sew

Just as children learn to read on the laps of their parents, I am overjoyed that these girls are learning to sew on the laps of the ones they love so dearly.

Little bags and quilts are the perfect projects to ignite their sewing curiosity.  It is neat to see them working the machine, cutting and measuring and ultimately utilizing something they made.  It feels good to see them making something.  I like that they understand the amount of work it takes to make even the smallest project.  I think it infuses appreciation of handmade goods into their lives.

Away

Just a little time alone, to linger over a chocolate croissant and a proper latte, made with the correct amount of dense foam does wonders for a busy mother.

A little trip up the mountain to this charming cabin with wood burning stoves to keep the frost away swept us from our sometimes monotonous routines at home.

Just a little drive up to a natural hot spring along birch tree-lined roads made us take another look at the wonders of Mother Nature.

Happening upon a woody and spirited snow-girl in the woods was as magical as magic can be.

Ice and snowy roads made the adventure up the mountain that much more alluring.

Taking a bit of time to rekindle a beloved hobby lifted his spirits.

To spend time together and rediscover ourselves amongst the radiant snow, mountain air and to enjoy time that was completely ours, was renewing in the best of ways.  I remember thinking, I will be a better mother having had some time away.

There he waits

She stands tippy-toed on her little green stool to take part in the cooking activites that happen daily around 5pm. From another perspective, he stands ever-so-close just waiting for something to drop.  He knows the youngest children drop the most down.