knitsprout

shedding light

2011-11-30T15:33:00.000-08:00

It was time for a few old maples to come down in our garden. A little too much shade in the summer, a crazy surplus of leaves in the fall. Down they came.

I love how seasons so naturally change the landscape. Baby buds in spring breathe hope, lush green in summer offers solace, changing leaves brings beauty in death as they fall to the ground. Autumn sheds light.

But changes that require more than the gentle prodding of seasons- well, there is a sting. A certain pain, felt with the dramatic change of landscape. There is loss, that is certain. A piece of earth is on loan for us to tend, and we long to do it well. We want to see the exposed earth flourish in the presence of light.

So for now, I thank Him for the trees that abound, for the earth that awaits new growth, and for the Light shed on dark places.

"...the only things that counts is faith expressing itself through love." (Gal 5:6)

(oh Lord, find us faithful...)

Day 39

2011-11-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks the end of 40 Days for Life...and I have spent the last 40 days praying, believing and hoping that more tiny lives would be spared the tragic and painful end of abortion. (Read a little about that here.) I speak from experience in this one, as I myself made the sad choice over 20 years ago. I can say, without a shadow of doubt, that we as a nation are deceived if we think ending life is simply a matter of personal... choice or rights. It is wrong.

This sweet baby is 2 1/2 weeks old, and in foster care in a wonderful, stable home. He will be legally adopted by the same family if given the opportunity to do so. His birth mother was encouraged to end this little life...but I'm so thankful he has the opportunity to love & be loved. His birth mother is receiving all the support and love that she is able to receive- but is unable to care for this baby safely.

Blessings my friends. And remember- YOU are loved.

PS- Will you consider visiting my cousin Paige's 40 Days for Life blog and the accompanying Facebook Page called, "Calgary- 40 Days for Life". Our goal was to hit 200 "likes" by tomorrow- and we're only a few short! The hat being modelled by the sweet baby above was made to celebrate the 100th "like", and I'll make another one for some sweet baby somewhere, when we hit 200.

{this moment}

2011-11-04T20:05:00.000-07:00

(Today, I am linking to soulemama.com)

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

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

felting on friday

2011-11-03T22:45:00.000-07:00

I think we may have found a new favorite activity. It's a good messy one, with all that hot water alternating with cold water, along with a few dabs of soap for good measure. It's good, clean, squishy, fun that is forgiving- and beautiful!

This week's project: felted inlays.

We let the kids choose their own colours of roving (purchased at Knotty By Nature- a fabulous yarn and textiles shop in Victoria.) The next step is to lay them out on a bamboo mat, alternating layers of colour and in such a design that there are few white spaces left.

The next stage is fun and provides a decent arm workout! We wet our hands with hot water, a small amount of dish soap, placed the fibres in a cookie sheet (to keep the water spillage to a minimum), and
with a plastic bag on top, rubbed back and forth... many, many times!

After the felt began to form, we took the piece out, rolled it up... and continued to roll it, back & forth, many, many times again (this is where the arm workout comes in.)

Unroll the mat and voila- the piece is formed!

(Joy is Isabel's middle name- and she wears it well. Especially when she's doing fun stuff with her hands....which makes her extra-full of joy!)

And here they are- the kid's felted inlay creations. The book shown here, "Felt Inlays" gave some excellent direction for us first-time felters. Next up? Felted soap bars, bigger inlays, and needle felted critters...

Happy felting!

hospitality for the multitudes

2011-11-02T21:59:00.000-07:00

(I'm joining in the "Works for Me Wednesday" at We are That Family- come along and check out some fabulous bloggers!)

As a family of 9, we tend to host fairly often when it comes to gatherings with friends and family. It's been easier to adjust to the needs of nappers and highchairs and lots of bodies in one space by stretching out what we have to include others.

Saying that, this has not been an easy journey for me. I used to find having people over intimidating and overwhelming. The main reason? I was basically getting stuck in a mindset of perfectionism. I still have to fight the desire to rush around at the last minute, tidying and vaccuuming and wishing I had more photos on the walls and a master bedroom that didn't need the door shut and and kid's bedrooms that are decorated and organized and clean. (Anyone know what I am talking about?)

I had to ask myself- have I ever NOT appreciated being invited over for a meal? At what times have I felt the most welcomed and had the most enjoyable time? Was the food full of fairly-traded & organic ingredients, and creatively assembled? Was the decor stunning, were all the stops pulled out so I could sit back and be "entertained"?

The answer of course, is a big NO! I think I've always appreciated being hosted for a meal or a visit! At times, I have experienced one or more of these situations when invited out- amazing food, beautiful ambience, with an effort made to really serve and bless. And it was such a treat! But I have come to realize that true hospitality is much different than "entertaining". And the times I appreciate the most are being around others who have not been racing around, striving to get it all "right". The ones who feel good in their own skin and in their own surroundings and love sharing their contentment with others.

All this being said: if you are in a season of hospitality that involves hosting meals for large gatherings, here are my top 5 tips:

1) Ask yourself: why am I doing this? If it is to impress someone, or because you feel obligated to reciprocate in a certain way, can I recommend you lay those reasons aside? It's just not fun to be stressed. Love must be the motivation. Love for your own family and love for those coming together. If stress or anger towards others is the ironic (but common) result of your efforts to bless others, it's too much.

2) Make it easy & keep it simple. Start small- with comfortable friends. Host a potluck, or prepare a simple meal of soup, bread and salad. Make as much as you can ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy the company. Don't worry about serving the same meal to different friends- go with what works! Keep it all simple.

3) Enlist help! Whether it's your kids, your spouse, or your guests, organize some simple tasks that are easy to delegate. I find people always offer to help, so I try and leave some jobs available to hand off: filling water jugs, washing lettuce, setting cutlery or folding and putting out napkins. (Then you don't have to ask them to clean the bathroom- unless they're a really good friend. And I've done this too!)

4) Get ready! So obvious, but this is the one thing that will make hosting gatherings oh-so-much easier. Make sure the dishwasher has been run and is empty. Resist the urge to put off doing the needed prep until the final hour (I have done this and it's not fun.) Have some extras ready: plates, cutlery, napkins, salt & pepper, condiments, salad dressings. Make sure you have your basics in order like plenty of dishsoap, clean dish cloths & towels! Clear space in the fridge if others are bringing food. Prepare for buffet style, or have the table mostly set.

4) Avoid last-minute decision-making. This is my number one source of stress, and something I have learned to minimize as much as possible! Know how many are coming, how many plates you will need, where people might sit. Again- this all sounds so simple. Yet when not done, my brain swims with details and noise and questions. I usually jot down some numbers on a sticky note and have it close by, along with any other reminders. Don't change plans, unless it's absolutely necessary. And if something does require a change, roll with it!

5) Eat! Sit back and enjoy the time with friends! Once the food is out, it's time to enjoy yourself and the company around you. I try to not think too far ahead to the next tasks- so to be present and enjoy the moments and the people I'm with. (Still learning here too!)

I look forward to your comments, as this can go in so many directions! Do you have favorite meals for serving big groups? Tips on keeping costs down? Any other practical suggestions to practice hospitality?

thankful...on November 1st

2011-11-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

I was reminded (thanks for the nudge, Shelley) that I have not been keeping up well with my gratitude list. I have numerous lists on the go- which means my numbering system is no longer organized. And though my heart was full of gratitude yesterday, my mind was exhausted...and I just didn't make it here. Maybe this week I will compile my lists and figure out just how close to 1000 I am getting!

Today, I am especially thankful for:

:: not needing perfection!

:: an amazing weekend

:: learning how to cook Thai food for 100+ (Best of Bridge- "Thigh Chicken" and this Pumpkin Curry (with extra sweet potato and veggies), a ton of rice and a yummy peanut noodle salad- no recipe for this one- sorry!)

:: riding alongside 60+ riders as part of Break the Cycle Victoria! Special mentions include Aaron Gillespie- who spontaneously increased his plan to ride 30 km up to 120km- and our sweet friend Ella- who rode 20km, in the pouring rain, on a muddy trail- on training wheels!

:: listening to my sweet 6 year old singing away while cycling through the downpour, directly behind my enthusiastic 9 year old, riding through every single huge mud puddle on purpose- and having a blast (without fenders and oh-so-delightfully muddy!)

:: the gift of a quiet morning today- sunshine & a warm fire for me and,

:: a loving grandma providing an unexpected field trip for my youngest four!

:: 7 hours uninterrupted sleep (still a rare occasion around here.)

:: incredible updates of Cambodian adventures by Al & the team. Very thankful for Skype!

:: a new haircut (with bangs- for the first time in many years.)

:: this incredible clip and the unbelievable reminder it brings. Be encouraged- YOU are loved.

Enjoy the sunshine & warmth wherever you are today, my friends!

(And on Tuesday...I am thankful for:)

Babysteps on Day 29

2011-10-27T23:06:00.000-07:00

I made my way to the site of the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil yesterday. It was my first time there- and though I registered myself as a member of the 40 Days team, I hadn't made it to actually checking the schedule and slotting myself in, officially.

Fear presents itself in subtle ways at times. This time, it was in the form of procrastination. Though I wanted to go, I realized that the thoughts of venturing out on my own made me find a zillion reasons why it was really not convenient and probably not necessary. I can pray anywhere, after all...and God knows my heart, and really, would my prayers there Really make a difference? You know how that thinking goes- though it seems absurd to actually name the feelings that way, there they are? Bottom line: I was forced to acknowledge that my actions were really not in line with my beliefs.

So I went. I casually planned to meet a friend, who was not there. I parked- and I worked on knitting a baby hat while I prayed. After 30 min or so, I realized I had to at least have my feet touch the pavement. I wanted to make my presence apparent and at the very least, support those who were quietly taking their place on the sidewalk across the road.

I said hello, I walked up & down a few times, and I prayed for all that was going on behind the closed doors of this innocent looking community building. A modern, friendly-looking establishment housed with family & maternity doctors, midwives, and a complement of natural health practitioners. Funny, there's no mention of abortion on the signage. Only health and wellness and babies and families and a drugstore below, (one with a fine reputation as a compunding pharmacy that meets the specific needs of pediatric patients in the community.)

The contrast of nurturing health and life with the hidden agenda of promoting death was so raw, so obvious, so sad. And in the drizzly gray of the day, I lasted only a short time on that sidewalk. I knew I did what I came to do as I literally took only babysteps in the right direction.

As I walked back to the car, I identified with the loneliness and sadness these woman face: the confusing emotions of not yet wanting a baby, coupled with the devastation (or numbness) when faced with the alternative. I cried, I walked and prayed. As I neared the car (parked further down the road in a residential area as directed by the Vigil guidelines) a large sign, suspended by large oak branches in the middle of a beautiful garden border caught my eye. Engraved on it were the words:

The kiss of the sun for pardon,
The song of the birds for mirth,--
One is nearer God's heart in a garden
Than anywhere else on earth.

I wept again at the goodness of my Father- who knows my love for gardens. Who knows I needed a kiss for pardon- from the True Son. It was a little gift, a nudge, to show me He was there. And that He cares for me. In my lame attempts to do what is Right- He was blessed. And so was I- and on that sidewalk near a lovely garden, I did indeed feel near to His heart.

I journalled on a scrap of paper I found in the car, jotting down more of the emotions and memories that came to me as I allowed myself to recall the experiences of my own abortion. Sad and raw on some levels, yet ridiculously straight-forward, I recalled how easily I got on with my day afterwards back in Grade 12...back to student council meetings and dance team rehearsals and a rigorous academic schedule and a scholarship resume in the works. Blah. So very wrong. I scribbled a page of reflections. On Day 29.

So in the midst of the muck & the mire, I give Him praise- and I'm looking forward to going back. Anyone want to come?

1 I waited patiently for the Lord;
he inclined to me and heard my cry.
2 He drew me up from the pit of destruction,
out of the miry bog,
and set my feet upon a rock,
making my steps secure.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
and put their trust in the Lord. Psalm 40

around here

2011-10-21T06:50:00.001-07:00

:: enjoying the last of our sunflowers, raspberries and squashes
:: praying, packing, planning, praying for Al's upcoming trip to Cambodia. 2 sleeps!
:: celebrating and overflowing with gratitude for you, our many friends and supportive family that sponsored Al in Break the Cycle Campbodia ride, with over $5000 raised!
:: enjoying and admiring Aaron's freshly shorn head- with which he raised $963!
:: basking in the beautiful days of this fall- sun every single day!
:: making wonderful new friends from afar.
:: coming back to some simple meals at home after we celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles with 7 straight days of potluck...with dessert. Oh yeah.
:: praying & watching here and with my friend Paige at 40 Days for Life.
:: enjoying the groove of homeschooling with some new ideas surrounded by some old standby's: an Island of the Blue Dolphins Lapbook as part of Sonlight F and our study of the Eastern Hemisphere BOB books for our emerging reader, and Math-U-See all round.
:: applying our new Neurodevelopment plan and already seeing results- improved concentration and improved reading skills. So very thankful for this!
:: getting my butt whooped twice a week thanks to my dear friend Tracey of Fit For It.
:: picking up the knitting ever-so-infrequently...and still working on this piece of loveliness: the Abigail Cardigan in Back Bay. And longing for a little more time in front of the fire!
:: anticipating big changes here at the farm...much more to come on that!
:: working on a new blog place for you to visit- also coming soon!

Have a fabulous weekend friends, delighting in all that's around you and your spaces.

and now for something completely different...

2011-10-14T15:20:00.001-07:00

Mr J Prentice and Miss J Howat doing acrobatics, Bondi Beach, Jan 1935 / by Ted Hood, originally uploaded by State Library of New South Wales collection.

I came across this photo and love it! I have a secret love for stunts and flips and would like to have more of this in my life.

And so, in honour of Al's 40th birthday, I declare we are just at the beginning of many new things together! Onward and upward to us both!

Happy happy Birthday honey- I love you!

WFMW: Baby Bum Butter

2011-10-12T17:08:00.000-07:00

Homemade bum butter has been a staple around here for many years now- and works great as a lip balm and hand cream too (as long as everyone sticks to the "no-double-dipping" rule!) It takes only minutes to make, and is an easy project for the kids to help out with.

Baby Bum Butter

1 cup olive oil (I like to infuse the oil with dried calendula for a few weeks beforehand.)

1/4 cup grated beeswax

8-10 drops of tea tree oil

8-10 drops of lavender oil (or any other essential oil you prefer)

Strain the calendula and heat the infused olive oil gently on the stove, while stirring in the grated beeswax.

Once melted, place a drop on a plate in freezer. Wait 10 seconds or so, then check the consistency to make sure it's not too hard or too soft. Adjust the beeswax as necessary (For example- if you want it to be more firm, add more grated wax.) Pour the oil into jars or small containers (I like the watchmaker's cases from Lee Valley) Let cool- and enjoy the buttery smoothness.

PS- WFMW = Works for Me Wednesday- a project started by Kirsten of We Are That Family. Check it out!)

fully fall

2011-10-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

Winding paths,

clip-clop bridges,

new discoveries for little eyes,

glimpses of the ocean and all its delights.

Inquisitive moments,

arbutus trees bearing fruit,

and the unfolding beauty of the season,

all cause me

to give thanks.

day 1 of 40

2011-09-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

"America needs no words from me to see how your decision in Roe v. Wade has deformed a great nation.

The so-called right to abortion has pitted mothers against their children and women against men.

It has sown violence and discord at the heart of the most intimate human relationships.

It has aggravated the derogation of the father's role in an increasingly fatherless society.

It has portrayed the greatest of gifts -- a child -- as a competitor, an intrusion, and an inconvenience.

It has nominally accorded mothers unfettered dominion over the independent lives of their physically dependent sons and daughters.

And, in granting this unconscionable power, it has exposed many women to unjust and selfish demands from their husbands or other sexual partners.

Human rights are not a privilege conferred by government. They are every human being's entitlement by virtue of his humanity.

The right to life does not depend, and must not be declared to be contingent, on the pleasure of anyone else, not even a parent or a sovereign."

-Mother Theresa

Today marks the beginning of 40 Days for Life.   Today marks the beginning of 40 days where I will pray, walk, serve & love those around me- in the name of Jesus. He came to die so that others might live, and live abundantly. I am living proof of His mercy & grace. I did not get what I deserved.

Choosing the path of abortion nearly 22 years ago has shaped the course of my life. I have grieved the loss and I have walked the journey of healing and forgiveness. I am blessed beyond measure with a husband who loves deeply, and seven children that blow me away with joy. I have been given much, and I choose to embrace life in every form.

Abortion is murder and it is wrong. God is the author of life, and only He is the one that can choose to give and to take away. Abortion hurts women and it kills babies.

I know these words are strong. I do not stand in a place of judgement because I know exactly what the pressures of life are like. But there is no excuse, and I can not be silent.

It is said that "our ceiling is the next generation's floor". If not in my lifetime, then my hope is that my children, or their children, will see the day where abortion will be seen as the abomination it really is.

So- I will take my place on the vigil each week. I'll share my thoughts here as I feel led. I will love on my family with the honour & respect they deserve. I will stop and talk and play with our neighbours' adopted kids. I will pray, and raise funds and awareness for the victims of child-trafficking internationally by helping to facilitate more viewings of Nefarious: Merchant of Souls. And as Al prepares to participate in Break the Cycle on October 30th in Cambodia, the kids and I will be home, participating in the Break the Cycle- Victoria event. And I will thank God every day for the grace he showers upon me and offers so freely for us all.

If you don't know this grace that I am talking about...the ability to walk in the peace of knowing that you are forgiven and loved- then start by just asking Him for it. He loves to bless us with forgiveness, and He wants nothing more than for His kids to receive the fullness of His love, by faith! And please, would you send me a note? We need to hold one another up in this journey. I'd be so honored to hear from you.

PS- would you also stop by and visit the Calgary 40 days for life blog? My cousin Paige, a gifted writer with a passion for life will be writing daily here, as well as her own blog Sojourners.

so long, summer...

2011-09-24T07:02:00.000-07:00

The garden was lush, the sun hot, the house full of projects, celebrations, friends and laughs. August is our month of birthdays & occasions- this year was a 40, 11 and a 4- and 19 years of marriage! It was a good one, this summer was.

The calendar says we have turned the corner into a new season. But we've been graced with a gentle transition of staggered activities, warm sun, an ease into homeschool and a work schedule that has room to bend & move.

So with deep breaths, renewed focus and vision and huge anticipation we get ready to forge ahead into a new year! (New years for me seem to always begin in September- so many years of schooling, homeschooing and being married to a teacher does that!)

I'm looking forward to being back in this little space of ours, and kicking things up a bit so we can have some fun together! Thanks for visiting- your comments and feedback are always SO appreciated. What do you like to see and read about? How can this place be of benefit to you? What are you anticipating this fall? Leave a comment below or fire me an email (see Contact above) if you prefer a quieter space! And don't forget to join- either by email or as a "member" (see the sidebar.)

Have a beautiful day!

mountain air

2011-08-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

A mountain getaway is just what this family needed after 2 weeks of home improvements (punctuated by birthday festivities!)

How could it be that we had never been to the top of "Mt. Doug" after living here nearly all our lives? It was a perfectly beautiful day and all the little legs climbed with gusto.

And a stop at the mailbox brought delights from afar for our Eli! Sweet cousin Eden sent a postcard with a young lad sporting the traditional Bavarian lederhosen. "Hey- this boy has shorts like mine!" It's true- he looked hilariously familiar. Getting mail is a rare treat these days- this was a hit indeed.

We've had some hardworking busy times around here and we taking a much-desired staycation this week. "Stay"-tuned for updates and photos as we savour the last couple weeks of summerloving!

more than enough

2011-07-26T22:36:00.000-07:00

I'd been pondering my own comment of "what can I do from here?" in Sunday's post. All good and important things...but in my mind, it just didn't feel like enough. So yesterday morning, I asked Aaron to go out & pick a heaping basket of fresh greens from our garden. We washed and bagged them, popped an ad on facebook and within minutes, they were spoken for. ($40 made and donated to World Vision (and matched by the government.) All in about 30 minutes of work.) So fun!

I say this not to toot our own horns- my goodness, quite the opposite. This is such a drop in the bucket. It was really more humbling to be reminded of the incredible potential of untapped resources we have in the western world. In my own backyard. Within my own mind & creativity. And how little I actually step into this. I remember when I went to Uganda, being overwhelmed with the need in every single area of these peoples' lives.

We.have.so.much.

Way more than enough.

Every book we've read, every speaker we've heard, every person that has invested in us, whether in our education or our personal growth, has helped us to become an incredibly rich people. What are we doing with these riches? Are we choosing more than simply creating a life for our family- one that is expensive to maintain? Life in here does come with a cost- a high cost. And the line between what is need & and what is want has become very, very blurred.

Keeping my eyes on the rest of the world reminds me to live differently here. To return the pair of shoes I bought on a whim and to "make do" with the *several* pairs I already have. To set goals in our giving. And to move into action. No matter how seemingly small the step, action is much better than no action.

This article says that Canadians give less us in the summer. Perhaps we are less plugged in to the media as we spend time outside and on holidays with family & friends- all so good and so important. We purposefully take time to remove ourselves from the tracks we lay all year in order to rest, and I know for me...I can forget. I slip into entitlement-mode for me, for my family. You know, "we really need a break".

So I'm just being honest about my own journey- both humbled, and inspired by those who are so very far along in the journey of living a life of selflessness (like this mama to many orphans). Those who are living the reality of Micah 6:8...as a response to the unwavering and unfailing love of our Father God towards us all.

Just trying to work it all out- imperfectly as it is. Along with cuddling kids, pulling weeds, sweeping the floor and feeding my family, I hope that today love also looked like mixed bags of homegrown greens, shared with friends.... "for this is your reasonable act of worship." (Rom12:2)

So thankful for His love.

Somalia

2011-07-22T22:47:00.000-07:00

The days here are full of laughter, games and fun-

Children, health, vibrancy
and ridiculous abundance.

So how can I not be completely wrecked
By the thought of such hunger, desperation, and struggling for mere survival?

Famine always seemed so very far away-
but that is simply not the truth.
African friends come and visit, and skype, and update facebook statuses.

My heart is waking up. And famine feels way too close to where I live- where my friends live- where my children could be.

Aid workers fly in, fly out. Money and rations flow in-
Many stay and live their lives there- as an offering
of compassion and wisdom and experience.

But from here? Really, what can I do from here?

I will mourn with those who mourn, and talk about the famine with my family,
I'll linger over photos,
Support with financial aid,
Live responsibly and humbly,
Enjoy the gift of today with a thankful heart,

and pray.

He has shown thee, oh man

What is good and what the Lord requires of thee.

To do justly,

To love mercy

And to walk humbly

with thy God.

Micah 6:8

Will you linger over photos with me here? And pray?

casting on

2011-07-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

I've had a little knitting hiatus this past month, so was delightfully surprised to find a downloadable pattern in my inbox, gifted from a fellow knit-nurse and sweet friend of long ago! (Thanks again Gina!) I just couldn't find a suitable yarn locally that was as affordable or as delicious-looking as the wool on this site, so I took the plunge and made my first online purchase (Quince & Co "tern" in "back bay.")

The package came yesterday and oh, I am pleased. It's a wool & silk blend- soft & light and lovely.

The test swatch is done, and it's time to sit with my hubs and listen to the pitter patter of July 15th rain (seriously- July 15th?) on the windows while I get started. If it can't be hot & sunny at least we can cozy up while I get knitting.

Happy weekending everyone!

summer loving- the garden

2011-07-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

What I'm loving these days...

:: Swirly garlic scapes. For one who adores all things twirly and swirly, these have to be the most aesthetically-pleasing early summer crop. And they taste great! (My Mom mentioned today she dried hers, then ground them as a seasoning- great idea- I'm going to try that next!)

:: Sugarsnaps in full force with the Laxton's Progress not far behind.

:: Extreme greens! Salad everyday, often more than once- with everyone's favorite dressing (see below) I've got a smidge of space between rows and will be putting some winter-hardy lettuces in soon.

:: One potato, two potato... meet the Yukon Golds and Red Potatoes. Miles earned his tokens this week as he skillfully mounded the potato rows again- and hopefully he'll be digging up loads this fall!

:: Wee broccoli heads make their first appearance this week.

:: The result of last week's blueberry rescue mission. These poor little bushes were last on the list to get attention this year and before I knew it, they were engulfed in waste high weeds. We took a quick approach that will hopefully last: mounds of flattened cardboard, laid down right on top of the weeds, and covered the whole things up with mulch! I added some seaweed fertilizer to each plant so hopefully each one will perk up and grow us at least a few tasty berries this year!

:: Basil- a little slow to get going with our chilly spring, but it's coming. I'm dreaming of pesto.

:: One of many faithful peapod pickers! Not sure how many will make it into the house this year but between peas and raspberries, lunchtimes have been pretty simple this week!

:: Our favorite dressing this month:

Lemon-Thyme Vinaigrette (adapted from the Rebar cookbook)

3 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp minced lemon zest
1 shallot, minced
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh minced thyme (a pinch if dried)
1 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cracked pepper
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Best with baby field greens salad, croutons and parmesan cheese.

What are you loving in your garden and kitchen this summer?

good times at the free store

2011-07-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

Though I have been a dedicated thrift store shopper most of my life, I had yet to experience the delight of a local free store- until a few months ago. I take a swing through ever couple weeks, and more often than not, I come home with a couple useful items. If it turns out they are not that useful after all- oh well. They were free, and they can go back! I particularly like my old-school Tupperware finds- picnic salt & pepper shakers and a salad dressing jug. And the blender has been great for the kids to whip up (and clean up) simple smoothies in a blink (do I sound like a free store salesperson? I am!) Good times indeed.

on the road

2011-07-03T22:59:00.000-07:00

On the one hand, it feels surreal knowing that Emma & Aaron are far off on the other side of the globe; on the other- with this steady stream of videos and photos arriving daily, it feels oddly normal to see these kids singing in cathedrals and posing in front of baroque statues! To think back to the day when a handwritten letter was the only way to let a loved one know that they had arrived to such a faraway destinations! They look- and sound- like they are having an amazing time. Tomorrow afternoon is their festival competition- oh how I wish I could be there to hear it! Check in for yourself if you 'd like to see more about the Summa Cum Laude Music festival in Vienna, and follow the Victoria Children's Choir website for up to date travel info! Or stay tuned here as I'm sure this won't be the last Vienna update, as I tour Austria, Slovakia, Hungary & Germany vicariously through them!

where ya been?

2011-06-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

I've made a few attempts to upload photos and post in the past two weeks... but each night I've succumbed to sleep before the final draft was post-worthy. So, in the whirlwind fashion that this past month has been, here is a summary in photo form. Choir concerts, meetings, dance recitals, pool parties, more dance, a track meet, baby goats, spontaneous naps over lunch, and quick forays into Pretty City (our wildflower bluff) for reprieve in the otherwise hectic pace!

We have sent Miles off for two weeks in Haida Gwaii with loving grandparents, and are preparing for the final few days at home with our bigs before they head off to Austria for two weeks. The garden is in...the laundry is somewhat caught up (for today!)....and report cards are under construction.

Emma prepared for her Grade 8 piano exam and scored an 85% this month...Aaron presented his Grade 10 art show last night and we have a whole gallery of new art to display- I'm so excited! The pace this month has been nothing short of exhilarating- and I'll admit- exhausting. But the culmination of a year full of effort and work and talent and passion has been so incredibly satisfying to watch. I'm so proud of my kids- and so very ready for a summer rest for us all.

dirty feet

2011-06-08T22:56:00.000-07:00

A sign of a good day around here is the measure of embedded dirt on the little feet come bedtime. When we first moved to this property nearly four years ago, it was one of the many adjustments to be made. We all had incredibly dirty feet- all the time!

And though these sweet muddy tootsies make me smile, it was time to implement a new system this year. Usually the routine has gone something like this: "Mom- I just need to go have a foot bath", which preceded a muddy path of footprints to the bathroom, up the cabinet and on the counter top as they climbed on up to prepare for a foot soak and scrub. Enter the new & improved outdoor foot bath system . A lovely enamel basin full of warm water, sitting outside the door, ready to receive the muckiest, grassiest, dustiest feetsies before they enter the home.

So far, so good...let the summer begin!

in the garden

2011-06-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

What started as tiny seeds, hurriedly tumbled out of a packet into my palm and scattered across the waiting soil in the greenhouse, producing new green life in a week or so- are ready.

And though it's not the season for the full harvest- yet- I am so loving the fact that we can at least get a taste. Fresh greens, fresh herbs- the ones that grow quickly and like the cooler conditions. Mescluns, romaine, butter crunch lettuces, dill, thyme, arugula and chives...some sweet, some a little spicy...all crisp and new.

Never mind the weeds growing even more rapidly in between the rows or the teeny-tiny shoots of tomatoes and flowers and squashes begging for more heat. No, I will taste and delight in what is good in this early season of growth.

It's better than not planting at all- better than being choked out by weeds completely- better than having empty rows where the sprouts were scorched or trampled. No, these little ones were protected, watered, tended. And the growth is here to enjoy.

Growing a garden is just so hilariously like life on so many levels that I can't help but be constantly comparing what I see in the ground to what is going on in me. As I step into new things, I'm learning- again and again- to tend to my garden from a place of rest. Growth is not meant to be a struggling frenzy, or a lamenting of the lack. Some plants like it hot. Some need the shady cool temperatures. Others seem to thrive with neglect while others need much more coaxing and protection. Rich soil, water & light are the simple constants among all growing things in the botanical world. As are a tender heart, regular watering of Truth and plenty of time bathing in the light of the Son the only essentials in my life. That's where faith grows best. Keeping it simple.

One thing I know- the new green life is a promise of what's to come. Today, that's all I need, what i cling to, what gives me joy in the journey.

Hope.

And I will savour our salad greens and tender herbs, and the laughter of little people among the tears of growing pains. And I say thanks for it all in the abundance of this season.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

these are the days

2011-05-30T23:55:00.000-07:00

I don't want to look back and think "those" were they days.

These are the days, here and now. Every age and stage delighting in the merriment and wonder of a new first for them. First nibbles of a chocolate chip bun by a one year old. First "big boy" concerts for a five year old, who gets to stay up as late as the big kids. First time getting "tucked in" by a new babysitter for a three year old.

Big smiles and a wide-eyed nine year old, singing her heart out for the first time this year. The sophistication of baroque and the complexity of contemporary music with diverse parts challenge a thirteen and sixteen year old. A ten year old mows the lawn, a five year old sweeps the floor, a nine year old makes spaghetti sauce.

These are the days. Complete, rich, and hectic at times but so very full of living. The kind of full where everyone collapses to bed at the end of a day, exhausted yet satisfied. Days where I wake up excited about what is to come- knowing that for each one of us, there will be fresh firsts realized.

today

2011-05-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

I'm thankful for...

:: sun-kissed baby cheeks
:: friends from near & far
:: the smell of tomato plants on my hands
:: fresh homemade buns
:: goodness & mercy that follow all the days of my life- and that I may dwell in the house of the Lord forever...(psalm 23:6)

I'm celebrating that I was able to...

:: hop on my bike again instead of driving
:: stick to our homeschool schedule (even though I was pooped)
:: clear off a pantry shelf to make myself an impromtu office space
:: get the leeks, kale, beets and tomatoes in (when I really wanted to flop on the couch...)
:: create a work schedule for us all that is working- all hands on deck from 3:00-4:00! Garden work, dinner prep, lawnmowing and odds & ends on the homefront- all delegated successfully. A BIG sprout!

And- in bed before 9:30. Still catching up from a big weekend and a dose of jetlag. Good night all!

Great is thy faithfulness Lord unto me.

stitches, sprouts & other signs of growth

2011-05-25T23:11:00.000-07:00

I've always loved sprouts.

Whether it's real fresh sprouts sprouted at home or little green ones poking out of the ground in my garden, the crisp fresh promise of fruit and abundant life to come makes me happy.

Same with stitches- so slow to work by hand- yet each individual stitch is needed for the growth of the whole. There's no rush- in fact, you can't really learn to go much faster once you've gained the basic skill. It takes patience, consistency, and slow, restful work to complete a work of stitches, whether knit or sewn.

That was what appealed to me years ago about the simplicity of my blog name. It was actually an offhand username I created once while registering for something online. I was new to knitting and new to gardening and I loved the idea of weaving these ideas of new beginnings into one.

So when Dani suggested we end each day journalling five things we're thankful for and five sprouts- sprouts being new tender beginnings of growth- I thought this little place would be the perfect spot for documenting the wee steps that are worth celebrating every day. No sprout is too small; no stitch too insignificant to give thanks for.

So- in no particular order- today's stitches: the gratitude list continues...
:: biking in the misty rain- makes me feel alive.
:: lemon meringue pie made by my 13yo.
:: achy triceps from yesterday's workout.
:: my loving husband who works all day without a complaint.
:: raucous laughter & antics throughout this place all day- and new ears to appreciate it.

My sprouts- steps of growth to be enjoyed (and protected- no stepping on our own or others' sprouts allowed! We want these babies to flourish!)
:: getting my calendar out and using it.
:: turning my eyes to look, and *listen* to my kids when they're talking to me
:: getting on my bike inside of in my car for a 3km destination.
:: remaining free of caffienated coffee for the 7th day.
:: getting my sprouts journal ready beside my bed.

Any sprouts you'd care to share? Nothing is too small- any step that walks you closer to where you want to be counts!

Be encouraged that stitches remind us of gratitude along the way, sprouts remind us of the fruit that is to follow. Both bring me peace that these daily victories count for a life well-lived, and bring me hope...that the best is yet to come.

I don't know....

2011-05-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

I don't know why we've done all the crazy things we've done together.

Such as:

marrying at ages 20 & 21, with both of us in the thick of university,

or starting a family at 23 with a year of university left, no job, stable home or worldy sense of "security",

or venturing into the unknown territory of homeschooling
with three littles 5 & under,

or driving across the continent in a rickety motorhome with four littles 6 & under,

or saying yes to living on a co-owned property with loving friends and a whole pile of kiddos,

or flying to Uganda for three weeks without my loved ones (for what I hoped would be the first of many foreign travels and opportunities to bless & be blessed),

or choosing to say yes to having a seventh child at home with the most amazing water birth ever when the world says it's crazy and the medical profession says it's dangerous,

or leaving our precious young ones with loving grandparents to fly across the country and witness several hundreds of people passionately persevering to step into the fullness of life they were created to live...

All I know is,

I love this faith adventure we're on! And I am so thankful to be sharing this next leg of adventure with my creative, dilligent, hilarious & faithful husband of mine- and my inquisitive, artistic, compassionate & fiery firstborn daughter.

And I know our loving Father in heaven loves watching us all on His adventure even more than we do.

Want to hear the story of my friend Lesia? She found herself a single mom of 6 kids two years ago when her husband was sentenced to life in prison. Because of her testimony, he was sentenced to 25 years.

Rather than rely on welfare like the state told her to, she has plugged into this training, has paid off over $260,000 in debt, paid cash for her house, and is modelling the power of hope & forgiveness to her children while providing them with a secure childhood & future. Her story had me in tears of repentance as I asked God to forgive me for my laziness, for my lack of stewardship with the amazing gifts I've been given, for my pride that stops me from fully stepping into all He has called me to be. He lovingly told me it's OK- now I know better.

(Scroll to 8min50sec to hear Lesia's 3 minute testimony or watch the whole thing to be blown away with real stories of real people with radically transformed lives!)

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 10:23

Back in a few days!

let's play

2011-05-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Spring is here- I'm convincing myself of that despite the chilly and very wet days we have been experiencing here this year! We have enjoyed a few warm days in amongst the drizzle, and those are the times we stop everything, play in the fields, sit in the camas and other wildflowers and take our simple lunches outside.

I thought I'd share a couple favorite stand-by snacks and lunches here! Homemade hummus and popcorn with the kid's favorite topping, affectionately known as "Shakey Fakey" are a great inexpensive source of nutritionally packed foods. Matched with cut-up fruit & veggies, nuts and avocado pieces, this is a picnic snack or light lunch that satisfies us all.

"Shakey Fakey" (a savoury cheesy alternative seasoning.)

In a coffee grinder or vitamix, combine:

1/2 cup nutritional yeast

1/2 cup sesame seeds

1 tsp kelp powder

1/2 tsp sea salt

Blend until sesame seeds are ground to a fine powder. Store in a jar in the fridge- keeps well for several weeks.

Hummus

(makes several 500 ml Mason jars full which can be stored in the freezer until needed.)

Rinse 2 cups of dried chick peas.

Place in a crockpot and cover with water. Cook on high for about 8 hours (overnight works well.)

Once cooked, drain and rinse.

Add to the cooked chickpeas:

1/2 cup tahini,

1/2 cup olive oil

3-4 cloves of garlic

juice of one lemon

2 T dried cumin

4-5 sun-dried tomatoes (soaked in hot water or oil, if dried.)

1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped

Using a hand blender, mix all ingredients right in the crockpot for a serious supply of hummus! I then divide portions into 500 ml Mason jars and freeze them, pulling one to last for a couple days of lunches. Each portion only keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Enjoy the outdoors!

on being together

2011-05-13T21:39:00.000-07:00

Of all the times I want to remember most with my kids (and what I hope they remember most fondly too) are the times we simply enjoy being together. Now, we are all together throughout most of every day- but it's not always the simple being. It's often a lot of doing. Not to say the doing isn't important- the maintaining of all we need to do to stay healthy, fed, laundered and rested is part of the job we've been given. But there is such a sweetness in simply being together- talking at times, silent at others. Times where each can pursue a thought, investigate a rock, explore a little path, lie on a beach...together, yet separate. Times where individuality is expressed, accepted and enjoyed.

For our family, with the many ages and stages of life and needs at any given time, being outside just makes it easier for us all to be.

Life at home is where the learning happens- the working out of conflicts, the teaching of honour & respect, the following through with natural & imposed consequences when the best choices were not made. And I feel like the days where we get to go out and just be are such a well-deserved rest for us all.

And reminds me that I love my identity of being a wife, being a mom, being a daughter, and being a friend.

I'm so thankful for my gifts. And I'm reminded, yet again, of the one thing I really want in life: to remain and simply be in Him- in a posture of rest...throughout all the moments of my days.

(Photos taken on Mother's Day last weekend at Bright Angel Park. The cluster of chilly bare feet begged to be made into a new spring header- and a new family photo has been added to the "About Me" page at the top.)

Enjoy your weekends friends! And make time to simply be.

hoe a row in 5

2011-05-11T20:49:00.000-07:00

This catchy phrase by Carolyn Herriot, author of "The Garden Path" and "The Zero-Mile Diet" runs through my mind often when I'm in the garden and reminds me to keep planting quick & easy! Three years ago I joined in on an organic gardening course put on by Carolyn and learned so much practical information about how to get a food garden established and productive. Here's how it looks- and really, one row takes less than 5 minutes!

1) Prepare seed trays (I started this flat of Westcoast seed- Gourmet blend in our greenhouse in mid- March. Window sills work great for early starts, or you can direct seed now too. I will add some seeds between rows to make sure we have lots of greens ready throughout the summer.)

2) Enlist helpers to hoe the rows (best done while chomping stalks of "zippy" rhubarb, as Ethan likes to call it.) I like to create small paths in my beds around mini-beds so that everything can be reached without standing on soil. Principles like this can be found at Square-Foot Gardening- and though I don't usually create the one-foot squares they recommend, I do like the intensive gardening methods they use- basically, I make roughly 9 or 12 square foot plots with similar plantings that can all be rotated and re-planted as the season progresses.

3) Gently separate the clumps of roots, spread slightly and rest into the shallow trench. I find this works best if I've watered the seedlings just before planting. Pat them into the soil.

4) Stand back and admire the instant garden! Don't worry if it looks a little limp- they perk up quickly. I usually water them in with a dilute mix of organic seaweed concentrate, then repeat this weekly for the best growth.

And that's it! Rarely do I have hours at a time to be in the garden so we just try to get out there a little bit every day. On the extra rainy days I'll make a quick trip outdoors to ~~hide~~ water in the greenhouse, and use the indoor time to focus on wrapping up homeschool projects for the year- so we can really get going when the sun shines!

Hope you're enjoying your outdoor spaces this spring! And I'd love to hear how you bring gardening into the rhythm of your days.

on anticipation

2011-04-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

This time, one year ago, I was in the thick of it. As due dates came and went, I walked anticipation. Preparing my mind for the expectancy of the unknown, softening my heart for the embracing of new life, readying my body for the exhaustion of labour pains. Waiting for birth. Trusting in the timing to be perfect. Longing for something more than what I had already. Growing uncomfortable in that state of not-yet. Trusting in the knowledge that it has to be soon. Birth will come soon. New life will come soon.

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth

right up to the present time.

Rom 8:22

Oh, we have so much to anticipate.

(Come Lord Jesus, come.)

laundry laughs

2011-04-27T22:27:00.000-07:00

Al said last night, "our laundry room kind of reminds me of a thrift store- only it's the kind of thrift store I hate because I have to dig through everything."

We break out into laughter- and quoted one of our family-favorites: "It's funny 'cause it's true."

Laundry gets washed & folded pretty much daily around here, but tends to get stalled out at the put-away stage. I've got a small fabric box for each of us, with an extra one for socks, but it's just a little too easy to keep living out of the clean stashes in there.

I didn't get to taking a photo- though I easily could as I think we'll be living out this method of clothing management for a long time. And as long as there's enough clean socks (preferably matched) to go round, the good news is that, hey- it works for us! Dressers & closets are seeming more & more over-rated. Just another one of the many tasks around here that has been scaled back to function in its most basic form. Keeping it simple!

6 looks good on you...

2011-04-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

Six years ago, we were here: celebrating another happy birth at home and another wee son to add to our family. You were welcomed into the world in a spacious room, with several loving friends and sweet midwives, on a warm spring afternoon. Only one day past your due date, we opted to have my midwife break my waters to get my niggly contractions underway. Only a little after one hour, you arrived. Eli means "my God", and your middle names, James Alan, are after each of your grandmas' fathers.

And today we celebrated you- with a "sandbox party" at your request. We loaded up our existing "dirtbox" with 3 yards of new sand, and everyone dug in.

...other gifts included a new shirt, new helmet, new shield...

a birthday crown...

..and a perfect sandbox cake, decorated by Emma

Not exactly little and not exactly big, six is totally perfect for who you are these days. Happy Birthday sweet Eli!

sprouts all round

2011-04-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

The peas & potatoes are in (wearing a dress-up hat or bathing suit/gumboot combo keeps the planting & excavating a little more fun) and the lettuces and spinach seedlings are getting bigger by the day.

If it would only stop frosting overnight I'd move the leafy veggies out to their beds too. At least we've had a few sunshine hours, warm enough to break out the shorts & sandals.

Little seeds, little sprouts and little people in my garden...things that make me oh-so-happy!

What's growing up in yours?

He lives

2011-04-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

His love~

demonstrated through death,

fulfilled with His risen body,

and the hope of new life,

for all~

is the reason I live.

And so

may my reasonable act of worship be

the giving over of my life

in exchange for

His.

I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. (John 12:24)

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. (Romans 12:1)

And wow- the power that raised Him from the dead- lives in me? So amazing.

He lives, and He loves. In the midst of the dailies, and all these sweet blessings He's given me, I'm undone.

I am Yours.

it's going...swimmingly...

2011-04-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

I have to share a fun victory-

we managed to get ourselves into the swimming pool- 4 kids, 2 teens, 1 baby & 1 mama.

Nevermind the fact that 3 of those children are non-swimmers. What is really most amazing is that everyone had dry underwear to change into (unlike last week where Eli managed to get home with only a towel on his lower half), all 5 pairs of brand new goggles were safely returned, along with 8 bathing suits and towels. Oh- and we were on time for the lesson.

Homeschool swim lessons are in full swing- where 4 kids get a 30 min lesson and 30 min free time, and the rest of the us get to splash around for free. One of the many awesome perks of homeschooling life. My original goal was to have two less non-swimmers at the poolside this summer...but after watching this, I'm hoping that little Will could get himself safely to a backfloat if he needed, too. Wouldn't that be amazing?

Maybe next week I'll get a camera there too. But I'm thankful to even capture a few snippets of good times spent with my little people...

it's about time

2011-04-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

My friends, thanks for your patience- I've put this little space on hold while some other priorities have needed more attention in my days. Regrouping our homeschool routine, recapping thoughts from my weekend away, and reconnecting with friends in real-time have made for full, rich- and busy days (with too many late nights) over the past couple weeks.

One of the most valuable convictions I gleaned from my time away was the nudging of God on my heart at how very important my relationships are- and how important people are. I know that should be obvious- but I realize I've been one to lean on my "personality". Being a bit of an introvert, I "need" a little more quiet, and as such, I typically have not been one to initiate conversations in the playground or with the checkout clerks at the grocery store.

I realize I've been missing out. Beginning to blog was part of this decision for me- a desire to live a little louder, to live with conviction & purpose, (which for me, is learning how to seek first His kingdom in my everyday life...)

The blogging world is, however, relatively easy for me to share my self- I've always liked to journal and process my thoughts as I write. Oh, and you can always *choose* what to share- and of course delete the words that don't come out quite right. Right... maybe that's what makes it comfortable. Picking up the phone? I have to be "in the mood." The day has to have been running smoothly, with a nice quiet moment presenting itself. Um, doesn't happen, most days. My work days are loud, often hectic, often with strife and always with more demands than I can physically meet on my own. I'm not complaining and really, I am floored that I have been entrusted with these little lives. Raising up little ones is not a job to be taken casually. I just recognize where I may have settled for less than what God would have for me. And I've been a little selfish & lazy- without realizing it.

New thinking means new priorities- and new priorities means a life that looks different. So that's really where I am- again- asking God how to make time for the priorities He has given me for this season.

I'd love to hear others thoughts on scheduling, and routines, and priorities. Rosaleen at Beatific offers a great post on priorites last week and included some links, if you find yourself needing some practical advice and inspiration (I have used her visual example many past November's as I prepare for the month of December- it's a perfect way to ensure the priorities of the Christmas season fit.) Essentially, "first things first", followed by "do the next thing" are the mantras running through my mind constantly as I assess the needs around me, while attempting to still move forward with intention.

I love comments here, or in my inbox if that's better for you- better yet by phone (says the new me), and best of all- up close & personal! Let's get the conversation going- I would SO appreciate hearing your wisdom and insights! (And in the future- if it's getting quiet around here, will you give me a nudge? I need accountability too.)

I'll be sharing my process this week...cause we only have so much time. What am I going to about it?

will-ful

2011-04-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

"Fine. I'll take a morning nap then. But this just may be the last time."

I had to chuckle at how disgruntled he looked when he finally fell asleep. Doesn't his face say it all?!

I recall this happening a little later with my babies...maybe around 13-15 months...a strong little (ahem) will emerges. A little less agreeable to what seem to be such simple, easy routines. A little louder at the table, a little quicker to protest a diaper change...a little more food tossed to the floor and a few more toys and bedding launched out of the crib.

Sigh...it's a bittersweet time. I love seeing their little personalities develop but I sure do love the ease of pure babyhood. Feed me, cuddle me, love me.

So as my little Will is becoming... I'm reminded to rock him a little longer, to tuck him in with us when he calls out at night, to linger with him as he suckles and to hang out more with him on my back... as he transitions into even more of his own little person. And I pray blessing and strength and wisdom over him, and I look forward to watching this little man unfold before our eyes, just as I'm watching the other four boys. And I try not to worry much about getting the piles put away or the floors swept one more time... and try to remember to drink deep of these fleeting days of babyhood.

{{edit: April 10th- I re-uploaded the photo of my drowsy yet disgruntled baby Will that didn't come through last time. Thanks to my friends who pointed that out. It looked fine from my end, for some reason? This blogging business is still a mystery to me at times!}}

back home...

2011-03-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

A quick recap of the most Life changing events in my life (in chronological order.)

1) Choosing my faith.
2) Marrying my best friend.
3) Giving birth seven times to seven awesome little people.
4) Attending First Steps.

I never imagined one weekend could leave me feeling so inspired and so full of completely new-thinking.

I filled a notebook as I jotted notes as fast as I could, only tasting small morsels from a smorgasbord of wisdom. There will be much to chew on and savour in the weeks ahead as I remember the faces & the stories...oh, the stories!

So much more to say...but I must sleep. The 4 consecutive nights of minimal sleep, early mornings to get in lineups and to change flights and to catch the ferry have taken their toll on this one! So worth it though, so very worth it. Very good things are to come!

alvin ailey

2011-03-23T23:27:00.000-07:00

Just came back from an unbelievable evening of dance...

What a rare privilege to watch such talent & passion, all together on stage at the same time. The leaps were astounding- the extensions were impossible- the energy was phenomenal! Tonight will be a memory had for a lifetime, for sure, shared with my 16 year old as a birthday present from her generous aunt & uncle. Every piece was such an amazing display of choreography and energy and dazzling lights and costumes...oh, it was sad to see it end!

I have to link a few of my favorites- all from "Revelation"- Alvin Ailey's original 1960's choreography telling the story of faith and the overcoming of slavery.

what's your flavour?

2011-03-22T17:23:00.000-07:00

You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.

You know when I sit and when I rise;

You perceive my thoughts from afar.

You discern my going out and my lying down;

You are familiar with all my ways.

Before a word is on my tongue, you, Lord, know it completely.

You hem me in, behind and before,

and you lay your hand upon me

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,

too lofty for me to attain.

Where can I go from your Spirit?

Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there;

if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

If I rise on he wings of the dawn

if I settle on the far side of the sea,

even there your hand will guide me,

your right hand will hold me fast.

If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,"

even the darkness will not be dark to you;

the light will shine like the day,

for darkness is as light to you.

For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother's womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.

When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

your eyes saw my unformed body.

All the days ordained for me were written in your book

before one of them came to be.

How precious to me are your thoughts, God!

How vast is the sum of them!

Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of the sand-

when I am awake, I am still with you.

Search me, God, and know my heart,

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting.

psalm 139

This is the first part of the bible I read nearly 21 years ago, when the Lord stirred me to come a little closer, and trust Him with my life. His words stuck- and the overwhelming peace I felt when I considered a loving God forming me and caring for me overrided any doubt. And so I stepped in to this journey of faith...and have never looked back.

First-day-of-spring walks, ice cream and crazy sticky faces, babies and big boys...I know our Papa smiles down when we give it all to Him and just say thanks.

Thanks for creating me,

and my awesome husband,

and for giving us hilariously fun kids.

And thanks

for knowing my thoughts,

my dreams,

and what flavour I like best.

I was made for loving you.

wanderings

2011-03-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

I've said it before- heading outside with my gang is such a necessary part of my daily ~~grind~~ rhythm. Being out makes me happy. It's even better with a camera in hand. And it's best of all when followed by an afternoon treat of leftover raw chocolate cake, delivered the night before by a most creative, generous friend! Who doesn't mind me posting her recipe (and who could've photographed it so much better than I- ah well!) Do try this at home...

Shelly's Raw Chocolate Cake

In food processor:

grind almonds to make 1 cup almond meal
then add 1 cup dates, pitted and somewhat chopped
3 cups dry carrot pulp
1 cup shredded coconut

let that mixture process till dates are not recognizable

add: 1/2 cup cocoa powder (or cacao powder which I have yet to buy)
2 tsp vanilla
pinch of mineral salt

taste for sweetness and chocolatey-ness and add more to taste

Ganache frosting: again, not very precise and open to interpretation

In food processor:

1/2 cup dates pitted and somewhat chopped
1/2 cup agave syrup

process until smooth

add: 1 large avocado
1/2 cup extra virgin coconut oil
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tsp vanilla
pinch mineral salt

It was delicious! Thanks Shelly.

May your weekends be full of peaceful wanderings & happy moments...and maybe a tasty treat or two.

fresh

2011-03-17T21:49:00.000-07:00

A new day...and a new season.

I completely love being in my garden: the dreaming and planning, the sweat and the simply standing, the air and the anticipation. I love the little hands around me- at times productive, at times a little messy- but (nearly) always without stress or squabbles. There's something about having my hands in the dirt that just feels like easy living. I can rest into my work. There's really nothing too disastrous that can go wrong- and so much that is good. It's just a happy place for this mama to be hanging out.

This year called for all fresh seeds as I tossed any that I had for the 3 years since we started this space. Without my usual deliberation over seed catalogs, I picked up this stack of basics when I happened to stop in at our local Buckerfields- the well-stocked racks were just too good to pass by. I still do love my catalogs, magazines and seedlings picked up along roadside stands...I'm such a dabbler and just can't resist planting something new (while hoping the plant marker will not be plucked out of the ground so I can remember what it is, a few months later!)

We started our tomato seeds indoors to give them a bit more of a headstart than our unheated greenhouse offers. Let's hope they stay put in their cute little pellets of peat.

(Oh, and while we planted seeds with our backs turned...a little someone had a lot of fun getting tangled up in my stash basket.)

And out to the greenhouse we went. A winter of critters and debris called for a good clean out, so we shuffled planters and shelves and blasted it all with a chilly hose-off.

We filled the seed trays with the last of the soil started, and got some beets, carrots, lettuces, kale & cilantro started.

Beyond the greenhouse we found a few signs of green...just enough parsley for my orange-millet salad, poking out of a shallow patch of soil between the cracks in the patio and the sandbox edge.

And the rhubarb patch with its sturdy leaves emerging.

Despite global disaster and a sudden difficult diagnosis of a friend in our community, I can be glad for crisp air, intermittent sun, perky bodies after days of lethargy and the hope that the green of spring promises. All are reminders for me to be "fully present in my present moments". Fresh beginnings with an expectant hope of an abundant harvest.

gastrorama

2011-03-15T21:06:00.000-07:00

We've had a few days of the sickies around here. I was watching my little Ethan pretty closely for dehydration...peering into his dark little eyes to check for tears and pinching his hands and tummy. I made these popsicles for the kiddos yesterday & today, and though we're not past the floppy lethargic state, everyone is eating and drinking at least a little today. And no more barfies.

Rehydration Popsicles

2 c water
4 T lemon juice
1 T agave
1/4 tsp salt

These went down well. Homemade Pedialyte alternatives include 1/4 tsp baking soda as well. The more I've read tonight, the more convinced I am that they all could use a little more rehydration tomorrow, and I'm going to include the baking soda to hopefully get the electrolytes and bowels back where they should be.

Back to the tuck-ins...praying for full health tomorrow.

four little kids

2011-03-11T22:33:00.000-08:00

babies in barns,

goats on laps,

stripey sweaters and cozy earflaps.

life emerging

makes me smile,

laugh

and rest

in the goodness of His simple love.

and counting...

2011-03-07T22:44:00.000-08:00

47. Big brothers who read.

48. Little brothers who listen and snuggle.

49. Babies in pots.

50. 16th birthdays.

51. Rosy cheeks and snow days.
52. One week later, when the snow is gone and the sun is shining
53. Kids with bare feet in March.
54. Dirty feet- a sign of a good day.
55. Friends to visit.
56. Handknit sweaters that actually fit.
57. Sleeping babies.
58. Hot rooibos with almond milk.
59. My journal.
60. My eight loves under this roof.
61. The love of God that:
62. Always protects.
63. Always trusts.
64. Always hopes.
65. Always perseveres.
66. And the love that NEVER fails. (1 Cor 13:7-8)

anna rose

2011-03-02T21:14:00.000-08:00

I've been remembering Anna Rose Lange this week. She was born at home, and passed away soon after, as a result of known anomalies, on Nov 26th, 2010.

I write to honour the significance of her life, and to bear witness to the testimony of grace & restored hope that our friends are walking in. We love you.

I feel so privileged to have been part of this journey.

lunchtime lessons

2011-02-24T16:07:00.000-08:00

In the kitchen classroom this week:

:: Digestion is fun. (One morsel at a time, of the cut & paste variety.)

:: Spelt Dough is Sticky: Learning to Substitute Correct Proportions of Spelt for Wheat Flour in a Few Easy Steps- by Emma.

:: Variations on a Theme of Moosewood Broccoli Soup: Adding the Milk Early Still Works as Long as You Don't Boil It. Also by Emma.

:: Learning to Love Pinto Beans or Home Economics- Inspiration for Families Wanting to Eat Out of Their Pantry Stocked With Peculiar Rations. (Anyone need some rice flour, corn flour, pintos or dates?) (By the way, a crockpot of refried beans only costs about $2)

:: Sprouting is Fun. (Just make sure to rinse often or they will be slimy and not so fun or tasty.)

:: Kale Chips to Go or (Nearly) Edible Uses for the Final Harvest of Winter Kale.

:: Mastering the Pincer Grasp 101. Don't those chubby hands make you smile?)

What life lessons are shaping up in your kitchen this week?

I'm on a hunt

2011-02-21T22:13:00.000-08:00

"Come on Eli- show me where you found them..."

We went on a hunt today. Since reading Ann's book I am reminded to open my eyes. And to keep them open- continually- throughout the moments of the everyday. Looking for the gifts around me, the calling forth of beauty in the simplest (or even the most complicated) surroundings.

Because gratitude is the precursor to faith. And to joy. In the midst of the noise, hurry, squabbles, frustrations and plain old messes around me, I usually lose sight of the gifts of the moment. And then I flounder- I trouble-shoot, reassess, organize, re-arrange, administer self-care, and try my very best to
Fix It. Often with "should's". Until I realize that I shouldn't be should-ing on myself...

So I'm learning to just stop, look, and see. And I am noticing that the more I notice the gifts- the more I notice the Giver. And it's really becoming quite fun.

My plan for a short run today turned into a slow walk with a tuckered little guy pokey-slow after a busy weekend and a long day. But we found the secret place- the lush patch of snowdrops tucked alongside a well-used path nearby.

I smiled, I called out, "Found 'em!" and my little man came running to catch up.

And I paused to take note of the sweet reminder of spring's soon arrival, and leaned in & got low with my little point & shoot. If only there weren't so many blackberry brambles and dead leaves to pick out of the way first...why does such fresh green life have to be tangled up with thorns and evidence of a season left behind?

I pick through the thorny branches, moving them aside, snapping off what I can and tucking low what I can't. I toss a few brown leaves aside, pluck out the dead twigs, and remember why we're here.

We came on a hunt- a little mama & boy hunt to find the beauty of the season, the evidence of what is to come, the reasons to give thanks in the moment. I am reminded of what it takes sometimes to find it...the pushing aside of what is old & dead & gone before and the careful handling of the thorny places that are just a part of the landscape around us.

So we can see the beauty around us. And say thanks.

#21. snowdrops, even when tangled in thorny blackberry canes.
22. boisterous boys.
23. slightly smokey woodstoves.
24. cardigans- thick and long, soft & thin...I love them all.
25. flickers of flame peeking through the stove doors.
26. His living word.
27. baby giggles responding to 3 year old "fake laughs".
28. when the baby grows and can turn on his own lightswitch.
29. my sturdy white crib that has lasted through 7 babies and rambunctious toodlers.
30. the mysterious "werefrog" that makes us giggle at its unexpected croaking.
31. 8 year olds! So capable, so enthusiastic! and able to:
32. add wood to a fire,
33. change & dress a wriggly 9 month old.
34. make pancakes and
35. scramble eggs unassisted.
36. washing machines that keep chugging year load after load, year after year.
37. little smooth cheeks that remind me of looking at Jesus face...and Him looking at me.
38. kids that fall asleep with a book over their face.
39. all sleeping kids.
40. sketchbooks and new drawings discovered.
41. newborns.
42. baby goats.
43. homemade granola.
44. a cleaned out pantry.
45. quiet evenings.

Yes, I will get to 1000.

Join the fun...and discover the joy around and within.

I'm a piece of work

2011-02-18T22:01:00.000-08:00

Only the most kind, gentle and tender-hearted God of the universe (with a sense of humour, I'm sure of it) would choose to speak to me with words and pictures he knows will make me laugh & cry & love Him even more, all at the same time. A friend of mine shared the following story with me today- knitting lessons from the master knitter. The piece of work is my life...and it's all our lives, connected and interwoven in this great work of His called the Body.

"...And I saw Him doing the work, perfectly, slowly, IN REST and PEACE, enjoying the work...and then we come over, grab the knitting needles (because we can do it faster...) and we take over the work... plowing along, knitting away, without paying much attention to what we are doing, just TRYING to get it all done...when all of a sudden He comes over to look at our project and smiles...
We follow his eyes down and see a "glitch"....or two..or 10...
and we throw it to the ground, frustrated...annoyed, angry that it 's not turning out the way we envisioned after all that labour....
and then I saw the Lord...come over, pick the project up off the floor...and then tenderly...gently...taking it off the needles...slowly pulling out one stitch at a time... and then He takes us back to the place where we "received the lie" (that we could do better without Him) in our lives, healing us at that point, revealing truth step by step, and then teaching us BY HIS SPIRIT how to sit on HIS lap and put our hands on His hands...and rest in him...trust in His shape, His pattern, His timing...so that we are COMPLETE, lacking nothing...and able to enjoy the work HE has planned for us before the foundations of the world were laid...

So yes, I really am a piece of work. Way too intense in my striving moments, too prone to trip up in my own reasoning, too eager to go faster than he might have me go.

Thanks for showing me the glitches Father. Now, would you knit me up? Stitch by stitch, row by row. I place my hands on your hands, I lean into your lap, and I say yes to your perfect pattern.

If I'm going to be such a piece of work, I want it to be all His.

My current piece of work.

Colourful, a little loopy, with plenty of loose ends. Unfinished and in process. Much like me.

10 days, more or less...

2011-02-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the time spent away from this space, my friends. The accountability that comes with public displays of home purging- and hopes for big accomplishments in designated time frames has brought some fun results, but has also caused me to face the reality of works-in-progress! But it's all good. We've made some great changes in our space at home and I'm glad for that.

The reality of facing the excess has been apparent on many levels. Life gets messy sometimes. And though I'm learning to be OK with messy (one good friend claims "mess is more"!) we all have to find our way with what we can manage. Thrift store shopping has been a soul-soothing past-time as I browse and buy for repurpose & fun. But the result has been Too Much for me to manage. The letting go has been freeing- because I know I long for more of what really satisfies.

And as promised, I share a few "before" (more like, in-the-middle-of) photos...the good, the bad and yeah, the pretty ugly.

Garage sale contents all in our former living room (which is now almost empty. And ready to become...a new studio? Dance floor? School room? We're not sure yet!

And to follow...a recap of the past few days...and what I have most loved about the "after". You won't find pristine closets, gleaming hardwood floors or really much in the way of decorating. But what we are re-creating is a true living room- a place where we can share food, make music, learn about the world and enjoy one another. And have less time spent taking care of our *stuff* so we have more time to fully live- inside and out. Like cuddling baby goats, swinging on swings, walking with loving grandparents who bless us with icecream cakes, and indulging in pancake love feasts on Valentines Day. Yes, we like living a little simpler.

Would I recommend this book? For sure. It really helped us get our family on the same page with what we value and how we can set up our home & lives accordingly. And I'm thankful for the time spent to let go...so we can welcome more of what's good. More love, more room for people, more room to grow... so we can fully live.

9 on the 9th...

2011-02-09T21:32:00.000-08:00

Nine months, that is. I wonder if life in your ninth month will be as eventful as the last- month eight one was a big one! You went from plank-baby to a full out speedcrawler. Pulling up to standing is a breeze, you've figured out how to push around our kitchen stool and scale a couple stairs, and no kitchen cupboard is safe from your curious investigation. Two weeks ago you rejected even the slightest notion of solid food touching your palate; today you happily eat several bowls of rice and squash and peaches or whatever squished up veggie we've got ready for you. Two sweet little bottom teeth emerged this month, and you're sharing a room with a big brother, in your own crib (for at least part of the night). Yes, little man, you're on the move. Nine months looks good on you.

checking in...

2011-02-08T22:33:00.000-08:00

I'm well into Day 6 of the 10 day plan for a simply organized home! Haha. Let's just say it has not been the simplest of processes, but I am confident the end result will be worth it. The goal? By Saturday of this week: every room of our home will be defined in its purpose (done), purged of its clutter (currently all gathered in one room) and cleansed of residual dust & grime (gulp.) So that...the outworkings of our daily lives will be holistically in line with our family's life purpose.

It has been a messy, defining process. Much dealt with, all at once.

And yet so many good things happening in the midst of it all. Our rather thrown-together garage sale brought a few sales and some great conversations with new and old friends in our home. Sweet baby boys have been born this week (welcome James & Darian!), along with sweet baby goats here on the farm... new dances were discovered at our contact improv workshop...and new friend connections were made. Priorities with work, homeschool, exercise & food have been made, tweaked, re-established and adjusted again- all in the same day.

It's been a pressing in time- with much focus and reflection and conversations with Al and the older kids about what we value, what we want our days to be full of and what we want our days to be less full of. Right in the middle of doing it all.

And a lot of plain old work, of the furniture-moving and box-packing and rearranging-belongings variety. And seven little ones that love to be played with, read to, fed often and tucked in nightly.

I admit, I'm being a little vague here. It's hard to really put words to all that's going on right now. Though I know what our family is to be about, what we are working towards in terms of our practical belongings, our time and our physical living space is much more fluid and evolving. And photos are being taken, but they just feel a little too much to share just yet. Like I need a little more context to frame them in.

There's going to be a good story at the end. For now, I'm looking forward to finding out the end of this short chapter.

(And I really wish I could blog in the shower, when the moments of clarity come easily and I can soak in the glimpses of what's to come. Does anyone else have their very best ideas in the shower?)

walks that work for little legs

2011-02-04T21:16:00.000-08:00

We interrupt Day 4 of our regularly scheduled program to talk about hanging out with little people outside. When I look back at my years spent with our now older kids, my memories of times best spent with them are most often the times we spent outside together- wandering, discovering, and exploring new places or familiar stomping grounds. Time for one to run ahead and be big & brave while one can stay close to hold hands and have me all to themselves. And the occasional moments where I can get lost in my own thoughts and dreams while little feet are happily exploring close by.

Patricia Bay off West Saanich Rd was a great discovery earlier this year, so we went back for a visit the other day. There's a great 1km path along the sea, perfect for my little guys on their push-bikes. Plenty of rocky beach and driftwood abound for enthusiastic climbers and crab-handlers and plenty of airplanes flying overhead to excite the little guys in the mix. It's beautiful with its open water and mountain views...such a good way to spend those (often crazy) hours between afternoon nap wake up and supper.

day 3-the living room

2011-02-03T07:41:00.000-08:00

Meet my enthusiastic movers...

...and shakers! I love their faces. Could it be just a little dirty under there?

Here's a small portion of our living room contents moved to our dining room table, while we clear out and clean per instruction.

Every puzzles & game- pulled out, opened, sorted and stacked (by Isabel) for keeping and flinging!

We are deep into our quest for *less* around here. And since we've booked our garage sale for this weekend (come on over), there's no turning back now.

It's been amazing to me that the whole family is on board with this. It has actually been fun working together with a specific purpose that has that edge of "extreme" that takes it beyond just mundane tidying (or maybe it's just that math and writing have been on hold this week!) And we won't have to do this again (she says with emphatic resolve.) Which means I can confidently make promises to have more time each day to do all that we love to do.

And in case you have any of *these* lingering in your pantry from a bountiful fall harvest:

(one of four very large kabocha squashes...)

...then may I suggest this Thai curry? Very yummy and a hit all round! Almost anything with coconut milk tends to go over well around here. Kabocha is firm, sweet and a little starchy- more like a potato than a squash in texture. It's also been great steamed and mashed in muffins- and baby Will loved his version pureed with ground millet. If you want a chunk..let me know...I've got about 30 more pounds of it in the pantry. Did I mention it keeps well?

simplifying

2011-02-01T22:20:00.000-08:00

This book, "Organized Simplicity" has been popping up on blogs all over the web, and since catching my eye a few times I decided I needed a copy too. I've been a pretty devoted Flylady fan since baby number 3 arrived 10 1/2 years ago, (at which point I realized, "Oh oh- now I really gotta get my act together"!) Flylady was awesome for giving me the basic tools for home management- good routines, using my timer, tossing anything that doesn't make me smile, and not stressing about cleaning the "right way"- but just getting down to it. But lately I've been feeling the effects of Too. Much. Way too much time spent on managing and maintaining all our stuff, and the home it's all kept in.

The clean lines and well, simple cover of this book appealed to me, and I knew I'd benefit from a kick start in a new way to organize my brain & my time.

I love her approach- inspiring in its relevance and totally practical in its presentation. The most beneficial tidbit of wisdom has been to redefine simple living in order to "live holistically with your life's purpose." When life starts to feel scattered I know I am taking on more than I ought...a weak spot for me as I LOVE to dabble in new things- many at the same time! So I've been challenged to hone in on who we are- individually and as a family. Writing it down. And clearing out excess in every area of life so there's more room & time for people.

So, we're on "Day 2" - the living room- of a 10 day plan to tackle every room of our home! I'll post some photos of our "before" shots (and there's some doozies) and "afters" over the next several days- good things happening around here!

weekends in the workshop

2011-01-31T23:52:00.000-08:00

We spent Saturday at my Mom & Dad's, and the big boys spent most of it in Dad's woodwork shop. Aaron & my Dad put together six more art caddies to sell as a fundraiser for his trip to Austria this summer. They're nearly finished, and we'll be sure to post details as to how you too can have one of these fantastic caddies to stash your supplies! Miles whittled away and out appeared his favorite subject- a salmon, of course. After the first, he made a larger one for Will to teeth on- and both turned out so cute!

All that hard work was punctuated with a dee-lish lunch of won ton soup, a splash in the hot tub, afternoon naps and even a little knitting and sewing. And a chicken cacciatore dinner. Pretty much a perfect Saturday- yay for grandparents!

friday night

2011-01-28T21:54:00.000-08:00

Pizza & family movie night has been a weekly event here most Fridays. Simple, yummy & predicatable- just what everyone needs by the end of the week. One huge bowl of popcorn tops the evening off nicely. Tonight, I added extra butter to boost the mood since the movie choice was not a "rush out and tell your friends" kind of show, according to the kids! ("Where the Red fern Grows"- we haven't read the book yet, but it's supposed to be a good one. And this 1974 movie did get fairly good reviews...ah well.)

Enjoy your weekends!

ack! and other happenings...

2011-01-27T21:33:00.000-08:00

Forgive me, friends - though I love to tinker with my settings, this time it was completely unintentional and I deleted my previous template. Guess I'm not going to bed early after all. I hope to have everything up and looking lovely again soon. Blogging is keeping me humble...

A lovely day was had by all, however. Afternoons in Sidney are always time well spent. After dropping off "the middles" at their homeschool resource day, the bigs, the littles and mama & papa had our annual visit to the Sidney muesum lego display. The next hour included coffee shop treats, a little thrifting goodness and a perusal through some excellent bookstores. And the final wander through Lilaberry (one of my favorite home decor shops), Island Blue for a new Faber-Castel pen and speedball nib and the new Green things store for a refill of loose Rooibos and some loofah sponges made for a nice Sidney afternoon. All in time to drop off papa & Em at the airport for their departure to LA, and return to pick up the middles. A lovely afternoon all round!

Oh, and we must mark yesterday as the official "first tooth" day for baby Will- at 8 1/2 months old- early for our crew! Isabel spotted it while we were driving- little sharp edged buds that must've just poked through the night before. So cute.

So many fun things on the go around here! The days are full, but so satisfying. God, you are just so good to us. You are teaching me to be so present in the midst of all our happenings, and to tune in to how you reveal yourself through the circumstances of our lives, through the mouths of our children and through the beauty of your creation all around us. We love you Lord.

Dear Mom,

2011-01-25T19:02:00.000-08:00

Every now & then, I have a knitting flop. This project counts as two. I quickly started a pair of mitts for you a couple days before Christmas...with stash yarn. Always risky for anything that requires an equal pair. Sure enough- I ran out of both time and wool to complete the left hand. So I went back to the shop where I bought the wool originally- a few years ago- which they no longer carry. The store owner tells me the name of the yarn, I go to another store and got what I thought was the same, and clearly it wasn't! Blah blah blah...

One month later, I have learned a few things:

1) Weigh stash yarn, and divide by two for mitts, gloves and socks. Do a top down (for mitts) or toe up (for socks) pattern if at all possible.
2) Listen to the gut! Stop knitting, figure out where you are at and go back to step 1. Or go buy enough yarn to finish a project in the first place.
3) Regarding gauge and yarn and needle size choice: using a thicker yarn with the same size needle creates a thicker, denser knit, not a bigger size. This was good to confirm. (Hope you enjoy the warmer right hand, mom.)
4) Sometimes, it's best to call a project done, and move on. Otherwise, I will be buying more of yarn #2, knitting a second mitt, and unravelling the first. It's an option that I am not excited about, though it is good to finish well. (Now I'm doubting point #4. Off to the Beehive I go!)

There are more points to ponder in this project, but that's enough to share here. Further pattern and yarn details can be found on Ravelry.

(Oh, and I am liking the sparkly bokeh- my new lens is getting fun.)

One way or another, your hands will be cozy!

Love,

Kali

weekend wanderings

2011-01-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

We wandered the trails of Gowlland-Tod this weekend- a favorite destination nearby. It's not easy finding outings that satisfy the need for me getting enough of a hike to call it exercise while not provoking tears in the youngest. And while there were a few tears shed (none by me, fortunately), good times were had by all. Sticks were gathered, fishing lines cast, snacks consumed, mud puddles stomped in and all rabbit trails thoroughly explored. And a fully intact mink skull discovered by Miles topped the afternoon off well. Once again, I was reminded that it 's almost always better to be out than in.

I love exploring outside with this gang of mine.

couch vacations

2011-01-20T23:12:00.000-08:00

After a day like today...

it's good to find a few old photos that make me smile. Even better if they can be summer photos...and best when the kids have grown enormously since, and as such, look incredibly endearing.

These are what caught my eye tonight.

These were taken in August 2004, during a camping and canoeing trip on Quadra Island. Three little boys ago! Little 'Bel was the wee one at age 2 1/2.

Happy faces, sun, & splashing.

Almost as good as a vacation.

stories & sleeps

2011-01-19T23:04:00.000-08:00

This is what we call the final phase of the bedtime routine for our littlest ones around here... "come on guys- PJs & teeth, stories & sleeps". This is Eli's most recent stack of library books- all titles we've had before. (we adore Kim Lewis's gentle stories and sweet illustrations.)

Add a few candles, dim the lights, cuddles and the stories on the couch, and bedtime is a favorite time of day. The final tuck-in includes whispers in little ears... prayers of thanks for dreams, health and perfect rest.

1000 gifts- I'm well on my way

2011-01-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

I am slightly embarassed to say...
that I started a Gratitude list, way back. And though I am grateful, I haven't been keeping a list here.

And oh- I am inspired to begin again.

I just ordered Ann's book, "1000 Gifts- Dare to Live Fully Right Where you Are", and am so looking forward to the online book club Bloom. With weekly videos by Ann Voskamp herself, I know we'll be so blessed.

So without further ado, shall I continue where I left off?

7) shaggy, tow-headed little boys.
8) bigger boys that love to fish.
9) violin lessons.
10) an afternoon cup of hot coffee. Even when it's black.
11) coconut milk and spicy red Thai curries.
12) babies on the move.
13) fuzzy slippers.
14) finishing a knit.
15) beginning a knit.
16) Pass the Pigs.
17) hilarious wigs
18) my preschooler stumbling out of his bedroom post-afternoon nap.
19) breaks in the rainfall.
20) short-lived tummy bugs, replaced by energetic bodies with voracious appetites.

There we go. I'm excited. Will you join me?

why I love my church

2011-01-17T21:47:00.000-08:00

Taste and see that the Lord is good.

psalm 34:8

Moms & Dads, babes in arms, toddlers & big boys waving flags gather at this place to be with Him. I am so very glad for this place to call church. Learning to love one another as we are loved by Him. Delighting in His goodness as our little ones dance & run & soak in pure joy at our feet. At His feet. This time, set apart for Him on a Friday morning is called, "Born to Worship." Yes, we all are.

And I'm so thankful.

when you need a chuckle...

2011-01-14T22:59:00.000-08:00

This wig makes an appearance once or twice a year and displays amazing versatility for a variety of costume needs. (Mrs.Doubtfire and the 1974 PE teacher (imagine sweatband, knee socks and Expo ringershirt) were the best looks, hands down. These were pre-digital dress-up events- I really must find, scan and post pictures!) Last night, Aaron discovered the wig in the depths of our closet. Typically it goes round the room- and we all get a good laugh because everyone- and I mean everyone- looks absolutely hysterical when sporting this blond 'do. And the baby of the family always gets the last turn.

Ahh, nothing like a good belly laugh.

Have a great weekend!

2011-01-13T22:04:00.000-08:00

Oh yes. I almost forgot.

I stumbled across this quote by Mother Theresa a couple of months ago. And I needed reminding today.

And so, I wrote it big, and I wrote it small, and I wrote it here & there.

Because I have a bad habit of forgetting this one. I say the reason I do all the things I do is to bless my family, and others, or just because I have this insatiable itch to create something...but really,

I can get in the way. And get very busy doing instead of simply being...in love.

Most of the time, the love comes across in things that may not be as measurable as hand knits or clean socks for a week or a good meal. Though the love-language piece is valid...expressions of love can look very different for different people.

I know, however, that for many people, love is spelled T-I-M-E. Especially for kids.

Our day ended well, with plenty of scratching in the sand and climbing on the rocks and playing in tide pools. With no photo evidence. We just explored, and watched the sky fill with pink as the sun set just before 5:00pm.

I will pay more attention to the signs around me.

on peace

2011-01-11T13:17:00.000-08:00

I came across this on the Sojourners website today- written in response to a deeply tragic political act of violence. Though we are not, perhaps, exposed to the same degree of violence in Canada, it certainly exists. I've had many conversations with friends lately about what it takes to love one another, and to not take offenses. This is such a good summary of such key biblical truths. And so I signed. Check it out for yourself.

Peace and Civility Pledge

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The church can offer a message of hope and reconciliation to a nation that is hurting and deeply divided. We urge those who claim the name of Christ to "put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).

We pledge to God and to each other that we will lead by example in a country where civil discourse and peacemaking are rare. We will work to model a better way in how we treat each other in our many communities, across religious and political lines. We will strive to create safe and sacred spaces for common prayer and community discussion as we come together to seek God's will for our nation and our world.

1.) We believe Jesus' teaching that "Blessed are those who make peace" (Matthew 5:9). We acknowledge that most of us have been guilty of violence in our hearts and with our tongues. We hold ourselves to the higher standard to which Christ called us: to refrain from not only physical violence but violence of the heart and tongue. "Do not commit murder. Anyone who murders will be judged for it," and "Do not be angry with your brother or sister" (Mathew 5:22-23).

2.) We commit that our dialogue with each other will reflect the spirit of the Scriptures, which tell us, in relating to each other, to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry" (James 1:19).

3.) We believe that each of us, and our fellow human beings, are created in the image of God. This belief should be reflected in the honor and respect we show to each other, particularly in how we speak. "With the tongue we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God....this ought not to be so" (James 3:9,10).

4.) We pledge that when we disagree, we will do so respectfully, without falsely impugning the other's motives, attacking the other's character, or questioning the other's faith. We will be mindful of our language, being neither arrogant nor boastful in our beliefs as we strive to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love" (Ephesians 4:2).

5.) We recognize that we cannot function together as citizens of the same community, whether local or national, unless we are mindful of how we treat each other. Each of us must therefore "put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body" (Ephesians 4:25).

6.) We commit to pray for our political leaders - those with whom we agree or disagree. "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made -- for kings and all who are in high positions" (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

7.) We believe that it is more difficult to hate others, even adversaries and enemies, when we are praying for them. We commit to pray for each other, those with whom we agree and those with whom we may disagree, so that we may be faithful witnesses to our Lord, who prayed "that they may be one" (John 17:22).

Affirmed and signed by,

Kali Gillespie

what's new around here...

2011-01-10T22:59:00.000-08:00

:: an 8 month-old baby-on-the-move. Crawling, sitting, scooting, rolling. Doing whatever it takes to get anything that looks the least like a toy into his mouth as fast as possible.

:: sweet friendships made with precious family-loving, baby-wearing, creative, smart, stylin',strong, passionate God-fearing women at the Above Rubies retreat this past weekend. I feel so blessed.

:: a big batch of homemade babyfood: pureed organic cauliflower, yams and brown rice cereal. Our little man likes food all of a sudden. (And the rest of the gang thinks it's pretty good too...pureed yams for dinner? Who knew?)

:: a skiff of white snow on the ground.

:: knitted dance socks finished (no toe, no heel. Super cute if I do say so. Photos to come.)

:: anticipation for all 2011 holds. So much good stuff in the works...God, you amaze me over and over again...

lovin' life

2011-01-07T14:33:00.001-08:00

eli loving life :), originally uploaded by knitsprout.

A quick photo of my smiling li'l 5'er. Life according to him is full tilt and full volume, all the time. Love him.

Aaannnd...I'll enjoy a wee little break from him, and the rest of the crew away this weekend as I spontaneously leave in 20 minutes for an Above Rubies conference on the mainland. Crazy and interesting timing in many ways.

Back on Monday!

a place to call home

2011-01-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

Skating on ponds and puddles is a novel treat in these parts. Our few days of sun and ice have been replaced by our more familiar grey drizzle. Guess we'll be making our own fun today.

Indoors or outdoors, rain or shine- we love this place.

time for art...

2011-01-05T23:20:00.001-08:00

After a small hint accompanied by a photo, my Dad constructed this art caddy for our family. Today we pulled out the supplies and crafted some thank-you notes for our generous grandmas & grandpas who gifted us lavishly this Christmas. They've been popped in the mail so I'll give the recipients a chance to see them in real life before seeing them here.

And yes- I'm having fun with my new lens. Now if I could only figure out white balance. And get this template figured out while going to bed at a decent hour. And...the baby wakes...

I want to blow grace...

2011-01-04T22:46:00.000-08:00

At the end of church on Sunday, we were asked to consider what we'd like to leave behind from 2010 as we enter 2011. My first answer had to do with perfectionism & procrastination, but today, something else came to mind.

Anger and resentment.

There are not many people or situations that I really take offense to. But there are certain times when I just have such a hard time moving past my pride and the fact that what's going on is just not stinkin' fair. I love the idea of moving in the complete opposite direction to what my reaction might want to be as my guide to knowing how to respond well. Feeling afraid? Move forward in courage. Feeling anxious? Flip it to excitement. Frustrated? Choose to let it go. Disappointed with someone or something? Express kind & encouraging words. Offended? It has to be forgiveness.

Even when I don't feel heard. Or respected. Or understood. Actually, it's especially in those times. And it's not about "sucking it up." To me, that means swallowing a pill of bitterness and letting it dissolve and settle in my innermost...allowing the seeds of anger to fully take root.

Instead, it's blowing out...grace and kindness, goodness and strength. To change the atmosphere, to change me.

I don't want to suck it up, I want to blow it out.

God, blow your grace all over this place. All over me.

plank baby

2011-01-03T22:26:00.000-08:00

Before baby Will is officially a crawler (and he's getting close), I thought I'd better post a picture of this hilarious "plank" stage. He's such a strong little guy, and ready to be keeping up with the big kids. So cute.

I've been fiddling with a new template and my Flickr uploaders around here today and if anyone has any tips to expedite the process of managing & uploading nice big photos to this place, I'm all ears.

After reading reviews for a couple months, I got a new lens today and can't wait to shoot some photos tomorrow. Hopefully some smiling faces captured will make the transition back-to-school even more fun for us all.

2011-01-02T17:35:00.001-08:00

We went on a beautiful hike with my sister and our families this afternoon. I got all geared up with my big lens, thinking it'd be fun to play with low light and long shadows and faces and bokeh.

And forgot to put the battery in... but I will attempt to capture snippets of what made for a great Sunday afternoon.

An incredible bald eagle sat perched only 30 ft away from our path, patiently sitting through little people's chatter, long enough to let us all have a good long look.

A colourful array of stripey sweaters and vests and polka dotted mei tai's and too big mitts and too small mitts and hand knitted hats donned our bodies, and water bottles and gators and runners in every size, colour and condition imaginable made up the necessary gear.

We wandered through groves of arbutus trees like I've never seen before. All packed in tight together, with our narrow path winding through, their branch-less shiny poles stood nearly straight up instead of the usual graceful curves we so often see.

A panoramic view awaited us at the top of our climb, overlooking the peninsula and the fields below, high enough to see flocks flying below us and ice capped Mt Baker in the faraway distance. Little wanderers were wooed back from the lure of a slippery edge, with promises of broken candy cane pieces for each little hiker displaying an (obligatory) cheerful countenance.

We took the shorter chilly descent back down , with dawdling preschoolers clutched on our backs to quicken the pace. Let's take the "luupe" back down, said Franz, his German accent more apparent with certain words, making the excursion feel somehow more alpine and foreign.

Such a good weekend to remember as we welcome in 2011 with sun and ice and laughter and friends and family.

Now

2011-01-01T08:23:00.000-08:00

I really like January 1st.

I also like early mornings, especially Monday mornings... blank sheets of paper with a fine tip black pen, a reason to purge old stuff, and this overlap of weeks where looking back and looking ahead is so naturally part of the rhythm of life.

I like fresh starts.

What I don't like as much? The second-guessing of the plans I make in the moments of supposed clarity and reflection. I am the complete opposite of impulsive. I deliberate, ponder, analyze and...wait.

I'm thinking my mind-flopping habits are really a form of procrastination. And if I'm really honest, there's a lingering fear that I may be wrong, or that I may be missing out on something, or that what I'm doing is not going to produce the very best...results? Somehow? In the most efficient way?

It comes out in all sorts of ways for me. Not hanging pictures on walls, not writing in baby books or albums, not blogging because I'm not entirely happy with my writing or photography, not sewing and saving my beautiful fabrics for the *best* possible project. Ahem. The trends are becoming more obvious and it sounds alot like getting stuck in perfectionism. Me? In so many ways I'm definitely the first to say "good enough". I guess that is really rooted in the same thing. If I call something finished, I have to face what my efforts really look like.

So I feel like my theme for 2011 is Now.

Do it Now.
Trust in the Now.
Be present and alive and grateful in the Now.

Hold back nothing in the Now.

I like it.

on light...

2010-12-13T07:32:00.000-08:00

Thinking about Hannukah...we celebrated 8 days of light this year with my little crafted mennorah and daily (not quite) bible readings on God and light. Remembering that Jesus himself observed Hannukah, we were intrigued to learn more about this celebration of the rededication of the temple. The eight candles represent the miraculous provision of oil for the lamp that appeared only enough for one day, but lasted for eight days. I pulled a book of my homeschool shelf, and visited plenty of beautiful websites and blogs for ideas on how to include this meaningful holiday into the rhythm of our family & faith.

I loved the idea of rededicating ourselves to God and the leading of His spirit in this time so full of obligations and needs. Seeing candles & lights everywhere has given me the quick visual reminder of Oh yeah...You are the light- the source...My source. It's been good.

Today, in the chilly outdoors with patches of warmth in the sunshine, I have been humming away to Sara Groves, "You are the Sun". Her lyrics are beautiful poetry and just speak to my heart... go have a listen. I am the moon...

You are the sun shining down on everyone
Light of the world giving light to everything I see
Beauty so brilliant I can hardly take it in
And everywhere you are is warmth and light

And I am the moon with no light of my own
Still you have made me to shine
And as I glow in this cold dark night
I know I canít be a light unless I turn my face to you

You are the sun shining down on everyone
Light of the world giving light to everything I see
Beauty so brilliant I can hardly take it in
And everywhere you are is warmth and light

And I am the moon with no light of my own
Still you have made me to shine
And as I glow in this cold dark night
I know I canít be a light unless I turn my face to you

Shine on me with your light
Without you Iím a cold dark stone
Shine on me I have no light of my own
You are the sun, you are the sun, you are the sun
And I am the moon

fully alive

2010-12-08T15:33:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful thing to watch a gift slowly being unwrapped...to see someone unfolding & becoming. I had so much fun watching Emma dance at her open house last week.

The past week has been full of rehearsals, recitals & concerts. I can get hung up in the weariness of organizing clothes and food and schedules, but in the moments of shining, I'm pretty thankful.

I sometimes joke with my kids, especially when they're protesting photos that, "It's my job to make you guys look as good as possible." And I guess what I mean by that is that I want to help them fully become who they already are. Being in the fullness of who they were created to be, and loving it. And me taking photos to remember the moments.

"The glory of God is man fully alive." St. Irenaeus of Lyons.

I really believe that. And I know I'm most satisfied when I'm being in the fullness of who I am. Enjoying Him in music and dance and making stuff with my hands. Being outside, and playing with my little ones. Loving on the brokenhearted and serving the hurting. Making time for writing and dreaming and creating.

This is as much a pep talk for myself as I prepare for another "busy" weekend...it's all about the fullness of life He came for. And the life that is fully lived is, mysteriously, the life that is simultaneously being laid down for Him.

"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” -John 10:10

snow days!

2010-11-25T06:46:00.000-08:00

There's snow in these parts!

I have finally got the bounty of snow gear organized well enough to at least make sure no-one needs to wear my boots, and to accommodate the steady flow of drippy wet items coming in the door. Much sledding happiness abounds. And yes, school is open. The line around here is, "you can do schoolwork for 3 hours... and still play for 10!"

Miles & Al are discussing whether it's a foot or a mere 9 inches.

And it's still coming down...

mmm, yummy

2010-11-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since knitsprout has posted about knits. The knitting is definitely a little slower around here...trying to keep all plates spinning in the homeschooling department is taking up most of my creative energies. But I couldn't resist making a fun new earflap for the Willster, in this gorgeously yummy self-striping yarn. Knitting it up was like savouring big-kid candy for me. The pattern is a dream to knit up and I've made a handful of these earflaps with cables and without.

Today...piano lessons, spelling tests, a little skating, choir...ans maybe snow? And wiping runny noses as the first cold of the fall hits our little guys (Will's first sniffle- boo.) Have a good weekend everyone!

St.Martin

2010-11-12T22:50:00.001-08:00

We went to our first St.Martin's Lantern Day festival yesterday. Lisa invited us after hearing about it through Eden's German preschool. I figured this might be the closest things I could get to a European vacation this year, and since Emma & Aaron have been studying German and are booked to go to Austria next July, we thought it'd be a fun cultural event to take in.

The lanterns were gorgeously colourful and fun (though I have yet to get the hang of photography in the dark). Hearing the German voices all around us as we paraded along had Lis & I chuckling at each other, reminded of how silly you feel when you don't have a clue what anyone around you is saying!

The pretzels were soft and yummy, the cider hot and the fire warm. I do think we've found ourselves a new tradition.

on being out

2010-11-11T10:37:00.000-08:00

I love taking the kids to favorite places of my childhood. Saxe Point Park gives me that warm kinda happy place memory every time I go...I love the rocks, the open ocean views, the lush expanse of green and the winding paths to explore. The tucked away little bay is a treasure trove of beach glass and driftwood and tidepools to dip fingers in. It was a perfect little one hour getaway for me while Al was at a meeting- and a treat when he could meet up with us after.

Always, the note-to-self moment hits me at these times... get outside, every single day, with no agenda but to be out. of. the. house. Why is it that the inside tasks threaten to overtake my best intentions to just *be* in the moment of today? Being outside slows me down. It makes me happy. I breathe slower & more deeply and laugh more and play more.

And I love to take a few photos... to remember the days of fun outings with littles, and the littles that get bigger, and the hubs that you grow fonder of every time you get to just hang out.

Today- the rain has stopped and the sun is shining. Time to get out there.

reading is fun!

2010-11-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

Oh happy day- November 3rd has brought forth another "delighted" reader to the family. Isabel came busting around the corner with "The Littles" in hand, proudly declaring,

"Mom- I just read, like, 3 pages in only 10 minutes! This is SO cool!"

...and the line I've been longing to hear for a few years now...

"Can I just read in bed 'till you come up to tuck us in?"

Reading came a little easier and earlier for my first two and my experiences with them have been more about trying to keep the reading in balance with the rest of life. Finding them with lights on when they should have been out, picking up mountains of requested Boxcar Childrens by Emma at age 7, and desperately searching for appropriate adventure novels for Aaron when he was devouring a book a day at age 8...and it has just continued from there...they both adore books and reading.

I have learned so much about emerging readers as I have patiently waited for the "aha" moment to happen...but while I have gently persisted through our phonics lessons a little bit every day, and have taken them on regular trips to the library hoping to find that perfect book to spark a new interest, and have read many many stories aloud over the past 3-5 years with Miles & Isabel, I've been eagerly anticipating this day to come.

"Oh, Mom....I think I'm going to have SO much FUN with this!"

Welcome to the world of books sweet Isabel!

Barb's stand

2010-11-02T07:18:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Isabel took me, Eli & Will for a walk. I have been hearing about "Barb's stand" for probably more than a year now as Isabel & Miles come home on Saturdays sharing a cheese scone after "helping Barb"- and though we spend time with our neighbours who own the property, I hadn't yet been to the farmstand that they lease out. So we arrived, and I was instantly a bit giddy...unexpectedly reminded of how much I love love love food from the garden, baskets of chunks of homemade soaps, and piles of books with sign-out slips called lending libraries. I love "honour systems", I love places that are not glossy & perfect and have floors that need a sweep and a have place to leave a note just to say hi. I love that the cooler inside is full of bread & brownies, and that the coffee pot is on, and that the clock is covered with a piece of paper that says, "who cares!". I loved the kale starters outside, the pile of "help yourself" garlic cloves that were a little blemished, and the mounds of potatoes and apples and squashes and the scale and the calculator left outside to weigh your own purchases. I love my hippy Hornby Island roots that make me feel so at home in a place like this. I love that my Isabel was convinced that Barb wouldn't want us to pay for a treat (no-one was there) cause Barb always lets her have a treat and she didn't go last weekend, and I love that we left with a scone to share on the way home and a half pound of shallots after I tucked my $5 bill into the money box. Next time, the camera comes for sure.

5 months...

2010-10-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

...of soft & squishy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This fella of mine is one delicious chubster. He's sitting, rolling, chatting, laughing...he loves cuddles at night, would probably love some food (but we'll hold him off a little longer) and is generally one sweet happy baby.

So much to recap over the past week...for today, I'm loving the warm fall sun, still more raspberries, picking up the knitting again, and getting back into the groove with kids and food and everyday goodness at home...as I rest in Him.

loving kindness

2010-10-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

Grandma's 90th birthday celebration- April 8th, 2010

These are the words that come to mind when I think of Grandma Vi. So loving, so kind.
And it's hard to accept she is gone. When Dad phoned yesterday afternoon to tell us that Gram had died earlier that day, I felt instant grief and sadness. Suddenly, all I wanted was to know that I could still go see if her if I wanted to...to sit beside her on the couch, to hold her hand, to have her smile and laugh with whichever little one I had with me to visit.

I loved her smiling eyes, her chuckle, the way she always called me Kal, the way she smiled and nodded and murmured "oh yes" when she often couldn't hear what exactly she was agreeing with. Always encouraging, always with a warm greeting extended to the neighbours in the hall and always one to love a quick conversation with whomever had a moment to stop and chat- Gram was sociable and a lighthearted in so many ways.

She loved our kids and it was sad for me to tell them. Watching them experience grief and loss of their great-grandma Vi was a first for this mama... as they all had relationship with her in their own ways. I used to love watching Miles just gazing at her, kind of intrigued and delighted by her great-grandma-ness. Emma & Aaron were so tenderhearted towards her and always had arms open for a hug and a chat. The little ones would visit and bounce and be wild- just like Lisa & I would when we were young- because she was fun and we knew her home was a safe place to be ourselves. She took in all the craziness we brought with us, incredibly patient and genuine in her delight of the company and amusement we provided.

This sweet lady was positive beyond belief! She was no stranger to loss and heartache over the years- yet ended every conversation with, "but I've had such a good life...so many good memories...". Gram loved music and her piano was a faithful companion especially in these last years. As I think about the hours she must have spent on that bench I'm convinced that the praise she sent up to the heavens is what shaped her to become the beautiful person she was.

So much more to say and think about and remember. Gram, I miss you already. But I am so inspired to live a life abundant with gratefulness and delight for family, friendships, music, and letter-writing, knowing that it is all from Him. And to know that every good and perfect gift comes from above.

thankful

2010-10-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

...for sunshine, harvests, and homecomings.

growing babies

2010-09-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

We hiked up Bear Hill on Sunday- a great little climb closeby where we all get some exercises, enjoy some outdoor beauty and the pause in the everyday that outdoor adventures create. And like always, when I get a chance to be with my whole family at once (which, apart from mealtimes, is becoming more & more difficult)...I get a little reflective, a little pensive, a little whimsical and even a little teary. Cause, oh MY, it's going so fast...

I think it's when the transition happens from needing-to-be-carried-everywhere to hiking-up-a whole-mountain-by myself that especially bewilders me. Especially when said hiker talks your ear off the whole way up & back.

So who's the baby in the fuzzy blue suit? Wasn't this you just yesterday?

Will & Papa- Bear Hill- Sept 2010

Ethan & Mama- Mackenzie Byte- Jan 2008.

This could easily spiral into a series of babies in backpacks in beautiful locales and I could spend far too long looking for pictures that keep coming to mind now...

Today- I will remember that babies become 3 year olds before I know it...and that's just the beginning. Stop, breathe, hold on...and let go.

oh september, you are such a full-on month...

2010-09-23T07:17:00.000-07:00

photoless snapshots around here include:

:: homeschool schedules & new curricula implemented & tweaked...by the minute.
:: becoming friends with my crockpot again
:: slowly making progress on a *fun* sewing project (the fact that is really has been fun is a breakthrough in & of itself. More to come on that.)
:: raspberry picking and raspberries for lunch and raspberry freezing as jam-making must wait!
:: tomato harvesting with the annual arrival of pounds of green tomatoes donning every flat, sunny indoor surface of my home.
:: playdough, painting, piano-playing and other preschool delights with my 3 & 5 er's.
:: the back of Al's head at the computer as he answers 200+ emails a day.
:: a baby who has suddenly decided 3:00-4:00am is a really fun time to be awake.

Though I am looking forward to the pace settling a bit, I do love the enthusiasm that comes with September. Piles of library books coming home for history projects, kids at the piano, new choir pieces pumping through the ipod, plies & kicks at the kitchen island...kids on bikes, muddy hands & feet as the garden harvest is hauled in daily... it feels rich & abundant and full of life.

For that I'm really thankful.

dinnertime humour

2010-09-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

A few hilarities at our table tonight:

Isabel: " Mom, this chicken is SOOOOO good. It tastes EXACTLY like beef jerky." When I chuckled and told her that my intention was tender roast chicken, she laughed and said, "Don't worry Mom- I'm a girl who likes her meat tough. "

Good thing, I guess. We had a great homeschool day plus raspberry picking and bike-riding, but apparently dinner prep suffered a little. Hey, it was a hit nonetheless!

Here's another:

Eli: "Don't cry baby Will- we're eating chicken, not YOU."
Reassuring words from a 5 yo to a 4 mo old.

And the last from dear Miles,

"Ah, nothing like gazing upon such a divine-looking carcass."

Whose kids are these anyway?! Oh, they make me laugh.

4 months

2010-09-09T21:54:00.000-07:00

My sweet little man- I can't get enough of you.

I always want to stop & snuggle, squeeze your chubby thighs for a giggle and tuck you in beside me for your nightime feeds and cuddle.

You chat and smile and blurp and laugh and no-one can make it past your engaging eyes without checking in for a quick bounce or tickle or nibble.

I'm really glad you're here.

reading lessons

2010-09-07T22:37:00.000-07:00

Eli: "Does an S and a P and two big circles spell OOPS?"

An appropriate first word from this little guy on his first day of kindergarten at home.

Hopefully this is a sign that reading will come easy for this one- we've had two reading fluently and painlessly, one that still struggles, and one that can read but would much rather be beading or crafting or rope-swinging. Says Isabel, "Why would I read when there's so much to DO?"

All so different. I wonder what this homeschool year holds for each one of us?

focus

2010-09-05T22:14:00.001-07:00

The expression, "you can't see the forest for the trees" was coming to mind the other day. I had to look it up (thanks google) to make sure I wasn't getting it wrong- but I was right- it's missing the big picture because you're so focused on the details.

I think I've been having a harder time doing the opposite.

Looking around at my home, my garden, my little people, I find it easy to remind myself of the who we are and what we are trying to be about- but get discouraged by how untidy the process can be. The weeds amongst the veggies, the thistles amongst the flowers, the sinkful of dishes to produce a good meal are all such a part of what is going on around here.

Sometimes I can't see the trees for the forest...and as such I forget tobe thankful for the beauty around me.

So I went looking for some beauty in the details...and I'm no photographer, but I so love how much better everything looks up-close than amidst the clutter.

Our hollyhocks went crazy this year- stalks loaded with blooms that climbed up and over the door leading to our deck.
Our one & only ornamental sunflower that managed to get planted in the otherwise weedy center patch of our garden.

Beets! A successful little planting this year- as they seem to be hardy to nearly all conditions.
My climbing rose..which also thrives on neglect (and a vigorous pruning last year)
Four purple cabbages- also thriving and tasty...

And a gorgeous chubalub that requires milky sweetness and snuggles every few hours...much more fun than weeding...

flying...

2010-09-04T23:17:00.000-07:00

O that I had wings like a dove,
then I would fly away and be at rest.
psalm 55:6

Fun to watch you today Dad.
Happy Birthday.

razzleberries & cukemumbers

2010-09-01T21:00:00.000-07:00

I interrupt this nearly 2 month blogging fast with some glimpses of yesterday's garden favorites! And I am reminded of how much I do love capturing the moments in photos.

This post also reminds me how much I have wrestled with investing my time in blogging. I have gleaned so much information, inspiration and friendship over the years from other's contributions- but have had such a hard time getting here myself. How do others do it- and do all the things they blog about?! And raise 7 children, and seek the Lord, and exercise, and manage to craft a few sentences while someone else is talking or asking questions nearly all day?
Any bloggers out there care to share their secrets?

Like anything else we choose to do, I guess it comes down to priorities. For me, it usually means that having something in my life has become so non-negotiable that it is no longer is difficult to choose whether its an optional activity or not. But the choice to act on it remains- the stepping in, the showing up...whatever you want to call it. And I feel that way about journalling, taking photos and getting the thoughts down somehow. Probably more for the process of doing it than the outcome...the time to reflect, and see and listen to what is going on around me and in me.

I think a whole 'nother post is in the making on the contemplative life.

For now, razzleberry jam-making awaits!

windows

2010-07-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

This house has had some serious renovations over the past many years of its existence- I wish I had photos of them all. Only stories pass through about what used to have been- the kitchen that was a the master bedroom, the pantry that was the bathroom, the original living room that stood alone for 40-odd years before the rest of the house. I love that we live in a place with so much history, and I love the quirks that come with years of changes & adaptations. One day I'll make a photo montage of what we've done over the past three years of being here. This week's improvement makes me excited though- more windows in our main living space! The dark wall has begged for more windows since we've been here- to see out into the beautiful forest and to allow more light in to brighten our long dark fall & winter season.

So thankful that my Dad came to help out! There's still the finishing inside to do, but it looks great.

In a mysterious way, God used this project to show me the walls in my own life. How He will provide windows of light to show the beauty of who He is, and what He is doing when we allow our own walls to come down. I have felt strangely guarded in my spirit since Will's birth. I think my intense pressing in and battling against fear made me want to tuck in and hold tight for awhile. Not the response I expected from myself beforehand, but awareness hit me last week and I feel like I've come out of that. I'm back. And I'm loving the Light in my life.

cassidy lace

2010-07-07T07:08:00.001-07:00

This is actually called Jasmine Lace Cardigan from Laura Harding's Natural Knits for Mom & Baby, but it deserves a rename for the sweet little one it was made for. This is my first lace project, and my first baby sweater in recent years (I put down my knitting needles for abut 15 years before picking them up again around 18 months ago. And have hardly put them down since!) I have never been satisfied with my finishing, though it certainly helps to have videos online now. This time I took it all in to the Beehive and asked for a quick tutorial. It was fun spending 15 minutes with an expert knitter, and even nicer to have my fine little knit applauded. I'm looking forward to seeing it on her!

oh july, things are looking good!

2010-07-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Maybe this sounds selfish, but the main reason I began blog has been for *me*. Well, and for my family- anywhere that I can get down some snippets of daily life and hold on to these times is important to me. I've always taken lots of photos, but getting the words down has been my weak spot for sure. I'm hoping that getting a wee bit more consistent here will help me capture some of the moments that photos alone don't always capture.

I've also had fun lately playing with all these sweet new design templates! I recall not blogging at all for a couple years because I couldn't decide on a name. And I get stuck if I don't like the way things look...and I'm the same at home. For certain things- like sewing and scrapbooking- I have this need for a great "set-up" in order to make it happen. So I have spent more time over the years doing that...numerous "sewing stations" have been set-up, and pictures have been organized and re-organized to make them easier to get into albums. So I'm a bit like that with this spot too- setting up, changing formats and designing, playing with names, and my favorite...fonts! (That is a story of its own.) But I do want to make it a place I enjoy coming to more than other places on the web. Just like my home.

So, more building and setting up to come- because it's fun for me. And more lists of favorite resources, blogs & websites I visit over the years. I like to have these things in one place, and for those who have mentioned wanting to get into my head or follow me around to see how I do life...maybe this will help you too.

Enjoy this hot sunny day- oh, how we have waited for this!

fun things I learned this week...

2010-06-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

:: how to knit lace. I adore knitting cables- the texture and interest just appeal to me. I thought lace should, in theory, provide a similar thrill, but have always stumbled over the patterns, keeping track of yarn-overs counting stitches. I do believe I tackled this one though- and it fun to have a nice soft bamboo yarn to work with in the summer months. Chunky wool cables in the winter and breezy bamboo or cotton laces in the summer...I think I'm on to something. This is the border from a sweet baby girl sweater I've got on the go- finished photos to come soon, I hope! And yes, I even managed a few rows while nursing wee Will.

:: gluten-free buns that actually taste good. I borrowed "Healthy Breads in 5 Minutes a Day" from the library for its GF section, and now that I have all the unusual baking ingredients in my pantry, this will be my go-to recipe for bread products & pizza crusts, for my wheat & gluten-free boys.

I love trying (and hopefully mastering) new things in my everyday life, and I hope that is something I have modelled for my kids. I have certainly had my share of flops too- knitting or sewing projects that have been pulled apart and re-started many times, or recipes that just don't taste the way I hoped, but those just make the successes that much more satisfying.

What's on your list for things you want to learn or try, this summer or this year?

a good day

2010-06-19T20:07:00.000-07:00

:: a morning of garage sales, just Dad and the kids. Everyone found a screamin' deal to come home excited about. Two huge lego bases and two pairs of stilts didn't make the photo. Can you guess who was most excited about each item?

:: just me & a sleepy babe at home meant some time at the sewing machine for me. I've been wrestling with zippers and rubbery fabric intermittently this week, but I beat them into submission today and came up with two waterproof bags. The small one will be for toting clean washcloths for messy faces and diaper changes, the big one will be for wet cloth dipes or accidentally piddled-in clothing.

:: an afternoon visit with Grandma Vi and my sweet smiling 6-weeker.

I'm happy & thankful.