Sea Kettle Diaries

sea kettle letters

2012-02-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

We are letter writers, my Brian and I. So this year his valentine gift was a love letter journal of sorts.

I had a canvas covered blank book and I painted silhouettes of us writing in the windows of Sea Kettle. Then I created a simple reversible bookmark to let each other know when the "mailbox" is full; a Dear Husband side and a Dear Wife side. I included some small envelopes and a glue stick just in case we want to add any other additions to our little book of love.

I love it, he loves it, and we look forward to filling it to the brim with notes, encouragements, prayers, poems, dream and plans, memories to keep...or maybe just a whole lotta sweet nothings.

(and won't it be fun to look back at in 50 years?)

speaking of love...

2012-02-15T05:00:00.002-05:00

He smiles when I walk in the room,

reaches out when he wants to be held or hugged,

joyfully (and forcefully!) "pats" me when he's excited,

slowly blinks those big, beautiful "I love you" eyes,
giggles when I give him eskimo kisses,

happily buries his face in my chest to cuddle,

is utterly attentive and overjoyed when I talk to him,

hugs hard and kisses often.

It's pretty swell when your baby starts to show their love for you.

It's the best, really.

Sleepless nights, long cries, life complications, less "me" time, messiness, laundry piles, worries -

all forgotten with one long slobbery, open-mouthed baby kiss.

Happy Valentines

2012-02-14T05:00:00.000-05:00

As the Father has loved me,
I have loved you.
Abide in my love.
- Jesus
(John 15:9)

(in honor of valentines, been having good fun with my homemade heart bokeh filter)

Love

2012-02-13T05:00:00.000-05:00

This is love:

not that we loved God,

but that he loved us and sent his Son..

1 John 4:10

Thankful for -

- real and lasting and perfect love
- Levi and Papa playing guitar together
- a surprisingly successful surrealist lesson
- bokeh filter fun on a warm winter's walk
- our daily dates; paper sculptures, chinese take-out and origami, a documentary, boardgames, tea time.
- an Italian potluck with our High Rock North Shore fam (and walking to church!)
- friday night frappucinos courtesy of Mom and Dad
- a little artistic renaissance and paintings planned
- a surprise gift in the mail and promise of a well-fed baby (thanks to Aunt Lisa and cousin Alex!)
- coffee in Boston with a Yemen girl; good chats, lattes, purple tulips, brownstones and finally some flurries to boot.

(find more thanks-listing at A Holy Experience)

breakfast

2012-02-10T04:00:00.000-05:00

{this moment}

Joining with SouleMama

Abstract Paper Sculptures

2012-02-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

My elementary kids have been exploring the principle of balance as they created abstract sculptures out of colored paper (inspired by this lesson). We talked about how there are many different ways to make things balanced. Artists utilize elements such as size, color, shape and value to create balanced compositions. This lesson is also a fun introduction to abstract art; it's a great way for kids to experiment using colors, shapes and lines without feeling the need to make it to look like something in particular (although some kids started making their abstract art into "playgrounds". I let it slide. haha)

We used some square pieces of white cardboard for our base and I made lots of strips of brightly colored papers for them to start with. They could also cut their own paper however they wished. We then discussed and explored what sorts of creative ways we could use the paper; crimp, fold, curl, tab, weave...the sky is the limit! We simply used glue sticks to attach.

This was one of those lessons where EVERYONE felt successful, the art came out beautifully and I felt liked they learned something valuable. It will surely be a staple in my art room in the future!

Aren't they amazing?

Heartifying the Kettle

2012-02-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know if it's just my way of getting rid of the winter doldrums, but I always feel the need to decorate for Valentines. Here's how I heartified the Kettle this year...

Levi on the 7s: 6 Months!

2012-02-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

(Levi on previous 7s)

still

2012-02-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

Still listing, still counting, still thanking...

- February

- an abundance of fleece

- Brian's strong hands when my necks needs a rubbin'

- saturday morning tidying to the tune of "Wait, Wait", "Car Talk" and "This American Life"

- pillow talk
- my beautiful finished matron of honor dress, skillfully made by Mom

- nickname contests

- finishing my evaluations, despite interruptions (albeit cute interruptions)
- surprise Big C visits

- superbowl poetry
- a wee bit of alone time

- a warm (?!) February sunset with my loves, a game of twister, breakfast in bed

- perfectly ripe avocados

- Sugar Mag breakfasts, bravery to forgo the carrot pancakes to try the decadent Georgia's French Toast
- happy students, colorful art

(find more thanks-listing at A Holy Experience)

first date

2012-02-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

{this moment}

Joining with SouleMama

an early valentine, a month of dates

2012-02-02T05:00:00.001-05:00

So far, post-baby dates have been rather few and far between. Usually it's just easier to get in those comfy clothes and hunker down for a nap or another episode of "The Office" rather than to try to get it together (maybe even get a little dressed up, heaven forbid!)and do something special.

Brian and I were blessed to have 10 years of "dating" behind us (pre and post wedding, of course) by the time we had Levi. We are both hopeless romantics and we have always been pretty good at making special time for each other. Those years were spent taking walks on the beach, dancing in the rain, playing music, hiking mountains, making art, donning cute sun dresses and bow ties, fancy dinners, picnics, art museums. Brian almost always planned them and they were almost always surprises. Quite a feat. I think I owe him one... :)

I'm sure we'll soon get back into the groove, but money is tighter, the baby doesn't take a bottle very well for babysitters, we're sleep deprived, we're quite taken with staring at our beautiful son..you know the drill.

Anyway. I thought that this would be the perfect time to do a little jump-start on the Jameses dating life. I created an early Valentine treat for Brian; a calendar of sorts with 29 dates, one for each day in February. Think along the lines of an advent calendar for the month of love.

Some dates are simple and we have everything we need right here at home. Some are more complex and involve babysitters and more planning. I'm afraid I can't spill the beans on specifics quite yet (every once in a while my sweet husband graces the blog with his presence) but I have to say, date number one was a smashing success and I can barely wait for our next. ;)

this and that

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

A little bit of this, a little bit of that...

as you may have gathered from yesterday's post, the little guy continues to *despise* solid food. He dramatically coughs it out as we gave him poison, looks at us like "How DARE you?" and then screams bloody murder. I'm taking suggestions...

Yesterday, Brian received an early Valentine. Let's just say, February's gonna be fuuuun in the James household.

I'll admit, I get a little giddy when all of the tax documents come in the mail. There's something sickingly fun about entering in all of the information and then watching the amount of money in the box go up and down. That is, until it just keeps going down...haha. I'm hoping that my dramatic pay cut and the cute little tax deduction I gave birth to will bode well for us. :)

the baby's new favorite thing is jumping in his jumpy-thing (do they have a name?) while watching the washer and dryer go round and round. It keeps him occupied for ~~hours~~, uh, 10 minutes (but that's hours in baby time)

Brian is utterly convinced, to a frightening degree, that his recent haircut is the sole reason that his students are being more attentive in class. He DOES look more like a drill sargent now than a long haired hippy poet, I suppose. But, really??

Levi has started getting very excited whenever he catches a glimpse of the kitty. Dmitri, however, is still wary of the new funny-sounding, limb-flailing, attention-hogging mini-human.

I let Levi open mouth kiss me (on the cheek, mind you) with gobs of snot and drool running off his face. Yes, yes, I do.

I'm thinking of planning a "Tea and Crumpets and Crafts" party during February vacation. First, I need to figure out what crumpets are.

Speaking of tea and crumpets...Downton Abbey! (spoiler alert) Oh my gosh...Daisy married William?! William's dead!? Matthew can't have kids!? Can't walk?! The countess has a heart!? Mary's really gonna marry that awful man whom she doesn't love?! Bates still isn't free to marry Anna?! Mrs. Bates is still on an evil rampage?! Will dear Mrs. Crawley save the day?! ...Oh how I love my proper British soap opera.

mush

2012-01-31T05:00:00.000-05:00

I spent an evening last week trying my hand at homemade baby food. It seemed like a fun, productive thing to do and I assumed it might be a money-saver (although, honestly, I didn't do the math). After reading a bunch of recipes, I realized that you basically just chop, cook and blend. Sounded easy enough, even for this not-so-great cook (who doesn't usually enjoy the fine art of cooking)! I'm thinking that $15 of fresh fruits and veggies in the freezer will last us a looooong time.

So far, it's going over real well... ahem.

Here's to hopin' that someday he'll actually enjoy all this mush I made!

I shall thank Him...

2012-01-30T05:00:00.007-05:00

The LORD is my strength and my shield;

My heart trusts in Him,

and I am helped;

Therefore my heart exults,

And with my song I shall thank Him.

Psalm 28:7

- when he wakes up singing
- all day coffee and tea, warmed 8 times
- Papa and baby's saturday morning jaunts, so I can catch a nap (and that he gives up his only day to sleep in for me!)
- a student's hilarious artist statement, recounting a dream about art class and Mrs. James giving him the "smack-down"
- a new frame for old art
- bible curriculum collaboration
- lovely end-of-quarter art projects
- dinner at my parents, with most of the kids and "special friends" (kisses, Kimmie)
- fresh fruits and veggies into homemade food for the wee one
- rainy days
- a new enthusiastic and gifted art student (and a slight raise to boot)
- rice and pot-stickers
- these cute, hard-earned, little chipmunk teeth!

(no time these days to link up, but thanks-listing inspired by A Holy Experience)

this moment

2012-01-27T05:00:00.002-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

hallway gallery wall

2012-01-26T05:00:00.008-05:00

Finally. This has been on my to-do list for...pretty much ever. Armed with a Christmas gift card and a week off, Brian and I went out to gather some mismatched frames (mostly cream; a few silver) to create a gallery wall for our little hallway that goes between our kitchen and living room. I love the way a gallery wall allows you to cluster random albeit meaningful pieces of art and ephemera in a beautiful way. I have plans for more frames, more special art/photos/momentos, but here it is as it stands right now. It's a lot of fun to find new things to add and I've already changed out quite a few pieces. I cannot wait till Levi starts art-making! (did I mention he got finger paint in his stocking? too soon?)

Details..

1. A cut-out from an old book of Middle Eastern designs - just beautiful and also a reminder of the Yemen days.

2. A bitty picture of sleeping Levi when he was only a couple weeks old. Taken by Brian, to be used for my birthday present which was a locket with this picture in it. love.

3. Hard to see, but a lovely little line drawing of trees that Brian let me have from one of his journals. He's makes great little doodle-sketches and I was so happy to be able to frame one.

4. Meaningful Bible verses handwritten by my friends, Kristin and Lianna, attached to snacks in a care package when I was particularly overwhelmed by work and motherhood. I made a collage of them on a piece of pretty scrap paper. Good reminders of God's love and friend love.

5. A gorgeous detailed drawings of a hand decorated with henna/mehendi designs given to me by Madhiha, a Bengali third grader, who I taught in Detroit. One of the most gifted art students I've ever had.

6. Since it fit the color scheme, I added the collage I made for Brian a couple Christmas' ago. The Salem Covanant of 1629. Great reminder of why our city was founded.

7. Sea Kettle keys! just wrote about this...check out the new yellow frame.

8. A painting of Sea Kettle done by our neighbor about 50 years ago. Very charming! There are even funny little stork babies living in our tree.

9. From an old alphabet book found in my Nana's book room. It reads "The Nightingale, the sweetest bird, who in the evening late, can o'er the land be loudly heard, caroling to his mate" (reminds me of Bri);)

10. The back of our reply postcard from our wedding invitations. Love the red stamp we used.

11. L's handprint. cute.

12. photobooth strip we took when we were engaged. We used this image for our "Save the Dates"

______________________________________________________________

Here are some other great examples of gallery walls:

@younghouselove (probably my favorite, they inspired me to think about light colored frames, since I'm generally a dark-wood kind of girl...although my style isn't quite as matchy.)
@iheartorganizing
@apartmenttherapy (love how they "hid" the thermostat).

What would you frame?

this and that

2012-01-25T05:00:00.006-05:00

just a little bit of this and a little bit of that...

- I finally fed the baby some oatmeal. Let's just say that Dmitri seems to like it more than Levi. I guess we'll have to try something more tasty (kinda looks like nasty orphanage gruel..don't really blame the kid)

- it snowed!... it's gone!

- as a rather last minute decision, I decided to start an abstract paper sculpture project with my elementary kids. I've never done this before and they are turning out so darn cool! Don't worry, I'll show ya.

- got to skype with "Rwandering" Kimmie! She's happy and ~~tan~~ sunburned and just back from a safari. lucky.

- I tried to make an awesome poncho out of an old sweater on Saturday during our little snowstorm. I failed miserably. Then I tried to salvage the arms to make fingerless mittens. Also failed. Luckily I just found another newly pen-in-the-wash stained sweater. If at first you don't succeed...??

- Levi still wakes up at least twice at night (more when he's sick and teething) and I'm trying not to let my exhaustion get to me. This week, I'm afraid it did; cue grumpy mama.

- and I've been drinking a lot more coffee recently..hmmm...

- for the past few weeks I've been teaching some stained glass/clown paintings inspired by Georges Rouault. Apparently I forgot that an inordinate amount of children are deathly afraid of clowns (or that their parents let them watch awful scary movies about them!). oops.

- Recently, I went to pick up Levi from his babysitter (who shall remain nameless..haha) and his clothes were on backwards and he was wearing my sister's purple socks. I tried not to laugh too hard. Most of it was my fault - confusing outfit, leaky diapers and a forgotten pair of new socks. :)

- speaking of socks, the other day Brian and I realized that I had on his and he had on mine. cute?

- It kinda feels like spring right now, I'm reminding myself that it's JANUARY.

- I have a blank canvas and paints out on my kitchen table, an empty knitting basket in the living room, begging the question, "what's next?"

Nap-time diaries: Mug Cozy

2012-01-24T05:00:00.077-05:00

I love a good project that I can start and finish while Levi sleeps. Last week I designed and crocheted a cup cozy during a nice long mid-morning nap. I vaguely remembered seeing someone use granny squares to make a coffee press cozy and thought they might also make a cute cup cozy. I love the old-fashioned warmness of granny squares and they always remind me of my great Grandma Jones who first inspired my love of crocheting and knitting. Someday I'll have to dig out the first afghan I ever made from all of her old yarn scraps...it ended up being every color imaginable and as thick as a rug. It was a monster; but a meaningful monster, I suppose.

Aaaanyways. I figured if I crocheted 3 smallish granny squares (here's a nice tutorial), they'd fit pretty well around a mug. Using scraps from other projects (I think most were from this granny square scarf, actually), I created a 2-round square with single crochets (usually they are 3 rounds using double crochets)with a size H hook. I stitched them together and then single-crocheted a border around all three squares. The last step was to make 4 long chains, mine were 25 stitches, and tie to all 4 corners. Super quick and rather charming, I think...oh yeah and it keeps my tea warm. :)

(I know that's not the most detailed tutorial, if anyone needs clarification, email me and I'll happily oblige!)

my cups runs over

2012-01-23T05:00:00.005-05:00

I thank Thee for the temporal blessings of this world—

the refreshing air,

the light of the sun,

the food that renews strength,

the raiment that clothes,

the dwelling that shelters,

the sleep that gives rest...

the happy endearments of family, kindred, friends...

My cup runs over. Suffer me not to be insensible to these daily mercies.

- from Evening Praise, "The Valley of Vision"

Also thankful this week, for

- a first *real* snowfall of the year and a beautiful, restful snow day
- endurance and strength when the whole family's sick and the little one is painfully popping teeth
- daily mercies, reminders of grace
- skyping with Kimmie
- successful oatmeal feedings
- encouraging tutor dinners, smooth and healthy transitions
- a quick and relatively painless car repair
- kitty's undivided attention as soon as baby sleeps
- stay-in-our-pjs-all-day-fridays
- quiet
- tea, kleenex, excedrin
- how happy Levi is when his dad comes home
- football party with Mom and Dad J, and Uncle Roger (despite the fact they woke the baby with their winning cheers!)
- post bath mommy-baby snuggles..

This Moment

2012-01-20T07:06:00.001-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual
Joining with SouleMama

Corks, Corks and more Corks

2012-01-19T05:00:00.052-05:00

I've tried to enjoy wine, really I have. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it) I gag every time I take a sip. I don't know...reminds me of cough syrup. Luckily for me, others like it. A lot.

The other day my soon-to-be brother, Matt, brought me over an inordinate amount of wine corks. I guess he mentioned to his grandfather (who's been collecting them for years) that I could probably do something with them. There you have it; I'm now the proud owner of hundreds of corks.

So, what's a girl to do? I have plans for trivets, a plain old cork board, perhaps a bathmat? I started with something I knew I actually needed. In my cork-craft search, I saw a picture of a much-needed jewelry organizer.

Not that I'm wearing a lot of jewelry these days with a little pumpkin who loves grabbing anything he can get his hands on...still, I love that they aren't in a great big knotted jewelry-ball on my dresser anymore. Now they look pertty, they're organized and they'll be waiting for me when I'm ready to don on my "jewels" again.

Any other awesome ideas for corks?

Any neary-by friends want to share in the wealth?

A cork craft party, perhaps? ;)

This and that

2012-01-18T05:00:00.031-05:00

These days I'm...
-learning how to comfort a sick and teething baby; bouncing,swaying, snuggling, gum rubbing
- sharing all nighters with a perfect teammate, exchanging knowing hugs and glances
- sleeping, needy babe in arms
- encouraged by daily liturgies
- rethinking blog design
- proudly posting beautiful artwork; energized by my students; collecting "junk" for new sculptures
- thankful for such wonderful work
- enjoying Downton Abbey dates
- settling into the dead of winter, trying not to get the blues
- straddling two churches, praying God's direction and wisdom for both
- planning paintings, soaking up inspiration
- thinking of Kimmie, praying for health and safely
- enduring my 3rd cold of the season; pounding tea, vitamin C and echinacea
- looking for a new knitting project
- bittersweetly buying baby cereal and putting off opening it (and kinda wanting him to stay little forever)
- warding off worry; trying to live life in the moment.

What is filling your days?

Birds and Keys

2012-01-17T05:00:00.004-05:00

My sister Kimmie (who is currently settling into her semester in Rwanda) made me some lovely paper birds hanging in a frame for Christmas. It's hanging center stage in our kitchen and not only reminds me that spring is coming but also reminds me to lift my little Africa-dwelling sister up in prayer.

Her charming hanging-frame-art got my mind going with ideas for what to do with a bunch of small square wooden frames I've had lying around for years. Three old Sea Kettle keys have hung on a nail above a door since we've moved in. I'm assuming that they are original to our 200 year old house. I've been wanting to showcase them in a special way and the hanging them in a frame seemed perfect. 2 hooks, 6 inches of wire and 5 minutes later I had myself some lovely key art.

I enjoy looking at them and imagining who touched and used these keys during Sea Kettle's long history. When I'm feeling really day-dreamy, I can't help but wonder if Nathaniel Hawthorne brushed by those keys as he stopped by the grocery store for some feathers and ink.

(I have since accidentally bumped into my key frame and smashed the red frame into pieces. Luckily, I have lots of similar frames, so the keys are now in a yellow frame...which I actually prefer, since Sea Kettle is the same color. Seems appropriate.)

Monday Thanks

2012-01-16T05:00:00.012-05:00

It's the song of the redeemed

Rising from the African plain

It's the song of the forgiven

Drowning out the Amazon rain

The song of Asian believers

Filled with God's holy fire

It's every tribe, every tongue, every nation

A love song born of a grateful choir

It's all God's children singing

Glory, glory, hallelujah

He reigns, He reigns

-Newsboys

Thankful, for

a grateful choir
Brian's breakfasts and spoken word concerts, just for me
A safe arrival in Africa
bowling and buffet engagement party for Katie and Matt (and that us parents had the energy to stay up that late)
a beautiful send-off to our fearless leader, getting to see my old profe, Kit, and many other old friends
the third service
baby belly laughs
the muted tones of winter
cheek kisses from George
listening to Brian sing Levi to sleep
lovely paintings in progress...

visitor

2012-01-14T05:00:00.008-05:00

Well, would you look who came back to visit.

Dmitri was not impressed.

"Scram, Squirrel. This is MY kingdom."

This Moment

2012-01-13T05:00:00.004-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

Christmas Project Round Up: Sea Kettle Christmas

2012-01-12T05:00:00.036-05:00

Our big gift this year was a Christmas album. Yup. Why we decided to do this the same year that we had a baby? Not sure(cause we're crazy!). Not the wisest decision perhaps, but we had fun and made it work. Brian is a fantastic music writer/arranger, singer, drummer, guitar player. I play the flute and can hold a tune. We hoped we had enough of the ingredients to create a laid-back collection of some of our favorite Christmas tunes for our friends and family to enjoy.

Sea Kettle Christmas isn't perfect. You'll hear a flat note here and there (mostly me!) and if you listen real close, you'll probably hear the crinkle of wrapping paper, the shake of a rattle, the creak of the 200 year old stairs, the coos of a baby. We recorded it in our living room during November and December between work, chores, naps and feedings. Despite the less than perfect recording circumstances (we did NOT have "studio silence" at any point) and a strict deadline ("should we record the vocals on this one again? NO, we have to leave for the Christmas Eve service!"), it was a labor of love and we hope our family and friends enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it. No matter what, many sweet memories were made. Being able to collaborate artistically with my husband is one of the sweetest blessings in my life.

I know it might be a little late for Christmas music, but here it is if you'd like to give a listen.

Sea Kettle Christmas by seakettlers

Christmas Project Round Up: Levi's Gift - Footprints

2012-01-11T05:00:00.001-05:00

Not even little Levi got out of making Christmas presents this year (being 4 months old was no excuse!) In December, he went to work making his grandparents, aunts and uncles some footprint art (cause what else is a baby to do?!). He was quite a trooper while Papa stamped his foot over and over again. Mama helped by framing his prints and writing a good "foot" Bible verse underneath.

He even posed for some Christmas outfit photos to give away to his adoring fans...

One last Christmas round-up post tomorrow!

Christmas Project Round-Up: Crinkle Ribbon Toys

2012-01-10T05:00:00.001-05:00

And yet another little Levi gift..last one, I promise! These funny looking things are homemade crinkle toys. I couldn't resist, since he loves crinkly things and I realized that I could make them with scraps of fabric that I already had lying around the craft room. Free gifts are nice, these days! He loves holding, squishing and chewing on these little toys and they are nice and small to throw in the diaper bag. Here's the tutorial I used, although I made some slight changes to where I put the ribbons. Also, don't wash and dry these in the machine! I washed another one I made and the plastic inside melted into a little ball. Definitely not as fun. :/

January thanks

2012-01-09T05:00:00.005-05:00

Walk in the light, the beautiful light.

Come where the dewdrops of mercy shine bright.

Shine all around us by day and by night.

Jesus, the light of the world.

- from Common Prayer, a Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals

Still counting...

a nice easing back into school
students being brave and letting go
Levi giggles
car starter gift, the warmth it provides!
a husband who does dishes, laundry, diapers, cooking and anything else; cheerily, no less
common prayer; the early mornings and late nights
a first tooth and a sitting up baby
banging the piano with Papa
mild winter days
Katie and Matt's birthday party, lots of new "family" to meet
morning chai
Kimmie time - before we send her off to Rwanda...and of course a new blog to keep up.
Papa, putting down the Russian novel, to read something a *little* less sophisticated...

(Dare to find joy? Join the thanks counting...)

5 Months!

2012-01-07T05:00:00.006-05:00

(Levi on the 7s)

This Moment - uncle time

2012-01-06T05:00:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

Christmas Project Round Up: Hand, Hand, Fingers Thumb!

2012-01-05T05:00:00.001-05:00

Here's another little gift I made for Levi. When I take care of Levi's friend Evan, we often read the book "Hand, Hand, Fingers Thumb" (again and again and again!). I love a book with good rhythm. This one has great rhythm and a fun story about about drumming monkeys ("dum ditty, dum ditty dum, dum, dum!"). Levi really seems to enjoy the book too, so I bought it for him and then created a sock monkey with a drum to go along with the story. I used the classic sock monkey pattern and then created the drum out of a little round wooden box I found at the craft store. I painted it to look like a drum from the book, mod podged it and then attached a string (hole on either side and knotted it from the inside). Although he doesn't appreciate it entirely now, hopefully within the next year he'll enjoy making his own monkey drum while we read the book.

(A couple of years ago I made another "prop" to go with a book when I created my mitten full of animals to go with "The Mitten". I'm planning on saving this one until Levi gets a little older, but it's a fun idea if you have an older child.)

Christmas Project Round-Up: Gnomie Hat and Mittens

2012-01-04T05:00:00.020-05:00

I made this little hat and mitten set for my babe. These were all done in an afternoon, so a very quick knit indeed! I stumbled upon this gnomie hat pattern and the mittens are actually the same pattern as the paws from his bear costume, I just used bigger sized needles. I put them on a string so we wouldn't lose the them (huh, can I put his socks on strings? I lose baby socks like nobody's business!).

I think this set would be the perfect winter gift for any little person, if you can stand the cuteness. And come on, you could probably knit these up in less time than it takes to get through crazy holiday mall traffic. I try my best to steer clear of that place as much as possible!

Ain't he the cutest little gnome you ever did see?

Christmas Project Round Up: Tricky

2012-01-03T05:00:00.001-05:00

This present for Brian and Levi came about in a funny way. You may have seen the very popular book/elf called "The Elf on the Shelf". We were in Target in November and Brian saw it and said "I used to love my Elf on a Shelf when I was a kid, it was one of the most magical parts of my childhood!" Well, of course I was intrigued and decided to try to make my own elf for Brian and Levi. Eventually I realize that Brian definitely did not have the book, considering it was only published a couple of years ago and that he really just had some cute little elves that he used to play with (and yes, they look a lot like the "Elf on a Shelf" elf!).

After looking further into the new phenomenon, I realized that the book is a little creepy. Apparently the elf is sent to spy on the kids and report back to Santa as to whether they are good or bad. They also aren't allowed to touch the elf?? I don't know, just not my style. Santa was never a big deal in my house growing up, so I'm not really into having a "Santa Spy" hanging around. I'm hoping my kids are motivated to do good in other ways.

Anyways, I decided to make a new little elfish tradition for Levi and Brian. I made my little elf out of wood and fabric scraps (sorry, no specific tutorial, I just raided my craft room and went at it quite haphazardly). When I finished, I put him in a box with a little elf bed (I mean, you wouldn't want to put the poor little guy in a cold hard box by himself) and a little note from Santa on the top. The note basically said that "Tricky" would spend the holiday season with our family, but to be careful since he is little mischievous. The idea is that every day in December Brian or I would hide the elf somewhere in the house or create some sort of mischief for the elf to have done for Levi to find. Simple and fun and hopefully no creep. :)

(I found the bed at the craft store in the wood section, I think it was a mini-tray. I painted it green and made a mattress, pillow and quilt out of fabric scraps.)

(I put a thin wooden wheel-type thing in the bottom of my elf so that he would sit. He is filled with stuffing, although there isn't any in his arms and legs. His head is just a wooden piece I found that had the craft store.)

Can't wait to see what sorts of mischief he gets into next December!

A Year of Blessings

2012-01-02T05:00:00.012-05:00

Thank you, Lord, for -

- precious family and friends

- a slowly growing belly and beautiful baby boy

- many wonderful "firsts"

- new lessons learned, stretching

- a sister's engagement

- a warm, colorful home

- slowly figuring out how to navigate parenthood

- the most loving, self-sacrificing husband and Papa

- a new gift, a new tradition

- laughter and joy

- mistakes and forgiveness

- our other kids, our students and the lessons they teach

- collaborative art and music

- love overflowing

- all of the specific beauties of winter, spring, summer and fall

an abundantly blessed year.

This Moment - family Nativity

2011-12-30T05:00:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

Christmas Project Round Up: Picture Puzzle

2011-12-29T05:00:00.001-05:00

I created this little block/puzzle set for Levi's friend, Evan. He enjoys blocks and identifying people, so I thought he might enjoy putting together a picture of his family (or just making towers and knocking them down, that works too) Luckily, I had taken family photos of the Ranges this fall and had lots to choose from. I can't wait to make Levi one next year. Here's a wee tutorial, if you'd like to make your own. :)

Christmas Project Round-Up: a gift for a mountain man..

2011-12-28T05:00:00.001-05:00

This Christmas gift was inspired by my friend Tom, who recently created a beautiful silhouette of the Grand Tetons on a piece of poplar for his living room. I was struck by the beautiful simplicity of it and even though the Tetons are a much more dramatic mountain range, I thought the idea might still work for the more weathered Presidential Range in New Hampshire.

My Grandpa has always loved hiking and climbing mountains and if I'm not mistaken, he has climbed all of the Presidentials. I went to Home Depot and found my own piece of poplar (about 2 feet long) with a nice grain. I used some photos online, like the one below, and sketched the line of the range onto the wood with pencil. Then I simply filled the mountains in with black acrylic paint. Sweetly simple and meaningful gift for the mountaineers in your life.

Christmas Project Round Up: Movie Night in a Box

2011-12-27T05:00:00.004-05:00

Are you ready for the great Christmas project round-up of 2011? Ready or not, here I come! Perhaps you can tuck away a few of these ideas for next year.

______________________________________________

Let's begin with a fun little "experience-in-a-box" gift that I put together for my family members. Last year one of the couples in our small group gave us "Red-Box Gift Certificates", which was just a dollar and a cute card. I thought I would expand the concept and add some popcorn, candy and some post-movie discussion questions (courtesy of english-teacher-question-maker-extraordinare-husband). Here's how I made 'em -

______________________________________________________________________

Other details you might find helpful:

- here is the recipe I used and printed for the caramel popcorn

- I used baseball card protectors for my redbox "gift certificate" and discussion questions.

- below are the discussion questions we came up with:

What did you enjoy about the movie? What did you dislike?

What character did you relate to most? Why?

What was the movie's central theme? Did you agree with the director's treatment of it?

Was the movie's conclusion satisfying? If not, imagine a more satisfying conclusion.

Christmas Thanks

2011-12-26T05:00:00.005-05:00

Thankful this Christmas,

for a fun and happy first Christmas with Levi
for silly family photo shoots
for thoughtful gifts
for big family Christmas Eve sleepovers
for special surprises
for yummy treats
for meaningful carols and hymns

Christ, our Savior, our "God with us"

Christmas Tidings

2011-12-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

Have a wonderful Christmas, friends!

This Moment - and so the fun begins, the adventures of kitty and kid

2011-12-23T05:00:00.002-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

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Art Room Diaries: Mrs. James in action

2011-12-22T05:00:00.009-05:00

Our assistant headmaster visited my middle school art class the other day and took some shots of my class working on their mini-zines. Thought you might enjoy seeing Mrs. James and her kids in action (while I finish up a few last Christmasy things!).

photos by Ian Drummond

Ahhh! too busy to blog!

2011-12-21T05:00:00.031-05:00

...so I'll just leave you with some adorable photos of my almost-as-busy baby in his new "office".

I wish you could see him in action - he's like a funny little business man in there, turning around in his swivel chair, pushing buttons, making calculations, checking the stock exchange...you know, the usual.

...it's the most ridiculously cute thing you'll ever see.

(I know, spoken like a true mother)

Hope you all are enjoying your week!

We interrupt all of this christmas-y programming....

2011-12-20T05:00:00.009-05:00

...for an engagement shoot!

Yes, in the midst of a busy Christmas season, I was lucky enough to find a free afternoon to take some photos of my newly engaged friend and old co-worker, Christina and her fiance, Ben. I must say, I love engagement shoots. They are some of the easiest photo shoots to do, considering you just have a couple of lovebirds who are all googly eyes for each other and you don't really have to do much but follow them around and try to catch the cute moments that are oozing out all over the place. See? Simple. :)

Congratulations guys!

thou its light, its joy, its crown

2011-12-19T05:00:00.055-05:00

In the heavenly country bright,

need they no created light;

thou its light, its joy, its crown,

thou its sun which goes not down;

there for ever may we sing

alleluias to our King.

- As With Gladness Men of Old

Thankful....

- warm and yummy holiday open house and the best bowl of butternut soup I've ever had

- Brian's giddy excitement for his new “yankee swap” toy

- Lianna's helpful offer, and the happy noises from upstairs

quick, cute knits

- happy chaos

-lovely gifts from students

-our late at night sense of humor

- a new church, celebrating and making merry in the Old Town Hall

- time to stop. and breathe. and soak in....

This Moment - you've got a friend in me

2011-12-16T05:00:00.026-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

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"Baby's First Christmas" Ornament

2011-12-15T06:00:00.041-05:00

One of our non-secret projects this weekend was to make an ornament for Levi in honor of his first Christmas. I had some leftover clear ornaments lying around so I swished around some acrylic paint to give the inside a nice red/white swirl(here are more details instructions).

I let it dry over night and the next morning we went to work trying to get a handprint from Levi. Easier said than done. I don't have any great tips for getting a baby's handprint (I've read that it's better to do it when they're asleep!). Basically, we painted his hand black and held out the ornament just out of his reach, hoping that he would reach for it. He did..with his other hand, of course. We had to wash off a few duds, but eventually got one we were happy with.

Oh, the life of a son of a crafter...

..and I may have at least one more ornament tradition idea in the works.

Hey, December blogging hasn't been half as bad as I thought. :)

His and Hers Neck Warmers

2011-12-14T05:00:00.002-05:00

Even in the midst of Christmas preparations, I haven't been about to put down the needles entirely. Brian needed a new scarf (somehow that boy has lost every scarf he's ever owned)so I found some nice chunky yarn that looked very wool-like even though its an acrylic blend. I used relatively big needles, too, in hopes that it would work up quickly. I don't know what was wrong with me, but it felt like an eternity to make that thing. He likes to be able to wrap it all the way around his head with both sides handing in the front, so that makes it need to be really long...maybe that was it (the baby is always a good excuse, too) Anyways, I finally finished it and the extreme appreciation I get and the daily wear has made it totally worthwhile. And I love that the yarn has brown, black and gray in it, so it will match all of his coats and sweaters.

I can't really tell you exactly how I made it - size 8 needles, I think and then just as many stitches to make it about 6 inches wide; then I just knit, knit, knit until it was long enough (I used 1 1/2 skeins).

I ended up having some yarn left over, so I made myself a matching cowl from this pattern that I had bookmarked a while back. I kind of love wearing matching clothes with my loved ones (see these hats and these dresses and these skirts). Somehow this neck warmer only took the drive to and from a Thanksgiving get-together. It was about an hour away, but still - talk about a quick knit! If I do this one again, I would not do as many stitches to begin with to make it hug my neck more. Right now it is more of a fashion statement than something to keep me terribly warm. Oh well. :)

Knitter's Ornament

2011-12-13T05:00:00.004-05:00

This tutorial was inspired by this photo pinned by my blogger friend, Caroline. I just now realized that they actually put real knitting needles in it...not a bad gift idea! This literally took about 20 minutes to make and I really like how it came out, perfect for the knitters in your life. I made one for my Grandma for an extra Christmas treat. Shhhhhh...

stay tuned for another ornament idea later on this week...

Emmanuel shall come to you...

2011-12-12T05:00:00.004-05:00

Oh, come, Desire of nations, bind

In one the hearts of all mankind;

Oh, bid our sad divisions cease,

And be yourself our King of Peace.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to you, O Israel!

Giving thanks..

- God with us

- productive days
- collaboration
- Levi kisses
- big plans, little successes
- rooms lit, just with Christmas lights

- visits from Grammy and Grampy

- warm drinks
- a very talkative and happy son

- Christmasy mornings with my baby and BFF (and Amy Grant, of course)

- home and those therein

a bonus weekend treat - My Christmas "Miracle"

2011-12-10T05:00:00.056-05:00

A true tale from the Kettle...

The other day Levi and I were waiting for Brian to get home from work. We were playing in the living room when all of the sudden I hear knocking. I think that I must be imagining things or maybe it's the washer or dryer making a funny noise. Then again, 3 distinct knocks that were unmistakably coming from the front door. Now I'm thinking "Brian must have misplaced his keys or his hands are full..I'd better go let him in". So I go to the door and open the curtain to see who's there. There is literally a squirrel hanging upside down on my wreath knocking on the door with what looks like a gingerbread cookie!! WHAT?! He sees me, I run to get my camera even though I'm sure that he'll be gone when I get back. But no, he's still hanging there, just looking at me through the window with his cookie.

What does this mean!?

(for some reason Brian doesn't think this is as amazing as I do...it isn't every day a squirrel seemingly purposefully knocks on your door with a Christmas cookie for pete's sake!)

This Moment - Jesse Tree

2011-12-09T05:00:00.008-05:00

(we use this devotional and ornaments for our Jesse Tree) 

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

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Baby Silhouette

2011-12-08T05:00:00.012-05:00

My little silhouette collection has a new addition

- my handsome little son, of course!

(silhouette tutorials abound on the web, but mine is here)

Levi on the 7s: 4 Months!

2011-12-07T05:00:00.011-05:00

Levi on the 7s

Fa la la la la la....

2011-12-06T05:00:00.013-05:00

Dusty boxes, "White Christmas", tangled lights, cocoa, memories of Christmases past, fluffing evergreens, Levi hanging his first ornaments and a "baby" tree in honor of our baby (and because we're running out of room with all of his STUFF) - all ingredients for a very warm, quiet and festive night with my favorite boys.

Bring it on, Christmas; we're so ready for you!

(Lili, I know you're counting my stockings...I just so happen to have 4, no big announcement this year! haha)

consider well and bear in mind

2011-12-05T05:00:00.006-05:00

Good people all, this Christmas time,
Consider well and bear in mind
What our good God for us has done,
In sending His belovèd Son.

- from "The Wexford Carol"

Thankful this week, for -

- 2 years in our Sea Kettle

- a full night of uninterrupted sleep!

- advent traditions
- a fun engagement shoot
- Levi's abounding-in-joy early mornings
- my hilarious "christmas miracle"

- project dreaming
- my husband, waking up at 5 to play with a wide awake baby while his sick wife slept
- impromptu slow dances
- festive window boxes, finally!

- a fully free Friday
- rooms lit by Christmas lights
- an enjoyable business meeting
- God, come to dwell among us
- a night of Christmasy goodness with these boys..

This Moment - sea kettle sessions

2011-12-02T05:00:00.006-05:00

*swoon*

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

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It's...the....

2011-12-01T05:00:00.005-05:00

...moooost ~~wonderful~~ secretive tiiiiime of the yearrrr...

(AKA, the month when I'm working on all sorts of surprises that I can't share with you! I apologize in advance for a month of boring posts, maybe January will be worth it? We'll see...)

now back to work!

Advent Preparations

2011-11-30T05:00:00.031-05:00

How is it already advent??! This year it crept upon me like none other. I just realized that I never even delved into about my box of autumn decorations and my November thankful notebook. I think the extent of autumn decor at our house consisted of two mini pumpkins. Lame. I'm afraid that a little person may have done a number on my brain. Not complaining...

Anyways, good thing a kind representative from some sort of church committee sent me a reminder about my duty to decorate the church. I quickly went to work luring my posse with promises of coffee, donuts, Amy Grant Christmas albums and sweet baby cuddles. I'm so thankful for my willing family and friends who don't mind spending Black Friday "floofing" ribbons, hanging wreathes and placing candles!

Phil, being productive and decorating Brian....

That may or may not be my son in a pink fleece covered in hearts...(only warm baby thing Grammy could find, it was a bit chilly in there!)

Nana (or Great-Nana?) with her boy

then there's that..

early morning date (and a cute "third wheel")

2011-11-29T05:00:00.002-05:00

(for the record, we didn't mind a bit..)

Thanks

2011-11-28T05:00:00.005-05:00

So very thankful, for...

- lots of parties and oodles of good eats

- a baby that doesn't mind being passed around to scores of doting friends and relatives all weekend long

- dinner and dessert with some new family

- advent decorating and my faithful helpers

- Levi's curiosity

- rollicking ~~arguments~~ discussions with Bri

- Dad's joke attempts

- Kimmie's visit

- the fact that Nana makes her delicious "figgy" pudding, even though only she and I eat it

- affirming parent-teacher conferences

- cousin Jeff's new job

- Jonny's enthusiastic love for his nephew

- talking to relatives in Papua New Guinea via skype on Thanksgiving

- a Sunday afternoon birthday party, the birthday girls, the crock pot chili, homemade bread and yummy dessert.
- this cheeky little pose, this soft baby skin...

This Moment - the center of attention

2011-11-25T05:00:00.002-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

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pouring out all that fullness

2011-11-24T05:00:00.010-05:00

*A prayer of praise and thanksgiving, written by the puritans, from The Valley of Vision

These days I'm...

2011-11-23T05:00:00.014-05:00

- putting away warm weather clothes (still holding on to my beloved flip flops, though. crazy.)
- digging out the sweaters, hats and mittens
- watching Levi scootch and writhe, wanting so much to move, move, move!
- knitting my husband a scarf..
- ..learning that it takes infinitely longer to knit things when your hands are always full
- planning surprises
- making lists
- being thankful for a husband who sacrificially loves his family every day
- drowning in laundry...
- ..learning not to mind
- enjoying art explorations with awesome kids
- watching the leaves fall
- wondering why I decided to make this for Christmas (it's only $20 at Target...but it's not as special, right? right??!)

- getting excited about a new forming community of believers in Salem-Towne!

- trying not to be such an "elder brother"

- listening to the baby talk and sing and make "raspberries"

- buttoning my old jeans (yes!)

- coming to terms with the fact that my house probably won't be clean in the near future (or possibly 18 years)

- enjoying life as a family of 3 more every day

- giving thanks, for all

Painted Paper Collages

2011-11-22T05:00:00.038-05:00

My elementary kids have been creating some beautiful collages out of textured papers. They made these papers themselves, using oil pastels, q-tips, combs, brushes and tempera paint to create as many different colors and textures as possible. After these were dry, they ripped, cut and glued their papers to create either an animal (1st grade) or a landscape (2nd-5th grade). Every class loved this project and they could have gone on for weeks, if I had let them. In fact, my 4th and 5th graders begged to take the leftover papers home to make more art. Yes, yes, yes!

(and there's always one, or two if you're lucky, who marches to the beat of their own drum!)...

"Look at my beautiful textures, Mrs. James!"

Thanks

2011-11-21T05:00:00.017-05:00

Now thank we all our God 
With heart and hands and voices 
Who wondrous things hath done, 
In whom his world rejoices; 
Who from our mothers’ arms, 
Hath blessed us on our way 
With countless gifts of love, 
And still is ours today.

So very thankful, this Thanksgiving week...

- breakfast with Auntie Kate and Uncle Matt, and a fun Christmas card photo shoot, despite the wind
- secret projects and the season of surprises
- Thanksgiving week
- inquisitive looks
- friends who love Levi and save the day
- a creative husband
- a photo shoot job and a sweet little family to capture
- cream puffs
- feeling better
- cry room friends
- a third service feast and heartfelt testimonies
- sister Kimmie coming home!
- my family. every one.
- God's steadfast love; it's better than life

This Moment - a new discovery

2011-11-18T05:00:00.010-05:00

"Hey, I've got toes!"

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

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Art Room Diaries - Linoleum Block Prints

2011-11-17T05:00:00.006-05:00

In Middle School art we just finished a printmaking lesson using linoleum blocks. I brought in a bunch of pictures from Brian's beloved National Geographics (thank you, honey) and they chose an animal to sketch and then carve into linoleum. Even though it can be tough to get the hang of the carving techniques, and despite only a couple bloody fingers, I think they did a fabulous job with these. After we carved the linoleum blocks, they experimented with different types of papers and different colors of ink. We framed our favorites!

our busy printmaking studio!

Kayleen's rabbit

Monica's polar bears

some prairie dogs by Josh

"An elephant looking up at a dead tree" - By Jack

sick day

2011-11-16T05:00:00.021-05:00

at least we're in it together...

I can't say I'm not enjoying these cuddley, nappy days. Despite the sniffles, cough, lack of sleep and a runny-nosed baby who doesn't really understand the concept of a sick day, the slow-day snuggles are so worth it..

The Prodigal

2011-11-15T05:00:00.037-05:00

Our church has just finished studying "The Prodigal God" by Timothy Keller, a book based on the parable of the prodigal son from Luke 15:11-32. I highly recommend it (both the parable and the book!).

My friend sang this song by Sovereign Grace Music at church as a very appropriate companion to our series. She asked me to create some artwork to display along with her singing. It is always my joy to use my art for the edification of the local church, so I jumped at the opportunity. And I wish you could have heard her sing it. It was beautiful and heartfelt. It is her story and it is my story. I hope it's yours, as well.

(Unfortunately I didn't have her audio, so I used the original Sovereign Grace version for this video.)

The Prodigal

You held out your arms, I walked away

Insolent, I spurned your face
Squandering the gifts You gave to me
Holding close forbidden things
Destitute, a rebel still, a fool in all my pride
The world I once enjoyed is death to me
No joy, no hope, no life

Where now are the friends that I had bought
Gone with every penny lost
What hope could there be for such as I
Sold out to a world of lies
Oh to see Your face again, it seems so distant now
Could it be that You would take me back
A servant in your house

You held out your arms, I see them still
You never left, You never will
Running to embrace me, now I know
Your cords of love will always hold
Mercy's robe, a ring of grace
Such favor undeserved
You sing over me and celebrate
The rebel now Your child

Thanks

2011-11-14T05:00:00.010-05:00

Give thanks to the Lord, our God and King

His love endures forever!

For He is good, He is above all things,

His love endures forever.

Sing Praise!....

Thankful, for -

- crunchy leafy walks
- Levi's face, when he sees his mama
- an early Thanksgiving dinner, fellowship, thanking and singing with the North Shore High Rockers
- a long weekend
- kind notes
- 4 year old girl style
- beautiful bird paintings by one of my high schoolers
- completing 1st quarter art evaluations
- Levi's stimulating conversations and beautiful songs
- forgiveness
- visits from dear friends...

This Moment - breakfast boys

2011-11-11T05:00:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

knowing...

2011-11-10T05:00:00.010-05:00

It is a wise father that knows his own child.

-Shakespeare

Baby Things

2011-11-09T05:00:00.032-05:00

..because all the mommy bloggers are doing it...

(and I always found it helpful when they did!)

1. Cloud B Sound Machines - These are awesome. They look like cute little stuffed animals, but are actually sound machines with 5 different sounds, like ocean waves, rain etc. We were actually given two of these and we use both. The giraffe lives by his basinet in our room (so Mom and Dad can still talk or watch a movie) and the sheep comes with us to work on Mondays and Thursdays when he and his friend Evan need to nap at different times. It works perfectly for when one boy wants to play and one needs to sleep!

2. The Snap N' Go - Also awesome. It's basically just a stroller frame that you snap your car seat into. It's so lightweight, and really easy to fold up and down (one-handed, which is important!). When I need to go into the store for a minute, I just take his car seat and snap it right in. And it's great when he falls asleep, since I don't have to transfer him into a different stroller. It's also sturdy enough for long walks on the bumpy cobblestone and brick streets of Salem.

3. Infantino Vintage Twist Activity Gym - He plays on and with this every day. He loves looking at the animals and grabbing at the rings. I like the colors and the "vintage twist". It's one baby thing that doesn't offend my design sensibilities too drastically.

4. Eric Carle Elephant - He got this little guy from a student of mine and it is his favorite toy so far. It's great because there are so many elements to it and I can just stick it in the diaper bag and he'll be entertained all day.

5. Sandra Boynton Books - they're clever, they have great rhythm and fun illustrations. Snuggle Puppy and Barnyard Dance are our favorites.

6. Ring Sling - I got my sling from Raspberry Baby on Etsy. I loved the fabrics she used and her slings were much cheaper than the name brand versions. I've tried other wraps and baby carriers and Levi loves this the best, by far. I do too...because it's comfortable, but mostly because it's just so very pretty! And last Saturday I square-danced with him in it...do-si-dos, promenades, swings - he had a grand old time hanging out, twirling around with Mama. Probably the ultimate test in my book!

7. Bath Luv - Love this! Levi is a boy who greatly enjoys baths and I think this little towel cover has a lot to do with it. It's so cute and keeps him nice and warm. I like how, unlike a regular washcloth, it has "legs" that cover his legs as well as his torso(Thanks, Gail!).

8. Natures Sway Baby Hammock - Where do I begin? Everyone needs a baby hammock. When he was more fussy as a newborn, this would calm him instantly. It bounces in the most calming of ways and he is usually asleep in seconds. We hang it in our living room from one of the beams, but it also comes off and attaches to a piece that you can put in any doorway with molding (you know, like those jumpy seats that you hang in doorways?) Anyways, we take this with us when he is babysat (or away for the weekends) and it's a perfect place for him to sleep or just "hang" out. This is definitely my favorite of the favorites! (although I do adore my sling...hmmm - tie.)

9. Sophie - Ok, so I don't think that he is using Sophie to her greatest potential quite yet (he's not teething or anything), but he has started loving to put things in his mouth and Sophie is his "thing" of choice. And she's cute, too.

10. Bundle Me - Keeps my baby warm and cozy in the chilly weather, easy to use and clean. The first time I put Levi in it, he cuddled it up to his face and grinned. Now if that's not a good review, I don't know what is.

There you have it. Our list, so far. I'm sure it will change as time goes on, so maybe we'll have another edition in a few months when he is doing all sorts of other fun stuff like teething and eating and crawling...(ahhh!)

Annie Stec!

2011-11-08T05:00:00.081-05:00

I am certainly no fashion blogger, but I thought my recent good luck deserved a shout-out. You must know that if I'm ever in what would be considered a "fashionable" outfit, it is usually by accident!

My friend and fellow blogger, Annie (in fact, we almost started a church together in Detroit!...long story), hosted a giveaway on her blog recently. I ended up winning the $100 gift certificate to her shop where she sells her own handmade designs. Cha-ching!

It took me a while to choose (everything is gorgeous), but I ended up going with a denim embellished skirt, a striped jersey skirt and a little black and white tote bag. The clothes are beautiful and they fit perfectly (yes, I chose two elastic waisted skirts; the baby weight is almost off, but not quite!). I look forward to using the bag when I'm no longer carrying around a diaper bag everywhere!

I love that they everything is an original design and handmade. Simple and beautiful; definitely items that I'll wear a lot.

Special thanks to my photographer -

the good-sport and good-at-everything, Brian James.

There you have it -

probably the only "fashion" post you'll ever get out of me.

Thank you, Annie Stec, for getting me out of those yoga pants and into some much more flattering attire!

Thankful...for 3 months!

2011-11-07T05:00:00.007-05:00

This Moment - A Blue Horse

2011-11-04T05:00:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

Art Room Diaries - Music and Art - Kandinsky Style

2011-11-03T05:00:00.004-04:00

Is it possible to show what music "looks" like through art?

Do different kinds of notes and chords have a color?

Could a line show qualities of a specific voice or instrument?

What sorts of feelings or emotions can you effectively portray through these elements of art?

These were some of the questions we explored as we studied Russian modern artist, Wassily Kandinsky in my "Inspired by the Masters" workshop. Kandinsky once said "Color is the keyboard..the artist is the hand that plays." He actually had a condition (synesthesia) where he literally saw colors when he heard music. Can you imagine?

Composition IV, 1913, Wassily Kandinsky

For this lesson, we listened to different types of music, from Beethoven to French jazz to bluegrass. Each student filled a rectangle on their paper with lines, color and shapes that they felt portrayed the music playing. We used oil pastel and watercolors as our medium. It was so interesting to see the variations in the kids' work, but also how similar they were. There we a few pieces of music where most students used the same color palette or similar lines. Maybe that Kandinsky was onto something!

This lesson is easily adapted to almost any age. I've done it with 1st graders and 12th graders and everyone learns some important lessons about the inherent power of line, shape and color - a basic tenet of modern art! This is often the first non-representational art that really clicks with kids and they are able to easily connect with the elements of line, color and shape in an abstract way that they understand.

Yet another fairy tale - The Tale of Two Cuddle Sacks

2011-11-02T05:00:00.004-04:00

ONCE upon a time, there was a teeny tiny baby whose mother knit him a teeny tiny cuddle sack. The baby loved nothing more than sleeping and cuddling in the little satchel his mother made him. And it fit, just right.

But soon that teeny tiny baby wasn't so teeny tiny anymore. His warm little sack barely covered him past his tummy! The baby's mother knew that wouldn't do, but she also knew that the little (bigger) baby still needed to be warm and cuddled all winter long.

So the Mother did what she knew she must. She quickly went to work choosing the softest of yarns and knitting the cuddliest of cuddle sacks for her growing baby boy.

So, the little (bigger) baby snuggled happily into his new cuddle sack, stretching and squirming, making sure it fit just right. And it did. He nuzzled in and fell into a sweet and happy sleep, knowing that his Mama would always make sure that he was properly warm and cuddled...

all

winter

long.

THE END.

(at least until he grows another few inches...)

(pattern linked here)

The Three Bears - Halloween, James Style

2011-11-01T05:00:00.008-04:00

"ONCE upon a time there were Three Bears, who lived together in a house of their own, in a wood. One of them was a Little, Small, Wee Bear; and one was a Middle-sized Bear, and the other was a Great, Huge Bear..." *

*an excerpt.

(Details: Baby bear's hat is this hat with simple crocheted ears that I just made up(rounds of single and double crochet). Mama and Papa Bear's hats were old hats I made a while ago and I just safety- pinned the ears on. Papa Bear's hat was the one I made in this post. Mine, I think I just made up a few winters ago.
Baby bear's hand "paws" and tail were made from this pattern (just stuff it and sew it closed for the tail).)

Thou has brought me to this place...

2011-10-31T05:00:00.016-04:00

Hither to thy love has blessed me

Thou has brought me to this place

And I know thy hand will bring me

Safely home by thy good grace

Jesus sought me when a stranger,

Wandering from the fold of God;

He, to rescue me from danger,

Bought me with His precious blood.

Thankful, for

- being "brought and rescued and bought"
-making it through a longer week than usual

- my sister-in-law, coming to hang and help (with lunch and bread and apple tarts)

- a rollicking barn dance and both of my handsome partners

- tutor meetings and encouragement

- "costume day" fun

- getting back into knitting, with vengeance

- a new "Book of Common Prayer" in the mail

- beautiful perspective drawings by my high schoolers
- an unexpected "snow day"!

- leafy autumn mosaics...

The Sub

2011-10-29T05:00:00.004-04:00

P.S. Can you guess who won "Best Faculty Costume"?

Yeah, that's right. Booya. :)

This Moment - Homestead Stew

2011-10-28T05:00:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

Old Homestead Retreat 2011!

2011-10-27T05:00:00.022-04:00

This past weekend, we enjoyed our annual small group retreat at the Old Homestead in the Berkshires. As always, it was packed full of good friends, warm stews and pies, autumny adventure treks, good chats, rousing games, singing, praying, pipes and yarn. And of course, everything is at least twice as fun with a new baby boy in the mix.

...I'm pretty sure you couldn't ask for anything more from a crisp and colorful, New England weekend in October.

Art Room Diaries - Crushed Can Watercolors

2011-10-26T05:00:00.005-04:00

I did this project while student teaching and loved doing it just as much, if not more, than the kids did. I recently taught this to my middle school class along with a lesson in Pop Art.
It's a great way to practice observational drawing in a safe setting. If you don't get it just right, it doesn't look too bad, since it's a drawing of something that is crushed already! It is also a good observational drawing exercise, since in order to draw the can, you can't easily draw a pre-concieved idea of what a can looks like; you are forced to look carefully at each line, shape and plane in order for it to work together as a whole. Even though we were essentially drawing a piece of "trash", they ended up being such beautiful works of art!

Materials: pencil, ink and watercolors

Woven Trees

2011-10-25T05:00:00.008-04:00

I recently found this little project on Pinterest*. This spring, my school is having a fundraising auction so I've been on the hunt for projects that the kids can make to compliment this year's theme: "like a tree firmly planted". So, I've been "pinning" tree art and crafts like crazy.

Although it was a lot of fun, I kind of thought this craft would be easier to make than it was. I'm thinking maybe my 4th and 5th graders could handle it. Kinda cute, no? Check out the full tutorial at Family Fun.

*If don't "pin", you gotta start. Beware. It's addicting. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Streams of mercy

2011-10-24T05:00:00.006-04:00

Come thou fount of every blessing
Tune my heart to sing your praise
Streams of mercy never ceasing
Call for songs of loudest praise
Teach me some melodious sonnet
Sung by flaming tongues above
Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it
The mount of thy redeeming blood

Singing His praise, for..

- our stay-at-home days

-when Levi naps in my arms

- yet another October weekend away, at the Old Homestead, no less!

- our small group

- a new art project

- Brian's middle-of-the-night help; refilling water bottles, fetching excedrin, warming neck wraps, diaper changes
- snuggly rainy days
- sunny adventure days
- Levi's special early morning joy
- streams of mercy, never ceasing

This Moment: brothers

2011-10-21T05:00:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama

DIY Birth Announcements

2011-10-20T05:00:00.008-04:00

When I started looking at options for birth announcements, I was surprised at how expensive they were. Even pre-made designs printed on regular photo paper are often over a dollar each. That seemed a bit excessive to me, so to save a ~~little~~ lot of mula, I decided to design my own using the free photo editing/organizing program, Picasa.

Here's a quick tutorial:

First, I chose a picture that had some space for the name and all of the info that I wanted included. Next, I selected the picture in Picasa and hit the "collage" button. Once you get to the collage screen, make sure you have the right dimensions selected. I chose 4x6 since that is the cheapest size to print. I then chose black as my background color, sized the photo to almost fit the space, making sure to leave a thin black border. Next, I hit the "create collage" button to get back to the normal editing screen. Then, I used the "text" function to add Levi's name and other birth info.(Note: I download free fonts at dafont.com and Fonts for Peas, they have tons of nice options) Once I was happy with the design, I saved the file and downloaded it to Snapfish. I decided to use Snapfish to print my birth announcements because they have a great deal on new registrations (20 free prints and 9 cents each for the rest) and I was also able to print them on matte paper, which I tend to prefer.

So, for 100 birth announcements (much more than enough!) I paid a little under $8! Not bad!

Here's the photo/design we chose...

Some other options we were considering...

(this was initially my favorite, but I ended up deciding that it was too "winterish" for my August baby.)

Now I just need to get my act together and send them out!

Never has addressing and stamping envelopes ever seemed so difficult.

Oh babies. :)

Farm Day

2011-10-19T05:00:00.020-04:00

This past weekend, our family enjoyed some much anticipated autumny goodness at Ingalsby Farm*. We enjoyed walking through apple orchards, corn fields and pumpkin patches and Levi loved watching the rabbits, goats and peacocks. Of course we indulged in some cider, honey sticks and cider doughnuts and we even picked up some gourds for the window boxes. A warm October day well spent.

*For you locals, Ingalsby Farm is in West Boxford and was recommended to me by one of my art students. It's a great alternative to Russell Orchards, in case you aren't in the mood for crowds!)

Van Gogh!

2011-10-18T05:00:00.004-04:00

Recently, in my "Inspired by the Masters" workshop, we studied the life and style of Vincent Van Gogh. Inspired by the painting above, we looked at our own vase of sunflowers and created large-scale paintings using bright colors and distinct brush-strokes. We also used the technique of "impasto" by thickening our paint with a little bit of flour. Beautiful.

Thanks

2011-10-17T05:00:00.003-04:00

Give thanks to the Lord for He is good,

his love endures forever.

Psalm 107:1

Giving thanks, for -

-sweater weather

- fresh bread

- saturday morning strolls

- Chris at the bakery

- farm days

- Levi's intense gazes

- a new sling and him so close

- a beautiful evening service

- a tiny art class and their enthusiasm

- playtime

- reading time with Grampy...

This Moment - "just-for-dad" smile

2011-10-14T05:00:00.011-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual

Joining with SouleMama