-06T02:47:00.000-07:00

It's definitely a change! I will miss the curls but I imagine it won't take long for them to grow back.

Go To Gifts--WIP Wednesday

2009-08-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

We are not invited to an excessive number of birthday parties at this age but we do have the privilege of experiencing a few. Liam adores birthday parties--I actually can't think of any particular event he cares for more! This WIP is actually finished, but I thought I would share regardless.

For this slightly older girl's fifth birthday, we brought her flowers and a nice, framed print with her name on it. Since she is entering a traditional kindergarten this fall, we won't get to see her at our regular play group so I wanted to make sure that she had something special. I simply took a photo I had taken at the Krohn Conservatory butterfly exhibit and using Picnik I added the first letter of her name and then her name itself in a fun font. I had it printed through Flickr and just placed it in an IKEA solid wood frame that I had treated with a lavender/bergamot beeswax finish. She seemed very happy with it and I was happy to use my somewhat limited crafting skills to still create something beautiful and fun! And most importantly for me, handmade.

The Waiting Game

2009-08-03T19:12:00.000-07:00

Assembling puzzles seems like a quiet, relatively calm way to deal with the waiting game. Our newest addition should be arriving at any day but really seems to be taking his/her sweet time! Or maybe it's just me, going a little stir crazy over here?

Names have been decided on, car seats are clean and ready to be re-installed, small sibling gifts have been procured and each morning Liam wakes up, asking if the new baby is here yet. I'm so sorry to keep disappointing him but it can't stay this way forever!

We've been staying relatively busy--lots of birthday parties and fun events, a few appointments and even a first haircut and a first trip to the aquarium slated for later this week which is especially exciting. Is it bad that I'm wishing we get past this next weekend before the little one arrives? Is that a way to guarantee a truly spectacular entrance in the coming days?!

A Visitor!

2009-07-31T06:22:00.000-07:00

It seems as if butterflies have taken over. We received a visitor to the still blooming butterfly bush yesterday--a gorgeous, brand new Monarch.

He stayed for literally hours, eating his fill. His wings were perfect--not even a tiny bit of fading or tearing, which is why we believe he was a newborn. That and his appetite!

Both Liam and Isla were fascinated with this guy--he wasn't shy at all and practically hopped on my finger when I tried to get a little closer for pictures.

This butterfly bush has been one of the greatest blessings of having our own home. It seems as if this little guy agrees!

Our Mornings

2009-07-30T05:47:00.000-07:00

Breakfast time! Almost always followed by a craft, hopefully outside. This particular day, we were reading about how butterflies have scales that make up their wings--so we decided to make our own scaly butterflies!

Sparklers and the Great Bug Search

2009-07-27T06:08:00.000-07:00

Sparklers! What summer is complete without sparklers?

And searching for bugs out front. Apparently this has become a favorite activity for the second born. She loves any insects (but especially butterflies!) And to celebrate Rainbow Week, a better look at Isla doing her best impression of a rainbow baby! She loves this little tie shirt.

First Harvest

2009-07-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

We've been gathering herbs from the garden for months now but now we have our first fruit! A delicious green pepper. Liam was so proud to finally pick it. It's been getting quite large for a while but we wanted to make sure it was really and truly ready.

We had it for lunch yesterday, just sliced up with fresh cucumbers and homemade garlic breadsticks and marinara sauce. It was so wonderful to finally eat something we grew ourselves (herbs notwithstanding!) Today we ventured out to one of our favorite farmers' markets for the Lavender Festival and managed to come home without any veggies or fruits at all--thanks in part to our garden, but mostly to the generosity of my grandparents' garden. We couldn't pass up a loaf of our favorite brick oven fired bread, however.

Liam the Brother

2009-07-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes Liam seems so small still, still so very close to babyhood.

And then there are moments when he just feels so grown-up and mature and completely ready to take on the task of being a big brother yet again. He calls the new baby Mr. Gunk and talks constantly about taking care of him, changing his diaper, carrying him around everywhere. And Mr. Gunk is a girl, according to this big kid! Because he is the Only Brother in the family. I may be partial, but I think he is absolutely fantastic--I would've loved to have a brother just like him.

A Trip to the Farm

2009-07-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

I know how very blessed my children are to have immediate family with a working farm, deep in rural Kentucky. I grew up on a farm so I know a lot of my early child hood experiences (a pony, as many horses as I could count around at all times, tractors and homegrown tomatoes, and lazy summer evenings with lightning bugs and fresh picked watermelon) are simply not a part of today's culture.

I love teaching my kids the things that my grandparents' taught me--picking only the reddest tomatoes and saving the green ones for later, holding your palm out flat to feed the horses to keep your hand from being nipped and of course, how to eat popsicles outside on the front porch, listening to the sounds of the life surrounding you. As much as I love our city, I can't help but feel that these experiences are vital.

Transition

2009-07-22T08:14:00.000-07:00

Isla is growing so fast, right in front of our eyes. I think a big part is my adjusting perspective, as she is about to become a "big kid", the middle child and, most importantly, not the baby of the family. I often forget that she is only eighteen months old, still just a babe herself, since she has seemingly assigned herself so many roles outside of her small stature.

I know that children have old souls--I can feel it every time I look into my own babies' eyes. But her expressions, her range of emotion, her uncanny abilities at her age have convinced me that not only will she never be merely ordinary but she is already extraordinary, above and beyond anything I could've ever expected from my daughter. My daughter! I can barely believe how lucky I am.

Things to Love

2009-07-21T05:30:00.000-07:00

Handmade gifts for the impending arrival. This blanket was crocheted by Ryan's grandmother. Isn't it beautiful? Her craftsmanship is stunning.

Newborn diapers that were lovingly dyed by me almost four years ago--and have since graced the bums of both of our little ones. Nothing makes me happier than seeing old things become new again as we move on to yet another stage in our lives.

Inspiration

2009-07-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

Inspired by a favorite blog of mine, I am going to keep it simple today:

Outside my window...

A soft cloud cover and a nice breeze. For Kentucky in July, anyways.

I am thinking...

About everything that still needs to be done before this little one arrives! I am 39 weeks pregnant today.

I am thankful for...

A beautiful, clean home and children who are willing to participate in quiet time today.

From the kitchen...

Curried lentils and rice for dinner. We made such a large batch this weekend that we have plenty leftover. And fortunately, it is delicious enough that you never get sick of it!

I am wearing...

Stretchy black yoga pants and a black maternity t-shirt. I will be happy to retire my maternity clothes very soon!

I am creating...

A peaceful, restful place to give birth to this baby. Candles, incense, a book I'm saving for labor, newborn diapers, blankets, clean sheets and towels. And lots and lots of lavender (my favorite.)

I am going...

To have a nice, sugary iced mocha after dinner tonight. I've been looking forward to it!

I am reading...

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince in preparation for seeing the movie next week (maybe!)

I am praying...

That this baby arrives safely and that I have the strength and ability to make that happen.

I am hearing...

The sound of an older brother reading patiently to his little sister. It's wonderful and magical when siblings play together.

Around the house...

The ceiling fans are whirring, the freezer just kicked on and I'm contemplating a glass of lemonade before dinner.

One of my favorite things...

This new incense that is burning right now. I think it's cedar wood...?

A few plans for the rest of the week...

A trip to the health food store and my grandparents' farm tomorrow, the farmers' market on Wednesday, a play date on Friday and lots and lots of hope for the newest member of our family to grace us with his/her presence.

Lost in the Garden

2009-07-18T04:06:00.000-07:00

The garden at my grandparents' farm has run a little wild this year, thanks to the copious amounts of rain that Kentucky has received--very unusual for this region in July. Nonetheless, the crops should be quite impressive this year. Isla was most interested in the tomatoes after her blueberry picking foray several weeks ago. Unfortunately, we only gathered approximately a pint of ripe cherry tomatoes since it has also been unseasonably cool. Tomatoes need lots of sun and heat to truly feel appreciated.

The sunflowers didn't seem to mind the rain at all. In fact, these were close to fifteen feet tall. Monstrous sunflowers, indeed!

My Girl and I

2009-07-17T05:22:00.000-07:00

My Sister

2009-07-16T05:14:00.000-07:00

My sister and I have a very special relationship--one reason I was so determined to provide a close in age sibling for my little ones is how close I am with her. She's a wonderful aunt and an all-around great person.

Liam absolutely adores her and Isla is not far behind.

I can only hope that one day she provides me with nieces and nephews to spoil and dote on like she does my kids. Thanks, Aunt Brittaney, for everything that you do.

The Cincinnati Museum Center

2009-07-14T19:29:00.000-07:00

We had quite a bit of fun at the Museum Center on Monday. We are actually members but it's always a nice treat to visit nonetheless.

Out Front

2009-07-13T05:22:00.001-07:00

Our front flower bed is flourishing! I can't complain at all.

Rose the Tomato Plant is gargantuan. Let's hope she bears fruit...soon?

Our magic mushroom is a whimsical addition added several weeks ago. It's a solar lantern that twinkles at night. Every evening before bed, Liam and Isla like to check on it.

Our marigolds are also thriving.

And the sunflowers have arrived! It's an exciting time of year for us. Liam is especially excited since he grew these sunflowers from seed.

A Very Monday Monday

2009-07-06T15:44:00.000-07:00

This guy decided to stop and partake of our butterfly bush. Since he was so forthcoming with the proboscis and consistently flashing his wings, I couldn't help but learn more about him!

He is a great spangled fritillary, fairly common to our area but the first we've seen. I can't wait to have a butterfly-friendly garden so we can watch and learn even more about our flying friends.

Liam was very excited to observe him for so long and used his best guess to match him to the butterfly magnets we have gracing our magnet board in the living room. A very close match!

Up!

2009-07-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

Fairy Magic

2009-07-04T05:54:00.000-07:00

The side of a barn and an old gate on my grandparents' farm.

The fairy house that Liam, Lexi and I built nearby.

Blueberry Picking

2009-07-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

We went to a you-pick farm this Wednesday, featuring blueberries. It was well worth it--these blueberries are amazing!

The little ones' patience only held out for a gallon's worth but it was still quite a haul.

Even Isla almost had the hang of it...if only she knew the difference between the green and blue blueberries.

Brother and Sister

2009-06-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Our Very Summery Solstice Nature Table

2009-06-23T17:19:00.000-07:00

Water Play

2009-06-23T15:05:00.000-07:00

Isla loves water play. I love having a backyard that works for water play!

Of course, her brother was in on it as well.

Scooter Monday

2009-06-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

Liam loves his new scooter, a gift from Nanny and Papaw S. He's starting to look so grown up! I can't believe he will be four in November.

The Solstice

2009-06-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

Amazing, perfect, summer. So many things to love.

Father's Day presents.

A solstice banner to grace our tiny garden.

Happy presents left for little ones to find.

And very happy children who love holidays more and more.

Lexi

2009-06-20T03:25:00.000-07:00

I have a much younger sister who Liam and Isla absolutely adore.

Lexi is really and truly a very special six year old and it is really a treat to spend time with her.

At the Farm

2009-06-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

Outside

2009-06-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

I love that my kids love being outside. Our family dynamic has completely changed since moving out of a very cramped apartment to an actual house!

Grant it, we are currently experiencing a mosquito invasion and unfortunately they seem to be quite immune to bug spray.

We're also doing quite a bit of sidewalk chalk drawings. I'm personally fond of sidewalk chalk because it doesn't waste paper, it's still bright and colorful and the best part? It washes away with the next thunderstorm!

A butterfly for Isla. They are currently her favorite things in the world.

Summer Tree

2009-06-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

Is summer finally here? It sure feels like it! We spent most of the day outside, getting things in working order for our big gardening and landscaping plans. A truly spectacular thunderstorm cut our afternoon a little short, but the rain is still very appreciated by Rose the tomato plant and her leafy comrades. I can't wait to get our pepper plants and our herb garden in the ground!

Gardening

2009-06-13T13:18:00.001-07:00

Despite his expression, Liam was actually quite happy with our work outside today! We are planting peppers (three varieties), marigolds and an herb garden out back. It's going to be quite an endeavor!

Isla was thrilled to have the opportunity to get as dirty as possible. See?

Seventeen Months

2009-06-10T05:48:00.001-07:00

My baby is seventeen months old! I'm amazed it has been this long since her ecstatic birth--it feels like it was just yesterday.

Happy day, my sweet girl.

Tuesday Watercolors

2009-06-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Our day didn't exactly go as planned. We're active participants in an Attachment Parenting play group but the park meeting place today was a new location and, well, I got a little lost. Instead of making it to play group, we came home and ate our picnic lunch in the backyard on our picnic blanket. We also read a stack of books, procured from a trip to the library last night, and ate chocolate chip cookies so I guess the day wasn't totally lost!

After another trip out for a quick errand, I set up the kids table outside in the yard for art time. Watercolors are a favorite in this home.

Isla is really just beginning her journey into art, albeit much earlier than Liam. She is showing a lot of interest in the colors (Liam has been working with her to name all of her colors! It's very sweet) and she even manages to put some paint to paper.

Liam is all business when it comes to art time. Ryan is very artistic and I like to think of myself as reasonably crafty so I love that our kids will grow up with a love of art and creating things in our home.

Rainbow Monday

2009-06-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

Liam painted his first rainbow! Now rainbow mania has taken over the house... not that I mind. I am apparently a rainbow fiend, like my son.

And a work in progress! A pair of shorties for the impending arrival using gorgeous hand dyed BFL.

Feathers

2009-06-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

A wonderful Sunday, thanks in part to a friend, who provided us with eggs from her chickens, feathers from her peacock, and baby lettuce from her garden. What more could you ask for?

What about a play space that is inspired by nature and virtually free? After seeing this particular photo, I was inspired to create a similar space in our backyard for a sand area. I found a neighbor of the aforementioned friend just giving away his pine stump pieces! They are gorgeous and once the sap seeps out, will be perfect for their new life.

Saturday

2009-06-06T14:53:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting day.

First, some flower cutting for Liam's NEW nature table, in the play room and completely different from our family nature table in our dining room.

And then, some planting and pulling, on everyone's part. Daddies are really good help for that kind of work.

Things We're Loving Right Now

2009-06-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

Vegan carrot cake at a fantastic second birthday party.

Handmade, hand-wrapped gifts.

Flowers in our front yard.

Weeds

2009-06-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

Our front yard flower bed is pretty overrun. The extremely rainy spring, coupled with the pregnancy and the general craziness of two little ones has not been good for my gardening karma. However! I have big plans for change, very soon.

We just planted an heirloom tomato plant out front, named Rose (also the variety) and I just picked up a pineapple mint plant and a lavender bush today from the Northside Farmer's Market so I'm really excited to get those into the ground. Liam planted his sunflower seeds in a special place some weeks ago and they are already almost as tall as Isla! Plus, we have some little yellow flowers blooming and our big bush of...well, I'm not sure. It looks like lavender but smells like honeysuckle. Any rate, it's pretty and I really should weed and mulch to make sure everyone can appreciate it.

My girl loves playing in the front flower bed, helping her brother water the flowers, digging in the dirt or even just picking a few stray blossoms.

The Play Room

2009-06-03T06:43:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I believe the play room is the most important room in the house. Goodness knows, it sees the most action (excepting the kitchen, of course.) Isla and Liam can and do play for hours on end.

We're pretty devoted to our kids having the least toxic environment as possible. Equally important to us is fostering their imagination and giving them the opportunity for independent play with access to organized activities, costumes, play silks, and arts and crafts. I think our children really enjoy their play room and I know I enjoy being in there with them!

Next Door

2009-06-02T12:18:00.001-07:00

Lucian is not ours but instead lives next door. He is absolutely adored by everyone who knows him! This dog has the best personality, the best temperament and he is so, so patient with Liam and Isla.

The Parking Meter

2009-06-01T19:48:00.001-07:00

One of Liam's favorite tasks is to put change in the parking meter. We spend quite a bit of time in downtown Cincinnati (Cincy), not only since Ryan works there but also because there is lots of great stuff to check out!

I love the access that living in an urban area provides us, although we can still enjoy having a back yard and a driveway and a very roomy house. And living in Kentucky also means that we don't have to go very far at all to find a very rural culture--one that I in fact was raised in and appreciate to this day.

It's June!

2009-06-01T06:50:00.000-07:00

June is by far my favorite month. I love summer, and day lilies and the solstice celebrations (including my dear sister's birthday) and my birthday too, of course!

Our June nature table. I've already gathered a few more things to add to it when the solstice arrives, but those are still surprises for our little ones.

Sunday

2009-05-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

Nanny and Papaw S. visited us today and Nanny wanted to get a little something for Isla. Oftentimes, since she is still so little, she doesn't receive as much "fun stuff" as her brother so we took a trip to Park and Vine to procure her a Wheely Bug.

Alas, they were sold out of her size but we did place a special order for one that should arrive in a few weeks. That's what I love about supporting small, local businesses. Their customer service is always outstanding.

The Memorial Day Parade

2009-05-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

Our little family, enjoying the parade (despite the rain!)

Nature Table: May

2009-05-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to be more dedicated with our nature table. May's nature table was bright and colorful and perfectly suited to the season. June is almost upon us, so change is coming soon!

The Armory

2009-05-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

We have a new addition to the play room! Ryan nicknamed it the armory, since it houses primarily shields, swords and armor. However, I'm sure Isla will make sure she has her share of fairy wings and fancier dress up things soon enough.

It has really sparked a renaissance of dress-up play. Today: pirates!

New Beginnings

2009-05-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

I've maintained an online journal chronicling the lives of our family since before my first son was born. Now that he nears the magical age of four, accompanied by a one year old sister and a new baby expected in early August, I can't help but think we might be ready for the next step. Our family is going through big changes--we purchased our first home, are expecting our third little one and we are dedicating ourselves to homeschooling our preschooler this fall. I'm hoping to share pictures and inspiration, our stories, many decisions and lots and lots of patience. So! Introductions:

My name is Ashley. My husband's name is Ryan. This was us, once upon a time, in Scotland before we knew anything about our impending arrival.

Liam. Liam will be four in November and he is truly the most magical person I have ever met.

This is our second blessing, Isla. Isla was one in January and is so different and so very special.

We live in Covington, Kentucky in the Peaselburg borough. So far, we love it here. We love the access to the larger city of Cincinnati, which is minutes from our driveway. We love our neighbors and our neighborhood, where every house is truly unique. And we love our old house, a Craftsman bungalow with lots of updates but also lots of old world charm, thanks to its very German heritage.

What's next for us? A summer with lots of time spent outside, exploring, learning and nurturing. A new baby whose siblings are eagerly awaiting his/her arrival. The change of the season, a few birthdays and lots and lots of ice cream. I think all of these things are in store.