2018...a new year, a new beginning! 2017 brought so many new adventures and opportunities and I am excited to see what this new year will bring! Our family explored many places in PA and we are excited to see more of the country this year!
Thursday, January 4, 2018
New Beginnings
2018...a new year, a new beginning! 2017 brought so many new adventures and opportunities and I am excited to see what this new year will bring! Our family explored many places in PA and we are excited to see more of the country this year!
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Creating time
How long has it been! I think about two years since I last posted. So much to tell...but luckily there is time. Or so I think. The entire reason I haven't posted for a while is because my time is so few and far between! So, I shall create some time. Create time. Create. That is yet another thing I have had no time for! Between working two jobs, family life and everything in between, it seems as though there is not a whole lot of room for anything else. However, I do have plenty of room for worry, distress, concern, ailments and all the such....Does that seem right? Nope. Not to me. Not at all. Perhaps instead of filling my time with all these other super fun distractions, I should fill it with gratefulness and reflection...which will eventually lead to creativity...and creating time...and creating more for myself, others around me and my soul. Ah, there it is.... Go out and create. Create time. Create moments and create life.
Much love and peace - Jen
Much love and peace - Jen
Thursday, January 16, 2014
2014!
Well look at that...2014...who knew? Who knew that in 1985, when I was a budding pre-teen, I would see 2014! My oh my, how things have changed...but in a good way! So for 2013, I did a lot of great things and I am proud to say I accomplished things I set out to do! JclaireP is still working away and I was able to maintain the sales I needed! Two years of being on Etsy.com and I have to say I still love it! Also, on a personal level, I was finally able to donate my hair! I had been growing it for seven years and I chopped it! 11 1/2" (1.18 lbs) of hair was donated to Pantene Great Lengths. It was a wonderful experience and they even sent me a thank you card! So now, in 2014, I have a new do....It's a little daring, but I like it...what do you think?
It really is quite liberating...a totally new perspective too...Although, I must admit, it is COLD in the Winter!
I have really been getting the urge to clean house this January. I have been going through all my material and thinking of new ways to use it. I would like to put every bit of scrap to use and so far, I think I have done pretty good! I made a patchwork skirt from scrap material:
A skinny scarf from vintage yarn:
And a pet pillow from old sweatshirt material and material scraps! (this was donated to the shelter yesterday!)
So, 2014 has been full of a lot of fun for me. I have to say, I can't wait to see what is to come! I hope everyone is setting great goals for themselves and finding the courage to achieve them...You know you can!
Thanks for read my first entry of the year and I look forward to sharing more with you again!
Blessings to you!
Jennifer
I have really been getting the urge to clean house this January. I have been going through all my material and thinking of new ways to use it. I would like to put every bit of scrap to use and so far, I think I have done pretty good! I made a patchwork skirt from scrap material:
And a pet pillow from old sweatshirt material and material scraps! (this was donated to the shelter yesterday!)
Thanks for read my first entry of the year and I look forward to sharing more with you again!
Blessings to you!
Jennifer
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Been a While!!
My goodness the time has flown! We are already into September! When did that happen?
So, in a nutshell, here is the latest from JclaireP....
JclaireP has over 1040 followers on Etsy! I am so excited about this and honored that so many people have found my little shop! Also, there as been over 400 sales since we opened in 2011! How great it that? If you ask me..pretty great. I couldn't have found a better community and better people on Etsy.com!
I officially have a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/JclaireP/159859417437520
I can also be found on twitter, wanelo and pintrest! But we can explore those sites at another time. It just feels good to be writing again!
At home, things are really good. the sunflowers are all in full bloom, I am knitting a lot more and the family is well. Couldn't really ask for more. Very lucky and very blessed. Thinking about those in other lands that do not have it well or good right now. Praying for peace, life and love. Never forget, we all are one.
On that note, let me leave you with some lovely pictures of what I found in the garden this morning. Peace, Love and Light to all! Jennfier
So, in a nutshell, here is the latest from JclaireP....
JclaireP has over 1040 followers on Etsy! I am so excited about this and honored that so many people have found my little shop! Also, there as been over 400 sales since we opened in 2011! How great it that? If you ask me..pretty great. I couldn't have found a better community and better people on Etsy.com!
I officially have a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/JclaireP/159859417437520
I can also be found on twitter, wanelo and pintrest! But we can explore those sites at another time. It just feels good to be writing again!
At home, things are really good. the sunflowers are all in full bloom, I am knitting a lot more and the family is well. Couldn't really ask for more. Very lucky and very blessed. Thinking about those in other lands that do not have it well or good right now. Praying for peace, life and love. Never forget, we all are one.
On that note, let me leave you with some lovely pictures of what I found in the garden this morning. Peace, Love and Light to all! Jennfier
Monday, March 18, 2013
Buttons
Today I was sorting through my Mom's buttons. You see, I do a lot of sewing and I asked her if she happened to have any buttons. With that small request, I have obtained two bags and a jelly jar of buttons. They are so beautiful too...I remember looking at some of these buttons in a tin that my Mom had. When I was a child she kept them in a white cookie tin that was in the shape of a carousel and it had purple and pink ribbons and white horses painted on it. I distinctly remember that the tin still smelled of cookies when I opened it and what was even better were the hundreds of different buttons at my disposal.
I remember sitting on the floor and admiring each button. Some were plain, while others had beautiful carvings on them. There were some very special ones that even had rhinestones or an armed forces emblem on them. It is a vivid memory that I hold quite dear. Laying on an old carpet, with the sun coming in the window and a tin of buttons.
Now I have my own daughter and my Mother just gave me all her buttons. Someday, I hope to see my daughter on the floor sorting through the buttons. Maybe she will wonder where each one came from or how old they are. Maybe she will want to create with them or keep them as a treasure. Whatever she decides it is just fine with me. I just hope the legacy and the interest of buttons can be passed down to her. My own little button.
Blessings-
I remember sitting on the floor and admiring each button. Some were plain, while others had beautiful carvings on them. There were some very special ones that even had rhinestones or an armed forces emblem on them. It is a vivid memory that I hold quite dear. Laying on an old carpet, with the sun coming in the window and a tin of buttons.
Now I have my own daughter and my Mother just gave me all her buttons. Someday, I hope to see my daughter on the floor sorting through the buttons. Maybe she will wonder where each one came from or how old they are. Maybe she will want to create with them or keep them as a treasure. Whatever she decides it is just fine with me. I just hope the legacy and the interest of buttons can be passed down to her. My own little button.
Blessings-
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Hi, It's been a long time..
Well howdy out there! It has been an incredibly long time since I have posted...for that I am sorry...but I have a million excuses, not to which I will list right now...
So, I last posted in September of 2012. A lot has changed since then! However, I am still running my Etsy shop (www.etsy.com/shop/jclairep)..shameless plug...and I am still working from home. My family is well and happy and we are becoming quite settled in our little home in PA. It has been cold and breezy here lately and I think every living creature in this area is ready for Spring! I did find my daffodils peeking up from the ground and the pussy willow does have some buds, so that is a promising sign!
I worked on an awful lot on projects this Winter! Knit coasters, scarves, mug cozies and I was able to create a new patchwork skirt! These vintage fabrics are so special to me because they range from the 1940's to the 1980's. In the center is a rooster patch that is actually from a 1940's vintage curtain! In the top left, you can see a yellow and blue patch that comes from fabric from Hoboken, NJ. It belonged to a friend's mother who passed away. She was an avid sewer and I feel honored to have a piece of her passion. The Bright Yellow Patch with checks on the left is from a flea market in PA. The woman who sold it to me was a seamstress and decided to retire. There was such an array of fabric there! The other patches come from friends and family who are all close to my heart. All these patches became one skirt. It is amazing, isn't it? Every patch has a story, every fabric is sewn together. Separate, they may not be much, but put them together as a group....and wow...a beautiful thing can come together.
So, on that note, I am happy that I had to time to write today. Be well...take care...and make sure you see the beautiful patches in your life and keep them together.
Have a great night and a better day -
Jennifer
So, I last posted in September of 2012. A lot has changed since then! However, I am still running my Etsy shop (www.etsy.com/shop/jclairep)..shameless plug...and I am still working from home. My family is well and happy and we are becoming quite settled in our little home in PA. It has been cold and breezy here lately and I think every living creature in this area is ready for Spring! I did find my daffodils peeking up from the ground and the pussy willow does have some buds, so that is a promising sign!
So, on that note, I am happy that I had to time to write today. Be well...take care...and make sure you see the beautiful patches in your life and keep them together.
Have a great night and a better day -
Jennifer
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Easy Saturday
It is an easy Saturday night. Perfect Fall weather and on top of it all I think an outdoor cat has adopted me. She is a sweet little grey and white tuxedo and has visited us three times so far, but this time she sat with me as we watch the moths flutter around. She reminds me of my cat Spike who passed away three years ago. He was my love and it is so nice to feel his presence in her. It may sound strange, but I do believe that sometimes our angels come back for a visit.
On another note, this fine evening is making me think of camping this time of year. Cool enough for a good night's sleep, but you don't freeze. This Summer was so great because a wonderful hike at Hawk Mountain here in PA renewed my sense of getting outside. I think after being an indoor Momma for so long, it took little hike and some interesting wildlife to get me back in the swing of things. That and some great friends who made the hike that much more fun. It was great as well because Lily got to enjoy watching some hawks fly by at a wonderful scenic view spot. Really a great day. One to remember.
I especially like the last photo. It is so simple, but to me, tells a great story. So, on to my easy Saturday evening with a brew and a great movie. Have a wonderful evening and peace and harmony to all the world.
-Blessings
On another note, this fine evening is making me think of camping this time of year. Cool enough for a good night's sleep, but you don't freeze. This Summer was so great because a wonderful hike at Hawk Mountain here in PA renewed my sense of getting outside. I think after being an indoor Momma for so long, it took little hike and some interesting wildlife to get me back in the swing of things. That and some great friends who made the hike that much more fun. It was great as well because Lily got to enjoy watching some hawks fly by at a wonderful scenic view spot. Really a great day. One to remember.
-Blessings
Sunday, August 26, 2012
The Labyrinth
Today I took my daughter to church and after the Sunday school class we decided to get some lemonade and a bagel. She asked me if she could eat her bagel outside, so I said sure and we left the building and went to the courtyard right outside the doors. The courtyard is in its splendor right now as all the flowers are in bloom and the air is just cool enough to want to sit down and enjoy them. It also has a Memorial Fountain and a labyrinth maze for meditation.
Lillian walked over to the maze with her paper cup of lemonade and looked at it for a moment. "What's this Mama?" she asked me. "It's a labyrinth..a maze that you can walk through and you have to find your way in and out with out crossing the lines." I told her. She started inside the maze and followed its twists and turns and I could see by the look on her face that she became a little confused and frustrated. "Can you show me how to do this Mama?" she asked. "Sure." I said. She wanted me to walk in front of her and she followed each step I made. "Do you see how when you think you are so close to finishing, you have to take a different path?" I told her. "It is so windy and curvy Mama!" she responded. After about seven minutes of walking and twisting we finally made it to the center of the labyrinth. "Here we are! Okay, now, do you want me to show you the way out?" I asked. "No Mama, I can do it myself". As I walked across the lines and left her to figure it out, it occurred to me that she is starting Kindergarten tomorrow and how incredibly symbolic this was.
For six years I have shown her what I know, tried to show her how to follow a good path and was always ready to have her follow my footsteps. Here we are, the day before school and she is ready to figure the path out for herself. I stood on the grass and watched my baby twist and turn and back track her steps and, in a precious moments time, she found her way out of the labyrinth. All by herself. She was proud as punch.
So, there it is. The first day of Kindergarten through 12th grade starts tomorrow. I am sure there will be many mazes and directions she will need to go. She may not know it, but I will always be following in her footsteps.
-Blessings
Lillian walked over to the maze with her paper cup of lemonade and looked at it for a moment. "What's this Mama?" she asked me. "It's a labyrinth..a maze that you can walk through and you have to find your way in and out with out crossing the lines." I told her. She started inside the maze and followed its twists and turns and I could see by the look on her face that she became a little confused and frustrated. "Can you show me how to do this Mama?" she asked. "Sure." I said. She wanted me to walk in front of her and she followed each step I made. "Do you see how when you think you are so close to finishing, you have to take a different path?" I told her. "It is so windy and curvy Mama!" she responded. After about seven minutes of walking and twisting we finally made it to the center of the labyrinth. "Here we are! Okay, now, do you want me to show you the way out?" I asked. "No Mama, I can do it myself". As I walked across the lines and left her to figure it out, it occurred to me that she is starting Kindergarten tomorrow and how incredibly symbolic this was.
For six years I have shown her what I know, tried to show her how to follow a good path and was always ready to have her follow my footsteps. Here we are, the day before school and she is ready to figure the path out for herself. I stood on the grass and watched my baby twist and turn and back track her steps and, in a precious moments time, she found her way out of the labyrinth. All by herself. She was proud as punch.
So, there it is. The first day of Kindergarten through 12th grade starts tomorrow. I am sure there will be many mazes and directions she will need to go. She may not know it, but I will always be following in her footsteps.
-Blessings
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Learning is Taxing
Sunday, July 29, 2012
A great weekend
Quite a few things are going on in the Price House today! We were travelers all weekend and coming home just made me want to jump into work a bit.
I have been working on a new "up cycled" skirt, which I am excited about...I feel like I am getting ready for the Fall and working with the corduroy has been great. I hope to finish this by the end of the week! When I started working on this, I saw so many possibilities for skirts, but I am a sucker for a long patchwork skirt...so there it is!
What was great about this weekend as well is that I was able to finish a gift for a friend! I really like how this up cycled pillow turned out. It is amazing how abandoned curtains and cords can turn out so cool looking! A nice little accent, if I do say so myself!
With all this wonderful creativity flowing, I have to point out that the best part of the weekend was traveling to see family. That is what it all comes down too..don't you think? Putting love into our creations. Be it a skirt, a pillow, a painting, or, most of all, a family. To make something great, you must first put in the thought, and with that thought, your heart.
I wish you the most blessed week and positive creativity!
Jennifer
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
This has been a wonderful week! I reorganized my work space, I was able to finish a quilt, feeling a bit more inspired and I know in the back of my head that Fall will be here soon. I have plans to weed the gardens, begin sewing new ideas and to finally settle in to the business that I have been wanted to to plunge in too.
I thought you would like to see the quilt I finished! It is amazing how many thoughts are sewn into a quilt. Your mind tends to wander as you work and I find that with each patten, stitch and tie, the thoughts are woven in. It is quite a process, but it was very therapeutic.
Here it is..by the way..did I mention this is the first completed quilt I have ever made? I have made tops, but this was the first binding, backing and laying I have done.:
I have to say, I would definitely do this again. But now, I have the desire to work on skirts with corduroy and wild patterns. Looking forward to some creativity!
Blessings-
Jennifer
I thought you would like to see the quilt I finished! It is amazing how many thoughts are sewn into a quilt. Your mind tends to wander as you work and I find that with each patten, stitch and tie, the thoughts are woven in. It is quite a process, but it was very therapeutic.
Here it is..by the way..did I mention this is the first completed quilt I have ever made? I have made tops, but this was the first binding, backing and laying I have done.:
Blessings-
Jennifer
Friday, July 6, 2012
Summer brings wonderful things
The Summer brings so many things!
This Summer has brought so many beautiful things! Garage Sale time has been in full swing and I have been so fortunate to find some amazing vintage items! Everything from cats to dogs to planters to slips..and array of eye candy and glorious treasures!
I know I feel overwhelmed by the wonderful amount of things, but when ever is there enough treasures?
I am also happy to say that JclaireP has had the best month yet! I am so excited to see the growing number of fans and people who appreciate the beauty of a vintage item or a custom made skirt. Simple things that bring a nostalgic breeze to our minds or the comfort of a soft cotton that lets us feel just a little cooler in the Summertime. It is so appreciated and I can not say enough thanks to the family, friends and customers who have made this a wonderful month!
This Summer has brought so many beautiful things! Garage Sale time has been in full swing and I have been so fortunate to find some amazing vintage items! Everything from cats to dogs to planters to slips..and array of eye candy and glorious treasures!
I know I feel overwhelmed by the wonderful amount of things, but when ever is there enough treasures?
I am also happy to say that JclaireP has had the best month yet! I am so excited to see the growing number of fans and people who appreciate the beauty of a vintage item or a custom made skirt. Simple things that bring a nostalgic breeze to our minds or the comfort of a soft cotton that lets us feel just a little cooler in the Summertime. It is so appreciated and I can not say enough thanks to the family, friends and customers who have made this a wonderful month!
So, on that note, I look forward to finishing out the Summer and seeing what the Fall will bring. Soon it will be time to prepare for the Winter season and the wonderful events that the holidays bring. Not to rush things of course...But, until then, enjoy the wonderful things that Summer brings!
Monday, June 18, 2012
Open a window
This is how it begins. You become so exhausted and you are craving creativity...So, you look at the mess in the sewing room and then it hits you..Inspiration.
I have been able to come up with a new concept for a skirt tonight. I don't know how, but I think when I am so tired, a window opens up in my head and it allows some ideas to flow through. Good thing too! I think I get entirely too busy with the stuff that life is made of and I forget that I can create my own moments. So, I thought I would share in this new concept. It is far from finished and I have a lot more "cutting and pasting" to do. So, until tomorrow...
Let your windows open! Sometimes you just get too tired to open the entire door.. :)
Blessings-
I have been able to come up with a new concept for a skirt tonight. I don't know how, but I think when I am so tired, a window opens up in my head and it allows some ideas to flow through. Good thing too! I think I get entirely too busy with the stuff that life is made of and I forget that I can create my own moments. So, I thought I would share in this new concept. It is far from finished and I have a lot more "cutting and pasting" to do. So, until tomorrow...
Let your windows open! Sometimes you just get too tired to open the entire door.. :)
Blessings-
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Summer feature
Happy Summer!!!
So, a lot has been going on at JclaireP! New vintage items, new skirts, craft shows, fairs...So, I thought I would feature some of my Summer skirts in this blog! Fall is around the corner, when it comes to sewing, and I will start using some heavier fabrics. But before that, I thought it would be fun to start the Summer off with some fun colors and lighter fabrics!
This is one of my favorite skirts this summer. The pattern is so sweet with it's checked hearts and little blue bell flowers. Also, it is 100% cotton! It is nice and long and breathes when you walk. To me, there is nothing better than feeling lite and airy in a skirt and this one definitely gives that feel.
Of course, what is Summer without a patchwork skirt? What is special about this skirt is that all of the fabrics are vintage or they have been recycled from other linens. These colors pop and let people know that you are ready for Summer and play!
This Spring and Summer I have worked on some very special custom skirts for clients. These two skirts were custom order skirts specifically made for each customer! They were able to tell me what they were looking for and what their color preferences were. It is so fun and knowing that I am making something special for someone is what makes it so worthwhile!
Finally, what would Summer be without some mini skirts? This season I have made some bright mini's and some subtle mini's. The Pink mini is made from new rayon material and is very graceful and soft. The navy mini is made from vintage floral fabric and has a navy blue corduroy accent in the center and back. Both are easy and comfortable to wear!
I hope you have enjoyed this little feature of some of the skirts available at JclaireP! I am so looking forward to creating for the Fall and Winter and I am wishing you the best for the Summer season! Enjoy the things that this Summer will bring!
Blessings -
Jennifer
So, a lot has been going on at JclaireP! New vintage items, new skirts, craft shows, fairs...So, I thought I would feature some of my Summer skirts in this blog! Fall is around the corner, when it comes to sewing, and I will start using some heavier fabrics. But before that, I thought it would be fun to start the Summer off with some fun colors and lighter fabrics!
This is one of my favorite skirts this summer. The pattern is so sweet with it's checked hearts and little blue bell flowers. Also, it is 100% cotton! It is nice and long and breathes when you walk. To me, there is nothing better than feeling lite and airy in a skirt and this one definitely gives that feel.
This Spring and Summer I have worked on some very special custom skirts for clients. These two skirts were custom order skirts specifically made for each customer! They were able to tell me what they were looking for and what their color preferences were. It is so fun and knowing that I am making something special for someone is what makes it so worthwhile!
Finally, what would Summer be without some mini skirts? This season I have made some bright mini's and some subtle mini's. The Pink mini is made from new rayon material and is very graceful and soft. The navy mini is made from vintage floral fabric and has a navy blue corduroy accent in the center and back. Both are easy and comfortable to wear!
Blessings -
Jennifer
Saturday, May 26, 2012
cracking a window
It is that time of year. The sun is out a little longer, the days are warm, the nights are cooler and the windows are open. This is actually a big deal to me. It is not because I am a Summer lover or anything. It is a big deal because of the windows being open.
I have a secret. I have a fear of leaving my windows open. Yep, it is true. I don't feel "like a breeze" when I keep them open, I feel a bit insecure and cautious. I love the sound of the birds at night, I love the cool breeze, I love the free feeling of the window open. What freaks me out is the fear of someone intruding on my home. Someone ruining that one special thing about having a window open. That being said, I have another confession. For the first time in years, I feel OK with having them open from time to time. I have moved so many times I can't even count them. But for some reason, in this spot, I feel OK with having the window open a bit. I know I would never have them open all night or when I am not home, but while I am home, I do enjoy the breeze a little more. I suppose I am letting that fear of mine lose and the possibilities of enjoying myself win.
It may sound silly or a bit strange, but we all have our vices. Mine is the insecurity of home invasion because I decided to enjoy my windows. But hey, it is Summer, right? So, before I turn in, I will enjoy the fresh breeze. Then, I will brush my teeth, put on my PJ's and make sure my house is locked up like Fort Knox. Ah, here is to a peaceful night's sleep.
-Blessings and Good Night!
I have a secret. I have a fear of leaving my windows open. Yep, it is true. I don't feel "like a breeze" when I keep them open, I feel a bit insecure and cautious. I love the sound of the birds at night, I love the cool breeze, I love the free feeling of the window open. What freaks me out is the fear of someone intruding on my home. Someone ruining that one special thing about having a window open. That being said, I have another confession. For the first time in years, I feel OK with having them open from time to time. I have moved so many times I can't even count them. But for some reason, in this spot, I feel OK with having the window open a bit. I know I would never have them open all night or when I am not home, but while I am home, I do enjoy the breeze a little more. I suppose I am letting that fear of mine lose and the possibilities of enjoying myself win.
It may sound silly or a bit strange, but we all have our vices. Mine is the insecurity of home invasion because I decided to enjoy my windows. But hey, it is Summer, right? So, before I turn in, I will enjoy the fresh breeze. Then, I will brush my teeth, put on my PJ's and make sure my house is locked up like Fort Knox. Ah, here is to a peaceful night's sleep.
-Blessings and Good Night!
Monday, May 14, 2012
A good week
It was a week that feels like it has had at least two weeks in it...
But a very, very fulfilling and rewarding two weeks...
First let us start with the Flea Market...
It was a GORGEOUS day!! I was able to meet and greet so many wonderful people, catch up with friends and make new contacts with some extremely creative artists.. My favorite part? Well that is easy...
I got to share space with my Dad! It is our tradition to do the Macungie Flea Market together..and we always have a lot of fun.
I didn't sell any skirts, but I have never handed out so many cards! Positive vibes...good things...and lots of love...
Yes, that was a great start...then a Mother's Day Celebration hosted by my two favorite people and a field trip to the Mack Truck Museum in Allentown, PA....just a great weekend...and to top it all off, I was asked to vend at another festival in August! I am so pleased about this and I can not wait to get started!
I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day and a great weekend...these are the things that keep the good in life and the good in us...
-Have a great week and blessings to you
But a very, very fulfilling and rewarding two weeks...
First let us start with the Flea Market...
It was a GORGEOUS day!! I was able to meet and greet so many wonderful people, catch up with friends and make new contacts with some extremely creative artists.. My favorite part? Well that is easy...
I got to share space with my Dad! It is our tradition to do the Macungie Flea Market together..and we always have a lot of fun.
I didn't sell any skirts, but I have never handed out so many cards! Positive vibes...good things...and lots of love...
Yes, that was a great start...then a Mother's Day Celebration hosted by my two favorite people and a field trip to the Mack Truck Museum in Allentown, PA....just a great weekend...and to top it all off, I was asked to vend at another festival in August! I am so pleased about this and I can not wait to get started!
I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day and a great weekend...these are the things that keep the good in life and the good in us...
-Have a great week and blessings to you
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Carnival in town
Good Morning World! Today is one of those crisp Spring mornings that make you want to breathe in deep and enjoy the sunshine. The garden is looking healthy and the rhododendrons are blooming. The birds are singing and the bunnies are hopping in the backyard...luckily, not in the vegetable garden.
In the front yard, the Azaleas are showing off and....oh, wait...what is that I see from my front porch? Oh! The carnival at the fire station that is only a block from our home! Yes, every year the carnival comes to town and we have a front row seat. No, I am not complaining about this. It is FUN. It is a great time! It is also, it is PURE TORTURE for a five year old to have to wake up every morning and go to bed every night knowing there is a fair with in walking distance from your home. It would be like living at Disney World and you have no control over when you get to go. Every day the questions of when we are going and how long will it be here and the excitement of the rides is overflowing and congesting our home with carnival traffic! The enthusiasm meter is WAY off the charts and all we, as parents, can do in this home is wave a white flag and say, "Don't worry, we are going soon.".
Now if only I could get as excited about things. The glorious energy that comes with a five year old's anticipation. The giggles, the laughs, the clenching of fists under her chin because she can't bottle it up. As annoyed as I may get, I know that it is precious. In another five years, this element may disappear or become more "cool". Going to a carnival with her parents may not be as fun. So that is what we shall have tonight. FUN! Rides, games, hot dogs...all of it...then, when we come home, I can take down the white flag and tuck it away until the weekend.
I think the excitement is contagious!
-Blessings on your day
I think the excitement is contagious!
-Blessings on your day
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Benefits of home
One of the best things about being home with my daughter is this...
As I was sewing this morning, my daughter came upstairs and asked if she could sew as well. I said absolutely and so she took some of the scraps from my "scrap tote" and began to cut and pin. Her imagination began to take off and she wanted to make pillows for her Barbies. I showed her how to pin the material. Then she put the pieces together and I sewed a little on the machine. After I sewed the edges together she sat on my lap and I showed her how to stitch for the first time.
I spoke quietly to her, making sure she didn't catch her fingers with the needle. She was definitely concentrating as she was curling her mouth a bit and breathing quite heavy. It felt so right teaching her this little art of sewing. Something she can do for the rest of her life. There it is...the best part. I was able to show her a little something that may carry her along.
I think everyone has that ability. Everyone has their talents and treasures to pass on. It is in the simple moments that these things happen. It is so precious and should never be taken for granted.
On that note...here are the pillows for the Barbies! They are some lucky dolls!
- Blessings
As I was sewing this morning, my daughter came upstairs and asked if she could sew as well. I said absolutely and so she took some of the scraps from my "scrap tote" and began to cut and pin. Her imagination began to take off and she wanted to make pillows for her Barbies. I showed her how to pin the material. Then she put the pieces together and I sewed a little on the machine. After I sewed the edges together she sat on my lap and I showed her how to stitch for the first time.
I spoke quietly to her, making sure she didn't catch her fingers with the needle. She was definitely concentrating as she was curling her mouth a bit and breathing quite heavy. It felt so right teaching her this little art of sewing. Something she can do for the rest of her life. There it is...the best part. I was able to show her a little something that may carry her along.
I think everyone has that ability. Everyone has their talents and treasures to pass on. It is in the simple moments that these things happen. It is so precious and should never be taken for granted.
On that note...here are the pillows for the Barbies! They are some lucky dolls!
- Blessings
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Sun-Day
Today is a BEAUTIFUL DAY! The sun is shining, the birds are singing and there is not a cloud in the sky! Ah, yes, what could be better for a Sunday? Wait, I know, Farmer's Market!
I am so looking forward to the farmer's market this morning. I can't wait to get my hands on some fresh spinach and kale. I am also quite curious as to what else is coming out of the greenhouses during this cooler weather. Outside our garden is really staring to pick up speed! The peas have just about reached the first twine tiers, the broccoli leaves are starting to get big and the potatoes are pushing through the ground quite well! Good things..
Also, there is some sewing on the table! I have some lovely material that I am so looking forward to putting together and I definitely have a creative urge this morning. More pictures of that to come....
Here is to a good day...with sunshine, growth...and creativity!
- Blessings
I am so looking forward to the farmer's market this morning. I can't wait to get my hands on some fresh spinach and kale. I am also quite curious as to what else is coming out of the greenhouses during this cooler weather. Outside our garden is really staring to pick up speed! The peas have just about reached the first twine tiers, the broccoli leaves are starting to get big and the potatoes are pushing through the ground quite well! Good things..
Also, there is some sewing on the table! I have some lovely material that I am so looking forward to putting together and I definitely have a creative urge this morning. More pictures of that to come....
Here is to a good day...with sunshine, growth...and creativity!
- Blessings
Saturday, April 28, 2012
stomaching the laptop
I had a rather upset stomach earlier. It could have been the sweet potato fries, it may have been that I did a lot of driving today, or it may have been the fact that I can't seem to comprehend why people have such a hard time accepting and loving one another.
You see, I went to a great family party today. Nothing too crazy. Everyone was happy, mellow, loving and accepting of one another. It was beautiful. Children played, adults laughed, memories were shared. On the way back from the party I had to drop off my Mom. We got into a wonderful conversation about our views on faith and religion. We both came to the conclusion that respecting, loving and caring for one another, as human beings, is the most important aspect of any form of worship. That is the best example and that is the best thing to teach our children. Well, that with a little fear of the unknown and respect for elders. So, I felt rather good after dropping her off. My daughter was happy, I felt at peace and I came home to my husband who had been working all day. It was so great to see his face.
As I settled into the routine of making dinner, unpacking the car and so on, I decided to check the news on the internet and see how my Facebook friends were doing. I opened the laptop, logged onto MSN news and the first thing to pop up is a speaker who offended people and was extremely harsh, the second is about a poor Mother who was asked to leave as a den mother for being gay, the third was about people who abused their children and the list goes on and on. So much anger and hate. So much bigotry and malice. So much greed and envy. It literally made me sick to my stomach. As I looked at this I could hear my daughter asking for me and I felt even sicker. How can you protect a child from such awful things? How can I, as a person, deal with all this malice? It was rather disheartening. It was rather sad. Unfortunately, it was rather real and raw.
I finished dinner, managed to get the wee one to bed before nine and decided I needed to relax. Hot shower. The best remedy for anything. I appreciated the water as I realized that there are so many without water. I appreciated their sacrifice as I indulged. I felt guilty. After the shower, I realized that I had to write. Not for any other reason than to find a sounding board. So here I am.
After this I am going to bed. I am going to pray for better days, for the health of those I know and those I don't. I am going to ask for tolerance and peace. I suppose when I ask the question, "what is it that I can do?".... there is the answer. I can pray, meditate, ask, seek and never stop trying. I am a Christian, not a very good one, but I am. So I will say this.."Love one another as yourselves. Love your neighbor. Do this." .
Love one another..that could possibly change the headlines when I open the lap top tomorrow...
-Blessings..no really..Blessings...
You see, I went to a great family party today. Nothing too crazy. Everyone was happy, mellow, loving and accepting of one another. It was beautiful. Children played, adults laughed, memories were shared. On the way back from the party I had to drop off my Mom. We got into a wonderful conversation about our views on faith and religion. We both came to the conclusion that respecting, loving and caring for one another, as human beings, is the most important aspect of any form of worship. That is the best example and that is the best thing to teach our children. Well, that with a little fear of the unknown and respect for elders. So, I felt rather good after dropping her off. My daughter was happy, I felt at peace and I came home to my husband who had been working all day. It was so great to see his face.
As I settled into the routine of making dinner, unpacking the car and so on, I decided to check the news on the internet and see how my Facebook friends were doing. I opened the laptop, logged onto MSN news and the first thing to pop up is a speaker who offended people and was extremely harsh, the second is about a poor Mother who was asked to leave as a den mother for being gay, the third was about people who abused their children and the list goes on and on. So much anger and hate. So much bigotry and malice. So much greed and envy. It literally made me sick to my stomach. As I looked at this I could hear my daughter asking for me and I felt even sicker. How can you protect a child from such awful things? How can I, as a person, deal with all this malice? It was rather disheartening. It was rather sad. Unfortunately, it was rather real and raw.
I finished dinner, managed to get the wee one to bed before nine and decided I needed to relax. Hot shower. The best remedy for anything. I appreciated the water as I realized that there are so many without water. I appreciated their sacrifice as I indulged. I felt guilty. After the shower, I realized that I had to write. Not for any other reason than to find a sounding board. So here I am.
After this I am going to bed. I am going to pray for better days, for the health of those I know and those I don't. I am going to ask for tolerance and peace. I suppose when I ask the question, "what is it that I can do?".... there is the answer. I can pray, meditate, ask, seek and never stop trying. I am a Christian, not a very good one, but I am. So I will say this.."Love one another as yourselves. Love your neighbor. Do this." .
Love one another..that could possibly change the headlines when I open the lap top tomorrow...
-Blessings..no really..Blessings...
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