of grateful praise

2012-01-02T13:51:00.000-08:00

What a fine little family day we had today.

Visiting The Page Museum, La Brea Tarpits.

Admiring the excavated bones of the Wooly Mammoth.

Gazing upon the multitude of Wolf craniums.

Feeling the weight of the tar, as we tried our hand at pulling it.

Learning about the Sabertooth Cat.

Observing the bubbling pits.

Finding random bits of tar coming up from the earth as we exited.

Running up and down the perfect grassy hill.

Driving to the Helms.

Watching the coolest water fountain.

Hoping to finally try this place for lunch.

Only to find out they were closed. But eating at a fabulous little French restaurant instead. And coming home with these lovely chocolate macarons.

Thankful for days like these.

2011-12-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we enjoyed a beautiful afternoon and evening at the Balboa Bay Yacht Club & Resort, slowing down to savor the season at the Newport Beach Boat Parade. My mom and stepdad normally charter a boat, and our whole family boards to partake in food, drinks & the boat parade. This year, we did things a little different. It was SO nice. They booked a room overlooking the bay. We arrived early. We didn't have to fight the crowds for traffic and parking. It gets a little ugly out there this time of year. We got there early and enjoyed the lovely day. The boys saw the patch of sand from the room and asked to go play.

Ezra saw a man who was a little plump, he had white hair and a beard, and was wearing a Santa hat. Ezra yelled "SANTA!" and pointed with excitement, and wonder. I on the other hand, wondered if I should quiet him down, or let the man believe he really did appear to be Santa!

The boys enjoyed moments of quietly observing the beauty around.

They also, proudly donned these Santa hats. Which they chose as their one treat at the store the other day. They actually put their toys that they had originally chosen down at the register after seeing these hats.

Gorgeous colors amazed us at sundown.

We enjoyed every minute.

The boys buried themselves in the sand. Collected shells. Dug in the wet sand. Ran freely. Simple childhood joys.

We enjoyed the final colors of sunset from our balcony.

And Silas was content to crawl freely all over the room.

We headed down to the restaurant for an incredible dinner. The boys sat wonderfully for the entire two hour meal, and we watched the beautifully decorated boats pass. We then headed back to the room and enjoyed the boat parade from the balcony. It was so much fun. And relaxing. But after lots of play and good times, Isaak asked "will somebody please make us leave." Which signaled that it was WAY passed the boys' bedtime and we had officially wore them out! A beautiful night.

2011-12-14T16:40:00.000-08:00

Today brought a very unexpected drive out to North Malibu. It was a lovely drive.

On the way back, we needed some lunch. We drove past this pier, and it called out to me. I listened. So we turned the car around and parked. We headed to the pier and breathed in the beauty of the day.

There were birds everywhere. Which we thoroughly enjoyed.

The pier is so cool. It has really thick doors leading in, so it feels castle-ish. Fun.

I love an old wooden pier. And it is so fun to look beneath the cracks at the ocean underneath. The boys had fun exploring.

This is what brought us out on the pier. I thought it would be lovely to enjoy lunch at Ruby's with the boys. Unfortunately, when we made it all the way out, we found out that they were closed down.

But it didn't matter, we were having too much fun. We noticed this boat being lowered down to the water.

We went closer to investigate how. Look at that water. The color is gorgeous. It is so much cleaner than the oceans we are used to exploring.

We ended our time on the pier with some lovely folk at the bait and gift store. They spent quite a bit of time teaching the boys about local fishing techniques and the local fish. It was awesome.

I love when a day turns out to be a total spontaneous surprise. We had a job to do. We did it. And had fun along the way.

2011-12-13T15:39:00.000-08:00

We visited LACMA today. It was outstanding. Our group decided to go here since we were unsure of the rain today. Only a few of us ended up going. I actually intended to opt out. I felt the need to be on a trail in nature somewhere, despite the possibility of rain. But my boys longed for their friends, and so... we ventured forth. It was our first time visiting LACMA. It is rather close to our new home, so it was great to finally get the chance to go check it out. Of course, before taking 3 boys to an art museum, there was some behavior prep. That great talk about museum manners. Rules and order. And off we went.

Our first sight was this gorgeous installation as we exited from the parking garage elevator...

With the rains yesterday, the sky was just beautiful. It really was a lovely day. We were waiting to meet a few friends, so I had the boys look at each of the animal sculptures, pick their favorite and take some time to sketch them. We brought clipboards and pencils. My boys LOVE their clipboards.

Ezra picked the horse...

Isaak picked the monkey...

They happily sketched as we awaited our friends arrival.

We then set out to discover this beauty...

This light installation is fabulous. Not only is it beautiful, but it's a very fun maze for the boys to get out their energy before they are expected to have their museum manners.

We discovered a few more sculptures...

And even found a gorgeous vegetable & herb garden. We wondered if it was a working garden for the museum restaurant, or just for viewing pleasure.

As we were getting ready to enter the museum building, a friendly staff member suggested we take a few moments to fill out a form so the boys could be NextGen members. Children are always free, but with the NextGen membership, they are free until they are 18 and they each get to bring in their favorite adult for free each time they visit. Score! Even Silas got one.

The very first exhibit we came to was this...

Now, as a parent attending an art museum, you must be prepared for different types of art. Nudity, violence, etc. I am okay with that. It is art. And beautiful. This was different. Unexpected. But the kids dug it. It was a video showing people painting themselves. And there were breasts! A few pairs of them. The children were totally well behaved and were really intrigued. But when we got home, I laughed when Isaak told me that one of his friends said there were "booties." I'm thinking behinds. And there were none. So I was confused. But then he pointed to mine... "Oh, breasts." I replied. Yep. There were breasts son.

We moved on.

We walked out to see this gorgeous garland...

And then headed in here...

Where we found friendly staff inviting us to as much paper as we wanted! What? With a table of paints and brushes, pencils and markers... our children set out to create.

The boys were thrilled to paint creation after creation.

After quite a lengthy time in the children's gallery, we headed to an exhibit where a security guard warned me on the content of the room. I was so thankful, because after a moments glance, it looked like a Friday the 13th scene inside. Yikes. Like I mentioned before, things like this must be expected when visiting an art museum. As we left, I had to answer Isaak's question of why it was not appropriate for us to go inside to view the exhibit. Every moment is an opportunity to learn.

We headed to the Art of America room instead. Which was a much safer place to be. We found awesome mid century designs like this...

When we were done there, we headed out to try to find our friends. But I became distracted by this...

HERE'S WHY.

We also stumbled upon some pretty graphic art focusing in Jesus. This art I didn't mind the kids being exposed to at all. There was nudity. There was blood. There were wounds. And very visible emotions. The boys took it in. And Isaak knew exactly what it was all about. It was a beautiful moment to see him really soaking it in.

We moved on. And spent the most time with this piece of art. I do think it was BOTH of my boys' favorite. I'm not sure why, but they were truly captivated by this piece. Taking in every detail. Every nook and cranny of the canvas. I kinda liked it too. :)

For not wanting to partake in this outing today, it turned out to be a truly magnificent day. The boys did wonderfully with museum etiquette. And we enjoyed ourselves. As always, I am truly grateful to be able to experience these moments with my children.

As we were exiting the museum I was thinking these thoughts to myself. We entered the car. And Isaak says "Hey mom... I didn't fart that whole time we were at the museum. I had to. But I just kept holding them in. But mom, I'm going to now. It feels so good. Because our bodies need to fart to live."

Oh, beautiful museum days with boys.

Go have fun at LACMA.

2011-12-01T14:44:00.000-08:00

Our homeschool group was invited to participate in our friends' homeschool group's handcraft fair. Since we attended the very first one several months ago, Isaak was excited to be a part of it. Being a part of a handcraft fair is quite a bit of work. Because there are many aspects to cover when becoming a craftsman and selling your goods. It has been loads of fun.

We first spent just enough time researching what Isaak wanted to create. He first decided upon some airplanes made of clothespins and popsicle sticks. We got the materials and after just a short time, he decided this was NOT the handcraft he wanted to create. Normally, I would've urged him to continue. To finish what he had started. But this was something he had to own. I wanted him to be excited, not exhausted with each aspect of this event. So he changed his mind. (Don't we all?) Snow globes it would be! We found this amazing bakery supply shop just down the street and had fun finding the cutest little figures to put in the snow globes. Creating was fun. And also a lesson. We learned that some glues would work and some wouldn't. We found that some glitter clumped together, and some didn't. We had lots of trial and error. We also made rice crispy treats. We took time to discuss pricing the items. He named his shop: "Acorn Collection by Isaak." I think it is quite charming! :) He chose to give away a free acorn with every purchase. Melt my heart. We packed up the car and headed out to set up shop.

After we set up, we took some time to look around at our friends' creations. AMAZING! Seriously. These homeschool peeps don't mess around. The majority of the children in this group are quite a bit older than the children in our group. It is evidenced in their outstanding handcrafts. Take a look at their hard work...

Catapults:

Found Art Creations:

Necklaces:

Embroidery:

More Necklaces:

Shields:

Potted Flowers:

Felted Wool: {Oh, I have been longing to try a felted wool project! So adorable.}

Marshmallow Catapults:

Pressed Leaves:

Leatherwork & Macrame:

After browsing, Isaak manned the shop. He was quite the salesman.

One of his most stylish customers. I don't know why there is a stereotype of homeschool kids being "unsocialized" and "uncool." These are the sweetest, caring, most hip kids I know! Seriously. They are waaaaaay cool. In fact, I want to be their friends!

After Isaak sold out, he spent all his hard earned m$ney. He bought a catapult, a shield, a bow and arrow & a marshmallow catapult. And then he ran toward the outdoor stage to put on a show.

As Ezra looked on.

I recently attended Patchwork Indie Arts & Craft Festival in Culver City and in Long Beach. A "professional" handcraft fair. And I can honestly say these homeschool kids have their craft goin' on! They work hard. They are proud and happy. They are sweet. And they know how to sell their goods. It was a beautiful day out in nature, celebrating our kids' creativity; and providing an amazing and very well rounded "school" lesson. Watch out Patchwork!

2011-11-18T13:49:00.000-08:00

We signed up for a Nature Exchange! How fun. We were matched up with a homeschooling family from Maryland. We were to gather some nature, box it up and send it on it's way. And then, we will receive a package of nature in return.

Over the past few weeks, we have gathered just a few little tid bits here and there.

We found these little containers which were perfect. We numbered each item.

Isaak labeled each collection and we also listed where we had found the object/s.

We also sent a map of California and circled where the objects came from on the map. Isaak worked on writing the To and From addresses.

We boxed it up and it's ready to be mailed out to Maryland.

What a great experience it has been. To actively think of another throughout the day. I often heard Isaak say "lets send this to Maryland!" He also chose to send a few things that were in OUR nature collection, which I thought a very generous act. We studied maps, discovered addresses, talked about the postal system. Fun I tell ya.

And we are so excited to receive our package and explore it's contents.

What else can we exchange? This little pen pal activity makes me long for more. We tried it a long while back, and it just never took off. But maybe now? Doesn't everyone love receiving goodie mail? Lets bring back the long lost art of letter writing and parcel sending! Who's in?

2011-10-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me! 37 years I have been blessed with. Yes. 37. I had plans for today. None of which included staying in our pajamas all day and tending to one feverish boy and one cranky and slightly sick baby with an energetic big boy in the mix. But that is what the day brought. And it has been a beautiful day at that. Grand visions of pumpkin lattes and delightful pastries and a hike out in nature danced in my head. But instead, we cooked at home and cuddled. And it was grand.

I started being reflective about my birthday two years ago. In which I posted a list. 35 things I wanted to do in my 35th year of life. I didn't finish the list. I am still working on it. And that's okay. Because I realized. I like a goal. I like a list. But I don't like to be consumed by such things. I prefer not to be too busy. I am happiest when I have time. Time at home. Time with my boys. Time to be in the moment. Not wanting to fill it with more. So, my list follows me. And someday, I hope to have checked all 35 things off.

Last year, I decided to do things a little different. My list for the year had one thing on it. Joy. I wanted to focus on living joyfully. Giving thanks in all. Moving from complaint to contentment. To be glad. Happy. To rejoice. But not just when everything was going my way. No. In everything. I have learned a lot this year as I have strived for growth. And I have a long way to go. But it feels good to be content with what you have. To have a satisfied mind and heart. And really, it's not something I could do on my own accord. But through grace alone. Daily, seeking grace. Because when I don't, it's simply not there. Our home that we recently moved into, has brought me so many opportunities to practice the habit of joy. Will I choose joy when I haul 12 loads of laundry and 3 boys to the laundromat? Will I choose joy when I have to go fetch water in the bathroom any time I want to use it in the kitchen? Will I choose joy as I live in one room with 4 boys? For how long? Is there a limit to living joyfully? Yes. It ends the moment you stop seeking grace. Oh, how I long to live in grace daily.

This year, I spent some time quietly considering how I should focus my 37th year. And, well... as hard as it is to say- it is my mouth. And what comes out of it. Yes. My words. I am realizing now more than ever, what comes out of my mouth is just so, so significant. And it is not just WHAT comes out of my mouth, but HOW it comes out of my mouth. I have 3 little sets of ears listening to me daily.

Oh, how motherhood changes you. Molds you. And oh, how I need to grow in this area. And so, the same concept as last year applies. To speak with wisdom and kindness no matter what the situation. No matter how justified I feel. No matter how offended I have been. Wisdom and kindness. But I cannot do it alone friends. Oh, no. I will need to seek grace. Daily. Will you pray for me?

{Proverbs 31:26} She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

To see the list and some thoughts about my 36th year, click HERE.

And although totally random... can I just tell you how much I LOVE having an October birthday?

2011-10-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

All in a homeschool day...

And, oh what a day it was!

The day began with energy. Loads of energy. Which culminated in "tickle fights" over and over and over again. My heart was anxious, awaiting that scream that would lead us to the emergency room. I don't know how God decided I would be the best match for 3 boys... but He did. I guess he figured I could somehow handle the craziness. Or, that it would be a great constant source of learning for me. But as the "tickle fights" got to be too much for this mama, I decided something had to be done. Oh, yeah... school. Ooops. The morning had passed, and we had yet to do any school work. I sat the boys down, hesitantly. I actually wanted to just leave the house and go for a run in the wild. But that couldn't be done at the moment. Please Lord, be with us now. I read out loud our poem for the month. And it began. A fascinating time of learning. Praise God.

Our Nature Study group learns one poem a month. The kids memorize it and recite it at our end of the month hike. This month, we are learning one of our friend's original works- "Butterflies are all around us, They surround us wherever we go. One lands on my finger, It feels as light as snow." Isn't it fabulous? {Way to go Luke! And thanks for sharing it with us.}

It is a perfect poem for us at the Naraki household, because our backyard is all a flutter with butterflies. After reading the poem, I pulled out this beautiful specimen which the Mr. found in our backyard. We took some time to study it's beauty. The boys were fascinated.

But wait! Turn it over to reveal even more wonder.

We then documented our discovery.

And I busted out my FAVORITE nature book. Aren't the illustrations amazing?

We found the Butterflies and Moths section and learned even more. Obviously science was being covered here. But also vocabulary as we learned the word- metamorphosis. And geography as we learned about the amazing migration of the Monarch's winding through the Rocky Mountains, making their way to California.

We also learned that the caterpillar molts, just like the grasshopper. And I remembered that Isaak's grandma rocked our homeschool world by finding a molted grasshopper in her garden and saved it for us. So out it came.

We read more and enjoyed the beautiful illustrations.

And then it was time for copywork. Which somehow turned into Isaak negotiating a candy corn for every perfectly formed letter e & s. Oh, the beauty of schooling at home!

We ended our school day by eating lunch with our eyes gazing upon our backyard. Our butterfly friends kept us entertained as we observed over a dozen fluttering in our midst. The boys even pointed out they had butterflies on their juice boxes! Oh, the delights of it all.

2011-09-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

It has now become a highly anticipated tradition for our sweet homeschool friends. September's date at Riley's "apple farm" {joyfully named by the Naraki brothers} in Oak Glen. We become pioneers for a portion of the day. Experiencing life on the frontier. Not sitting in a classroom, reading facts out of a textbook. But living it. Working it. And it is

pure bliss. If you have never experienced Riley's, I highly recommend you check out their website HERE and plan your visit.

Leaving the city behind, we roll up through the gravel road and breathe in life. Gorgeous sky. Beautiful, natural landscape. Rustic farm life. We hear the sweet sound of banjo strings plucking a friendly welcome. And an instant calm fills the air. Peaceful, relaxed life.

The day is full of educational goodness and pure fun. Because we have experienced this field trip before, the children are familiar with the farm and some of the activities. They look forward to certain tasks. And are also surprised by a few new learning opportunities. We got dirty. We worked hard. We were busy...

PREPARING!

BREWING + DRINKING! {Coffee for the mamas and papas, fresh from the fire... SO yummy.}

WISHING!

WASHING!

PUMPING + HANGING! {Working to get water makes you appreciate it just a little more.}

PEELING + DRYING!

GARDENING! {Just look at those lovely berries.}

EXPLORING!

WRITING!

SAWING! {Yes, that is a two year old working a real saw. Supervised of course. No fake, toy experiences here. This is the real deal.}

BUILDING! {Since most of our group has read the Little House series, the log cabin building is a favorite activity. Little House in the Big Woods is a perfect chapter book to read before going to the farm. It just makes each activity much more meaningful.}

DISCOVERING! {Isaak has a new fascination with chains, so he was smitten to find this collection!}

PANNING! {A brief lesson on the California Gold Rush, and then off to find our own.}

GRINDING! {A brief lesson on corn harvesting and eating, and then off to experience it.}

EATING! {The BEST caramel apples! Don't miss out on one.}

REMEMBERING! {All the goodness of life on the farm, until next year.}

We also had a tractor/hay ride through the farm. We washed and crushed apples. We played good ol' fashioned tug of war. Enjoyed a picnic lunch. And ended the day drinking icy cold apple cider. We love Riley's farm. You will too. Go. You will be so glad you did.

2011-09-22T19:47:00.000-07:00

My dad brought massive amounts of tomatoes from his farm. Rad. Here is what we did with some of them... Roasted Salsa. So delish. Give it a try.

Put as many tomatoes as ya want, along with a few jalapenos and Pasilla peppers. {I used 2 jalapenos and 1 Pasilla. With approximately 4 large tomatoes.} Broil those babies. On both sides. Till they have lots of black on them.

Grab 2 cloves of garlic, peel em and toss into a blender.

Take your charred peppers and cut off the stem. Cut them in half and rinse out the veins and the seeds. {That's if you want a mild salsa. If you say bring on the spice, then leave those bad boys in.}

Toss your peppers and tomatoes in the blender. Add sea salt and freshly ground pepper to your taste and blend it.

Pour it in a bowl and just try not to eat the entire yummy-ness. It's kinda impossible. Enjoy with your favorite chips. Or top your favorite Mexican food with it. So yummy.

Postscript- I also chopped up some fresh cilantro and white onion and tossed that into the mix as well. It's good either way. Also, if you are not big on garlic... use 1 clove instead of two. Happy eating.

2011-09-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

All in a homeschool day...
And oh, what a day it was!

Wednesday is wash day. Because the current state of our home is construction zone, we get to do laundry once a week at the laundromat. The boys help. It is a big job. And with these hot days, it is best to start early in the morn. We loaded up the car and made our first trip to the laundromat. Yes, school can happen, even at the laundromat. {You will see later.}

After the wash was in, we decided to pack up our school goods and head to the Marina to do school. SO. MUCH. FUN. The boys took their clipboards with paper and pencil and strolled through the Marina Park. They began sketching their observations as they walked along. If you have never given your child a clipboard with paper and a pencil as you are out and about, I highly recommend you give it a try. Not only is it utterly adorable, it is also pure joy to watch them totally engaged and focused on such different things. As the boys had their heads down, busy recording their discoveries, we heard barking. Heads pop up. This was not the bark of a dog. We went to investigate and happened upon...

So sweet. And so wonderful to see in their true habitat and not behind glass at an aquarium.

After the boys did some drawing, we read, played and then went back to work.

On math. Numbers were everywhere. And it was so much fun identifying numbers and doing addition and subtraction with what was surrounding us.

After our school time at the Marina, we had to head back to the laundromat to swap the clothes. But first, we had to hit the market. Walking into the market we saw construction, which meant we had to go investigate.

After some construction observations, we made it in the market. We picked up a basket and Isaak found a dollar coin inside. Score! {More on that later.} Inside the market, another math lesson presented itself. Isaak picked a bunch of organic bananas. We noticed they were .89 cents a pound. He wanted to weigh them to see how much the bunch would be. We then noticed the regular bananas at .69 cents a pound. We discussed the differences, and so a lesson in science presented itself as well. Lots of math going on here. At the market. Simply with bananas. I could've easily rushed them through, after all, we had to get back to the laundromat. Often times I do. {Note to self: STOP doing that! You are missing out on so many wonderful opportunities.} But today, we focused on being in each moment, being mindful to partake in those ordinary circumstances that bring about extraordinary possibilities.

We headed back to the laundromat, but before we could dry our clothes, we needed to make change. Yet another math lesson. Isaak took a $5 bill and put it in the change machine. He was so surprised that so many coins came out in exchange. He began counting the quarters to figure our just how many you can get from $5. Lessons, lessons everywhere.

After we got our clothes on their way to dry, we set forth on yet another adventure. When Isaak found that dollar coin at the market, he excitedly said "Mama! I could take this to the dollar store and get one thing." Yes, son. You can. And so off we went to the dollar store. Only, it was the .99 cent store instead. And so ANOTHER discussion about numbers took place.

We headed home. Did some writing. Did some homekeeping. Roasted tomatoes for some upcoming cooking projects.

And then the littles fell to sleep...

While mama continued to work.

It was a lovely day. And throughout, I felt so blessed to be able to have these moments with my boys. As we learn at home. Or, at the marina, the laundromat, the market, or wherever our adventures take us. Just living life.

2011-08-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

It is my desire to offer praise + thanksgiving.

Even in the midst of the mundane, the muck and the mire.

I began this blog as a way to document our days as a family. I do not scrapbook. Nor do I keep photo albums in any way. So this is my way of storing photos and memories. And sharing our days as a family with our loved ones.

I also love to take opportunities to sit down and reflect upon something. To ponder. To arrive at a conclusion. Or not. But to think. And write it down. It feels good.

As I was deciding what to name the blog, I also thought about what I wanted the blog to focus on. God's goodness. His faithfulness. And our ability to offer praise and thanksgiving in everything.

When my love and I exchanged wedding vows almost 14 years ago, two beautiful young ladies sang one of my favorite hymns, "For the Beauty of the Earth." I will always remember their voices in sweet harmony, singing praise to our Father...

"For the beauty of the earth, For the glory of the skies; For the love which from our birth, Over and around us lies; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This, our hymn of grateful praise. For the wonder of each hour, Of the day and of the night; Hill and vale and tree and flow'r, Sun and moon, and stars of light; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This, our hymn of grateful praise. For the joy of ear and eye, For the heart and mind's delight; For the mystic harmony, Linking sense to sound and sight; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This, our hymn of grateful praise. For the joy of human love, Brother, sister, parent, child; Friends on Earth and friends above, For all gentle thoughts and mild; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This, our hymn of grateful praise."

For the Beauty of the Earth was written by Folliott S. Pierpoint in 1864. "Folliot Sandford Pierpoint was taking a walk one late Spring day, in the lovely area surrounding his home in Bath, England. Overwhelmed with the beauty he saw, he sat down and wrote "For the Beauty of the Earth." Not only does Pierpoint thank God for His beautiful creation, but also for family, friends and other gifts God has bestowed upon us."

A perfect fit for what I had envisioned the blog to be. Now if you go back in the archives, you will notice that I tried to end every post with "for this I am grateful." or "for this I give praise." But after some time blogging, I heard a lot about how the blogging community offers a fake glimpse into someone's life. That all the good moments are recorded, and none of the challenging ones. That it is not real. And I began to doubt what I was documenting. And I stopped offering thanksgiving. I certainly did not want to convey a perfect life of beautiful moments. Because I stumble. And our family, well... it is far from perfect. But I also do not want this to be a place to complain. Or to focus and dwell upon the struggles of life. I want my heart and head to consider what is pure. What is noble.

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.' {Philippians 4:8}

and then, offer them up in our hymn

of grateful praise.

Surely day in and day out, this proves to be difficult. But this is the hope. To continue writing. Sharing the moments of glory and grace along with the moments of grief. All with a heart of gratitude. Because we can, indeed, offer thanksgiving in everything. Even in the midst of the mundane, the muck and the mire.

Thanks for joining the journey.

2011-08-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

"I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do." -Leonardo Da Vinci

We drove up and he shouted out in delight "Mama! Da Vinci!" Today, Isaak and I went to his new school. An opportunity to meet and greet the faculty and families who would now form a new school community in our lives. As we parked, he could barely contain his excitement.

We walked through the campus and into his classroom.

Unfortunately, I did not snap any pictures of his room. But the classroom is a perfect fit for my son. Just one tiny aspect of why I love project based learning is that the classroom's environment is given high regard. It is considered another teacher. You will not find brightly colored, industry prepared posters. Nor will you find plastic furniture. You will not find 30 of the same textbooks. In fact, you will not find 30 of anything because there are a mere 17 students enrolled. You will not find walls covered with teaching materials, barely leaving any breathing room at all. Instead, you will find beautiful objects. Natural objects. Maple wood furniture. Softly painted walls. Real frames. Items stored in glass jars. Rocks for counting. Colored glass pebbles for sorting. Sharpened pencils of various colors, stored in galvanized buckets and sorted by hues. Wooden unit blocks and a wooden railroad set. A cozy loft for reading. And best of all, new {and of rad design} linoleum flooring. Perfect. For Isaak's allergies and his sensitive self. I am so very happy.

We spent some time meeting his teacher. Who is the most kind and gentle man. He goes by the name Jose. Even to his students. Love that. He is papa to a little 4 year old girl who goes to a Reggio Emilia inspired preschool in Long Beach. He knows project based learning. And his quiet spirit is a perfect balance for Isaak. I am so very happy.

We spent time exploring outside. A fresh garden is ready to cultivate. A few plants on their way, but ready for little hands to tend and care for.

And, {gasp} a CHICKEN COOP! In the makings. Isaak has been asking for chickens for about a year. I think he is just about as excited as I am about this fabulous addition to our new school.

A beautiful mural painted by our art teacher.

Yes. We have an art teacher who will come to Isaak's class for 45 minutes EACH DAY. Because, this school understands the significance of nurturing creativity and documenting learning with art. Students will keep a personal sketchbook for creative daily explorations and assignments. They will discover: two-dimensional design, drawing, realistic art, visual personal narrative, collage, positive and negative space, art criticism, value and color theory, value shading in pencil, pen and ink, abstract art, non-object art, and art history just to name a few.

There is a stump outside turned into, well whatever their imaginations make it!

Logs to explore.

And a good, old fashioned tether ball. Which, after about 30 minutes of playing with, Isaak declared "I LOOOOOOVE TETHER BALL! IT'S SOOOOOO FUN!"

It was a great time. I am so excited for this new collaboration. And Isaak is beyond thrilled. So thankful for the blessing of getting into this brand new Charter school. You can read more about that HERE. My little boy isn't so little anymore. Off to school he goes. Two days a week. I'll still hold on to him for the rest!

2011-08-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

Drawing nearer to God on bended knee, just not how I may have chosen to do so:

This doesn't look like much. But it is exquisite wood. One of the perks of my husband being a woodworker extraordinaire is that he {rarely, but sometimes} has opportunities to obtain things we would not normally be able to obtain. This wood was from a multi-million dollar home. It was leftover from a project. And my man saw tremendous potential for it. He was able to get it for much less than it actually costs. It has been sitting in a pile outside, at our old home for almost three years. He never got around to doing what he had planned for it. Thankfully. Because now, it is our new front porch. I know you can't tell from the picture, but the wood is, in fact, beautiful. When we were getting ready to move into the new house, there were no entry steps/front porch at all. So quickly, the Mr. gave this wood it's purpose and built one level of the step. He then was able to work on a porch that is to run the length of the house. But he was not able to finish it. He had a contracted job to begin. And so, off to work he went, leaving the front porch undone. All the boards are laid, but none are secure. So they wobble. A lot.

Today, we hit the farmer's market + the regular market. All three kids in tow. As we returned home, Isaak and Ezra headed into the house with their loads as I continued bringing in the goods from the car. I contemplated whether I would bring Silas in first, or if I would leave him in the car. He was content, so I left him. Doors wide open as I loaded up everything I possibly could hold and headed up the front porch stairs. Before I knew it, one of the boards had tipped back and I lost my balance, arms full of grocery bags. I came down on both knees, my fall softened, just a bit, by a half gallon of orange juice. SPLASH! Orange juice everywhere. It exploded. All over me, on the front porch, in the house. And I was down for the count. The boys immediately ran over to me. Isaak was amazing. Taking such good care of his mama. He took all the bags inside. Brought me a towel and wipes. And helped Ezra, who just kept saying "Allright mama? Allright mama?" My knees were hurting bad. I couldn't really move. I just sat there. And began breathing like I was in labor. And this is when it hit me. I am alone. We moved from being just 12 houses away from my in laws and within minutes of great friends to being nowhere near anybody we know.

Mamas, do you ever get just a little fearful, that perhaps something could happen to you during the day when you are alone with your kids? I do. Now this is not something that consumes me, but I do think from time to time... what IF something were to happen. And I am alone with the kids. What happens? Right now, I am learning. Learning to draw near to God. Because sometimes, when you are close to others, it's just a little bit easier to be further from God.

After a few moments, I was able to get up. At this point, Silas was no longer content. I had to wobble to the car and bring him and the rest of the groceries in. Clean up the mess. Attend to children. Make dinner, yada yada yada. Scot has been working late into the evening to finish up a job, so I knew I'd be on my own. I was/am okay. But I was/am in a lot of pain. My poor knees!

If you rewind just a few weeks, I had a trip to LAKE TAHOE. I was walking through the airport pushing Silas in the stroller, when all of a sudden, I stumbled and fell to my knees. Silas was safe, but my knees were in PAIN! Today, I say the same thing. I am so thankful that, I listened to that quiet whisper to leave Silas in the car and unload the groceries first. Thank you Holy Spirit! For protecting my baby from what could've been a horrible injury. The way I squashed that OJ was frightening! It's a little funny to think about it in the OJ explosion... but if that was my kid, I'd be writing a much different story. Sometimes, moments are hard. But they are always a blessing.

2011-08-10T13:56:00.000-07:00

{Disclaimer: Please forgive the unfocused photographs. My 6 month old assistant was quite squirmy today in his carrier!}

Today, the boys and I ventured to a new nature location. Since moving to LA, we have had to find some new places to explore. I have heard lots of good things about Franklin Canyon, so we finally set out to discover it.

It is in Beverly Hills. Which just happens to be less than 15 miles from our home. Which took just under an hour to get to. Yikes. Next time around, I will try a different route! I must confess, it was quite surreal getting there. Traveling through the thick of Beverly Hills. Which, I must say, has exquisite trees lining the streets. We saw so many beautiful Magnolia trees, Isaak's sweet friend (Magnolia) was on our mind the whole time. Driving past the homes, my mouth found it's way to the floor. The homes are just insane. The size, of course. But also the fact that almost all of them had gates leading in. Two. One labeled "guest entrance." The other labeled "service entrance." Yeah. So after getting lost a little, we found ourselves on a very narrow road, passing homes, leading us to Franklin Canyon. The road wound around and around and up and up and up. Isaak was concerned. He made it clear that I needed to drive safe, because the elevation, narrow road & drop off was "dangerous!" He was also in awe. "Wow!" He exclaimed. Over & over again. I did not have a trail map, so we didn't quite know where to go, but we made do.

When we finally saw the Franklin Canyon street sign, we knew we had indeed made it. The first area we stopped at was amazing. A little stream trickled past and we headed up these steep steps.

The forest was thick! And steep. And I was alone.

Do you ever have those moments where you think to yourself "WHAT am I doing? I could fall. And no one would know because we are the ONLY ones here. Wait, WHY are we the only ones here? What if some random LA crazy guy comes out of the forest to get us? No one will know. Because we are the only ones here." Yeah. Sometimes, I can be dramatic. So we headed back. And because my brain was in drama mode, as we got back to the car, some random LA guy parked right next to us. My imagination took over. I rushed to get the kids in the car and buckled up. And then I stopped. I looked at him. I smiled. And then I sparked conversation. "Are you familiar with this trail?" And what do you know... he was. He was a sweet little Brit. And with his glorious accent, he led us to a safer area to explore with the boys. So off we went. And then, stumbled across a Mountain Lion!

At the Nature Center, of course.

Along with SO many wonderful treasures:

What the Acorn Woodpecker works hard at:

Nests of every size, shape and construction method. Not behind glass, but on shelves to actually touch and examine:

A beautiful variety of cones to investigate:

Vintage cases full of seashells to compare and gaze upon:

And a HUGE nature lover's library. Complete with a large conference table and chairs. You could sit in there and study all day.

But we are a family with littles. Lunch & nap time called. And so we were off. Passing the lake on our way out. Seeing many more nature trails for us to go back to and discover.

It was a beautiful day. And we are back safe to tell about it!

2011-08-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

The kid 2 ADORES the kid 3. Their interactions melt my heart. Everyday. Any time Silas begins to fuss, Ezra rushes over and his sweet little voice begins singing "Ittle uns to em eeeeeeeooooong, eeeeey are weak but eeeee is strong. Yes. Jesus loves me. Yes. Jesus loves me..." He also nuzzles his nose against Silas'. Throws his body atop for a hug. And puts his feet in Silas' face. That's how he loves on his brother. And Silas? He grins from ear to ear. He laughs. And he even nuzzles back. It is a beautiful thing.

They also both need a lot right now. Ezra is two. Silas is almost 6 months. Put a 6 year old in the mix, and yes... my hands are full. And yes... of all boys. I had planned on writing a post on how my "hands are full" but my kindred beat me to it. And, of course, did it more gracefully and eloquently. So please go visit her blog (below) and read the beauty of mama-ing multiple children. She nails it. Perfectly.

click here for: LILLY AND THE BROTHERS

2011-08-05T14:13:00.001-07:00

Stop. Proceed with caution. I need to envision these street signs before opening my mouth.

Mamas, do you ever listen to yourself speak and actually laugh at yourself as you hear what is coming out of your mouth? Yet you continue on? Sometimes, I feel like I am going so fast, I just ramble on. {pause for my Led Zeppelin loving self humming, "ramble on...") I have been trying to listen to my mouth as I speak to my kids. I feel like I am two different people. One speaking. And one listening. Sometimes, it's totally funny mama stuff. Other times, it's just totally wrong, impatient mama stuff. Random things, like "Son, no catapults in the car." {as a bouncy ball comes flying at my head while driving} Whaaaat? Who says that? Evidently, a mama of boys. And how about "Son, please don't make your brother laugh." Huh? Yeah. I don't even remember what it was. Maybe disciplining. Or trying to put one to sleep. I just keep remembering that I told my kid not to make his sibling laugh. Or maybe, on a little bit more of a serious note "Son, don't say crap, it doesn't sound nice. Only mama can say it." Whaaat? I really said that. Nice job mama. I can say not nice things, but you can't! And how about counting. When and Why did I start that? As in, obey me or in 3 seconds something is going to happen "ooooooone. twooooooooooooo. threeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee." I MUST stop that one now. That is a bad habit. I am giving them permission to disobey for three seconds. Whaaat?Why? Because I am not thinking before I am speaking. That's why. Crap! I mean... Dang! I mean... Ooops? And one more, because we are on a roll. How about the deep, drawn out sigh. No words. Just a disapproving sound. I will remind myself to stop, slow down. Sloooooooooooooooow down. Proceed with caution. My mouth needs a speeding ticket.

2011-08-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Remembering.

A photograph dedicated to capturing that which I do not want to forget. Because it is too easy to dismiss these precious moments.

Take time for

Remembering.

{Ezra + Isaak enjoying pretzels. Complete with dirty fingernails from the morning's dirt experiment.}

2011-07-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

One week ago, my husband enjoyed 38 hours with the two older boys while the babe and I slipped into sweet bliss. My beautiful cousin got married in Lake Tahoe. For many reasons. But mostly, because Lake Tahoe is OUR family tradition. A deeply rooted, forever cherished, always longing for, family tradition. And so, I boarded a plane with sweet Silas. Rented a car. And drove from Reno to Tahoe. Just over an hour of driving. A perfect time to reminisce. And just to make the trip that much sweeter, the radio station played the songs of my youth. So as I belted out songs from Journey, The Scorpions, Def Leppard + more, I relished in the memories. How could I forget the year I first had my license and drove the trip myself? Caravanning with my brother and his good buddy. Which of course, entailed speeding. Which of course, resulted in a speeding ticket. For all three of us. Thanks brother. And as I drove through the beauty of the land, my mind and heart were full. Of thanksgiving. For a childhood rich in tradition. Full of good times. In the beauty of Lake Tahoe.

I spent nearly 15 years, every summer, camping in this. Isn't it dreamy? Every summer, the same two weeks. The same groups of families, camping in the same campground. Enjoying the same activities {Anyone up for a game of going to the moon?}. Year after year after year. It was amazing. And not just our immediate family. But our aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, etc. And this was no ordinary camping. My grandma, well... she is amazing. And the best camp mate ever. See THIS post, written quite awhile ago regarding this very matter. Good, good times.

But then, one summer, we didn't go. And then the next summer, we didn't go. And then we grew up. And had responsibilities. And drifted out of our tradition. And before you knew it, it had been almost 15 years since we had been camping in Lake Tahoe.

Pondering this, just a little bit of sadness falls upon your heart. But you are here. Now. And will enjoy each and every brief moment you have, while in this sweet land of memories.

And so, after the wedding. A trip down memory lane was in order. So, along with my family, we headed out. HERE. To Camp Richardson. Our old stomping grounds. Our first stop, The Beacon.

In which a Rum Runner and Calamari were in order. Because you simply cannot go to the Beacon without partaking in both. Divine.

The Beacon is lakeside. I walked along the sand, feeling the crisp waters of the lake upon my bare feet. Gazing around. Memories everywhere. It all rang fresh in my mind. Renting paddle boats and cruising the lake.

Renting bikes, and peddling around for hours. Wind blowing through my hair. Never tiring.

I looked out upon the lake and saw this...

New families. Creating new memories. And I wondered. Do these parents have ANY idea what is being formed in their children at this very moment? As they splash about in the water and dig deep into the sandy shore. Each and every moment is being etched into their hearts and minds.

I soaked it all in. And holding back a tear or two, you know... I'm still post partum. We walked back through the pines.

Caught our last glimpses of Camp Richardson.

Stepped into the General Store. Picked up a few souvenir sweatshirts.

And said goodbye to Lake Tahoe.

Where I will always feel at home. Thank you Lake Tahoe. For holding my sweet memories that will indeed last a lifetime. And thank you to my family, who always made it a priority to create such a beautiful family tradition. It will forever remain dear to my heart. And THANK YOU to my loving husband, who gave so that I could enjoy these moments of bliss.

2011-07-28T22:02:00.000-07:00

Right now, I am totally obsessing over lunch boxes. There are so many adorable lunch boxes available now, I cannot decide which to order. Nor can my son. We both ooooh and aaaah over them and change our minds each time we gaze upon their goodness.

I am also obsessing over bento boxes. I am completely in awe at the insane cuteness of this method of fooding. (apparently, I just made up my own word... but I'm stickin' with it!) The habit of taking such care in food preparation + presentation is inspiring. Just look at this:

What kid wouldn't want to mow down every morsel of this adorable food? Go visit THIS blog for more bento foodie inspiration.

And take a look at these adorable, and totally inexpensive bento box accessories:

little sauce containers:

special cookware to make these insanely adorable eggs:

adorable animal aluminum foil:

molds for separating foods:

and tiny animal picks for skewering foods:

Seriously. So cute. The Japanese truly take their food seriously. And, not so seriously with all the little Japanamation!

Mostly, I just truly respect the time that is put into creating such sweet treasures for these kiddos to open up and enjoy. It speaks volumes to the importance and respect for healthy eating. There are no easy to throw in, individualized packages of highly processed foods. These are pure, whole foods being served in a playful and inviting manner. I am convicted. And encouraged. And hope to offer my children some of these sweet bento offerings.

And if you are saying to yourself, I have no Japanese in me... and my kids don't eat rice balls and fish cake... stop now. And go to the Americanized version of bento-ing, HERE.

It's all about taking a few extra moments to present a healthful, attractive meal to your little ones. Be encouraged. And get bento-ing!

{All the sweet little bento accessories can be found HERE}

2011-07-16T20:41:00.001-07:00

C O N F E S S I O N | where I share something I may (or may not) be too proud of

I CUSS.

I began these confession posts awhile back. I thought it would be a great way to be real in this space. Poke a little fun at myself. Keep it light. But I only got around to doing two posts. See HERE and HERE. I have been wanting to write this specific confession since I began this little series. But never got around to it. There just always seemed to be something better/different to write about. And then, tonight happened. And so, here it is.

After a long, crazy day with my 3 boys... I had a moment alone with my husband. I drew a breath in. Slowly, deeply. I exhaled and under my breath, quite sarcastically... I uttered "fuckin' kids."

Now, let me clear up any misunderstanding here... it was meant to be shocking and funny. That is it. That is us.

Immediately, he bribed me. Yep. And I am a shameless opportunist. (confession #2.) I took him up on it. You see, he offered me something I have long wanted if I put my pride aside and posted that for the world to see. Well, not the world... just my Facebook friends. But now, the whole world can view it right here on my blog. Except wait, there are probably only a few of you even reading this!

Anyways- here is the thing... it is important to me to be real. But also, it is important to me not to offend others.

So if you know me really well, and I know you really well and I know that you are not offended by cussing... well then, this is no confession, because you already know... occasionally, I cuss.

Or, if I know you well enough, and you know me well enough, but I know that you prefer to not be around cussing, then this is not a confession for you either, BUT you were not that happy to be reading my status on Facebook. (Sorry. Forgive. Because you love me.) Are you still with me?

Now, if you just kinda know me or you would rather NOT know me, then perhaps this is a confession you may not quite want to hear. But really... this is the most important thing:

Sometimes I cuss. But I really love Jesus.

Here is where I tell you that, that last line, was taken from HERE. A sweet little blog my friend had once linked to. And really, when I read her about me section, I just died laughing out loud. For a long time. Because, well... so do I.

I also love THIS post. Because it is totally me too. (Minus the whole seminary wife thing.)

Perhaps I need to get this shirt.

It's all about being real folks. Thankful for grace. And forgiveness. And definitely laughter. :) Peace.

2011-06-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

We are officially in our new home. Living amongst open ceilings, floors and walls. With three young children, all of us sharing one room. It is quite crazy. And we are thankful. And happy. It has been two years in the works, and we are finally here. And because we are building this home ourselves, as time and money allow, it will be a LONG time before any of it is complete. But we have made a commitment to live within our means. We will not go into debt to have instant gratification. We will live in a construction zone peacefully and confidently, knowing what we are working hard at creating is OURS. It is not always easy to remain positive and thankful in our society that encourages self gratification and instant satisfaction. But we are attempting to stay focused. With that in mind, I'm sharing what I am loving about our new space.

Our living room has an 8 foot wide sliding glass door that overlooks the backyard. I get to see this ramshackle barn every time I look out. Some may think it is the nastiest, trashiest thing ever that a homeowners association would forbid, but I LOVE it. It makes me feel like I am living in a rural area, or even... the Anthropologie catalog!

We have a multitude of birds visiting our backyard everyday. I've seen birds and heard calls & songs like never before. Being the homeschooling bird nerd that I am, this makes me happy. I look out those sliding glass doors and observe those little creatures at work and play and it brings joy to my day. See HERE and HERE, posts by my homeschooling friends and fellow bird nerds, for more on being a bird nerd! :)

This is our bathtub. Our refuge. Yup. Even in the midst of open walls. We have a brand new cast iron bathtub. New copper plumbing. And new, beautifully modern hardware. This bathtub is deep. And oh, so divine.

This is the front of our construction zone home. But do you see that BIG wood box? That holds our brand new whole house water filtration system. That, paired with brand new plumbing throughout, makes for righteous water everywhere in our home. Also in that box is some amazing device that makes hot- and I mean HOT- water available in seconds. I have lived places where it takes 5 minutes just to get warm water. So yeah, I am loving our hot water machine. Also, that big slab of open cement... that is our garage. Or lack thereof, but it is NEW concrete, along with new foundation work for our home. And that, as Martha would say, is a good thing!

Scattered throughout the home, and I do mean scattered; or buried even, treasures abound. This was Scot's grandparent's home. And there are some sweet vintage pieces waiting to be brought back to life. Long ago, they owned a shop, so there are all types of amazing goodies. Old crocks. Wooden crates. Galvanized buckets big and small. A huge old food scale. Wooden ladders. Etc. Etc. Etc.

And last, but not least... Poppies scattered around the property. And Lemons!

For this... I am grateful.

2011-04-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

Today, I braved the mall with my 5 year old, 2 year old and 2 month old BOYS. The babe strapped to me, the little one in the stroller and the big one by my side. We didn't just go to any ordinary mall. You know, where regular folks shop. NO. We went to South Coast Plaza. Walking past stores like Chanel, Gucci, Mikimoto, & Hermes just to name a few. I honestly began laughing out loud at myself. Feeling SO not Jackie O. Wearing my dirty TOMS, maternity jeans (yes, two months later!) that are so stretched out- they keep falling down, an old Old Navy tank all stretched out from pulling it down to nurse and a cardigan from Costco. YUP. Costco! Hair tied back, straight out of the shower and no make-up. SO not feeling stylish. And walking through the mall looking at all the put together employees and shoppers was quite humbling. And also, filled me with laughter and delight. Because I would choose kid stained clothes any day over a beautiful get up from Gucci. And I walked through the entire mall laughing at myself. Out loud. For real. It made me totally think of my friend's post over on her BLOG just the other day. (Click on the link and check it out!) But being humbled in my appearance was quickly overthrown by compliments. I have NEVER received SO MANY compliments on my kid's good looks and good behavior. Not to mention compliments of what a rockin' mama I was to brave the mall with 3 boys. Apparently, that's unheard of. I didn't know. One of the women that stopped my boys to check out how cute they were, stopped us again on the way out. She called my boys "HOT!" I'm not sure how I feel about that. But I'll take it in the best way possible. Because they are quite adorable. :) Even with bed hair. In sweats. With dirty faces. Because that's how my kids looked. Is it possible these people just had pity on us? Next time I need an ego boost, I'm going to South Coast Plaza!

Confession: I would, however, love to someday accessorize my un-stylish self with a vintage Hermes purse. I can dream. (sigh.)

2011-04-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

The post below is from the archives. It was written two years ago today. Today, marks three years since this life changing event for me. Truly, so much has changed since this happened. My heart. My choices. I continue to share this story so that we can be reminded just how precious life is. To stop. To savor each moment. Life is beautiful. Live it abundantly.

today, we went for a walk to the park. today, i remembered. just one year ago, this street signal was not in existence. it's location... at the exit of our neighborhood and entrance to the park. just one year ago, i was driving home with takeout thai food. but this was not like any other evening. normally i would've had my son with me. this night i did not. instead, god had a plan. as i began to turn into our neighborhood, my windows down, i saw devastation. a woman lay in the street. a large truck behind her, and a man standing over her yelling for help. it was a busy evening. many people in the park for soccer and volleyball. many cars making their way home for the night. i remember hearing "help! we need somebody who knows cpr!" my car was turning left, right next to them. i knew this was my call. i parked and ran. another man joined me. together, we were a team, performing cpr. working to save a life. the world around me was a blur. i held her head in my hands. praying. hoping. performing cpr. moments later medics arrived. with stained hands, i removed myself. i would later come to find out that this woman was a teacher at a faith based school in the community. she was a wife. a mom. her family was in the park. she was just crossing the street to retrieve something from her car. that night would forever change many people's lives. it is so easy for us to think that we control our days. that we can choose what happens with our lives. and in some ways, we can. but this experience taught me so many things. as i passed the signal today, i was reminded. reminded that our days are numbered. reminded that we cannot control our lives. reminded that we cannot live in fear, bitterness, anger, sadness. and so, i walk on. in remembrance. with appreciation. humbly. and choose to be grateful.

2011-04-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

I used big compotes full of plums, blueberries, grapes and blackberries recently for a centerpiece. All of the fruits together, in the same color scheme looked beautiful. But it left me with an abundance of fruit. If I didn't use it soon, it would go to waste. So off to bake, with my newest favorite baker by my side. Ezra mixed up all the ingredients proudly. You HAVE to make this bread. It is incredible. I found it on the Pioneer Woman's site. And tweaked it just a bit.

Lemon Berry Bread

Mix Dry Ingredients:
1 3/4 C Flour
2 tsp. Baking Powder
1/4 tsp. Salt
1/2 C Sugar

Mix Wet Ingredients:
1 1/2 C Berries (I used blueberries + blackberries)
3/4 C Milk (I used rice milk)
1/4 C Oil (I used olive)
1 tsp. Vanilla
1 Lemon, juice + zest

Mix wet + dry ingredients together lightly.
Beat 2 egg whites to soft peaks and mix in.

Pour into muffin tin or loaf pan.
Top with Raw Sugar, which gives a lovely sweet crunch to the tartness of the bread. Mmmm.
Bake at 350 until done.

ENJOY.

Now off to figure out what to do with those plums...

2011-04-04T15:25:00.000-07:00

The countdown is on. 6 more weeks living in "our first home." We moved in when Isaak was a newborn. We brought Ezra + Silas home from the hospital to this space. We have spent the last 5+ years here. Which for us, says a lot, because we had been a little bit gypsy- moving often. Even across the country to New York! We thought we would be here for good. The in-laws live only 12 houses away. Which was awesome. Scot grew up riding his bike through these streets. And so we thought it would be our perfect place to settle down and raise a family. But in the five years we lived here, it just never felt like home. To either of us. Isn't that strange? I'm not sure exactly why either. We never really settled into this space. And although we have always longed to live in the Central Coast, we have always known it is just not the right time for us. And so, two years ago, an opportunity opened up for us to move. Into a home that had been abandoned for 12 years. It was and is still a wreck. Truly, a wreck. It needs so much work it is crazy. The house currently has little electricity, no plumbing, holes in the floor, and walls torn down to the studs. And yes, we are moving into this in 6 weeks. It is a construction zone in the biggest way imaginable. We will be moving into this with a newborn, 2 year old and 5 year old. It will be interesting. I will have to definitely channel my inner Ma Wilder, you know, Little House on The Prairie style. If she can do it, I can do it. Right? :) Many have asked how things are going and expecting the stress level to be high. But I can say in all honesty, we are happier and more peaceful than ever before. Sure there are logistical issues to consider. I am NOT looking forward to taking our 2 loads of laundry a day to a laundromat with 3 boys in tow. Nor am I looking forward to figuring out meals for my boys without a kitchen. But we have been blessed abundantly. And I am grateful. Just yesterday, I drove the boys to our new home. I had to water the new trees Scot planted. And the house looks as if the whole thing should just be torn down. But in the front, poppies are blooming in abundance. POPPIES! All over. Their beautiful orange blooms filled me with delight. And hope. And expectation. We are not even moved in yet, and already, I feel home. Del Rey... here we come!

2011-03-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

oh, how i adore receiving parcels. and when you know it is from your bosom friend, and it looks like this on the OUTSIDE- well, you know you'll want to photograph the whole thing! it's the little things that make a big difference. packaging is one of those things. just look how adorable:

and what creativity:

"for the conductor of the new 3 ring circus"

"from someone with circus experience"

(she is a mama of 3 boys too!)

seriously.

too cute.

and not that a package wasn't exciting enough, but isaak noticed his name + his brother's names on the package- even more exciting! and to complete the circus theme for the kiddos, circus goods. happy kids.

but then came this...

again, attention to detail. and because my kindred spirit knows my love for french- un, deux, trois!

once again...

seriously.

too cute.

and inside the loveliness, this amazingly beautiful book. it even FEELS good.

i can't wait to delve in.

happy mama.

and so, MERCI. to my good friend. who, no matter how long it has been- or how far away we are from one another- can still make snippets of time to celebrate these days of our lives. i am truly blessed.

a little time. a little creativity. a little thoughtfulness. it goes a L O N G way.

2011-03-15T19:31:00.000-07:00

It has not been that long since my coming to know about great works of literature. I have never been a reader. I spent 35 years of my life avoiding books. I remember my High School English teacher telling our class that we could read the Cliffs Notes version of an assigned book because that would get us through what we needed to know.

In my 17 years serving preschool children, I have read many children's books. Many! But still, I lacked a tremendous amount of knowledge about and exposure to classic, quality literature. It has been about a year and a half since I have been introduced to a book list that continues to both delight and disappoint me. I say disappoint, because I am just a bit saddened that I missed out on these books in my earlier years. However, I am delighted that I have been introduced to them now and that I can share them with my children.

Let me introduce you to the REAL Bambi. A Life in the Woods by Felix Sulten.

(Ok, I will now make a confession. I let my son choose our next chapter book. We had a few lined up. And he chose this. And as he chose it, he used his best movie theater preview voice and said "Disney's Bambi." Yeah. Ouch. He has never seen the movie Bambi. Nor have we read Disney's version of Bambi. Obviously he has seen previews for Disney's version of Bambi on one of our DVD's. And that made him want to read it. But really, I am so glad it did. Because I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK. And we are only on the second chapter. Now don't get me wrong... I love Disney. LAND. But Disney has done some sad things to children's literature. And another confession: Until a year and a half ago, when I became introduced to a new kind of reading, I had NO idea there even was another version of Bambi. I thought it was a Disney original! Seriously.)

The text, in original form- not adapted, abridged, or retold, is from 1928. The illustrations from Barbara Cooney from 1970. My slightly hippie self is in love with the simple, earth tone illustrations of such woodsy delight.

We have only read two chapters so far. And after each chapter, Isaak is Narrating from our reading. I love hearing the story from his view point. What stands out to him and penetrates his little heart and mind. Each time we read, I feel like we have been transported:

"In early summer, the trees stood still under the blue sky, held their limbs outstretched and received the direct rays of the sun."

"Out of the earth came whole troops of flowers, like motley stars, so that the soil of the twilit forest floor shone with a silent, ardent, colorful gladness. Everything smelled of fresh leaves, of blossoms, of moist clods and green wood."

Isaak is 5 1/2. He sits attentively. Eagerly anticipating what will come next in the story. He sometimes will ask what a word means. Other times, he just listens and gets the whole of what is happening. He asks throughout the day if we can continue to read. That is what a good book is all about. It sucks you in. You do not want to put the book down. And as you read, you see everything. You are transported. In the thick of it. It is marvelous!

This is the forward from the book:

"Bambi is a delicious book. Delicious not only for children but for those who are no longer so fortunate. For delicacy of perception and essential truth I hardly know any story of animals that can stand beside this life study of a forest deer. Felix Sulten is a poet. He feels nature deeply, and he loves animals. I do not, as a rule, like the method which places human words in the mouths of dumb creatures, and it is the triumph of this book that, behind the conversation, one feels the real sensations of the creatures who speak. Clear and illuminating, and in places very moving, it is a little masterpiece." -John Galsworthy, 1928

If I haven't sold you on it, perhaps that did! READ THIS BOOK. :)

2011-02-12T06:16:00.000-08:00

Friday Finds!

Today, we enjoyed a most glorious day playing in the warm sunshine while feeling the gentle ocean breeze. We were HERE which is one of our favorite places to play. Across from the Nature Center is a park with fields and hills full of things to investigate, with lots of room to run and jump. It was a perfect day. And I was feeling so grateful for the opportunity to enjoy such a special time with my boys. If you are ever near Huntington Beach, do take some time to enjoy this space.

Upon leaving, we headed across the street to the Huntington Beach Central Library. They have a used books for sale section that is most enjoyable to rummage through. WE SCORED!

My favorite find was this sweet little book with beautiful illustrations. It is in English with bits of French sprinkled throughout.

We also found many other treasures. Here are a few:

This informative book, perfect timing as President's Day approaches...

We also found these books about nesting and about glaciers with the most beautiful illustrations.

Our new bookshelf, that was recently gifted to us, is filling up quickly.

The best thing about these Friday Finds! Each book was .12 1/2 cents. That's right. It was buy one get one free. And the books were .25 cents a piece. Seriously. Score. And they are beautiful, fabric bound, hard cover, vintage books. All beautifully illustrated. Living books, that come alive with stories and facts. Looks, feels, and reads a bit different than a shelf full of brightly colored, cartoon charactered books with silly story lines. If you are near Huntington Beach, do check out their used books sale. If you are not, check with your local library for book sales. And enjoy hunting for timeless treasures for you and your children to enjoy. Happy reading.

2011-02-05T20:37:00.000-08:00

Remembering.

A photograph dedicated to capturing that which I do not want to forget. Because it is too easy to dismiss these precious moments.

Take time for

Remembering.

{Isaak's well worn jeans. Dirt + holes from exploring nature.}

2011-01-27T20:39:00.000-08:00

His eyes catch sight of this childhood treasure. Without hesitation, he runs to it. He joyfully picks it amongst the blades of green. And so generously, walks it over and holds it out to me. "Mama, you can have this wish. Make a wish to Jesus." He says.

I pause. Contemplate. Blow the soft white petals, which float so graciously through the air. Thankfulness abounds. There are a great many things I can wish for. Things I think I need. That perhaps, will make my life more rich. And I realize. I do not need more.

Most of my life I have lived in want. Always thinking that if I only had this or that, then I could be happy. What a lie. How much I missed as I grew a heart of ingratitude. Always busy. Never stopping to appreciate just how blessed I was. Never seeing that each day was filled with beauty. Free. For the taking. For whomever chooses to notice.

I have been working on partaking in this. And have a long way to go. And people may think I am ridiculous to acknowledge things like the way a lemon smells first thing in the morning as I grate the zest off and prepare fresh bread for my family. But to me, this moment of delight is far from ridiculous, rather it is a moment of richness. And what I am realizing is this- allowing a multitude of rich moments into my day is cultivating a heart of gratitude. Of appreciation. Making the need for wishing upon a dandelion float away. Just as those soft white petals softly fall, so do my desires for more.

And so I sit in thankfulness. For a life richly blessed. For a son who thought to share his treasure, so that I could have my wish... from Jesus.

On a side note: It has been a very long time since I have been in this space. I have, yet again, killed another laptop computer with a cup of coffee. That now makes 2 computers with a cup of coffee and 1 computer with a glass of wine- killed. This experience has also led me through moments of want and moments of being content with what I have. As I was without a computer, I struggled with the feeling of desire, not to mention a great deal of other feelings. I now have access, although limited. And I am thankful for lessons learned. And a husband who supports and forgives. :) Note to self: Keep all beverages away from laptop.

2010-12-10T15:18:00.000-08:00

Friday Finds!

Today, we headed to Seal Beach to visit some friends. On the way there, we happened upon an Estate Sale. Of course, we had to take a moment to go in and see what treasures were to be found. We scored this awesome vintage book...

With beautiful illustrations and fonts in which to learn from. I do so prefer vintage work books to today's brightly colored & animated versions. They seem so much more peaceful to look at and focus on. And the illustrations and writing are SO much more... well, beautiful.

I also found this book...

to add to my Louisa May Alcott collection.

All for a mere $2.00. Which was grand, because as I went to check out, that was all I had in my wallet! Good thing I did not find more. Yeah for Estate Sales and vintage books.

2010-12-09T07:14:00.000-08:00

We are, once again, in discussion and contemplation over naming our baby boy. Because, as stated previously, we knew we would face some opposition in our choice of names. But we really did not anticipate such a broad rejection of our choice. It seems that both of our families simply do not like our pick, the name- Mercer. And so, names are being tossed out left and right to take into consideration. And so we contemplate.

This comes to mind...

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose

By any other name would smell as sweet." -Juliet

Romeo & Juliet, William Shakespeare

And then, my Anne loving self thinks of this...

"...Well, I don't know. I read in a book once that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, but I was never able to believe it. A rose just couldn't smell as sweet if it was a thistle or a skunk-cabbage." -Anne

Anne of Green Gables, Lucy Maud Montgomery

And so I feel torn. Do we stick with what we like? Or do we take into consideration our entire family urging us to choose something different? Just how much of a hippie rebel can one be?

The other night, when enjoying the company of family at the Christmas Parade, "Auntie" spied the name Enzo. She threw it out there into the names swirling around these days. And I knew, immediately, that the Mr. would love it. For several reasons. But to me, the name sounds cool. That's it. It doesn't really have meaning behind it. The given meaning, ruler of the home, isn't quite what we were looking for. Yet, the given meaning behind Mercer, isn't either. Of course, as stated previously, more comes to mind when seeing/saying the name Mercer. And what comes to mind for the name Enzo... red hot Ferrari's and a movie character about deep sea diving. Yet, these are a few of my husband's favorite things.

And so it boils down to this...

Enzo Isami (Isami is the Mr.'s grandfather's name)

Mercer Scot (Scot is the Mr.'s name)

And we continue to contemplate.

It should be noted that when naming our last son, Ezra... the Mr. told me that he threw the name Enzo out there and I immediately rejected it. I have no memory of this. I do like the name now. And I think it sounds good with the boys' names. Yet, Mercer still weighs heavier on my heart. But I'm pretty sure that Enzo is the Mr.'s first choice now. Although we both like each name. For different reasons. Torn. So torn.

DO CAST YOUR VOTE...

xox

2010-11-27T19:07:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to incorporate a new family tradition, the Jesse Tree, during Advent for some time now. I just have not taken the time to research and create what we needed to implement it. But this season, I have begun. And I look forward to how it will focus our holiday. Here is a little information explaining the purpose of the Jesse Tree...

"The Jesse Tree is a unique Advent tree that can be very helpful in teaching children about the Bible at Christmas, and a fun activity too. The Jesse Tree represents the family tree of Jesus. It tells the story of God's salvation plan, beginning with creation and continuing to the coming of the Messiah. The name comes from Isaiah 11:1, "Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit." (By Mary Fairchild)

You can find Jesse Tree Family Devotions HERE as well as symbols for the ornaments. You can make simple paper ornaments using the pictures available online. Or, you can get creative and have fun making your own. I really wanted something organic feeling with a bit of rustic charm. I also wanted something that would last, to perhaps one day become an heirloom.

Back in September, I wanted to create a calendar for Isaak. Unfortunately, my vision never came to be. But the vision was re-worked now to create our Jesse Tree. And I am delighted. We had found a fallen branch on one of our Nature days. I had taken it to the Mr.'s workshop, and he had cut them into thin circles and drilled holes in the top. They have been sitting in a bag, waiting for their purpose. Today, I went and purchased a woodburner pen and graphite transfer paper at Michael's for about $15.00. I cut out the small symbols available online, put them on top of the transfer paper, and on top of the wooden rounds- then traced with a pencil over the image. The image transferred beautifully onto the wood. I then, carefully burned the image into the wood, and tied a piece of twine through the hole. Voila!

On the backs, I burned numbers for each devotion so we could easily find which symbol would come next. Because I am just a tad anal, I printed out numbers in a font that I liked and used the transfer paper to trace the numbers as well. I really wanted these to be something I would be happy with year after year and hope that someday, my children will use them with their children.

So each day leading up to Christmas, we will take time to read Scripture along with the Jesse Tree devotion, discussion, and prayer. I am looking forward to building this new family tradition. It is indeed the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Enjoy it.

2010-11-27T07:20:00.000-08:00

What do you do with your turkey carcass & leftover meat?

We make this delicious soup.

It's so simple. You may question the ingredients, but give it a try. I think you will enjoy it.

Fill a stock pot with as much water as you want, we usually do around 2-3 quarts. Toss in all the leftover turkey goods- bones, meat, oils, and any vegetables you may have seasoned it with (carrots, celery, onions) boil, covered for 2-3 hours. Meanwhile, make a pot of rice. We usually add around 3-4 cups of cooked rice. Turn soup to a simmer. Take out everything but the broth with a strainer. Be sure to get everything. Skim the oil/fat from the top. Take all the meat off the bones and cut it up finely. Add to soup. Add your cooked rice to the soup. We prefer brown rice, but you can use white rice too. Prepare finely chopped cilantro, finely chopped green onion and soy sauce. I know, it sounds weird. I assure you, the taste is so yummy. Continue to simmer the soup until you are ready to eat. Ladle into a bowl and garnish with soy sauce, green onions & cilantro. Enjoy.

Of course, this soup is delicious at lunch or dinner. But really- it is SO good for breakfast. Again, you may think that is the strangest thing you have ever heard of, to eat soup for breakfast. And I was against it for many years. Until my husband finally won me over. Or perhaps, it was the flavors in the morning that won me over. But, oh soup on a chilly morn is so divine. Give it a try!

(please note, we do NOT add salt to our soup because we add soy sauce upon serving.)

2010-11-26T20:32:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was one of our best yet. That says a lot, being that my Uncle passed away very early that morning. Perhaps we were reminded about the most simple thing of all to be thankful for, life. Because it is so easy to get caught up in the everyday- busyness, boredom, bickering and beyond. How often do we go throughout our days- frustrated, inpatient, stressed- totally losing sight of how precious each day is. Each moment. With that in mind, our family enjoyed a most mellow Thanksgiving at home. Just being together. Happily. Without rushing to get things prepared. Or focusing on the to do's. We were present with one another. Engaged with one another. And it was so nice.

Even with such little focus on the food preparation, everything tasted scrum-dilly-umptious. Let me clarify what I mean by little focus... We were not stressed or rushed in the least to create a masterpiece meal. Nor did we dump pre-made food out to warm up. We slowly prepared our meal. Free from a frazzled spirit. The boys and I did some of the work the day before. And that too, was so delightful. We worked in the kitchen together, for the better part of the day. Cooking with a five and a one and a half year old could've been, well, annoying. But it wasn't. It was awesome. They were both so into working together to create food for our meal and that filled my heart with such joy. I love that we are building family traditions. And that my boys are learning to enjoy being in the kitchen, cooking.

We tried a few new recipes this year that we tweaked to make our own, and they were divine. My goal was to enjoy our Thanksgiving meal free from opening boxes or cans. And that we did. A meal from scratch. Mostly. And really, it was just a tad bit more effort. And so worth it. So if a meal from scratch intimidates you a little, let me encourage you- rather urge you, to give it a try. No cans of sweet potatoes or boxes of stuffing & mashed potatoes. Real food. I can't tell you how good it felt. Because this was a new effort & goal for me. And I am won over. Let me share with you my favorite, from scratch, recipe for stuffing.

Two days before Thanksgiving, the boys and I made this delicious bread. It used to be our Daily Bread. Until I found out that my boys are allergic to wheat. Now, it is mama's bread. So I do not make it as often as I used to. But it is easy. And delicious.

Daily Bread

Put 1 1/2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar and 2 tablespoons warm water in small bowl and let sit for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, measure 1 1/2 cups wheat flour, 2 cups white flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup blue agave, 1/4 cup softened butter and 1 cup warm water into a mixing bowl. Mix and add in yeast mixture. Mix/knead the dough for about 7 minutes.

Place dough into a lightly greased bowl. Turn dough in bowl to lightly coat with oil. Cover bowl with damp/clean cloth and place in a warm spot to allow dough to double in size. About an hour or two.

After dough rises, punch down. Then transfer to lightly greased loaf pan. Shape dough into loaf. Again, place in warm spot and allow to rise, uncovered until it doubles in size. About an hour.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for about 45 minutes or until loaf sounds hollow when tapped lightly on top. Cool on cutting board.

The day before Thanksgiving, I made our stuffing. It sat covered in the refrigerator overnight until about 45 minutes before we wanted to serve it. Then we simply put it in the oven at 350 and baked it for 45 minutes. It is amazing.

Take the Daily Bread made the day before and cut it into small pieces. Place in ziploc bag until ready to use.

Melt 1/4 cup of butter and 1/4 cup of olive oil in pan over medium high flame. Add 1 onion- diced, 5 stalks celery- diced, 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning (I used Trader Joe's "21 Seasoning Salute") salt & pepper to your liking (I added LOTS of both) 1 clove garlic- crushed, and 1/2 cup dried cranberries. Saute until onions are translucent. About 15 minutes. Enjoy the smell.

Prepare 1/2 cup fresh flat leaf parsley- chopped fine, 1 egg- beaten, and 1/4 cup of apple juice. In mixing bowl, add the bread crumbs, skillet mix, egg & parsley and mix VERY GENTLY but also very well. Lightly grease baking dish. Transfer mix to baking dish and press down gently. Pour apple juice over the top and cover. Store covered & refrigerated until ready to use.

I warmed this up today (the day after Thanksgiving) in a skillet over a medium low flame. I added a little bit of apple juice (to replenish the moisture that gets sucked up when you refrigerate things) and covered with a lid. It was just as good as the day before. YUM!

I hope your family enjoyed the delights of the day. May all of your days be rich in thankfulness.

2010-11-21T14:26:00.000-08:00

The first time the Mr. and I selected a name for our son, we had decided to choose a French name. We are both a big mix of heritages, but French is the one (in small doses that is) that we have in common. That, mixed with my love of all things France, it seemed like a great idea. Of course, Pierre, Francois & Jean just didn't fit our taste in names. But one day, the Mr. gave me a call and said "How about Isaak?" Spelling it with a 'K' would be the French part. Stretching it a bit, but we both knew that Isaak was the perfect choice for our first born son. The name means laughter, a big part of the Mr.'s and my relationship. And surely, our first son has brought laughter to our family that is medicine to our souls. The story of Isaac, biblically was also meaningful. The Mr. loved the fact that when Isaac was young, he had so much faith and trust in his father. I loved the fact that Isaac was born to a woman and man who, in the world's eyes, were probably not supposed to have a child. We were told that it was going to be very difficult for us to have children due to my endometriosis. Now, backtracking a bit. As we began the task of choosing a name, the Mr. really wanted to name our first son Ian, but I was looking for something a bit different. Once we had decided upon Isaak, he wanted a middle name that began with an A. His initials would then be IAN. So, the Mr. would kind of get his way. My mom suggested the name Andrew, which means warrior. And so it was, Isaak Andrew.

The second time the Mr. and I selected a name for our son, it was a little more difficult. We knew we wanted something that was not on the most popular baby name list. But that also meant that we would probably get a lot of remarks about our choice. Choosing something different will do that. We didn't mind. This time, we were at church. We stepped out of the service and onto the patio for some discussion. Yes, we left church mid service. The Mr. opened up his Bible and turned to two books. First, the book of Ezra. And then, the book of James. Ezra means help is on the way. And surely, our second son has helped our family grow in ways we could not imagine. James is the Mr.'s favorite book of the Bible. And so it was, Ezra James. But then... we decided we wanted to honor the Mr.'s aunt who has been an incredible blessing to our family. Her name is Toby. We chose to incorporate the name Tobin. And as an added bonus, because the Mr. and I are both winos, there just happens to be a fabulous winery in Paso Robles, one of our favorite places, that makes an impeccable red... Tobin James. And so it was, Ezra Tobin James.

Now, choosing a name for our third son was more difficult than we expected. The Mr. and I could not agree on a name. We knew, once again, we wanted something different and unique. Ready to accept, once again, the remarks of others who did not prefer our choice. We threw several names around, but none clicked. And we continued to disagree on our favorites. And then, very unexpectedly, as the Mr. was reading to our son. The name presented itself. And it clicked. It is French. The given meaning- merchant, was not significant, but the idea that comes to mind when hearing the name certainly is. In fact, two things come to mind when I hear his name...

Merci. As in, we are very thankful for this unexpected gift of another son. As well as Mercy. As in,

Lamentations 3:22-24. [The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness. "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in Him."] In the very beginning of my pregnancy, I was horribly ill. For many weeks. Terribly ill. I had a high fever for over a week. I was so worried that something would happen to our child. But daily, I am reminded that His mercies never come to an end. I love that when I hear his name, encouraging words of scripture come to mind. And so it is, Mercer. We are still on the hunt for the perfect middle name...

On another note, we were given a few bottles of red in celebration and to honor Ezra's birth. Tobin James red of course. Perhaps, to honor Mercer's birth, we will be given a stay at the sweet Mercer Hotel in one of our other favorite places- SOHO, New York! :) Kidding of course... but I can dream.

2010-11-12T18:56:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, I asked my grandmother for a collection of her most cherished recipes. I specifically asked them to be handwritten and on recipe cards. I love looking at these cards. It is amazing to me that you can see a person when simply looking at their handwriting. I love my grandma's handwriting. And I am thankful for these tattered recipe cards.

I enjoy creating her recipes, with my own tweaks. Today, we had leftover oatmeal from breakfast. Instead of tossing it, we used the extras to make her recipe for oatmeal muffins. Although, later in the day I found out it was actually my mom's recipe, taken from the 1970 Betty Crocker Cookbook. Wherever it comes from, it is divine. I tried a few new things to the recipe today and it turned out scrumptious.

There are simple things in life that bring me delight. One of which are brown eggs.

And another, my vintage jars that hold our grains.

Sometimes, it is the simple things in life that bring such pleasure. As I was preparing our muffins this morning, I was thankful for these items of unexpected beauty. If you don't already, I encourage you to consider storing some of your kitchen goods in containers that you enjoy seeing and working with. It just isn't the same opening up a styrofoam package of bleached eggs, or a paper sack full of flour. It's the little things that make a big difference.

Isaak and I worked together to create our muffin masterpiece. Although, sadly, he could not partake. These are NOT gluten free muffins. Thankfully, we had made gluten free pumpkin muffins just a few days prior, so he did not mind a bit.

Give them a try. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Oatmeal Muffins ::

Mix together:

1/2 C canola oil

1 C white sugar

1 C brown sugar

2 eggs

Add:

1 1/2 C flour

1/2 t salt

1 t baking soda

1 t cinnamon

1/2 t nutmeg

1 C cooked oatmeal, cooled

1 carton Trader Joes banana yogurt (The small thick one, not the big runny one! You can leave this out, this was one of the big tweaks today... but it was so yummy!)

Top with:

coconut, brown sugar & butter mixed to your liking

Bake at 350 until done

Bon Appetit!

2010-10-28T07:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me! I am ever thankful for these 36 years of life. Last year on my birthday, I posted a list of 35 things I wanted to do during my 35th year. Today I look back. I realize that I did many of these things. And I also did NOT do many of these things. Further, I did many things that weren't even on the list. And I consider the importance of having a plan. A goal. And also realizing that life is not always about my plans and my goals. Because, although we like to think we are in control of our days... we simply are not. So this year, My list looks a little different. Surely, I would still like to accomplish the list in it's entirety. But mostly, I just want to live with joy. That's my list of what I want for my 36th year. Joie d'Vivre.

Here is the list from last year-

35 things i want to do during my 35th year ::

1 learn how to knit + knit all my boys beanies

2 find a gluten free daily bread recipe that i like just as much as my former daily bread recipe

3 vacation in maui

4 take a cooking class

5 learn a french song and sing it frequently to my children

6 visit the central coast

7 plant a vegetable garden

8 rekindle my passion for the written letter + write letters to friends & family

9 run wildly with my boys

10 visit the library regularly

11 play chess with the mr.

12 read, read, read

13 keep a nature journal

14 draw, paint, write

15 learn more about photography

16 smile more

17 pray more

18 praise the mr. more

19 fit into my armani dress

20 shop the farmer's market regularly

21 organize, organize, organize

22 picnic frequently

23 go camping

24 meet the new neighborhood, get involved

25 meet the new church, get involved

26 get a family portrait done

27 practice random acts of kindness

28 focus on the fruits of the spirit- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness + self control

29 surprise family + friends with thoughtfulness

30 master several soup recipes

31 memorize scripture with isaak

32 play with the boys... really play

33 take time to listen... really listen

34 kiss the mr. more

35 make a list for year 36

I will still make efforts to accomplish this list. However, it will not guide my days. Instead, I hope that my days will be guided by faith, in hope, receiving and giving joy abundantly. Wishing you Joie d'Vivre friends! And a beautiful year. xox

2010-10-26T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have a thing for branches + sticks. And tend toward them in decorating for the holidays. At Christmas, they hang our stockings.

At Easter, they remind us of Calvary.

But I have never thought to use them in the Autumn. Thanks to my good friend, I have been inspired to do so. SEE HERE. So, Isaak and I have been busy collecting leaves, we found an awesome fallen branch, and enjoyed an evening of creating our masterpiece. I am quite happy with the result. Happy Autumn friends. Enjoy the delights of the season.

{On a side note, I owe a thanks to my husband for this shot. As I was setting up to capture this, he recommended several options in which to capture the picture. Did I listen... I think not. I did my own thing, and after several failed attempts, I chose to swallow my pride and listen to the man. He came in to help and captured this in one click of the button. Sometimes... I am lame! Thanks love. Oh, AND... he dipped the biggest leaves in the hot wax, because they did not fit in the pan and he had to use his fingers in the hot wax to gently bend the leaves to coat them. He rocks! Again, thanks love.}

2010-10-16T19:20:00.000-07:00

Pure bliss. Our annual trip up to the Central Coast. Our haven. We enjoyed not only visiting with our great friends who live there, but also our great friends who happened to be on vacation there at the same time. The boys were thrilled. Just some of our memories...

Enjoying

2010-10-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

Investigating

2010-10-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

Exploring

2010-10-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

Observing

2010-09-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

Friday Finds!

The boys and I hit a Library Book Sale today. We scored some vintage treasures. The Velveteen Rabbit, The Jungle Books, and Papa Petit... a book in french and english. All for $2.50. There is something so charming about a vintage book. Love. Please find yourself a Library Book Sale and enjoy the hunt.

2010-06-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

She looked at him half flirting and half disgusted. He ate his plate of portuguese sausage, eggs & rice. He laughed, assuring her how good it tasted. Her, the fair skinned blonde. Him, the dark skinned HAPA. Young teens in love. Today, as we walked through the doors to MARUKAI {a Japanese market} the husband, kids and I... there they were before me. US! The moment I saw them, I went back 18 years. I remember the first time Scot took me to Marukai. I was just 17 years old. Probably the same age she was at the table today. I felt so intimated. I was TALL. I was blonde. I stood out. All the food in there looked quite disturbing to me. I was used to belgian waffles with whipped cream and strawberries. NOT SPAM MUSUBI! Scot assured me how tasty his cuisine was. Over time, I gradually converted. I wanted to stop and tell her. To share what 18 years can bring to the blonde and the Hapa. But I refrained. I smiled. I remembered. I was thankful. Just this week, I have now known Scot longer than not knowing him. Confused? We met when I was 17. I am now 35. I have known him 18 years. Just this week, 18 years ago, we were in Mexico on a High School Youth retreat. He was SO not my type. And I was SO not his type. But we connected. And our lives forever changed. The past 18 years have been full of ups and downs and twists and turns and dead ends and yielding as we navigated through life together. The road has been under construction and I hope it will remain under construction as we continue to refine our path and map out our course. Today was a sweet reminder of where it all started. I smile even now, thinking about the sweet young couple with so much ahead of them. Thank you my love. For refining my palate. In more than just food. I love you. I appreciate you. I am thankful for you. 18 years later.

Oh, and YES... I did used to be blonde.

2010-06-26T07:07:00.000-07:00

Maybe it was stress. After all, I had been tending to my very sick boys for a week. Including a most frightening visit to the ER. See HERE. No sleep + stress... yup, that'll do it. Or, perhaps it was that I was consistently working out. Harder than I ever have. In my life. Apparently, working out hardcore can do it to you. But that was not it either. I was 5 days late. What else could it be, but this...

WOW! I figured I'd take the test and start the next day. That seems to be the way it works, for me at least. I'm late. I take a test. I start the next day. But not this time. This time, shock. An unexpected surprise indeed. Scot was at work. I sat alone, in awe. 3? We are going to have 3! It was what we had always talked of, but never sure about. We were not "trying." For 12+ years, our birth control method had worked perfectly. When we were ready to "try" we conceived quite easily. {Which is another story in itself, seeing that I had horrible endometriosis and was supposed to have tremendous difficulty becoming pregnant. Perhaps that will be Part 2 of this story.} All I could think of upon seeing the results of this test was that this was completely God. We had not planned this. But, He had. And I am so thankful. I feel utterly blessed beyond measure. I am elated to be experiencing the most beautiful gift of pregnancy and childbirth. It is the most fascinating experience that I do so enjoy. Okay, I know... the morning sickness, the fatigue, the backache, the heartburn, the delivery. It's not all pretty. But it is truly an experience of a lifetime. And I am thrilled to have another go at it. Thank you Lord. For knowing our hearts. For providing for our family. For blessing us. We are now a family of 5.

2010-06-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

Friday Finds!

The boys and I hit two Estate Sales today. They were so well behaved. After leaving the first, Isaak exclaimed "That was FUN!" Be still my heart. The boy likes to go treasure hunting with his mama. Love it. Today, we picked up:

A puzzle map of the United States of America. Perfect for Isaak who loves all things maps and who is currently learning all of the states.

A game of Scrabble. Not to play Scrabble though. This is a growing collection of Scrabble tiles. Why? You ask. For learning the alphabet and spelling of course. Since I am not a huge fan of plastic toys, I love using these wooden tiles with the uppercase alphabet for playing alphabet games and spelling words. Yeah for scrabble pieces!

This amazing mid century butter dish from Denmark. Love it. It reminds me of my friends collection. See HERE. Which I adore. This one fits the Naraki aesthetic to a T. Vintage, modern design, simple, earthy elements, neutral colors. LOVE IT!

These fun kitchen utensils from Italy. For Play Doh of course!

And a lovely handkerchief. Oh, how I adore them. Why did we ever give in to Kleenex? How much more eco-friendly, stylish and comfortable to use are good old fashioned handkerchiefs!

Isaak also scored a mini flashlight. He has a thing for those too. All this for a mere $7. Meant to be $10, but I only had $7. I think Ezra's sweet smile did the trick. Really.

2010-06-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

What do weights and a ID bracelet from the ER have in common? Read on and see...

It has been a long, hard week. Ezra began having even more difficult evenings than he already has. Typically, he wakes several times throughout the night to nurse and be soothed back to sleep. This week however, he did not sleep well at all. He did not want to be put in his crib at all. He just wanted mama to hold him. ALL NIGHT LONG. If he wasn't in my arms, he let out an awful- fear driven cry. Not normal.

Isaak then began to cough. He came down with a fever. Which, thankfully, quickly passed. He continues to have a cough, but is well and active.

Ezra also developed a cough. And then a fever. He awoke at 2 am Tuesday and would not go back to sleep. He was restless in my arms. I was exhausted. I took him to the Doctor yesterday, as the past week coupled with the night before and the cough + fever didn't sit well with me. We came home shortly after with a diagnosis of some serious teething as well as a viral infection. Orders were to keep the fever down with a tepid bath.

Upon arrival home, I put Ezra into the tepid bath. He began crying. I took him out. He began shaking. And crying more. I attempted to console him. I then noticed... HE WAS TURNING BLUE! I mean dark purple, blue. Arms, hands, legs, feet and mouth. His trunk was blotchy. The whites of his eyes turned red and his eyes became glossy and very tired looking. Now, I have been a preschool teacher + director for over 17 years. I have had to tend to many a sick/injured child. Children with bad asthma attacks, anaphylactic shock, broken bones, teeth knocked out, etc. I feel like I have been well prepared to deal with these types of occurrences, but oh, no! Not when it is my child. I imagined the worst. I began to pray. I left Scot & Isaak at home and put my blue baby in the car. The drive to the hospital was utterly frightening. Ezra was blue, cold, and barely responsive. He no longer cried, but just glared. I had to rub his feet to get him to cry, just so I knew he was still okay. I drove safe, but the drive there was the longest drive ever. Upon arrival at the ER, no staff was available. For almost 10 minutes. I was frustrated to say the least. Finally, a nurse called our name and in we went. For the wait game. Apparently, blue babies are not that high of a priority. They took his stats. Which seemed within normal range, except for the 103.7 fever. They gave him some Tylenol. We went to a room for more tests. Poor babe, had to have a catheter. Not too happy about that. The blue had since subsided. His skin was pink once again. Scot then arrived, after securing a willing Grammy to come watch Isaak. Ezra seemed to be coming back around, although still totally sick. Results again, normal. Huh? The only two possible reasons for the blue babe- vessel constriction from the bath... or pre febrile seizure from the fever. So thankful that my babe is okay. Aside from the viral infection and teething that is. Last night, we even got a LITTLE bit of sleep. Just a tad.

This whole episode really did several things to me. First, it F R E A K E D me out. How scary it is to think of something tragic happening to your child. How hard to helplessly watch your child suffer. How exhausting, both emotionally and physically. Second, it makes me thankful. Thankful that I have children to love in such a way. To feel this kind of love IS life. Third, it makes me look to my God. My protector, my strength, my refuge. I am aware that others in the hospital last night, did not walk out of it the way I did. They walked out empty handed. I walked out with my babe. All of our days are numbered. We do not know what that number is. Let us live this life abundantly, with thankfulness and joy. With kindness and generosity. With humility and hope and health.

As you may already know, I am in the midst of bootcamp for mamas. A six week challenge of health + fitness. It has been difficult. Difficult to change eating habits. Difficult to say no to cravings and desires. Difficult to push my body, physically, to it's limits. Those weights in the picture above, are now a reminder to me. Because strength comes in many different forms. Those weights will gird me in strength. Both physically and spiritually. As I utilize them to create a strong core, I will now use that time to pray. I will pray to create a strong spirit. Because the following verse encourages me to do so- "She is clothed with strength and dignity, she can laugh at the days to come." -Proverbs 31:25 Ultimately, I know that the "days to come" rest in His hands. But I do not feel like I can always "laugh at the days to come." Which to me, doesn't necessarily mean laugh, as in my out loud cackle, but to feel the joy and peace that come when you have a life of laughter. I want to be able to have the ultimate joy and peace in the midst of my blue babe episode. I want to be clothed in strength and dignity, when I arrive at the ER and NO ONE is available to help my child and I. Because, confession... I was NOT dignified. Bootcamp for mamas is hard. Bootcamp for Jesus is hard. But I want to press on. I want what is good for me, physically and spiritually. I have one body. One life, here on earth. And I hope and pray that I will continue seeking to be challenged. For a better self. So I can be a better wife. A better mama. A better servant. And as my bootcamp instructor says "Live my best life!"

{Side note- Aren't those weights the sweetest little vintage finds? I love them. I have had them for many years. And have not used them. But I knew someday, I would need them. Now is that day. And I'm so thankful to have them.}

2010-06-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

Today, I had the pleasure of a sweet date with my eldest son. We went HERE to explore how land and sea are revealed in the foods of native California, in its medicines, songs and dances, stories and art by the Tongva community. We joined my grandma, as she was working the event as a docent. We began under these beautiful flags, some with photographs of ancestors who have passed, honoring them and bringing them with us throughout the journey. We enjoyed prayer + song, and then moved on to discover. What was so wonderful, was that I did not know about this event until last night, when I told my husband that I was longing to see some Native Indian music + dancing. As posted before, I have a deep love for music of all types. Including, Native Indian music... drumming especially. My husband then informed me of the event taking place today and that it would be a great opportunity for my son and I to enjoy. Divine. (Thanks dear, for staying home with the babe so that Isaak and I could enjoy a special date.)

Our first stop, was observing this gorgeous Hawk. How amazing to see it so close.

Then, I went off to purchase some Indian Frybread- YUM and Isaak went with great grandma to investigate the Native Garden. This is his favorite place on the grounds as it is a beautiful nature trail, abundant in plant life with a sweet little stream running through it. To Isaak's delight, canoe making was available in this area. After obtaining his canoe, he ran it through the stream. And to his surprise, it became completely destroyed... being that it was paper! He went for another canoe. Apparently, a newspaper reporter caught a glimpse of the action and was delighted by Isaak's enthusiasm. She shot a few photographs of him, but being that he was with my grandma at the time, I have no other details. So it is quite possible that Isaak will be in the paper. He adored his canoe. (So much so, that he napped with it!)

After partaking in many other activities, we sat to enjoy the enchanting sounds + sights of the music + dancing of the Tongva. We were charmed by their detailed clothing. Isaak observed the many different types of feathers on their clothes and proudly proclaimed "Mama, I think that white feather is from a Snowy Egret." LOVE IT!

It was then time to return home. We had to park below the hill and take a bus up... so back down the hill we went. Of course, Isaak loved the bus experience. Now, if I can just get him to begin understanding that the people are called Indians and NOT aliens, as he so enthusiastically kept telling everyone! Oy vey!

Several times throughout our date, Isaak proclamimed "Mama- it's just you and me! No baby!" Yes child. And what a special time it was. I will now make a commitment to dates, just he and I. (And papa & son dates too!) Be encouraged to take time with your children, individually. It truly was a most memorable occasion.

2010-06-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

"My Father's Gun" by Elton John is prompting this post. Along with a little red, I must confess. But truly, music... oh, sweet music, I soar when I am accompanied by my favorite tunes. I feel like the bird above. Flying free. Soaring. Cheesy, sure. But, oh... so true. Confession- I am a music snob. And lately, I rarely have time to enjoy MY music. The tunes that bring me to another place. Where I am in the midst of beats, melodies, bass lines, drum sequences. Yes, I listen closely. And find freedom in music. All kinds of music. Again, I am a music snob. If you don't like what I like, well- you are missing out friend. Missing out big. Sorry. Perhaps one day I will grow in this area. But think about it. You hear a tune. It brings you to a favorite place. A memory. A time. Or, just pure bliss. Hymns, folksongs, jazz, classical, rock, hardcore... I have a place for it all. Yes... I confess... even Rage Against the Machine. Judge if you will. But this is me. We went to see U2 the night before I was sliced in two and my kidney was pulled out of me to give to my brother. Rage Against the Machine opened for them. I didn't know them then. I do now. And I love them. So much, that several weeks ago the Mr. and I went on a date night. We went to a fab restaurant and bar in our new neighborhood of Venice. The best part for me... the drive there. Listening to Rage. I know, sad. But me. Music is BIG in my life. When I was director of a preschool, we had a staff in-service day. A day of encouragement. Where we did 10 different things for 10 different people. One of which included going to a real recording studio and busting out 3 songs, together. That spoke of who we were. Bonding indeed. Don't ask if I have a voice. Just know that I love to sing. Judge once more if you must... but here is another confession: I WANT AN AUTOHARP! Yup. If it was good for June Carter Cash, than so it is for me. I want to host music days for our homeschool group, leading with an autoharp. A vintage, old school autoharp. I want to teach these sweet kids sweet tunes. I want them to develop a love for music. A passion for music. And you? What is your relationship with music? How has it impacted your life? What is your favorite? If you ask me, I'm sure you will hear a list rattled off of artists + songs you have never even heard of. If you're interested, I'd love to share. I love to talk music. If you are not quite getting this post, then we must talk. And listen. Now go put on your favorite tunes. Turn up the volume. Close your eyes. And just feel the music. (Yes, I know... utter music dork! Do enjoy though. I know you want to!)

2010-06-07T07:19:00.000-07:00

Have you been in a fog lately? Unclear? Has your lamp gone out? When life begins to get dark, seek the light. Sometimes, in the daily grind of life, our focus gets blurred. In L A R G E matters or s m a l l . A gust of wind comes through, and blows out the light that has been burning. And so, once again, we remember to take the time to find that little twinkle. That spark of light that ignites our soul and gives our heart + head clarity. That illuminates us from within. That shines forth, providing light for others. It all reminds me of this verse-

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105

Have you ever tried to walk in the darkness? It is not easy. You proceed slow, cautious, in fear perhaps. But, oh... to walk in clarity. In peace. On an illuminated path, you journey on in confidence. Sometimes, our path may be fully immersed in the radiance of the sun. Other times, our path may be lit dimly by the faint glimmer of the stars. But as long as we keep turning toward the light, we can see.

2010-06-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

I, I am a carbivore! My son has been through this phase lately of choosing to be an herbivore. And then, abruptly changes his mind and wants to be a carnivore. And then, of course... an omnivore. But I, oh... I am a loyal carbivore. And, well... my body doesn't quite appreciate it. So, I have decided to enroll in boot camp. Find it HERE. A six week challenge by an amazing mama from our new church. She rocks. Her work outs are pretty hard core. For me at least. Who hasn't worked out in years. Many, many years. Combining her work outs and her nutrition planning program, I feel so encouraged. I feel like I can still enjoy my food. I am not dieting. I am planning. To me, that is a big difference. Because if I was dieting, there is no way I would be able to enjoy this...

We went blackberry picking with our homeschool group. We came home with a bucket full of amazing blackberries. As I was planning my balanced menu for the day, the nutrition program was pointing me in the direction of a waffle. Are you kidding me? I love this program. A perfect complement to my blackberries. And indeed it was. And it satisfied my carbivore loving self. Without being over the top indulgent. Don't get me wrong here, the rest of my day consisted of healthy foods to create an almost perfect balance of minerals, vitamins, heart health + weight control. The four areas the menu planner focuses on. It takes quite awhile to plan out the meals of the day. But it is extremely enlightening. Measuring cups are my new best friend. Because portion is everything. What seems to be a HUGE problem in our world today. Enjoy the pun! Seriously, today's portions are outrageous. And I have indulged in them. I am thankful for this accountability, to be aware of just how much I should be consuming. I am actually eating more than I normally would. But in much smaller portions. Add to that the crazy, booty kicking work outs... and I am on the track to a healthier, more fit body. A journey indeed. I am so thankful for today's technology. I can access either live sessions with my trainer + fellow mama Tami, or I can view a taped session online. With mama-ing my busy boys, the taped sessions seem to be working better for me. I can access it whenever I find a spare 45 minutes in my day. Sometimes nap time. Sometimes bed time. Thanks Tami. You are an amazing mama and I am so thankful for your motivated self and for this journey.

2010-06-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful weekend. Full of family + food in honor of Mama's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA! Not the best time to be on a boot camp diet, but then, when is? {More on that later.} Our first dinner HERE was amazing, as always. Our second dinner HERE was great too. But this night, we were able to enjoy a gorgeous walk along the coast of Laguna Beach and around the tide pools. Simply breathtaking. A most pleasurable evening indeed. If you are ever near Laguna Beach, do take some time to explore the shore. So peaceful. So refreshing. So alive.

2010-06-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

My sweet Ezra. This was a new day for you. You have decided to be a big boy. Just like that. Just like your brother. You wanted nothing to do with your stroller. You gladly + proudly walked the nature trails with all the other friends. You wanted nothing to do with your sippy cup. Only a big boy cup, just like your brother, would do. You would not sit on my lap and allow me to feed you. You sat on your own, on the picnic blanket, choosing your food and feeding yourself. Engaging with friends. Being your sweet self. You made me proud. And a bit in awe. How could you possibly, in the blink of an eye, be such a big boy already? I love you sweet child. Continue to discover this world. Continue to grow in the glory of our Lord. And I will continue to watch, thankful + blessed.

2010-05-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago, we went exploring HERE. You can also read about it HERE. But what I didn't get to writing about, were the a m a z i n g gardens. I have long dreamed about my very own patch of herbs, fruits + vegetables. Ready to pick, in my own backyard. Ready to create marvelous culinary masterpieces. In my dreamland, I would also have a quaint little coop filled with hens laying the most spectacularly fresh + beautifully colored eggs. Wouldn't it be glorious to step outside your kitchen to find this waiting for you...

2010-05-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

Last week's date day brought the Mr. and I to our soon to be neighborhood of Venice. We enjoyed leisurely strolling Abbot Kinney, perusing shops. But mostly, indulging in the most amazing fare. Our first stop, THIS restaurant. Presently, my absolute favorite dining establishment. Not just because I love this light fixture of rustic meets modern,

Or, because this pizza of gruyere, caramelized onion, fromage blanc + arugula rocks. As does all the food for that matter.

No- it's because one fine day, as our whole family dined at this ultra hip restaurant, Ezra fussing & Isaak playing trains in the courtyard- the CHEF invited Isaak back to explore the kitchen with him. Not only that, he brought back a free, completely delicious gelato for him. LOVE this place.

After our meal, we headed HERE to this Patisserie. Yum. I indulged in the "Inspiration" - soft caramel with dark bitter sweet chocolate, sea salt and cocoa bean from Madagascar. Oh, yes. One fine day.

If you are ever near Venice, do make it a priority to visit & partake at both of these establishments. You will be glad you did.