tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28668420935445861742024-03-14T00:17:36.547-04:00among the treesliving and parenting naturally, respectfully, creatively & sustainablyshanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.comBlogger141125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-87305204127548676992012-06-19T11:03:00.002-04:002012-06-19T11:03:10.806-04:00summer lovin'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hope your summer days are bright and relaxing and filled with laughter!</div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-55866889744683216702012-05-29T22:56:00.000-04:002012-05-29T22:56:56.092-04:00many crafts of mayThis May has been filled with a little bit of everything for our family. David had a show to attend, the <a href="http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com/2012/05/at-faire.html">Janesville Renaissance Faire</a>, and his preparation kept him busy in the weeks leading up to it. The rest of us? Well, we spent a lot of time in the garden, writing on the sidewalks, cutting shapes out of paper and fabric, sewing, knitting, gluing, painting...<br />
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My favorite project of the month goes to Esme. She made a very creative and lovely fish windcatcher. She colored two sides of a fish, cut them out and glued them together (back to back), and then glued orange, plastic newspaper bags to the tail. She also cut strings to attach to the fish's mouth and hung everything from a pencil.<br />
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And while Esme's fish started things off with a bang, this next project is perhaps a bit less exciting. Last month, a friend of mine birthed her second son, at home, as planned. She is an avid breastfeeder, so as a mama gift for her, I made a few pair of nursing pads with waterproof backing to help prevent leaks. I chose a soft, pretty tie-dye print cotton for the side against her skin, a couple of cotton layers inside for absorbency, and a layer of PUL on the outside to prevent any moisture from leaking onto her clothes.<br />
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With so many new babies on the way, I spent a few hours here and there knitting tiny, striped newborn hats to crown the little heads of all the new arrivals. This turned out to be a lovely stash-buster of a project, and is still continuing with a pink and gray hat that is halfway complete. As it turns out, I was pleasantly surprised with some of the color combinations on these hats, including one for a happy Gryffindor supporter!<br />
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Summer is here, unofficially, perhaps. But with its arrival also comes free time and opportunity for family crafting. We all have a list of things to get done, and my own list is only getting longer. One things is absolutely for certain: getting dirty and clay covered together sure makes for a wonderful way to spend summer vacation!</div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-90803747475992976692012-05-13T22:08:00.002-04:002012-05-13T22:09:23.830-04:00happy mother's day<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: verdana, tahoma, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><i>Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.</i></span></div>
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<em>{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.</em></div>
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<em>If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.</em></div>
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As of now, I have three wee projects in the works. The first one is the pattern <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/puerperium-cardigan">Puerperium Cardigan</a> by Kelly Brooker at <a href="http://www.knitsoquaint.blogspot.com/">knit.so.quaint</a>, a simple sweater designed for new parents to easily dress their newborns in the weeks after birth. Done in stripes of green and white cotton, this little sweater will be a fresh layer for cool spring mornings.<br />
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I have been hem-hawing around in my stash, looking for some luscious yarn that would make a few unique newborn hats. Requirements? Something ultra soft, sturdy, rich, and surprising. Modern. And textured. Move aside, rosy pink and powder blue! Make way for something more rowdy. Maybe that is not exactly the right word. But take a look at what I came up with:<br />
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Oh, I love the colors! Next? A pattern hunt! I narrowed it down, and decided to go with Jared Flood's <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/turn-a-square">Turn a Square</a>. The pattern has been on my to-do list for ages, and with a few simple alterations to the pattern, will make a lovely little newborn hat.<br />
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Using a nice grey in Bamboo Ewe, I cast on 56 stitches to size 7 US needles. Here are my notes:<br />
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Knit 2x2 rib for six rows.<br />
Continue in stockinette stitch, knitting until hat measures 4" from cast on edge.<br />
Place stitch markers every 14 stitches.<br />
Work decrease rows and continue pattern as written.</blockquote>
The first hat turned out perfectly. With the next one, I might consider knitting 3 3/4" before beginning the decreases, just to make a slightly smaller, more fitted hat.<br />
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Only two more wee gifts to go. For now!shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-19521443487547371062012-05-01T19:07:00.002-04:002012-05-01T21:42:11.515-04:00rainy day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Thunder crashes,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Lightening flashes,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Rain makes puddles,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">So I can make splashes.</span></i>
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<br />shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-76371190215817605802012-04-28T13:11:00.000-04:002012-04-28T13:11:09.916-04:00french press<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Slippers are a must-have. They make wonderful gifts for friends and family, for birthdays, for new mamas, for no reason at all. One thing is for certain, though: every mama needs a favorite pair of slippers to keep her toes warm and comfortable on chilly days and dark nights.<br />
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My favorite slipper pattern is <a href="http://frenchpressknits.blogspot.com/p/shop.html" target="_blank">Melynda Bernardi</a>'s <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/french-press-felted-slippers" target="_blank">French Press</a>, a felted wool design which knits up in no time at all and is then felted in the washing machine in less than 15 minutes. Pairing this pattern with my favorite felting wool, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/cascade-yarns-220-wool" target="_blank">Cascade 220</a> in 9421, these are the second pair of French Press slippers that I have knit. This time, I followed the pattern for a size 9/10, and, after felting, they came out to be around 8.5. The pattern leaves quite a bit to personal interpretation and inspiration, which is why I love it so much.<br />
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I really like the look of French Press knit up in natural, earthy tones paired with metallic buttons, but this pattern has such wonderful potential with vibrant colors! The very <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/amongthetrees/french-press-felted-slippers" target="_blank">first pair of French Press I made</a> was done in a darker blue with neon green buttons. This time, though, I wanted to make something very springy and light, which is why I chose this clear sky Hawaiian blue.<br />
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The most difficult part of making these slippers was picking out the buttons. Bubblegum pink popped against the blue wool, and purple was a wow, too. But I fell in love with the contrast of the yellow against the vibrant blue. It is so simple and so lovely, and reminded me of the bright sun shining in a clear blue sky.<br />
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This pair of French Press slippers is destined for a friend. And I have already started knitting my third pair of French Press, to hopefully be finished very soon.shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-4809166424247980872012-04-27T07:40:00.001-04:002012-04-27T07:40:24.179-04:00oh, spring!The garden is in bloom. Everything is green and thriving. The sun is shining and the wind is blowing. Birds are busy building their little nests. Neighborhood children are playing hop-scotch and the sidewalks are littered with chalk. A herd of bikes graze the front yard of one house, soon to migrate to another yard. Projects are making progress as the days grow longer still. Spring is here, and it is beautiful.<br />
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My birthday has come and gone with perfectly soundless fanfare. Friends and family surprised me quietly with little gifts hidden here and there for me to find. Love and laughter filled my heart as I held those dear to me, and they whispered, "Happy birthday to you, Shana!"</div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-47727703214366496322012-04-20T05:55:00.000-04:002012-04-20T05:55:58.252-04:00this moment<br />
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<em>{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.</em></div>
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<em>If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.</em></div>
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Today, I bring you a recently knit project. I wanted to make something sassy for my five year old to wear with her trademark leggings and spunky shoes. Using the pattern <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62678535/childs-cap-sleeved-shirt-knitting" target="_blank">Girl's cap sleeved spring shirt</a> by Shellee Floyd at <a href="http://soulfulhuesknits.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank">Soulfulhues</a>, I chose Loops & Threads Cotton Club in Wild Rose for a lighter-weight sweater as we head into warmer days. </div>
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It seems I always have to make a few variations from the pattern as it is written. With this sweater, I lengthened the body slightly to be more of a tunic and only used one size needles throughout. Also, instead of doing a rolled hem along the bottom edge, I opted for a cleaner look with a band of ribbing.</div>
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My notes:</div>
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<i>CO 92 sts. Follow pattern for medium sweater.<br />Begin changes: Sixth row (or so) after underarm joining, increase three additional stitches under each arm (104 sts). Do not switch needle sizes.<br />After piece measures about 16 inches, begin bottom hem with following:<br />Row 1: K2 P2 until end of round.<br />Row 2: Knit.<br />Repeat these two rows for about two inches, then bind off.</i></blockquote>
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I loved how this sweater turned out. It's simple and comfortable and darling. Esme loves wearing it, and it's the perfect weight for long spring days. And perfect for a sassy little girl!</div>
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<br />shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-31266904176620835642012-04-16T07:00:00.008-04:002012-04-16T07:00:13.643-04:00back in time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">On our 1500 mile road trip to the woods of northern Wisconsin, we spent four wonderful days with David's parents at the family's remote 125 year old log cabin, which is complete with water pump and outhouse. Days were spent cooking, hiking, and enjoying nature, trees, rocks, grass, earth, old buildings, dirt roads, wind, and absolute silence.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">We saw plenty of wildlife, of which we kept a running tally, and were lucky to have had the camera ready at just the right moment on a few occasions. We saw 20 deer, nine hawks, six bald eagles, five ravens, two coyotes, two golden eagles, two whiskey jacks, and one blue heron, not to mention tracks and scat of all sorts, including deer, porcupine, canine, and even bear! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">The kids had ample opportunity for all the activities that we constantly wish there was more time for back home, including archery, kite flying, whip cracking, rock collecting, bird watching, and hiking. Days were both action-packed and relaxing, depending on the moment. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">The sun played a constant game of peek-a-boo most of the time we were there, but t</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">he air was fresh and the wind was strong. My favorite part? The scent of wild leeks as we stepped through the organic rubble of the forest floor. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">The sunbeams and stark blue sky occasionally peeking through the clouds. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">The cabin in its clearing.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><br />
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Evelyn inspired me to work on some new Harry Potter art. I have been dabbling in polymer clay lately, and thought about how cool it would be to make some little figurines. So I had a go and my attempt did not turn out too bad at all.</div>
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Starting out by making a flamboyant little Dumbledore, it struck me how much of a perfect contrast he would be paired with a tiny, red-eyed Voldie (who is as cute as Voldie can ever be). Love!
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The only time these two characters met face-to-face in real time is at the end of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, for the best battle of the entire series. Now they will be ever side-by-side as complete opposites. I cannot wait to make the entire cast of Potter characters. Next up? I'm not yet sure. Perhaps a scruffy Hagrid or a greasy Snape or maybe even a rough Mad-Eye?</div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-34947896013234977152012-03-23T07:06:00.000-04:002012-03-23T07:06:00.281-04:00a spin on traditionEvery St. Patrick's Day, we celebrate with one annual tradition in our family. We make delicious Reuben sandwiches. These simple sandwiches have most of the typical ingredients, with a healthy little spin. As vegetarians, we replace the classic corned beef with a ripe, green substitute -- avocado!<br />
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<b>Reuben sandwich for the vegetarian palate</b><br />
Recipe makes one sandwich<br />
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<u>Ingredients</u><br />
2 slices rye bread<br />
1/2 avocado, peeled and sliced (or mashed)<br />
1/8 cup sauerkraut<br />
2 thin slices swiss cheese<br />
Thousand Island dressing<br />
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Set oven to broil. Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing over both slices of rye bread.<br />
Lay slices of bread on a baking sheet, setting one slice of swiss cheese on each bread slice. Broil until slightly toasted. Spread sauerkraut and avocado over one slice of toasted bread and cheese. Close second toasted slice over first to complete sandwhich. Eat and enjoy!<br />
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Serve with a side of veggie chips, potatoes, or as an appetizer.shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-69323962745893086932012-03-17T09:23:00.000-04:002012-03-17T09:23:52.109-04:00starting seeds<br />
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I have been lusting for spring. This winter was mild, but even so, I want sunshine and green and birds. I have already been out in the garden a few times to start the annual spring clean-up. It is still too early for us to start plowing our garden, but we did start some of our seeds inside two weeks ago. Every year, we stockpile egg cartons, as they make the perfect starter containers.<br />
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Here is what we do: Remove the lid off the egg carton. Fill each egg cup with damp potting soil so the soil is level with the side of each cup. Make a slight indent in the top of the soil in each cup. Place two or three seeds in each indent, then cover them with soil.<br />
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Once planted, we store our seed starters in a clear tub with a lid to cover it (plastic wrap can work, too) and place it in our dining room window, which gets plenty of Southwest sunlight in the early spring. The soil should remain relatively moist. When the seedlings get to be about 4 inches tall or so, they need to be transplanted from their egg cartons to a larger container, such as plastic cups or even pots. If you are past your last frost, they can already be planted in the garden, but need to be gradually hardened to the elements before they can be moved outside.shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-67739364489034600412012-03-10T06:00:00.004-05:002012-03-10T06:00:09.269-05:00sugar and spice and everything nice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Sugar and spice</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">and everything nice</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">that's what little girls are made of</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Sunshine and rainbows</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">and ribbons for hair bows</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">that's what little girls are made of</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Tea parties, laces</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">and baby doll faces</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">that's what little girls are made of</span></i>
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<span style="color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">As Esme turns five years old today, I cannot help thinking of how hard it is to keep up with her. She can play with her doll or in her kitchen for hours, humming and whispering all the while. She will dance to music--or dance without it, get swept up in the magic of an audio book, make fascinating and intricate collages out of scraps and do-dads, stir fresh fruit into her oatmeal, and pick out the brightest outfit known to girl-kind. She will curl up in your lap and listen as you read book after book, turning the pages and pausing at pictures. She will climb in bed with her big sister, shining flashlights together under the quilt and sneaking giggles until they both fall asleep.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1c1c1c; font-family: verdana, arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Happy birthday to you, dear Esme.</span></span></div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-89609793580552598042012-03-05T10:47:00.001-05:002012-03-05T11:09:26.513-05:00hints of spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring is right around the corner, and our garden is ready for the season change. Strawberries and daffodils are already coming up at the end of our mild weather Winter. The chives and mint are ready to harvest. And we have even spotted a few violets! With the promise of warmer weather, we are starting our seeds indoors this week. We saved seeds from last year's bounty, including tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini. </div>
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Last night, Mother Nature surprised us with a carpet of snow. I was beginning to think we were not going to get a decent snowfall this Winter. I had to get a closer look, especially since everything is beginning to sprout. </div>
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Right now, I am... watching the snow, even as it melts before my eyes... thankful for the beauty and joy in my life and my home... making my week's to-do list of chores and preparations for my littlest one's upcoming birthday... listening to my girls giggles, even though they are not feeling well... gathering my motivation to kick-start my busy day... enjoying a quiet moment, a hot cup of tea, and a mid-morning snack... </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UasghQw_U4I/T1TetASrr5I/AAAAAAAABD4/JYPHZ9mWF8U/s1600/SANY1615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="614" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UasghQw_U4I/T1TetASrr5I/AAAAAAAABD4/JYPHZ9mWF8U/s640/SANY1615.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-23701523636656590772012-03-02T20:51:00.001-05:002012-03-02T21:45:34.180-05:00prenatal belly dance videoThe following is a video of a full-term pregnant woman belly dancing with her daughter six days before the birth of her baby. Traditionally, belly dance was practiced prenatally and performed by a woman during labor and childbirth, helping the woman's body overcome the pain associated with childbirth. For more information on the subject, check out my post, <a href="http://mylifeamongthetrees.blogspot.com/2009/06/belly-dance-as-traditional-birth-dance.html" target="_blank">Belly Dance as Traditional Birth Dance</a>.<br />
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The video follows up six days after the birth of her son, dancing and nursing. The video is both beautiful and sweet. Enjoy!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KxDS1lIRdXw" width="640"></iframe>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-85905327036839153232012-02-26T07:13:00.002-05:002012-02-26T07:13:01.272-05:00my weekThis week was a busy one. I have still been spending nearly all my extra time building <a href="http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heartbeat Artistry</a>'s online presence. But, to get out of the house, the girls and I met up with a few friends and saw the new Studio Ghibli film, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1568921/" target="_blank">The Secret World of Arrietty</a>, which is based on one of our favorite children's books, the 1953 novel <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Borrowers-Mary-Norton/dp/0152047379/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330215829&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Borrowers</a> by Mary Norton.<br />
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The telltale imagination of a Studio Ghibli film was perfectly captured in this story, which follows the life of the tiny people who live hidden from "human beans" beneath the floorboards of a quiet country house. The daughter, Arrietty, is seen by one of the "beans," which leads to an exciting and suspenseful adventure. The movie was just as delightful and fantastical as the book.<br />
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Yesterday, I was quite under the weather. I took a nice long nap in the morning, but it did not help that I awoke to the shock of finding the kid's play room a complete wreck. A disaster. Debris everywhere. I could barely even get the door open. In fact, it was so far gone, that I had to take a picture. You likely would not have believed me otherwise.<br />
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I recruited Esme to help me tidy. She even boxed up a handful toys to pass along to someone else. We will be moving rooms around soon so that we can paint and repurpose a room or two. I will try to post before and after photos of the remodel for your viewing pleasure. The rest of the morning was spent on a few chores around the house to catch up on things--laundry, dishes, and straightening up my desk. As for the afternoon, I spent most of the day parked on the couch to revive my good health. Two of my kitties cuddled with me to help move my recovery along, first fluffy Butler, then sweet Midnight.<br />
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My knitting also kept me company today. I worked on a hat for my dear cousin's new baby to wear after her birth. The first one I made turned out to be too large for a newborn, so I adjusted the pattern very slightly. I will post photos as soon as the hat is gifted.<br />
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I have a handful of goals for the next few days. First of all, this cold needs to go. Next, I need to clear the toy room of furniture and toys and prepare to paint the walls. Finally, I need to figure out another knitting project to keep me going in the evenings during story time.<br />
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But in the meantime? I have my happy girls to read to me and my dear husband to brew hot tea for me to sip as I get better.<br />
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We wandered in and out of a few shops and stopped in a cafe. In one little shop, we came across some crazy finds, which the girls heartily tested out right away. Evelyn found this crazy bejeweled feather ring.<br />
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Think that's good? Check out Esme's gawdy green flower ring! And the headband sets it off perfectly.<br />
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We also went into a woodshop where David picked out several different woods to work with on upcoming projects. He found walnut, a couple types of rosewood, yellow heart, sycamore, and red heart. Most of these blanks will become hand-turned handles for whips.<br />
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So what makes for a perfect day out? Being together with my sweet ones. Laughing about the little things. Hugs. Warming cups of yum. Sweet smells and dabs of whipped cream. Colors. And charms. Dirt, evergreens, and long sidewalks. Fashions and finds. The sun and the smiles.shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-48577518289269461072012-02-17T17:46:00.001-05:002012-02-17T18:02:21.358-05:00this moment<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: justify;">
<em>{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.</em></div>
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<em>If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.</em></div>
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<br /></div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-37969322627217251682012-02-12T07:00:00.002-05:002012-02-12T07:00:05.717-05:00sweet baby things<div class="tr_bq">Knitting projects! It seems like I have a dozen going all at once. And sometimes I am very bad and do not take pictures of those that are finished. This weekend turned into a catch up of sorts -- time spent finishing the last few rows on this project, sewing in ends to that, attaching notions on yet another, and photographing the latest of many baby gifts. </div><br />
I wanted a little something sweet and sassy in my gift giving this time around, so this little sweater made it on to my needles. For a baby girl, I chose hot pink and hot orange in my color choice. The pattern is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kids-seamless-sweater" target="_blank">Kids Seamless Sweater</a> by <a href="http://soulfulhuesknits.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Soulful Hues</a>. I used <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/lily-sugarn-cream-solids--denim" target="_blank">Lily Sugar'n Cream</a> -- a solid cotton that will be great for springtime wear. The pattern was a breeze, though I made a few alterations in order for the sweater to fit a wee one (see my notes at the bottom of this post).<br />
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The sweater came together smoothly and quickly. I paired the sweater with a lovely ruffly skirt in the same hot pink. What a lucky find for this little baby girl! And now, we will shower her sweet mama in love and gifts as we wait none so patiently for this little baby girl to join us.<br />
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I altered the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kids-seamless-sweater" target="_blank">Kids Seamless Sweater</a> by <a href="http://soulfulhuesknits.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Soulful Hues</a> in order to fit an infant and it worked out perfectly, ending up at a 3-6 month size. My notes for a striped sweater, using a main color (MC) and a contrasting color (CC), are as follows:<br />
<blockquote>CO 52 stitches on in MC using size US 7 needles.<br />
Work 10 rows of K1P1 ribbing in MC.<br />
Change to CC. K one round, complete one round of increases as described in pattern (K2 M1). K three rounds, complete second increase round (K2 M1) [approx 116 stitches]. K three more rounds.<br />
Change to MC, K three rounds.<br />
Next round: K14, put 29 sts on waste yarn, K29, put 29 sts on waste yarn, K15. K six rounds in MC.<br />
Change to CC, K 10 rounds.<br />
Change back to MC and finish bottom of sweater as per pattern instructions, with K1P1 rib for 10 rounds.<br />
Arms: Place 29 stitches back on needles. With MC, K2tog right under the arm (where you will have to sew up the tiny hole later) then complete seven rows of K1P1 rib in MC. Do the same for the second arm.</blockquote>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-45708878554877499042012-02-08T15:27:00.002-05:002012-02-08T16:35:55.136-05:00heartbeat artistryAbout a year ago, my husband began stepping away from the corporate world and integrating himself into an artist lifestyle. He now spends many of his days in his studio or office, creating more and more artwork. As he has began building up quite an inventory these last few months, I have been spending most of my spare time developing an online presence for his artwork.<br />
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</div><div>David's artistic experience goes back quite a few years. In 2001, David established his business, <a href="http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heartbeat Artistry</a>, primarily focusing on drum making and professional drumming. Between 2001 and 2008, David's drums were featured in our shop at the Bristol Renaissance Fair in Kenosha, WI. Other businesses began carrying his drums, as well, including WardBrodt Music in Madison, WI, Lakeshore Music Conservatory in Racine, WI, Schmitt Music in Racine, WI, Astor Street Dance Studio in Milwaukee, WI, Absolute Music in Fairborne, OH, Sheepish in Racine, WI, and Parana Gaming and Mega Bites in Racine, WI.</div><div><br />
</div><div>David's drums are incredibly unique. With a ceramic body and fixed tuning, the drums have a full, rich, resonant bass tone, called the "doum," and a crisp, clear, solid high tone, called the "tek." The colors are vibrant and fresh, not only the body of the drum, but also often in the tie-dyed heads. </div><div><br />
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</div><div>Why ceramic? Ceramic has a clarity and distinction that tends to be absorbed in wooden drums and a depth that is lacking in metal drums. The sheer enormity of the sound of a ceramic drum is quite unlike anything else you will find. Over the last decade, David has further developed and refined his drum-making techniques to maximize the natural properties of ceramic and skins, and perfected the art of selecting the exact perfect skin for each drum. </div><div><br />
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</div><div>David's drums are based on traditional hand-drums from the Mediterranean, North African, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. His best-selling styles are based on the goblet-shaped doumbek, the larger djembe, and the Persian zarb.</div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></span></div></div><div>Having taken piano lessons starting at three years old, and playing trumpet once he turned seven, David has always had an ear for music. He went on to study Jazz Theory, taught instrumental music, and performed trumpet and percussion at events across the country. Once David got into drum making, other artistic mediums just began rolling. David has expanded his artistic repertoire to include sculpture, watercolor and ink, and woodworking. Much of his artwork is featured in studios, galleries, homes, and restaurants around the country.</div><div><br />
</div><div>In 2011, combining his love of wood-turning with his long-time hobby of whip-cracking, David took up whip making. As they are made of nylon paracord, David's whips can be cracked in adverse weather conditions without being damaged. His preferred style of whip to work with is based on the Florida Cow Whip because of the unique inserted thong allows for a variety of handle sizes and styles. David hand-turns his handles on a lathe in a variety of exotic woods.</div><div><br />
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</div><div>All of David's artwork is handmade, from start to finish, at our indoor-outdoor home studio. While much of his works are sold online in <a href="http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heartbeat Artistry</a>'s <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeartbeatArtistry" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> and through our <a href="http://myworld.ebay.com/heartbeatartistry/" target="_blank">ebay store</a>, David often attends events across the country, whether it be as a guest instructor, a performer, or a vendor. As for the business end of things... well, that is where I step in. As I said before, much of my spare time lately has been dedicated to developing an online presence for Heartbeat Artistry. Weekly blog updates, ebay auctions, and Etsy listings are a few tasks I have taken on. It makes me feel like I can be a part of my husband's work when I advertise it for him. And hopefully it shows him that I support him and his creativity.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Running a family business is difficult and challenging, but it also gives us so much. The children love going to events and helping out in the studio. They are more than happy to dive right in to a bucket of clay, get covered in paint and glaze, and pick out colors for the next whip. They are proud of the work they do and boast about the projects they had a hand in. Running a family business has helped to bring us closer together.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Visit Heartbeat Artistry at our blog: <a href="http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com/">http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com</a></div><div>Visit our Etsy shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeartbeatArtistry">http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeartbeatArtistry</a></div><div>Visit our ebay store: <a href="http://myworld.ebay.com/heartbeatartistry/">http://myworld.ebay.com/heartbeatartistry/</a><br />
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<b>In addition, we are offering readers free shipping on all orders in our Etsy shop placed by February 28th. Use code SHIPME at checkout.</b></div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-17504225731773760212012-02-04T17:09:00.000-05:002012-02-04T17:09:17.316-05:00surprise, surpriseThis week has be filled with beautiful weather. Sunshine! Temperatures in the 50s and, yes, even 60s! We opened windows and doors to air out the house. One mild night, we slept with the bedroom window slightly ajar. It was refreshing! Even though it is still early, some of the trees are starting to form the starts of buds, hoping springtime will arrive with a flourish.<br />
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</div><div>On Thursday, when I got home from a very busy day, I walked in to set my bag down by my desk, and there was a big package, plopped down on my desk chair. A package? For me? Surely it was for my husband, and he had just set it down in a hurry. I checked the label. Nope. My name. I checked the return address. Cambria! Ah! A surprise from my friend! My insides jumped with excitement. I literally threw down everything I was holding and tore open the package. So. Fast. Inside was a beautiful, hand-made quilt in vibrant colors. "Oh." It was all I could say. </div><div><br />
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</div><div>I knew said friend was working on something special for me. And I have something in the works for her. But I did not expect that it would be something so perfect. It is everything I envision. Bright colors and patterns. Lovely and beautiful.<br />
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My friend and I have been going back and forth for a few years now, sending surprises and swapping art and crafts back and forth. But this quilt has so much to live up to. I am working on something unique as revenge, and I started it months and months ago. But life has kept me busy and it is not yet ready. I pledge to buckle down and finish it soon so that I can ship it off for a surprise my friend will never expect.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Thank you, Sam. Your work in incredible. </div>shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-69662357246682841462012-01-28T01:37:00.001-05:002012-02-04T20:57:22.844-05:00a light winter's dayWinter finally made her presence known over the weekend when she caught us in a good sized ice storm. The children were able to enjoy a full afternoon of skating on the ice, all bundled up in their cold weather gear. I finished knitting a pair of wool mittens for Evelyn just in time for her to wear them into the cold. She took off with them before I could even capture a photo. Here are a couple post-worn-in photos:<br />
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Monday turned out to be a nice relief from the harsh cold with a surprise day of sunshine! As it turned out, the ice did not last long. The muck from the ice storm over the weekend melted before morning was over. All three of our cats curled up in the windows and enjoyed the bright winter sunshine that has been almost rare these last few weeks. Nova claimed the sunny spot on the window seat in the dining room garden, a perfect place to keep guard over the yard as well as indoors.<br />
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Tea, hot chocolate, and freshly baked cookies were absolute musts for the girls, even though the sun was shining. Esme proudly made her very own cup of tea in the Japanese butterfly mug she picked up for a whopping 15 cents at the thrift shop.<br />
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Snow-covered, sunny winter days spent curled up with a blanket and a good book next to the fire -- there really is not much better than that. Hopefully we will find ourselves snow-covered again soon.shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2866842093544586174.post-19249062856540682102012-01-23T09:05:00.000-05:002012-01-23T09:05:25.836-05:00the weddingMy brother tied the knot last month. Congratulations to Austen and Jennifer! The wedding itself was a lovely traditional ceremony in Columbus, Ohio, and the reception was in a nearby Italian restaurant's ballroom--and a total blast! Mother Nature attributed cold, blustery weather for the affair, but the food and guests added a cozy feeling to the whole thing. <br />
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Both of my girls were flower girls in the ceremony. It was such an honor for them. Clad in lovely green dresses with hand-knit wraps to match, they looked gorgeous. We do not yet have pictures of the ceremony, but the following are a collection of various candid shots of family and friends having a great time at the party!<br />
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The girls, from right to left -- top row: my mother, me, my cousin; bottom row: my mother's sisters.<br />
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My cousin and me.<br />
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My new sister-in-law and me! -- Self-portraits are my favorite!<br />
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Me and the groom -- my bitty baby brother, all grown up!<br />
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Little Esme, the younger daughter.<br />
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Evelyn, the elder daughter, in motion.<br />
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The party!shanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10076631932112513429noreply@blogger.com0