Christmas Presents

This Christmas was probably one of my all time favourite. I think it is because I now have a toddler that is so excited about...well, everything. It really inspired me to make the holidays as bright as I could. I tried to make all our Christmas gifts this year, as many that time would allow, and included Odessa in the making process where I could. Stella was there helping too, although, I think she will get more out of it next year.

Instead of her toys, Odessa played with breakable Christmas ornaments. I would hang them up high, and she would figure out how to get them down. I can't tell you how many times I said the words "put it back" and how many times she responded "no, mommy".

Stella really does like Christmas - just not hats.

So, so much icing was consumed in this gingerbread making session.

I started gathering Christmas recipes this year, something I have never done before. I am pleased to tell you that this will be made every year from now on.

I made this for my mom - I call it a "knitting needle roll-up". Great for storing all her knitting needles and crochet hooks.

This bag was sewn for my sister. It is an Amy Butler pattern which I love. I'm thinking about making one for myself as well.

lots and lots of chopped ginger to make...

lots and lots of this!

Small loaves of gingerbread were given to family and friends.

getting ready...

Little bit of a break there. We were all dealing with sicknesses and have been busy getting ready for the holidays. I am happy to say that gifts have been made, baking is done (almost), cards have been sent - and there is still a whole week left! I have never been this organized at Christmas time, and it actually kind of amazes me. I am excited to show you what I have been sewing/knitting/baking, however, it will have to wait until after Christmas since they are gifts for people who stop by here on occasion.

I hope every one is slowing down and remembering to enjoy the little things at this hectic time of year. Easier said then done, I know...but it's worth it.

Alpaca Farm

We headed out to the Alberta Rose Alpaca Farm early Sunday morning to visit with the animals and check out the yarn and knitted items they had for sale. It was such a great morning! Odessa and Stella enjoyed watching the animals...at a safe distance, of course (apparently, they spit!). The alpacas are very, very cute, and they all had names - all fifty of them!

I thoroughly enjoyed looking at the yarn they had for sale. I came away with a 100g hank of 100%, undyed alpaca yarn.

My mom also bought me this beautiful scarf which is so soft and very warm.

This kinda makes me wish I could keep some alpacas in our backyard. They would like that, right?

Happy Halloween!

Hope you all had a happy Halloween!

We sure did!

Living Simply with Children

"Simplicity and childhood are natural counterparts. Left to their own devices, children lead down-to-earth, uncomplicated, genuine lives" 

- Marie Sherlock

I am enjoying this book so very much right now. Written by a "simple living" advocate, and mother of two, it has given me some more wonderful ideas when it comes to living simply. It's amazing how having children changes your beliefs. It makes you more aware of your surroundings, it transforms your values, and children help you to see the little things.  Ever since Odessa was born last year, we have slowly been trying to live "simpler", not only for us, but the environment. To name a few; we now buy used clothing whenever possible, use a library card (a LOT), become more aware of where we are spending our money, and have been using household products for cleaning. This book has just helped me to refocus and to realize, even more, what matters most in families.  

The first part of the book explains why kids/families need important rituals, less "stuff", and less exposure to corporate America. The second part of the book goes on to explain how to follow through and raise environmentally conscious children. There is also a good portion dedicated to helping kids with peer pressure. Very useful information for any family wanting to simplify.

Favorite Photo Friday

looking up

Last week was long and tiring. It felt like there was no time to be creative, as both kids were sick with colds. Helping them feel more comfortable was my number one priority. On top of that, there were plumbing issues to be fixed, a run-in with a moose, and what felt like mountains of laundry to be done (I had fallen a little behind). But, it's the beginning of a new week, and everyone is safe and getting healthy and has clean clothes once again. Time to start enjoying autumn.

Beach Day

Yesterday morning we packed up our things and headed out to the beach. Since it was a Monday, we were all by ourselves most of the time. We spent the day searching for frogs and fish and watching birds. What a beautiful day in September.

Saturday

Saturday really was a perfect day. Both babies napped for four hours...at the same time! I couldn't believe it. It was so nice to get some cleaning/relaxing/baking/knitting in during the day. Usually, I have to wait until the evening, and chances are, I don't feel like doing anything at that point.

The apple raspberry pie turned out beautifully. Trust me, if the kids hadn't been sleeping, it would've been a lot darker...and crispier...

Odessa enjoyed some good play time in the garden.

In the evening we headed over to my grandparents house for a wonderful meal cooked over a fire. It was such a nice night, and because of the long nap mentioned earlier, both babies were in wonderful moods.

We ate and talked and laughed. 

Summer

new friends

new love

new experiences

new vegetables

new smiles

new places