Into the Woods

Perhaps next week the witch, aka mom, needs to get ready to appear in some pictures. These are pretty cute though! I am glad my kids have allowed me one more year for them to dress like kids. Lars was complaining that he did not think Hansel was cool (after one kid from his school said that he was going to be Scooby Doo) so I had to explain how Hansel was cool, as Bret snickered from the other room. Now, I know that Hansel may not be cool, but seriously- how cute is he?

Someone I was listening to or reading mentioned how they wish kids woudl only dress up as inanimate objects or story book characters. I love this idea, but pop culture takes hold of this young impressionable group especially at the time of Halloween. Add animals to the list of allowable costumes too! How is a parent to win?

Hansel & Gretel Sneak Peek

I am hoping for the weather now to cooperate so I can wisk the kids off to an enchanted forest for a fabulous and scary photo shoot.

Queen of Hearts and Alice in Wonderland Costume Set GIVEAWAY!!!!

I think this is putting my sewing to shame. I also dig the photo shoot. I have been working on Hansel and Gretel costumes for my kids for this Halloween but my sewing pales compared to this ensemble. I may need to wisk my Hansel and Gretel away to the woods with me as a witch to get some fantastic shots like this.


I cannot get pics of this link but you must must click to see this womans sewing fabulousness. It is truely amazing! Something for me to think about!

Queen of Hearts and Alice in Wonderland Costume Set GIVEAWAY!!!!

Kitchen Finals...for now

This is the desk I posted many different carts to replace. Bret wonders if we changed the top and handles, and possibly new legs if then we would not hate it as much. I think I woudl still hate it. It stands for old ugly kitchen. I want a new nice counter area!




What do you think of these chairs? Our others have served us well- but after many years of love and use they may need to put out to pasture. I love these modern clean looking chairs. I also like the version in a light wood.

Now I will need to start work on our holiday surpise of hanging up some very special artwork for the walls to complete this transformation. Oh and I am reminded of the sad neglected apartment int he basement where I will need to paint and hang blinds too. How come I always want to do my stuff first?

Green Baby!

Boy... it sure is green. Bright bright green. I do think the yellow table really pops and the blue in the floor seems to be brighter too. I plan on using all white or stainless accessories too. Once i have the second coat up, I plan on hanging up cafe curtains in the back window and on the window above the sink. All then I need is the cart from IKEA to go where the desk is.

I have been eyeing these too.

I still am not sure which one will be best. But all I know is I cannot wait to get rid of the horrid desk that is in there right now and have a more functional item in its place. Then onto the wall accessorites! Bret and I have quite the non-traditional surprise in store here. I am hoping we can have a small holiday party as I am hoping we are done with everything by then. Let's hope!

Slow Parent Ahead

I just read another article on the "Slow Parenting" movement. Interesting stuff. It almost seems like people are being told through these kind of articles that they have to choose a side as to which kind of parent they want to be. Instead, I prefer the approach that you just need to be with your kids and offer them the most you can on whatever terms you feel is right to help your child develop into the person they want to be. I am certain this can be done regardless of what classes you sign your kids up for. I long to have the privilege of time with my family that is safe, fun, relaxing and just mine. No pressure - not always an agenda other than we just want to do this.

I have also heard this idea called "lazy parenting" which, of course, I do not like. I see my actions for NOT doing the many things as very purposeful which in reality is not laziness but rather wanting to be and live in the moment. I do have the worry about working and missing many moments but I think if you use this approach you can strive for the balance and connection we all need within our lives.

That being said, I have long since gotten over the fact that I don't have my kids signed up for any lessons this fall and I am not sure there will be any this spring. This past summer we did swimming but that was the only planned activity we did. We enjoyed the wonders of Kent Park, pools,the library, the backyard, parks and playing with friends.

I plan on continuing sharing my ideas and really being lazy thus enjoying my kids and family and allowing life to take me where it chooses.

Apple Picking 2009

We enjoyed our trip this year to TJ's orchard. The kids love the freedom of running around and picking as many apples and pears as we can. I have all ready made 2 apple crisps and have more coming! I do wish we were closer to Grandpa Jerry's as we could to pick from his trees too! Fall is my favorite time of year and it has definitely arrived. Welcome!