PeaceMama

this moment

2012-02-17T04:43:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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terrarium love: a tutorial

2012-02-11T18:02:00.000-08:00

So, like the rest of the world, I have been entranced with terrariums, miniature worlds where fairies must play when we go to bed. After looking at some great online tutorials, and gathering a fair amount of moss clippings (that i kept outside in my garden beds), I thought I would try my hand at making some. It's quite simple, and immediately satisfying. Here is what I did:

1. Buy your materials. Rocks/pebbles, potting soil, charcoal and some type of glass container. I found the charcoal and pebbles in the aquatic section of a local pet store. The pebbles are for drainage, and the charcoal is a barrier so that the dirt doesn't sift down and get funky. I thrifted my glass containers, but others can be found at any craft store.

2. Hunt for your moss. This is the fun part. Moss is hardy, and wily, and can be found in the strangest of locales. My best source so far is actually a really urban street. Moss hides in forests and in cracks of
city sidewalks. Also forage for small plants or buy small plants or succulents.

3. Add a thin layer of pebbles to the bottom of a clean, dry glass container.

4. Add a thin layer of charcoal to cover the pebbles.

5. Add a thicker layer of potting soil. You can shape it to make hills or leave it an even surface.

6. Using your fingers or a chopstick, place bits of moss on top of the soil. If you are using plants/succulents, plant them first, then layer bits of moss on top and around them. Use different types of moss for variety and texture.

8. Wipe off any bits of dirt around the inside, spray with a mist of water. You can add little decorations, including sticks, acorns, little deer, etc. to make it interesting. Your terrarium will be happy with an occasional spray of water. If it is covered and begins to fog up, take the lid off to let it breathe. Enjoy!

ten on ten: valentine's edition

2012-02-10T12:07:00.000-08:00

this moment

2012-02-10T03:56:00.000-08:00

{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. If you're inspired to do the
same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.
Wishing you a lovely weekend!
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an early valentines date

2012-02-09T18:50:00.000-08:00

Taking a break from the intensity of legal work to head out into the country with my love was just what I needed last week. John had been wanting to tour a bourbon distillery, and I thought Woodford Reserve, nestled in a beautiful spot among horse farms, a creek and limestone cliffs was a good pick. The weather was gorgeous, crisp and blue and sunny. We began with a leisurely cup of coffee at Quills, followed by a nice drive East to the distillery, lunch at Wallace Station and a short stroll around the antique shops of Midway. (Sounds a bit like the schedule for the ladies of Downton Abbey.) Ah, I could get used to such leisure.

shaking the tree

2012-02-09T16:52:00.000-08:00

For the past couple of months, many advocates have been working closely with legislators to improve the laws in Kentucky to help victims of human trafficking. It is an issue near and dear to my heart, and so last week's press conference to announce the filing of House Bill 350, The Trafficking Victims Rights Act (Sponsored by Rep. Sannie Overly and Rep. John Tilley, with 46 co-sponsors) was a proud moment. Changing laws, and more importantly, changing our culture so that we stand with victims, respecting their dignity and choice and offering support and resources, is a long struggle. But I believe it is possible.

Representative Sannie Overly introducing House Bill 350, The Trafficking Victims Rights Act

Advocates under the statue of Abraham Lincoln, Kentucky Capitol

About the same time as the press conference, I read this amazing article about a twelve year old girl fleeing from forced marriage (and rape and beatings) in Ethiopia. After being beaten by her captors as they tried to kidnap her, she hid and was then guarded by lions, who kept the men at bay. Lions are the national symbol of Ethiopia, and part of me just cannot help but think that this symbolizes what happens when the state fails, and at the same time, a powerful image of what the state can, and should do to address violence against women and girls.

Although we do not have the same type of oppression of girls as exists in Ethiopia, we still fail to protect too many girls and boys victimized by sexual abuse in this country. The average age of entry into prostitution in the United States is between 12 and 14. House bill 350 would offer some protection to these victims and increase accountability for those who perpetrate such crimes. In my view, those who craft and enforce laws to address violence against women and those who stand alongside survivors to advocate, provide services and create new visions of what is possible are the lions in our culture.

Lilian and Marissa, Catholic Charities/Kentucky Rescue and Restore

And so, reminded of the struggle and the tenacity of survivors (which is what has always kept me going in the twelve years I have worked in this field), I turn to one of my favorite songs, Shaking the Tree by Peter Gabriel. Listen, be moved, and take action.

this moment

2012-02-03T03:36:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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sunny day at the zoo

2012-01-30T16:00:00.000-08:00

So I do notice the great irony in getting to go to the zoo in January on a sunny 50 degree day to see the polar bears. Louisville has a huge new exhibit of polar and grizzly bears that includes plenty about global warming and ways to reduce our carbon footprint. We were both mesmerized by the cub, who came close enough to "wave" at us, according to Jane. I also enjoyed the bright signs, bits of color on a gorgeous day contrasting with the grey and brown of an ordinary January.

morning sun

2012-01-30T06:08:00.000-08:00

Why I Wake Early

Hello, sun in my face.

Hello, you who make the morning

and spread it over the fields

and into the faces of the tulips

and the nodding morning glories,

and into the windows of, even, the

miserable and the crotchety---

best preacher that ever was,

dear star, that just happens

to be where you are in the universe

to keep us from ever-darkness,

to ease us with warm touching,

to hold us in the great hands of light---

good morning, good morning, good morning.

Watch, now, how I start the day

in happiness, in kindness.

Mary Oliver (Why I Wake Early, 2004)

sharing in the gratitude with Life Made Lovely today.

project restyle: alphabet book

2012-01-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

diving into the upholstery sample book stash once more, i whipped up a quick ABC book. perfect for a wee one, but even nice for my 3 year old, who likes tracing the letters on the different textured backgrounds. i just drew letters on felt with chalk, cut them out and glued them onto each page (this book had the magical 26 pages!). then i glued a few strips to cover up the writing on the outside.

shop update: vintage goodies!

2012-01-28T13:17:00.000-08:00

check out PeaceMama on etsy for some new vintage items --- a valentines treat for a special someone? here are a few...

this moment

2012-01-27T04:40:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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on Chinese New Year and a more just world

2012-01-26T18:37:00.000-08:00

Wilson studies Chinese in his school and it is by far his favorite subject. He adores his teacher, is fascinated by the characters (he learns them as story drawings) and the facts he learns about China. This past Monday, we looked up China on the map, said a prayer for peace for the Chinese people and opened up the requisite fortune cookies (made in LA) and read aloud our fortunes.

I am grateful that my child is able to learn a new language, that it becomes a bridge of understanding, respect and wonder towards a different people, culture and world. His school is indeed very diverse, with many of his friends having parents from all over the world, and this is what drew us there.

That being said, I have had a great ambivalence about the rise in studying Chinese across the USA. It is led, in no small part, by the growth of business in China. There is a need, I believe, for some introspection and awareness of what this means. We must also be aware of all that is happening right now in China and how our lust for cheap goods and corporate profit has such a direct impact on the people of China.

Right now, as I type away on my Mac computer, I am heavy with the knowledge from a NYT article I read today that Apple uses children in its factories and shows a great disregard for safety, resulting in several deadly blasts that have killed and maimed workers. I am thinking too of a wonderful broadcast this past week on NPR on Chinese schoolchildren ( the "left-behind kids") in the rural provinces getting access to free lunches from the ingenuity and generosity of a man there. Most of them are being raised by grandparents since their parents have migrated to work in the cities, presumably at jobs similar to those in the Apple factories.

Source

How, then, to reconcile this and share part of it with my six year old? I plan listen to the NPR story with him, since it shows both the need and a solution, the heaviness balanced by a sense of what can be done. I want to, in a gentle but firm way, talk about how so much of what we have comes at the expense of another, how "an injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere" (Martin Luther King, Jr.) and that we must be grateful for all that we have and work for justice where we can. My husband and I are both "public interest" attorneys, with his work devoted to consumer or poverty law and mine to anti-trafficking and anti-violence work. We share bits of what we do in an effort to let our children know how you can marry passion to work, share your talents for the good of the community and listen to the stories of others to build compassion, relationships and real understanding.

And yet, some days, this still does not feel like enough. My heart goes out to mothers and fathers everywhere who do not have the privileges and choices that we do in terms of education, leisure, safety and possibility for their children, who may be separated due to the demands of migration. ( I have written more about this separation here).

And so, on this cusp of the new year, I wish for good luck, for a growing awareness that this world must seek a balance envisioned by Martin Luther King Jr.:

“We must rapidly begin the shift from a "thing-oriented" society to a "person-oriented" society. When machines and computers, profit motives and property rights are considered more important than people, the giant triplets of racism, materialism, and militarism are incapable of being conquered.”

And I dream that someday my son (and daughter) will become fluent in Chinese, build bridges, and strive for a world that is more fair and just and full of possibility for all.

boxes and blocks

2012-01-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

joining up with Life Made Lovely Monday today. another grey morning, another day to dig into our stash. Jane decided she wanted to make a creepy doll house, but not until she had a good time hiding in the box and leaping out to scare me at least 20 times. we used up some of the upholstery samples as curtains and as a roof.

then on to blocks to make castles, fairy houses and letters (my addition). i had to snap a few photos to capture the three ponytails that she requested this morning. i hope she never loses that style. after that, a few books, naptime and a coffee (and this blogging break) for me. papers came today confirming preschool for next year (how will my baby be four?), so i am savoring these quiet times even more.

i heart crafts

2012-01-22T08:46:00.000-08:00

it may be still too early to begin in earnest the valentine crafting, but a few hearts and glitter and sparkles are making their way into our home. Jane was particularly enamored of pouring glitter glue into little glass spice jars and then filling them with different colored beads to make "smoothies." i made a sleeve out of the end of a felted sweater sleeve and some red plaid flannel and started work on a yarn wrapped wreath, to be decorated with heart doilies or felt hearts.

i also received a huge stash of upholstery samples and plan on making valentines and maybe little coin purses with them. do share if you have any other ideas for using all these scraps! also on the list is to start making some items from my thrifted "sewing without a pattern" book. a valentines cape for Jane may be the first project.

for those of you who are more advanced sewers, check out my etsy shop for vintage patterns like this gem.

this moment

2012-01-20T05:09:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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clothes swap or how to gather free craft materials

2012-01-19T15:54:00.000-08:00

A naked lady party is a great free way to break up the grey gloom of January and take advantage of the decluttering impulse that happens after the holidays. we scooted dads and kids out of the house, drank wine, ate yummy treats and descended upon a massive pile of sweaters, dresses, shirts, jeans and books. i walked away with a pair of jeans, saucy red heels (that were promptly confiscated by the littles for dress-up), a pile of books and loads of yummy sweaters for felting and hat-making! (red, blue and yellow cashmere--oh the possibilities!). everyone left happy, renewed and full of the energy that comes from a good circle of women. it's a great idea for repurposing, finding dress-ups and just de-cluttering.

collaborative family art

2012-01-16T12:19:00.000-08:00

after a nice morning hike and coffee & breakfast, we all settled in at home with our quiet activities--reading, making legos, and for Jane and I, painting. one new year's resolution of mine was to try to do some painting and not worry about the final product. painting on top of Jane's broad strokes was just something spontaneous, though i think i had Soulemama's project somewhere in the back of my mind. next time i'll have to involve everyone and bring out the textured items-- doilies, paper, buttons and fabric. what are you making in the middle of this cold, grey January?

beloved community: the vision

2012-01-15T17:21:00.000-08:00

Love is creative and redemptive. Love builds up and unites; hate tears down and destroys. The aftermath of the ‘fight with fire’ method which you suggest is bitterness and chaos, the aftermath of the love method is reconciliation and creation of the beloved community. Physical force can repress, restrain, coerce, destroy, but it cannot create and organize anything permanent; only love can do that. Yes, love—which means understanding, creative, redemptive goodwill, even for one’s enemies—is the solution to the race problem.
—Martin Luther King, Jr., 1957

anchorage trail part two: the land

2012-01-14T07:58:00.000-08:00

anchorage trail part one: the kids

2012-01-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

this moment

2012-01-12T23:12:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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ten on ten

2012-01-10T16:21:00.000-08:00

got a late start today, 2:30pm to be exact. but i do have a good excuse--i did a 5 hour training for police on human trafficking this morning. so, here are my ten. next month, i PROMISE to do one an hour.

new years traditions and january crafts

2012-01-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

the first week back to school went fairly well, all things considered. all a bit more tired, but otherwise eager to start anew. i never like a bare house after xmas decorations are taken down, so we made a snowflake garland out of coffee filters and a bit of vintage pom pom trim. we also wrote out our new year's resolutions and posted them on the fridge to make us aware of them all year long.

Wilson's school is great about multicultural education, and he came home eager to tell me about world new years traditions including Ethiopian nosegays (made from paper) and Ecuadorian "scarecrows." At school, they drew scarecrows and wrote something bad that had happened to them, crumpled them up and threw them away. The idea is to get rid of the bad to make way for the good in the new year. when i asked him what he wrote, he said: mommy yelled at me. ouch.

putting my shame and mortification aside, i asked him how he felt when he got to throw it away. his response: "good. everyone laughed at how i dunked it into the garbage can." so then i asked if we could do it again. i drew my scarecrow and wrote on it that I yelled at my children instead of being patient and taking a time out. he wrote that he couldn't go to his friend's house because of the grill (explanation: a dinner took a bit longer than planned, so it was cancelled). we crumpled them up and threw them away. it really felt great. this is definitely going to be one of our new traditions and i was so impressed at his teacher for such an expressive, healthy and cathartic exercise.

Aside from that art therapy project, we also started a new tradition of family art before supper. tonight's theme came from looking outside at the full moon and Jane asking what owls eat. that led to discussions of owls, mice and snakes, all illustrated here:

The new year is shaping up quite well, with new traditions, a bit of art, and plenty of healthy juices made in my new juicer. now if only i can manage not to yell...

this moment

2012-01-06T05:55:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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happy 2012!

2011-12-31T19:48:00.000-08:00

look at us with a few handmade mustaches and signs and assorted dress-ups! endless fun for young and old! happy new year to you and yours!

this moment

2011-12-30T04:23:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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christmas handmades

2011-12-28T17:56:00.000-08:00

this holiday we did not do all that we had planned, but we did make citrus salt scrub (coconut oil, coarse salt and zest of lime, lemon, grapefruit and orange), buttery sugar cookies, and a few other treasures...

snowy terrariums (flanked by my hand-picked christmas gifts from my two little ones!)...

iced luminarias from Shivaya Naturals....

a wookie, pattern here and felt "lightsavers" (made originally for a November birthday party favor, then remade for two young at heart Uncles) ...

a felt board (a simple last minute creation and probably the most used gift of all)...

and last but certainly not least, matching doll & big girl robes from Santa (with help from Grammy)...

what did you make? what do you still want to make for the wintry season? i'm gearing up for January crafts of live terrariums, snowflake buntings and soft pillows made from repurposed sweaters...what about you?

holiday moments

2011-12-27T14:03:00.000-08:00

elves in action

2011-12-23T05:39:00.000-08:00

in our house and around with friends...

happy holidays!

2011-12-22T16:33:00.000-08:00

from our family to yours! may you have a blessed holiday and a fabulous start to 2012!

quiet December

2011-12-20T19:10:00.000-08:00

so i have loved reading most of all about crafty mamas letting go this holiday season, not worrying about getting all the handmades done, focusing on being present and not measuring up to any other standard. i too have a few last minute crafty gifts to do, but have scrapped some plans in favor of sleepovers, lazy mornings, hot cocoa with candycanes, and general EASE. so important for all of us. peace to all of you!

this moment

2011-12-16T15:31:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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ten on ten

2011-12-10T16:56:00.000-08:00

in the spirit of starting rituals that celebrate the beauty and wonder of the season (without the consumption), i joined in ten on ten. the tenth of each month, you take ten photos, one each hour. here are my ten, done mostly each hour, but some in little bursts. you get the gist.

tree trimming, first thing in the morning

my beloved Penny Sisto quilt, in the morning light

enjoying a morning hot chocolate while Jane's at dance

Ms. Sally's ballet class

flea off market

rust, afternoon sun and dried russian sage

best friends. imaginative play.

winter flower

mediating. and legos.

full moon. 7pm.

this moment

2011-12-09T05:13:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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christmas tea in La Grange

2011-12-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

my mother has always created rituals, and when i think of celebrations of the everyday, i think of her. much of what i do now, writing little love notes on the breakfast table, repeating events, foregoing housework to focus on our kids, picnics, and gathering with friends, i owe to her. she invited Jane and I out to christmas tea, and we drove in the dreary weather to the quaint little spot of La Grange, KY, where the train rumbles right down the center of main street. we wandered around a nearby indoor fleamarket/antique mall first, finding some treasures, then ate lunch, tea and dessert. i have to admit, for all of the fun adventures i have had with both my kids, there is something quite special about rituals just for the girls. and Jane loved it. so much she licked the sugar spoon. literally.

crafting community

2011-12-05T05:40:00.000-08:00

so the best part of craft fairs is seeing folks and connecting and hawking a few wares if i'm lucky. yesterday i spent an otherwise dreary grey rainy afternoon inside, warm, with fellow crafters and many friends stopping by Mama's Hip, a local store/community gathering spot. Shannon Stone, the creator of Mama's Hip, is a visionary, connecting new mamas and papas, providing support, featuring great babywearing/natural parenting supplies and otherwise creating a space for positive parenting and building community. She was kind enough to open up her store to the Locally Crafted Fair. i had the chance to also meet Mary Margaret of Fly Away Fox, and share our love of vintage and crafting. Her handmade cake stands are to die for, so check them out for your holiday gifting! I took a few photos, but wish i took more. There were so many lovely crafters and I had to restrain myself from taking home the whole lot. Here's to the rest of the season of crafting, making and gathering! I still have some owlies, twirly skirts, headbands, owl and flower hats and vintage items left. hope to post them on etsy later today!

a creative mess

2011-12-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

cutting and sewing and piecing and thinking and weaving together little bits...this is how i prepare for xmas and unlock all the stress in my mind...it's been a busy week, including our agency's annual ending domestic and sexual violence conference...powerful and intense and provocative...will share more...for now, sleep awaits me before the Mama's Hip Locally Crafted Fair...come visit!

this moment

2011-11-25T06:54:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

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downtown fun: 1/2 marathon and flea off market

2011-11-13T05:28:00.000-08:00

headed downtown this past saturday to cheer on my love running his 1st half marathon. wilson posed along the way in some great spots. then off to the Flea Off Market, Louisville's new pop-up market of vintage wares, records, art, pottery, music, food and spirits. it was a perfect afternoon, chatting with folks, soaking up the sun and crafting. my kind mom came down to entertain my little one and bring a picnic basket laden with goodies and hot cocoa. here's to the next one! (and for John, the marathon!)

this moment

2011-11-11T03:56:00.000-08:00

{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.

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

thrifty goodness

2011-11-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

some amazing finds...some for home and some for the shop or other venues...The Flea Off Market, perhaps...

this working gem (my $5 find!) will stay at home.

Vintage kids books, embroided belt, tray just like the one in Anthro fall catalogue
and a breathtaking fall colored needlepoint portrait

halloween

2011-10-31T17:52:00.000-07:00

a few glimpses...alien ballerina queen, dia de los muertos, magician, pumpkin decorating, owlie puppet making, fall color and good friends...much to celebrate!

this moment

2011-10-28T05:41:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

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keeneland

2011-10-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

fall meet at Keeneland... our vestiges of British finery...ah, being with good friends, the hats, boots, dapper clothes, the brilliant blue day, the rolling green hills, the excitement of having your horse (almost) win...

kindergarden fun

2011-10-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

wow--teachers of 24 five year olds are angels. and saints. and sources of endless energy and patience. and yet, what a wonderful place to be with little minds, active bodies and new insights erupting around you everyday. i spent just 30 minutes with my son's class last week making puppets from toilet paper rolls, feathers, buttons and fabric scraps (inspiration from Squallis Puppeteers). i was positively EXHAUSTED (and joy-filled) afterwards. the kids jumped right into it without hesitation, pausing only to ask for more glue. it was great, messy, free-form fun. here's a glimpse of those beautiful little souls and their artwork.

this moment

2011-10-21T03:31:00.000-07:00

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

Wishing you a lovely weekend!

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down by the river

2011-10-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

Madison, Indiana again for a quick weekend trip with Mom and Dad! We spent time watching Dad kayak, eating good food, drinking red wine, talking, playing, finding treasures on the river bank, and stopping at Bray's Orchard on the way home for pumpkins, pumpkin ice cream and playing in the pumpkin house. Yeah fall!

kcwc day five

2011-10-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

two hats for babes...one just arrived and one still in the oven...

kids clothes challenge week: days three and four

2011-10-14T12:57:00.001-07:00

upcycling hand-me down pajama bottoms from brother and a stained hoodie into fancy pants and a letter jacket!

this moment

2011-10-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

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kcwc day two

2011-10-12T15:31:00.001-07:00

my favorite little owlie spruced up an old t-shirt...

kids clothes week challenge fall 2011

2011-10-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

so i'm trying Elsie Marley's kids clothing week challenge again, focusing now on plaids, tweeds and fall colors. the first day, my hour was spent just gathering fabric and envisioning. really, creativity takes time. so maybe the hour was also spent wrangling my five year old to go to bed and then falling to sleep from exhaustion. here's to tonight's fresh start to sewing!

falls of the ohio

2011-10-10T17:40:00.000-07:00

we enjoyed a beautiful indian summer October day with friends at the Falls of the Ohio, an amazing site of fossil beds. it's the closest to tidal pools we get here in the land-locked midwest/south.

this moment

2011-10-06T21:00:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual from SouleMama. A single photo (well, this week, many !) - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing you a lovely weekend!

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harvest inspiration

2011-10-01T12:12:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin pies, fall leaves, hot cider, crisp skies and outlines of trees inspire me to no end. Here are a few other autumnal inspirations...

our quilt, by the amazing Penny Sisto, of the Guatemalan goddess of the harvest...

two fall colored afghans i thrifted a week ago, still deciding whether to sell them in my shop or snuggle up under them on our deck at twilight with my sweetie...

a fun halloween craft for the kids..they loved adding loads of spiders ! (and if you look closely, you can see a spider eating its prey)...

what autumn inspiration are you gathering/celebrating/crafting in your home?

this moment

2011-09-29T23:20:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

. . . . . . . .

beautiful autumn decay

2011-09-27T17:27:00.000-07:00

shop update: autumn!

2011-09-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

the shop has some fun new vintage additions, including a trove of vintage hats and the most adorable little girl's plaid fall shirt. twirly skirts and owlies are in production and should be available soon for the shop and later for Mama's Hip holiday fair on December 4th. come by and check it out!

walk before dinner

2011-09-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Our wonderful, relaxing, cool Sunday ended with a walk to the creek while dinner was baking. We made paper boats after learning how to from the mother of some of Wilson's school friends. She is from Sri Lanka and used to toss boats out her windows into the little gullies that would form after big rains.

At the start of our walk, Wilson spotted a hawk directly overhead, then we were off to race boats, gather wildflowers, look for deer paths, climb rocks, throw creek rocks (until I had enough of rocks nearly missing little sisters), and hike up the hill to eat dinner outside. Ah, what a delicious September we are having!

this moment

2011-09-23T05:29:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

. . . . . . . .

tea time

2011-09-18T18:35:00.000-07:00

anthropologie has nothing on us...our tea tray is in their fall catalogue!

a perfect saturday morning

2011-09-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

...sewing a little dress for Jane from old shirts, crystal blue skies, crisp air, ballet class, a walk to a friend's house, seeing her little one stand up, then on to the Douglas Loop farmers' market for coffee, hula hoops, people watching, and of course, fresh, local produce and wine... now on to football, friends, chili and cornhole!

Upcycled from a long sleeve 18 month shirt and an adult small tank top (the jersey is a bit wonky, but i still love it!)

fun color

Amish booth

love the autumn palette of colors!

Smith Berry Wine (Wendell Berry's daughter's winery)

this moment

2011-09-16T04:56:00.000-07:00

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

Morning at the AT

2011-09-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

The weather has been so topsy-turvy here, 110 degrees one week and 60 degrees the next. For me, the chill and grey is a welcome change. Perfect hiking weather to meet some friends out on the Anchorage Trail, a gem just 5 minutes from our home. Lush, lush greens after all that rain and the first glimpses of fall color!

this moment

2011-09-09T04:15:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

shop update: vintage and handmade

2011-09-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

the shop has some fun new vintage finds, some for mamas and some for child...plus warm owl hats for these first few breezes of fall! here are a few sneak peeks...come visit and find some treasures...

this moment

2011-09-02T04:15:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

days twenty-nine and thirty: purchased and in motion

2011-08-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

we come to the end of the 30 day photo challenge...how fast August has flown by!

purchased some foam board & chalkboard paint to put inside an old frame for our newly painted kitchen!

and my girl...on her merry-go-round....about to be in motion at the KY State Fair...

days twenty seven and twenty eight: after dark and daily routine

2011-08-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

august evening, bonfire, good friends...

dress up, books, best friends...

something old

2011-08-26T17:16:00.000-07:00

i have always loved 70s fashion, and was inspired by all the floppy wool hats paired with dresses or trouser jeans featured this season. imagine my surprise when i found this gem for $1.50 at the thrift store. now i'm really in the mood for that crisp air, pumpkin coffee/muffins/soup and saturated color. not to mention my autumn goals of hiking every weekend and starting to sell vintage clothes (for mama and child!) in my shop. ah, the anticipation of changing seasons!

this moment

2011-08-26T04:44:00.000-07:00

out-takes

2011-08-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

day twenty-five: sunflare

2011-08-25T17:29:00.000-07:00

days twenty-two, twenty-three and twenty-four: trees, sunset, smile

2011-08-24T18:11:00.000-07:00

days twenty and twenty-one: what i read and pretty pattern

2011-08-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

day nineteen: where i slept

2011-08-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

friendship in the summertime

2011-08-19T03:32:00.000-07:00

gatherings with our circle of friends, popsicles, pools, mud, bikes, grilled food, hammocks, iced coffee, and general silliness made this summer so much fun in spite of the sweltering temperatures. here's to a new host of adventures and celebrations as fall comes slowly to greet us!

day eighteen: in my bag

2011-08-18T04:30:00.000-07:00

bag(handmade by me), sunglasses, old school simple phone, red lipstick, flyers for Summer Salsa Night, Syracuse cultural workers calendar and pen from the KY Association of Sexual Assault Programs (my work!)

day seventeen: on the shelf

2011-08-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

my collection of vintage tins.

day sixteen: what i ate

2011-08-16T16:07:00.000-07:00

clementines. immortalized in song here and here.

day fifteen: my shoes

2011-08-15T10:06:00.001-07:00

ok, so not actually my shoes...but shoes from my little love...

day fourteen: flowers

2011-08-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

a craft with the kiddos, inspired by the Artful Parent...

day thirteen: from a distance

2011-08-13T17:09:00.000-07:00

day twelve: close up

2011-08-12T18:41:00.000-07:00

this moment

2011-08-12T05:42:00.000-07:00

day eleven: something fun

2011-08-12T05:09:00.000-07:00

a day late, but fun nonetheless. craft inspired by Elsie. lyrics from New Partner by Will Oldham.

day ten: something i made

2011-08-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

day nine: faceless self-portrait

2011-08-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

day eight: technology

2011-08-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

bringing awareness. connecting victims to help. making our community more just for all workers.

day seven: something new

2011-08-07T17:47:00.000-07:00

well, not actually new, and not mine at all... but new donations for the La Casita Center Summer Salsa Night silent auction...signed items from Louisville's own Bonny Prince Billy...

day six: childhood memory

2011-08-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

zucchini bread. hot with butter. our front step with my friend Susan. barefeet. summertime. now this loaf goes to another friend, just down the street.

day five: someone i love

2011-08-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

this moment

2011-08-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

{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.

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

day four: favorite color

2011-08-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

day three: clouds

2011-08-03T05:29:00.000-07:00

day two: what i wore

2011-08-02T18:33:00.000-07:00

day one: self-portrait

2011-08-01T04:42:00.000-07:00

Lake Michigan

2011-07-31T18:33:00.000-07:00

From our simply perfect week at the beach in South Haven, MI in late June... a different color palate at the beach each day, fresh cherries and blueberries, chilly water, hikes in the dunes, painting, no tv/computer, reading, date nights while Grammy and Grandpa played with the kids, sunsets, cool evenings, gathering firewood, roasting marshmallows, kayaking and enjoying one another...

Birthday girl

2011-07-31T06:41:00.001-07:00

A bike, a book, a dolly, face painting, a ballerina cake, a visit from Uncle Greg, fairy crowns and racing around with a handful of little friends...magical!