cultivating gratitude

weekending

2010-09-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

{ this moment }

2010-08-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

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

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend!

hello out there.

2010-07-23T19:11:00.000-07:00

Well the month of July has just flown by! Pete and I are still on our computer strike, but I wanted to pop in and post some pics of our days.

I'll post some photos again soon. Until then, have a great summer!
Love,
S.

she's a smart one.

2010-06-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

My baby sister Caroline graduated from high school this weekend, with honours.

She's heading off to Carleton University in the fall to study Architecture, with a scholarship.

Yeah, I'm pretty much filled to the brim with pride and admiration.
She's utterly amazing.

weekending

2010-06-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

Upon seeing a few cows grazing in a distant field,
Henry said to me, "Mama, cows make milk."
"Yes, they do." I replied.
"But, what do they make for lunch?" he asked.
Ha! This kids got a sense of humour!

Hope you all had a lovely weekend!
S.

weekending

2010-06-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

get outside!

2010-06-17T16:21:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when Pete and I are up after the kids go to bed, we get to talking about these little human beings we are raising and what the most important things we want to teach them are. Kindness, compassion, patience, gratitude... One thing that we really want to impart is a deep love and respect for Mother Nature.

In a society where most of us live in urban centres and are surrounded by pavement and buildings, it is easy to think that you need to leave the city to really connect with Mother Nature. Yet even in the midst of all this urban sprawl, we can generally find a little green space where the opportunity presents itself to commune with nature in much of her resplendent glory.

Take our back yard for example. There's a whole microcosmos out there where all the laws and mysteries of nature's rule shine through with fierce determination and blinding colour. Insects, plants, animals, earth, weather, man - all interacting and striving to coexist with one another.

So we venture outside as often and as much as we can with the boys, even just into our own back yard. And when we're there, we remind ourselves that we are part of nature, not above it or beyond it and that her laws and mysteries apply as equally to us as to the birds, the flowers and the beetles. We get outside to find our centre, to breath, to relax and to enjoy and celebrate this wondrous life and magical world to its fullest!

Update: My sweet husband always reads and edits everything I write before anyone else sees it, because lets face it - I need an editor. Usually its just a few grammatical errors scattered throughout the piece which need some tweaking. Yet this post, apparently it needed some major TLC, and now when I read the finished product, it feels more like a joint effort. His thoughts and words shine through ever so eloquently (I didn't even know what 'resplendent' meant!) and I just wanted to mention that. Pete is an exceptional writer, yet he never writes. But ask him to talk about living in harmony with nature, and away he goes! So I am just tickled pink to share this space with him :)

Be well,
Shannon and Pete

granolier

2010-06-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

2 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup cane sugar or sucanat
1/4 cup ground flax
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup dried cranberries
3/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup honey
1 egg, beaten or egg substitute
1/2 cup canola oil (I might try substituting some of the oil with apple sauce next time)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9 x 13 baking pan.
2. In large bowl, mix together the oats, sugar, flax, cinnamon, flour, raisins and salt. Make a well in the centre, pour in the honey, egg, oil and vanilla. Mix well. Pat the mixture evenly into the pan.
3. Bake for about 25 minutes, but watch the baking time. You want them to be chewy, not dry.
Cool for 5 minutes, then cut into bars or squares. Do not allow the bars to cool completely before cutting or they will be too hard to cut.

I have never been keen to purchase granola bars. Mainly because they rarely taste yummy or fresh and the organic ones which we prefer are extremely expensive ($6 for 4 of them??!!). Also, anything individually packaged really peeves me off. So wasteful! So anyways, last Sunday night at around 9pm, when I realized I had to provide snacks for Henry's Montessori class that week, rather than panic and rush to the store - tempting though that response was - I decided to try this recipe.
They turned out to be quick and easy. Plus, they got the approval from all three of my boys, which is rare.
So yeah, make 'em. Then eat 'em.

xo

yum.

2010-06-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

On a hot and sweaty day there is nothing quite like going outside, picking some rhubarb right off the plant and making a batch of rhubarb soda.

I love the process almost as much as the finished product.

Almost.

Rhubarb Soda
3c chopped rhubarb
3c water
1c cane sugar or sucanat
Put it all in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Separate syrup from rhubarb pulp and let cool.
Add 1/4c syrup to 1 cup of sparkling water.
Keep syrup in air tight container in the fridge for up to a week. Makes about 8 cups.

Enjoy!

producer profile

2010-06-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Tim and Carla Schultz, the farmers we grow for at The Green Ranch decided to start profiling the people they work with for their newsletter. Here is our profile:

A while back this idea came to me about profiling our awesome producers that are a huge part of what makes The Green Ranch what it is! Every Farmer/Rancher that is growing/raising food, has a story…why they are passionate about agriculture, and working together with the land to produce great wholesome food! Here is the first in our Producer Profile Series!!
As our business has grown in the past couple years, it has been necessary to increase garden production. This could be done a few different ways, we could increase the size of our garden, and hire more employees to increase production and efficiency, or we could make partnerships with likeminded growers that would like to grow produce for The Green Ranch. We have incorporated a bit of both methods, as we expanded operations on our ranch this year. Our plan is to specialize in certain products that we feel our land is well suited to, and then have other growers raise the crops that are best suited for them.

Pete and Shannon MacLaggan, Regina, Sk
This is Pete and Shannon’s first year of growing for The Green Ranch, and we are very excited to be working with them! What is especially exciting about this partnership is that they are Urban Farmers! Urban Farming is something that has been gaining momentum for the last few years across Canada, and the United States. What is more local than food grown right in your city?? The Urban Farming movement gives me hope because what we are seeing is a whole new generation of young people that are interested in Agriculture and have a passion to farm for a living. What is interesting about this new generation of farmers is that they are often a couple generations removed from farm life. This means that its not tradition or family heritage that is drawing them to agriculture but a burning desire to have a hand in a new type of food system that’s Local, Sustainable, and of course amazingly flavorful! I am not suggesting that it is better to be drawn to farming by pure passion than by family heritage….of course the reason I was drawn to agriculture was Family Heritage! For us that has turned into a deep passion for what we do! What excites me the most about this is that now with a new generation of farmers raising their families in the farming lifestyle, the next generation may be influenced by their parent’s passion, and consider Farming as a way of life for them also! Some of you may know about SPIN Farming: Small Plot INtensive Farming This is the system that we use for our market garden. It is designed for use in city plots, and the inventor of this system lives right here in Saskatoon. Wally has been very successful with his own urban farm in Saskatoon, and has taken his passion for small scale farming and channeled it into education to help other aspiring gardeners get there feet wet in Farming! It was through Wally that I got started with Market Gardening, we have taken his principles and applied them to our backyard on the farm. Wally has been a great mentor to us, and many other aspiring gardeners all over the world!! It was through the SPIN group that I came in touch with Pete and Shannon.
Here is their story,
Before I had children I never gave much thought to where my food came from, but with pregnancy came a deeper awareness of my body and the things I was putting into it. The closer I looked at our food culture, the more concerned I became. I started educating myself about the origins and properties of the food I was buying. Did the items on my grocery list line up with my values as a human being? Was the environment being respected? Was there fairness of trade? How were the animals treated? Did my purchases support the local economy? Sadly, I couldn’t answer yes to any of these questions. My food’s journey from earth to plate became a very important one for me. So my husband Peter and I decided to make some changes. We knew that we had to change our eating habits and it wasn’t going to be a cheap or easy transition, but one that we felt was absolutely worth the effort and expense in the long run. We started buying organic, eating as local as possible, and planted a vegetable garden. Our interest in sustainable agriculture continued to grow as did our family, and this year we decided to take a giant leap and start Urban Farming. After hearing about SPIN farming on CBC Radio a few times, we took a trip up to meet Wally and Gail (SPINs creators) in Saskatoon and ended up coming home feeling incredibly inspired and excited and ready. With Pete working from home, and me teaching yoga and staying home with the boys, this seemed like the perfect business for us. However, we were concerned about taking on more than we could handle from the outset, and I wasn’t sure how it would pan out with two boys under the age of three, so when Tim mentioned he was looking for growers - it was simply meant to be! Tim has been an incredible resource and friend throughout this journey and his and Carla’s enthusiasm and passion for local food has been utterly contagious. After only a few weeks of Urban Farming under our belts, I can most assuredly say that this is the life for us. When I am out in the garden, so dirty and sweaty, something uplifting and wonderful happens; life slows down. I become more mindful of all of the gifts and moments in my life - ordinary, as well as extraordinary - which normally would have gone by unnoticed. I am awed, humbled, truly and utterly happy and have never felt more connected to Mother Nature in all of my life.

As the summer progresses you will meet Pete and Shannon and the kids Henry and Myles at the farmers market and CSA pickup days. They will be a regular fixture of our team! We are looking forward to a great summer working together!!

whoa.

2010-06-11T21:04:00.000-07:00

That was a long break.

Sorry for the absence, things have been a bit crazy here.
~We adopted a new dog! His name is Wesley and he is four year old Aussie Shepard. We love him so, and he will have his very own blog post soon.
~Henry started Montessori and loves it.
~Myles is cutting new teeth left, right and center and Mama is getting no sleep.
~Gardening, gardening, gardening
~Kitchen renovation (no working kitchen for 6 weeks - 'nuff said.)
~Just wrapped up my yoga classes for the summer

Urban farming is going great. Sold out at the market last weekend. I pulled 600 green onions (60 bunches) this morning for market tomorrow. I also transplanted 70 basil plants into my front yard today.
My back is killing me, but I am happy, happy, happy. No matter the weather, no matter what else is going on in my life, when I am out in the garden, I constantly find myself with a big, goofy grin from ear to ear. Life is good.

More pictures to come soon, I promise.
Hope everyone is having a lovely start to their summers and getting a little bit dirty in their gardens as well!

Take care,
Shannon

week's end

2010-04-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

{ this moment }

2010-04-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

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

28.

2010-04-16T06:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday and I had the most wonderful day.

Henry woke me up by singing his version of "happy birthday", then he asked me for HIS presents ~ I got a delicious bowl of oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast ~ My best friend called me for a nice long chat ~ I did laundry ~ I got a super swank wheelbarrow from my sweetie ~ I swept and vaccumed ~ My sister treated me to lunch - without the kids! ~ I cleaned 3 poopy diapers ~ I read lots of Franklin books ~ I swept again ~ I kissed two bobos ~ My Mama dropped off cupcakes ~ I ordered pizza for dinner (mine is sooo much better) ~ I put the kids to bed ~ My love made popcorn and we snuggled up with a movie.

Yeah, it was pretty wonderful.
xo

our greatest adventure yet

2010-04-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading my blog, I am sure that you are already aware of my passion for growing and eating food. Pete and I have been dreaming and talking about owning a farm for years and years. I recently realized that that was all that we were doing, though - dreaming and talking. There are always so many reasons not to follow your dreams, right? Money, fear, time...
Well, this year we are setting our reservations aside and taking the plunge - and have decided to start urban farming! We are following SPIN (Small Plot INtensive) farming methods and have converted every last foot of our front and backyard into gardens (which, by city standards, is fairly large).
We have been busy, to say the least, and the work is overwhelming and a bit crazy, but breathtaking and rewarding and meaningful all at the same time.
Rather than starting our business and selling at the farmers market right off the bat, I wanted to take some of the pressure off (and see if I could, in fact, do this with two babes), so we have teamed up with another farming couple, Tim and Carla Schultz from The Green Ranch and are growing for them this year. Tim has been an amazing resource and friend throughout this whole process and their passion for local agriculture and sustainable food is completely contagious and I couldn't be more excited about the coming season! They currently sell at the Regina's Farmers Market, have a thriving CSA program, as well as sell local, ethically raised meats, naturally grown produce and a variety of organic flours to a few restaurants in Regina - The Fainting Goat being one of them. The cats who own The Goat are pretty fantastic - they support local farmers, artists and musicians. Plus, the food is amazing. Just sayin'.
I am going to be documenting every step of our adventure on this ol' blog. Any feed back or advice is greatly appreciated - we're novices, after all!
It is our sincerest hope that we will learn and, excuse the pun, grow as farmers and human beings through this experience, and then bring our new knowledge and business back home to Deep River, Ontario when the time is right.

We are so thrilled. Wish us luck!

i heart spring

2010-03-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today we followed the sun...

...and it was glorious.

{ this moment }

2010-03-28T18:55:00.001-07:00

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

its been a rough day...

2010-03-25T14:51:00.000-07:00

...so I decided to treat myself.

a lesson

2010-03-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

In all of my children's yoga classes, I always finish the hour with a happy circle. We all sit around and tell one another something that makes us feel happy and warm inside. Something that makes us feel great about ourselves.
The answers are always so adorable, but usually pretty similar - a picture drawn, caring for and playing with little siblings, cuddling their pets, etc.
This week, I was particularly struck by one child's answer.
The sweet, shy little 7 year old told me that she was so happy because she woke up that morning and the sun was shining, and that after class she was going to the park to splash in the puddles.
So wonderfully pure and simplistic. The sun was shining and she got to play.
A light went on in my head.
Okay Universe, I get the message - no more complaining.

splish splash

2010-03-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

Its warming up outside and Henry couldn't be happier.

We messed around in the water for an hour today while the babe slept.
When we came in, our faces, fingers and toes were freezing.
It was so worth it.

What is it about playing in puddles?

It never gets old.

36.

2010-03-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

In this photo Pete was rambling on about natural selection and building natural immunities and though rather riveting, it was a little too technical for this sleep deprived mama today...
I was trying to listen, really, but my mind started wandering, and I found myself thinking about what a hunk he is. A tall drink of water, if I do say so myself.
Loving, strong, compassionate, gentle, understanding, nonjudgemental... I could go on and on.

Happy Birthday Sweetheart.
I love you so.

{ this moment }

2010-03-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

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

yum yum

2010-03-19T10:04:00.000-07:00

I found this cinnamon bread idea on the internet somewhere, and this morning decided to give it a whirl.
I just used my regular WHO bread recipe, and after the first rising, I rolled it out, coated it with butter, and sprinkled a generous portion of cinnamon and sugar on it (next time I'm going to add some raisins).
Throw it in the oven, and cut yourself a thick slice with a nice slab of butter. Umm, umm.

Most to the loaf was devoured in 10 minutes, which I'll take as a good sign.

Have a great weekend.

{ this moment }

2010-03-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

A new Friday ritual, inspired by Soulemama. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

these socks aren't made for walkin'

2010-03-11T20:39:00.000-08:00

I knit myself a pair of socks. And I love them. Oh, do I ever.

There are about a million mistakes scattered throughout, and they aren't identical by any means, but I learnt so much during this project, and they are wonderfully cozy. And I MADE them!

I know, I know, they are just socks...but astonishingly, I am so very proud of them.
In fact, I am almost afraid to wear them...these babies took me over twenty hours to knit up!

Pete loves them almost as much as I do, and I am so lucky to have a partner who really appreciates and respects the time and energy I put into handmade craft - plus he's pretty understanding when it comes to how much I spend on yarn - so I think its only fair I knit him a pair of his own. And you know what that means...another trip to the yarn store for me! Yay!

Be well,
Shan

right now

2010-02-27T18:52:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I was talking with Pete and telling him how much happier I will be once our kitchen is renovated. My darling husband gently reminded me of how, just two months ago, when we were staying in my sisters basement waiting to move to our new home I said to him "all I need is to just get in our house and I'll be happy." This observation really struck a cord and I have been thinking about it ever since.

In my yoga classes, I try to teach my students to tune into themselves and to be more mindful of the moment. By focusing on our bodies and our breath, we can stay present during a pose - even if its a particularly difficult one - and maybe even find some sweetness in it. I think that this practice on our mats can, given the chance, translate into an ability to notice things on a day to day basis that we wouldn't otherwise have noticed. Sometimes I get so caught up in a want-to-have-that-right-now mentality, that I forget to stop and enjoy this amazing life I have, right now!

Life is imperfect, I realize that. But there is often so much beauty even in the imperfection itself - if we just take the time to focus and be more present. No, my new dream kitchen isn't a reality yet, but at least I have a kitchen. More importantly, I have the two sweetest little kitchen helpers and a husband who genuinely appreciates and enjoys the food we take the time to make.

Yeah, I think thats pretty sweet.

If we do not have peace and joy right now, when will we have peace and joy - tomorrow, or after tomorrow?
-Thich Nhat Han

my man.

2010-02-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

Dance me to your beauty

with a burning violin

Dance me through the panic

till I'm gathered safely in

Lift me like an olive branch

and be my homeward dove

Dance me to the end of love

-Leonard Cohen

Pete has never been one for over-the-top gestures when it comes to traditional celebrations. Typically, I am fine with that (as long as he doesn't forget Mother's Day) but the other night he gave me the sweetest gift I could have ever asked for.
We had just finished putting the boys to bed, and my love met me in the hallway. He reached out for me and told me that he loved me. He told me that he appreciates all I do for our family; how I take care of him and the boys, keep a clean home, and feed them healthy meals. He told me that he knew how much of myself I sacrifice to be a mama and said he was so very grateful to have me as a partner. He told me I was beautiful, all the while wrapping me in a powerful and warm embrace.
Brought tears to my eyes to hear those words.
Sometimes its nice just to hear those words.

Happy Valentine's Day to you and yours!

brrr

2010-02-13T10:27:00.000-08:00

Its a beautiful winter wonderland outside.

A little cold for the babes, we are enjoying it inside making crafts, baking brownies and drinking hot chocolate.

A good day, indeed.

budding artists

2010-02-10T13:05:00.000-08:00

After Henry poured an entire container of glue onto his crayons - "look, crayon soup mom!" - I decided to melt them down and make new ones. The little ones love their new "crayon balls".

There is nothing more beautiful or inspiring to me than children's artwork. I think displaying my children's creations shows them that I support and encourage their artistic expression and appreciate the precious pieces they worked so hard on.

I purchased some frames last week (which are crooked in this photo) and finally got these paintings of Henry's up on the wall. I keep catching glimpses of him admiring them.
Be still, my heart.

Little Trooper.

2010-02-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

He throw up a few times last night. I think I was more bothered by it than him.

We made blueberry muffins when we woke up, which seemed to lift everyone's spirit.

now all he needs are some glasses, a magic wand and a lightning bolt scar..

2010-02-07T09:02:00.000-08:00

Henry made up "his bed" in the bottom of the hallway closet a few days ago...I love this kid's imagination.

la cuisine

2010-02-03T08:48:00.000-08:00

The boys received this lovely kitchen from Natural Pod as a gift from their Grandmama and Grampie for Christmas. We are all so in love. This is definitely our most treasured toy, and the boys have already spent countless hours cooking up yummy meals and playing "tea time". It is in the center of our living room, which I love because it lets them still be a part of things and keeps us all involved in the fun. It also allows me to cook, clean or knit while still keeping on eye on one rather bossy chef!

Yesterday we had hot chocolate chip muffin mans and at this very moment I am enjoying a bowl of egg potato monster soup. Delicious!

Oh, February.

2010-02-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

It seems like every time this month rolls around, I find myself slipping into a bit of a lull. I can't help but feel a little down and a bit grumpy...I think it comes from being stuck inside for the majority of the day and feeling so very ready for spring. All of my magic tricks for keeping the babes happy while they are trapped inside have been used up and we are all starting to get a little antsy.
But this year I am going to try to beat the February Funk by capturing a bit of my happiness everyday, because even amidst all of my self pity, I can assure you there is so much to be happy about around these parts.
So, I may not have very many words, but I will be posting pictures of happiness every few days.

Stay warm,
Shannon

North Renfrew Times

2010-01-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

This is an article I wrote for a newspaper in the Ottawa Valley, which was published yesterday.

Deep River We Miss You

I miss Deep River the most in the dead of winter. When the excitement from the holidays has faded and we find ourselves faced with some long and cold months ahead. Most of our time is spent indoors, where our play naturally becomes quieter and more reflective; me with my knitting, my husband with his guitar and the boys playing with their trucks or in their little kitchen. There is always a pot of homemade soup on the stove and a hot cup of tea in hand. We try to get out of doors as much as possible, sacrificing the warmth of our home to bare the elements and get some fresh air and invigorating play time.

It is during these moments that my thoughts drift back to this time last year, which was spent in the Ottawa Valley. Even in the bitter cold, most souls in Deep River would brave the weather for some sunshine and exercise and we were always sure to find a friendly passerby with whom to exchange a warm greeting. The smells of our small town have yet to elude me and I can still quite perfectly remember the incredible, crisp, fresh air and the aroma of pine and wood smoke rising steadily from many a chimney.

I found Deep River to be a place where “common courtesy” really is still common and the sense of community is strong and vibrant. The people are kind, intelligent and thoughtful with a richer than usual awareness of the immense natural beauty that surrounds them. By and large, they seem also to posses a deeper respect for Mother Nature than in most other places in the country I’ve lived or visited.

Although as a family we only spent one short year in Deep River, I have never felt more at home or more a part of a community in all of my life. This idyllic little out-of-the-way town has shaped and changed me in profound and countless ways and I feel its presence in every fiber, cell and bone in my body. It has reached all of the corners of my heart, and I miss it’s very special people to no end.

My husband and I have both vowed that we will return to our beautiful home on Spring Avenue, in our beautiful town of Deep River just as soon as we are able.

Deep River we miss you and we will be home soon!

food for thought.

2010-01-28T11:34:00.001-08:00

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the challenges of feeding ourselves and our children nutritional, wholesome food. All around the world, no matter what part of the planet we call home, regardless of our ethical, political, or religious beliefs, the issue of fueling our bodies with healthy food for energy and nourishment is truly a global affair and one of universal importance. And is it not the case that our health, which is so importantly linked to our eating habits, is a real and true measure of the health of our society and culture as a whole?

I always enjoyed cooking and in particular, enjoyed eating, but before I had children I never gave much thought to where my food came from. With pregnancy came a deeper awareness of my body and the things going into it. The question of my food’s journey from earth to plate became a very important one for me.

I think most people would agree that in much of the developed world, we are a part of a culture where there is a real disconnection from the raising of our food to its consumption. For most, the days of growing much of your own food, making everything from scratch, ‘putting by’ for the winter and making due with what you’ve got are long gone. These wonderful, time honoured traditions have largely been replaced by processed and prepared ‘convenience’ food. Food that is prepackaged, genetically modified, loaded with chemicals, sugar, artificial everything and exceedingly long lists of ingredients which I cannot even begin to pronounce, line our grocery store aisles. I think this is arguably the biggest reason why we as a nation are plagued with an ever increasing number of diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer - just to name a few.

It is in this critical time that the way we choose to spend our grocery money might just be the most important voice we have for change and for progress. What food we choose to buy, where and how we choose to buy it is an expression and personal declaration of our ideals and principles, and makes a statement about who and what we choose to support, and what we choose to oppose.

Personally, I’ve decided that this begins by educating myself about the origins and properties of the food I buy. Do the items on my grocery list line up with my values as a human being? Is the environment being respected? Is there fairness of trade? How were the animals treated? Does this support the local economy? I can't tell you how much joy it brings me, knowing that food I purchase at the Farmers Market, in some small way allows local farmers to work the land they have and do what they love for a living. It’s empowering to realize that the choices I make may help keep the local health food store running and support the people I share a community with.

I know that a lot of the time our food choices come down to dollars and cents. Eating organically, and when we can, locally, can be more expensive than the alternative. But by making from scratch the majority of the food that we eat, and growing as much as I can myself, I also save a lot of money. And what about the savings with respect to our social, environmental and ethical bank accounts? And most importantly, what are the costs and savings where our children’s future wellbeing is concerned? For our part, there are many times that we as a family choose to make sacrifices in our life so that our food decisions align more closely with our personal ethics. Because when it comes to the health of our families, I'm sure we all agree, it absolutely can't be bargained for.

lifelong friends

2010-01-24T19:00:00.000-08:00

There have been a precious few times in my life when I have met someone and instantly felt a warm and loving connection to them. Regardless of the particulars of our introduction - whether we met at a yoga class, play group, or party - this person instantly held a special place in my heart.

A few days ago I discovered a little box amongst our things and upon opening it, realized it was a gift from two such friends - Cam and Liz. Pete was supposed to deliver the package to me earlier, but amidst the chaos of our recent move, he had forgotten it's whereabouts. It's a beautiful piece of pottery intended especially for the pouring of maple syrup - we LOVE maple syrup!
Our dear friends Cam and Liz are living the dream. They own and operate Oiseau Bay Resort, a majestic off-grid eco-resort located on the Ottawa River just outside of Deep River, Ontario. Living sustainably isn't a catch phrase for this couple, its a way of life. They are such an inspiration to us. Living a simpler, less wasteful life and treading lightly on Mother Earth in virtually everything they do, these friends serve as a good reminder that what we choose to do with our lives truly does have an impact on our collective future.
This incredible place holds many special memories for us (we got engaged there!) and we can't wait for our next visit. Although we only see eachother a few times a year, they are truly lifelong friends and I am so very grateful that they are a part of our lives.

parental ramblings.

2010-01-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

Any parent will tell you that raising a child is a lot. A lot of joy, a lot of laughter, a lot of of work, a lot of frustration, a lot of love...
Raising a spirited toddler has been the most complex thing I have ever done in my life. I have never, ever been more fulfilled, yet I am pushed to the end of my rope on a regular basis. It is so completely exhausting and yet so wonderfully exquisite at the same time. Such a heavy and important task, yet so light and natural.
I have this beautiful, perfect little human who is finding himself and learning so much everyday. Getting into mischief and at times, lashing out. As a parent, negotiating what is the right thing to do can be so daunting and overwhelming and beyond all reasonable expectation, but I know deep in my heart that this is his path he needs to follow and I am just here to support, love and help him grow. Some people would say that I am an unconventional mother because I still nurse my toddler, I choose not to discipline with timeouts, I try not to raise my voice at my children and we don't vaccinate. A lot of the time I feel very judged for my choices and it can make the job of parenting a very lonely one. Take the case of the lead nurse attending the birth of my first child in a Montreal Hospital. This woman told me I had no business deciding for myself whether or not to medicate during labour, but that only the Doctor (or indeed she, herself) had the "wisdom" and the "authority" to decide what was best for me and my baby. She even went so far as to proclaim that my "screaming" during labour was offensive and disruptive to other patients and staff trying to get on with their jobs. Times like those can make a Mother feel very isolated and it can be incredibly frustrating because that woman was closed minded in my opinion and had no desire whatsoever to listen to my reasoning.

"The ultimate ignorance is the rejection of something you know nothing about and refuse to investigate."
~ Dr. Wayne Dyer

The way I raise my children speaks to my heart. I feel that by listening to my heart, and raising them in a gentle way that respects who they are, I am doing right by my children. I do not need my children to "obey" me, or to "be good" and "not make a peep". They are absolutely good. Without question. Regardless of how they are behaving in a certain situation. And I don't want them to "obey" anyone. I want them to be compassionate individuals who think for themselves. To know they are loved for the "good" and the "bad". Its not enough that I know they are loved unconditionally, they need to know they are loved unconditionally.

During the particularly tough parenting patches, I find myself coming back to this excerpt from a lovely book I have referenced before, The Parents Tao Te Ching.

Seeing To The Heart

Some behaviour in your children will seem "good" to you.
Other behaviour will seem unequivocally "bad".
Notice both in your children
without being overly impressed by one
nor overly dismayed by the other.
In doing so you will be imitating the Tao
which sees our behaviour as a mask
and sees immediately beneath it
to the good within our heart.

Above all, do not attack your child's behaviour
and attempt to change it
by endless talking and scolding.
Stay at your centre and look beneath the behaviour
to the heart of the child.
There you will find only good.
When you see the heart
you will know what to do.

*********************

Of course some behaviour is dangerous to the child
and to others.
Express your concern with the behaviour.
Do not attack the child.
Consider now a particular behaviour that concerns you.
Meditate carefully and see through
to the heart of your child.
What does it tell you?

*

Be well, friends.
Shannon

too tired for a title.

2010-01-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends,

Sorry I've been away for so long.
We moved into our new home, Pete threw out his back (again) and was incapacitated for two days. We haven't even gotten unpacked yet (hence the bed sheet for a curtain), and now Henry has croup. Sick, sick, sick.

Its all about survival now. Popsicles for breakfast? Sure! Popcorn for lunch? Absolutely. Computer in the bedroom and movies all day? Why not!
Its honey, tea, vitamins and tons of cuddles for the next few days until my little champ feels better.
I'll be back in this space then. Promise.

Be well,
Shannon

knitting for self preservation

2010-01-14T06:32:00.000-08:00

I began knitting just last year, when my best friend Martha gave me some gorgeous yarn and bamboo needles for my birthday. I'm pretty sure she knew that she was passing on a magical handcraft, because I know that knitting has a very special place in her heart, but I certainly had no idea what I was in for..
Since then, knitting has had a constant presence in my life and has had a wondrous impact on my soul.
Aside from the beautiful (and not so beautiful) pieces that I have created, it has also helped me to slow down and appreciate my life just as it is.
Although I am aware that I have so much to be grateful for in my life, on those especially difficult parenting days, when I feel stretched as far as I can go, and like I have nothing left to give, my graciousness is quick to leave me and I am left feeling alone and overwhelmed.
But, if I can get some time on my needles, a few brief moments of quiet amidst the noise - at the library, during naps or even while sitting on the washroom floor during bath time - it really helps me to clear my mind, gain some perspective and to simply smile at the chaos around me.
The laundry will get done, the mess will get cleaned up and dinner will (eventually) be made.
Because that is how life is, right?
One stitch, one row, one moment at a time.

Be well, friends.
Shannon

Infinite Possibilities

2010-01-13T07:45:00.000-08:00

"Go for a slow and mindful walk with your child.
  Show them every little thing that catches your eye.
  Notice every little thing that catches theirs.
  Don't look for lessons or seek to teach great things.
  Just notice.
  The lesson will teach itself."

-William Martin, The Parents Tao Te Ching

chchchanges...

2010-01-12T07:43:00.000-08:00

So I have taken on the One Small Change Challenge the next four months and I am quite excited about it.
I have decided to start small, so for the month of January I am committing to being aware of the lighting situation in my home. I am notoriously known around these parts for leaving every light on in the house (don't hate me!). I know it seems like such a baby step, but I hope that setting the intention and following through will be a good push to make a more substantial change in the months to come! Wish me luck!

Be well,
Shannon

people.

2010-01-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

My sister recently took a trip to Jamaica and was kind enough to bring the boys back a little doll. Henry instantly fell in love, naming him People (love that).
Well, the two of them go hand in hand now, and I am constantly hearing Henry talking or singing to him, teaching him things and getting mad at him, too!
Yesterday, Daddy threw People on the bed, and Henry got pretty upset. Quite seriously he started explaining to Daddy that you have to be gentle with People. You have to love People. Yes, my darling, you do.

we are all one when we live from the heart.

2010-01-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

I'm really loving Henry's new interest in "playing yoga" with Mama.

these hands.

2010-01-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

In the past few weeks Myles has really mastered crawling. He's everywhere! And I guess I just wasn't fully prepared for it, because yesterday we had quite the accident.
He flew over to the space heater when neither Pete nor I were watching (my god, he is FAST!) and climbed up onto it. With all of his weight on his little chubby arms, his hands pressed onto the burning hot grate, he started screaming. Screaming myself, I ran over to him. We had to ice his hands for awhile and after about an hour of nursing, he seemed to be in better shape, although he wanted to be held by Mama for the rest of the day.
It absolutely breaks my heart that I could have prevented this accident and he had to suffer in that way. A lesson to be learned, for sure.
So today I am most grateful for my little beans hands. They are so soft and sweet and it just melts my whole being when he sucks on his thumb to comfort himself.
I am so very grateful that he didn't hurt them too much and that the pain seems to have subsided.

twenty ten.

2010-01-01T11:59:00.000-08:00

New Beginnings.

I always get a little giddy around New Years. There are so many possibilities that lay ahead for the coming year, and an opportunity to leave past mistakes behind and focus on the future...Its a magical time, really.
For the past few years though, I have tried moving away from resolutions that focus on results of a new behaviour, rather than the behaviour itself. You know, the typical "lose weight and get in shape" variety.
I want to make positive changes in my life with an intention of something wondrous and promising.
Here are a few of my ideas for a fresh start.
1. Give more love.
2. Find more time for my yoga practice.
3. Begin baking my own bread.
4. Send more hand written letters to loved ones.
5. Slow down. Breathe.
6. Knit a sweater.
7. Make another quilt.
8. Grow more of my own food.
9. Smile at complete strangers everyday.
10. Resolve to delight in life itself.

Be well,
Shannon

a tad bit nippy.

2008-09-17T17:38:00.000-07:00

Walking in the woods with my Little Bear today, both of us bundled in jackets and boots, it suddenly hit me...FALL!!! The sights, the sounds, the smells...
I'm not quite sure what it is about this wonderful season that stirs up such comforting feelings of nostalgia, maybe its the crisp air, or the abundance of colorful leaves on the ground, but everytime Autumn rolls around, my thoughts turn inward as I begin to mentally prepare for our winter hibernation. Carefree summer is gone, and now is the time for self-reflection and more Earth-connected activities. Garden harvest, canning, apple picking followed by applesauce making, playing in the leaves, scarves and sweaters, holing myself up with my sewing machine, bonfires...ohh, the list goes on and on.
Wishing you all a Happy Equinox this weekend! Get outside and breathe fresh air!!

2008-09-16T17:38:00.000-07:00

My cup runneth over...

pinch me!

2008-09-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

We've purchased a home in Deep River! It is so beautiful, and the best part is, besides it being a two minute walk from the beach and incredible parks, ten minute walk from Grandmama and Grandpa's house, in a small amazing, clean, safe and friendly town, is that we get to move in in two weeks!!!!

rub a dub dub

2008-07-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a cool bath after a long day in the sun.

2008-07-11T17:36:00.000-07:00

Amidst all the summertime play, my mind often wanders to the coming months and all of the necessary preparations that need taking care of before our cold, long winter.

Especially with the rising price of gas, it is now more important than ever for us to severe our dependence on commoditized foods and start growing our own.
This year has been my first attempt at gardening, and I must say, I love it! It is so much work, and the bugs are relentless, but so very rewarding. Henry has been helping with the strawberry picking, the jam making, the basil picking, the pesto making, the weeding, the getting dirty, and everything in between.
It is really important for us to introduce Mother Earth to Henry at an early age, and avoid nature deficiency disorder at all costs. And I am so happy that he seems to absolutely thrive outdoors. As far as I am concerned, his love for sand, grass and dirt will forever be nurtured.

summer lovin

2008-07-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

Summer time in Quebec is so wonderful, and so fleeting. The seasons are so drastic and change so fast, that we are trying to really enjoy ourselves and spending as much time as we can outside, appreciating Mother Natures gifts. Henry and I have been heading to the beach most days. Frolicking around in the waves, making sand castles, and fully enjoying the precious moments of warm weather and sunshine.

spring is here!

2008-03-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I think spring is approaching and I couldn't be more pleased! Here are some photographs of our weekend! We spent some much-needed time outdoors, snowshoeing and exploring.

Henry had such a great time in the backpack. He was laughing his head off all afternoon!

What a babe!

Being with my two loves, the simple beauty around us, and the fresh air made this day so very special!

Oh! And here are some more delicious photos in the tub!

Could this munchkin get any sweeter? No, I think not.

Rio's Quilt

2008-03-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I have a major crush on handmade goods. In particular, handmade quilts. When I was a child, I had a quilt hanging from my bedroom wall, and I can still remember how special and beautiful it was. But it has only been in the last few years, as I have collected a few for myself, that I have truly come to appreciate the real beauty of a quilt.
Old quilts, to me, are especially magical. The more worn and frayed, the more, I am sure, it was loved. Every time I come home from the thrift store with a vintage quilt, I find myself thinking about the women who made it. Who was the quilt for? How much love and time was put into the project? Where was the fabric from? Who did it keep warm? And how did it come to be alone and separated from its original family? Oh, I could marvel for hours over a beautiful, beat up, old quilt!
When Pete's sister and brother-in-law announced they were pregnant, I knew right away that I wanted to make them a baby quilt. I decided Amy Carol's quilt pattern was simple and lovely, and perfect for my first project.
And finally, after three months, I am finished. It is my hope that my niece Rio, loves her quilt, as it is, a gift from the heart.

bonne fete.

2008-03-22T17:34:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about celebration and traditions, and how exactly I want to incorporate them into our lives. Pete and I are both turned off by many of our major holidays for the simple reason that in so many respects, we have deviated from the original spirit and meaning of the events we are meant to be celebrating. So many of our traditions have been corrupted by money and consumer impulse. That being said, I think that we can make the decision to celebrate in a deliberate and unselfish way that honours our traditions and our modern views and ways of living. And besides, I love a reason to cook. Any chance to prepare a slow cooked meal, made with love, care and patience is brilliant and in itself something worth celebrating. I also believe that in all of our celebrations we should take time to venture outside and connect with Mother Nature. After all, without our natural environment there's no ground or possibility for celebration what so ever.
Birthdays have never been terribly important to me, until I gave birth. Now, I know that the day we entered into this world is worth celebrating.
So, today is Pete's birthday! Pete is such a dream come true and my soul mate who helps me to be the best that I can be. He has such integrity and conviction and always supports me in following my dreams. He is a wonderful father and for all of these reasons, I wanted today to be extra special. So, I made him something from my heart (shown below), and for the rest of the day, we are going to walk the mountain, hit up the flea market, and make a yummy dinner and cozy up on the couch!
Wishing you all a wonderful, relaxing weekend!

2008-03-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

Haven't got much to say these days (weird, I know) so I'll just leave you with a few photographs...

Look at those delicious feet!

My baby is growing up!

today is the day.

2008-03-08T17:32:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,
Sorry I have been M.I.A. for the past few days, I'm visiting my family out west! Pete, the babe and I are having a wonderful, relaxing time. I will post pictures when we return later in the week.
I just wanted to pop in and remind you all that today is International Womens Day. One in three women suffer from domestic abuse. It is not just happening to strangers. It is happening to our friends, family, and neighbours. It's happening to us.
Life starts with a Mama and child. The way we raise our children, literally, helps shape the future of the world. If you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or friend, you can help change the world through the eyes of a child. I want to raise a babe who is aware of the problems in the world, educate him on how to make changes, love him and teach him to love others.
This is it. It starts now, with us.
UN International Womens Day information for children
Faces of Survivors-Voices Reclaimed photo project
Stop Violence Against Women Amnesty International
End Violence coaching boys into men
Have a fantastic weekend! Let the women in your life know how much you love and respect them!

nap time

2008-03-01T17:32:00.000-08:00

nap time

As some of you may know, Henry has given us quite a hard time in regards to his sleeping. In the past, he has been completely sporadic with his naps, and let me tell you, this little man needs his sleep. When he doesn't nap, he doesn't sleep well at night, and a vicious cycle forms, where Mama and Baby are both miserable and sleep deprived. So you can imagine our delight when a few weeks ago, he decided to really start napping, and I must say, we are all much happier. Just that little break gives me the chance to recharge and it makes all the difference in the quality of our afternoon playtime. There is something so magical about nap time. Besides the chance to rest, it's also another opportunity for that special, falling asleep snuggle, as well as the refreshing opportunity for 'beginning again' upon waking. And then there's the quiet whispering it prompts, as we constantly remind each other, "he's sleeping!!" His heavy, rhythmic breathing is the pulse of the house in these hours, as Pete and I settle in to our quiet, individual activities. Until that waking moment when we are greeted with his cheerful squeals, and we both race to get him. Open the door, and there he his, a smile spread across his face, ready to start all over again. It is really, very special. And I will cherish this time always.

yum

2008-02-21T17:31:00.000-08:00

yum

i just whipped up a batch of granola, and man, its good.
super easy and healthy!
3c oats
1c unbleached flour
1/4c brown sugar or sucanat
1c chopped walnuts and almonds
handful of sesame/sunflower/pumpkin seeds, whatever you have
1/2c apple sauce
5 tbsp maple syrup
3 tbsp of whatever juice you have it the fridge
mix it all together and spread out on baking sheet, cook for 45 min at 400. when you remove it from the oven, make sure you really seperate the granola, so it doesn't become one big, hard sheet.
voila! serve with yogurt or whatever milk of your choice (soy, rice, almond, cow, goat) and enjoy!

february 10

2008-02-19T17:31:00.000-08:00

Well, February has always been a tough one for me. The excitement of winter and the magic of the holidays are long gone, and I find myself in quite a funk. A February funk, if you will. Although it is the shortest month, this year in particular, I am finding it rather long. It's a challenging parenting month, because all I want to do is curl up with a good book, take long, hot baths, and watch old movies. Which doesn't really work with a curious 7 month old babe! Because we can't venture outside to play, it has been a lot of inside games and make believe, which is wonderful, but I need to shake things up a bit! So, because I seem to get a little down this time of year, I am going to try and be super appreciative of the beauty around me and make a list of things I love...

1. Curling up with my darling on the couch after the babe has gone to sleep with some yummy homemade pizza and soup.

2. The sunsets in Deep River.

3. These incredibly cute cheeks.

4. Quietly listening to Leonard Cohen and Tom Waits all day long.
5. Dreaming of moving to the country.
6. Henry's new smile, where he throws his head back and chuckles. Kills me!

7. How wonderfully playful and loving Pete is with the two of us.

8. How I am totally digging my yoga course.
9. This beautiful photo my Father-In-Law took of my angel.

10. All of the possibilities the future holds!
Hope you are all staying warm and remembering the special things that make you smile!

cross your fingers

2008-02-11T17:30:00.000-08:00

Well, some pretty exciting stuff is happening around here. Can't wait to fill you all in when things firm up a bit. For now, please send good vibes our way. We need all the luck we can get! Hope you're all having a great week! Stay warm, my sweets!

i heart breastfeeding

2008-02-06T17:30:00.000-08:00

As Henry is getting older, his need to explore and absorb everything around him is growing. I've never witnessed such an eagerness to learn and develop. Our days are mostly spent with him reaching for everything, and me, making sure he isn't getting into anything he shouldn't. But then there are a few precious hours a day, when his search for entertainment subsides, and its just him and I.
Breastfeeding Henry is almost beyond description. Being able to sit still, and really feel the connection with my child has been one of the happiest and most tranquil moments of my life. Amidst all the playing and laughing and singing and dancing, he and I can sneak off and just be mother and son. Where he can rest his head next to my heart and I can see in his eyes that he knows he is loved. It is during these moments that I know I am doing my job well, and that things are just the way they should be.

slow life movement

2008-02-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, Pete was driving to work, following a dump truck. The truck caught an overhead cable attached to a lamp post and pulled the whole lamp post down on top of our minivan. (i drive a minivan. i know...) Well, just thank god the babe wasn't in the car, because he sits in the back, where the crash occurred. Scary stuff. My love is okay, but we are vehicle-free for a few days. Which, actually, is great, because I want to walk more anyways, but a bummer as well, because you can't drive a stroller around in the snow.

Pete is also sick, poor angel, so it's a lot of tea, napping, and quiet time around these parts. Well, not so quiet actually, because Henry has developed quite the set of lungs. Henry LOVES to talk. But, that is just music to our ears, so sing away, my sweet love.

Actually, this change of pace is perfect for me, because I have been trying to slow things down anyways. More lingering, less hurrying. More time with the babe, less time in front of a screen. More doing and less agonizing about what needs to be done.
So this week, I think its going to be more of this, mixed with some yoga, studying and cooking. I just made some delicious hummus, if I do say so myself, and this week I'm going to tackle some soup, marinated tofu and maybe a pizza!
Have a great week! Slow down!

Cilantro, Jalepeno Hummus, adapted from 28cooks!
2 cloves garlic, minced (i just threw in whole cloves)
2 (15oz) can garbanzo beans
1/2 tsp salt
3 tbsp lime juice
1/2 c olive oil
1-2 jalepenos, seeded and chopped
3/4 c cilantro
In blender, puree garlic, beans, salt and lime juice. Slowly stream in oil until well blended. Stir in jalepenos and cilantro. (I just threw it all in the blender, to be honest, and it was divine. Plus, tons of pepper!) Enjoy!

just breathe.

2008-02-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was just one of those days. Up all night with the babe (he's not a sleeper, I tell you) and up very, very early with him. Ran out of diapers. Okay. Used a towel. He wouldn't eat. His new thing is making himself gag, because its fun. Not so much fun for a scared mama that constantly thinks he's going to vomit.
Once in awhile, I just let everyday things get to me. Sometimes, I just feel overwhelmed, overworked. Luckily, I have this man, who reminds of the important things. Like breathing. After a much needed meditation, things seemed so much better. More clear. And we did what always works. Danced around the house to ZZ Top. He loves it. We love it.
Time is slipping by. The days go quickly. Someday, not too soon I hope, this little man will no longer need me as much. I need to gobble these days up, ingest them, consume them, treasure them. From now on, I most assuredly will.

yoga love.

2008-01-29T17:27:00.000-08:00

So, this weekend was my first ashtanga yoga teacher training workshop. Man, did i sweat!
I cannot even describe how amazing it was. There is so much to learn, going back thousands of years, and the energy in my group was so, so warm. I have been living without a care in the world of the detailed and magnificent work going on inside my body. Its time to make some changes, and i am so excited, and so ready. Lets go!
Yesterday was spent recuperating with my love and the babe. First, we walked the mountain, and then had some homemade soup and cookies and some much needed rest on the couch. A wonderful day, indeed!

Oh! I'm including a recipe for an amazing salad from this cookbook, Enlightened Eating, by Caroline Marie Dupont.
It's so delicious and super healthy!

Cabbage Delight
dressing:
2 tbs apple cider vinegar
1 1/2 tbs olive oil
1 1/2 tbs hemp or flax oil
1 tbs honey
2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp ground fennel
vegetables:
2 c green cabbage, chopped medium fine
3/4 c red cabbage, chopped medium fine
1/4 c sweet onion, finely chopped
1 rib celery, finely sliced
1 carrot, quartered lengthwise and sliced
1/2 c fresh parsley
1 apple, cored and diced small
1/2 c raisins or currants
1/2 c pecans or walnuts, chopped
-or 3 tbs pumpkin seeds
1/2 c cheese, diced small
Combine dressing ingredients in the bottom of a large salad bowl, add veg and toss to combine. Keeps well in fridge for a few days.
Enjoy, friends!
Hope you all have a wonderful week!

moments

2008-01-22T17:26:00.000-08:00

Last night, Pete and I were lying on the couch, long after the babe was sleeping. We began talking about how quickly Henry is growing up. It got me thinking about life and how fleeting and brief it seems to be. It just feels so incredibly fast. Wake up, tidy up, play, cook, clean, drive, and on and on and on.
But then, there are those little moments. Those tiny, yet significant moments that are so easy to miss and that in reality, amount to only minutes worth of time. But the impact of those little moments make them so much bigger. A smile, a giggle, a snowfall, a cup of tea, a hug. So here's to enjoying them, one special moment at a time...

so there is this guy...

2008-01-19T17:25:00.000-08:00

..and everyday i find more reasons to love him. when i think i couldnt possibly love him any more, he proves me wrong, and does something so magnificent. so thoughtful.

pete listens. he makes me laugh all day long. he gets me, and never judges me, and makes me feel beautiful and whole and worthwhile.
he is polite, considerate, and exceedingly intelligent.
the most amazing father.
and a total babe.
i love you so much, sugar.
to the moon and back a million times infinity...

Henry

2008-01-19T17:24:00.000-08:00

well, my little love is sitting up. how has 6 months flown by so quickly? every morning, he and i practice sitting up, and every day, i cannot believe the progress that he makes. he's a special one, for sure. he just absorbs everything in front of him. mimics his daddy, speaks in his singsong way. and the hugs... the bury his face in my neck, squeals of delight, pull me in tight, kind of hugs. be still, my heart.

brand new.

2008-01-18T17:22:00.000-08:00

January 18, 2008

every new year i consciously construct resolutions in my mind with the absolute best intentions of keeping them. usually, i do pretty well in the beginning. but like most, my determination, along with my goals, begin to decline and dissolve.
this year, i want to document our lives. stay in touch with loved ones.
and slow down.
this blog is my steadfast attempt.