All Hallows’ Eve!

Why do these two garden fairies look like they're up to no good?
When I was little, too little to fight back, my mother made me wear a Halloween costume that gives me nightmares to this day. Not because it was scary, but because it was absurd and totally humiliating to wear! It was a large brown bird costume she sewed herself from a pattern that she still insists was meant to be Tweety Bird. My sister, who was forced to wear it first, and I have repeatedly told her it was in fact the chicken hawk. Ah Halloween, such fond memories. In keeping with tradition I too have begun making my children’s Halloween costumes, though I try not pick patterns that will humiliate them for years to come. I may have to throw a chicken hawk into the mix just once though. According to my mother it’s character building.Continue Reading

Brown Paper Packages Tied Up With String

I love pretty packages, and I especially love receiving them! For two years I went all out in the Christmas wrapping department going so far as to make every gift under the tree coordinate, much to Josh’s annoyance. I bought elaborate gift wrap online, headed to Michael’s for bags full of ribbon, and even adorned some of them with faux flowers and birds. Continue Reading

Happiest Baby On The Block

When Adalaide, my youngest, was a new born I read the book The Happiest Baby on the Block by Dr. Harvey Karp. A friend had recommended it when I told her that I was struggling to sooth the baby during crying fits. Adalaide was my first experience with a new born and I had no idea how to comfort her when she was inconsolable. Naleigh came to us at 10 months old and was already past the crying fits and sleeplessness. Dr. Karp’s Calming reflex and the five S’s were the greatest gift I received as the mother of a new born. His method worked like a charm and I suddenly had a calm, content and peaceful baby! I cannot recommend his book enough and will be forever grateful for the information and knowledge he bestowed upon me! Continue Reading