tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15050889457057643062024-03-13T08:59:33.240-07:00LCGrayLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.comBlogger158125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-62732733468168220732014-01-21T19:47:00.000-08:002014-01-21T19:47:05.035-08:00Quite the ride<div style="text-align: center;">
Yesterday we drove home from a relaxing, snowy weekend in Maine. I now cherish long trips - my children are great in the car (I think it's a genetic anomaly, but I'll take it!) and it's time that Charles and I get to talk. It's not uninterrupted, but we can usually catch up on a few things. While making grocery lists and planning ahead a few weekends, I took out my planner and realized that on this exact day last year we found out that I was pregnant. It was a Sunday morning. Charles was whipping up one of his great breakfasts and our lives seemed to be edging on manageable. We had talked about taking the plunge to add a third child, but we were both terrified at the prospect and when the topic came up, we rarely moved beyond, "what if..." This territory was uncharted for me with just one other sibling and definitely for Charles as an only child. That morning I decided to take a pregnancy test (confession: this is not something totally abnormal for me) and suddenly our world went from pancakes to panic. This plus sign on a stick was the beginning of the craziest year of our lives. Someone recently told me that parenting 3 children is a walk on the wild side. It brings you to a place where things aren't easy. Goodies don't come in packages of three's, they come neatly boxed for individuals with two children. You have to constantly think about who is getting what and who is going to cry about it later. Though Henry is not yet vying for the last cookie, this concept mostly centers around time and resources. There is nothing like packing up your children for a weekend away and attempting to coordinate schedules that makes you say, "Man, we really have a lot of kids!". The truth of this reality is that I love it. I love the chaos. I love that we drew the wild card. I'll leave the planning to those who thrive off of symmetry and neatness. In this house, we're living in the odd zone. As we drove home it was nice to have some time to think about how Henry has changed each of us. We could have never anticipated the curve balls thrown at us in the 365 days the followed that positive test, but the lack of predictability makes life pretty fun! Tomorrow Henry will be 4 months old. It seems like he's been part of our lives forever. He takes his role as the third child very seriously. He adds that extra decibel to the loud moments and he thinks that his brother and sister are hysterical. He loves mornings and always wakes up with the greatest smile. </div>
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Thank you Henny Penn for carving out quite the year!</div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-51477563581082845712014-01-11T21:36:00.002-08:002014-01-17T11:18:07.743-08:00The hardest thing I've ever done<h2 style="background-color: #f3e9c8; margin: 0px; padding: 0.3em 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #403b34; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px;">A few weeks after Henry's birth (before the primal cold parked itself over New England), we were outside enjoying some fresh air. Julia and Charlie were playing on their swing set while I nursed Henry close-by. I watched Julia climb up to the top of the slide. It took a great deal of energy and a few failed attempts, but when she finally made it she wiped her forehead and said, "Whew, that was the hardest thing I've eve</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #403b34;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">r done". I had been thinking those words over and over again in my mind. I had just carried our third child for nine months, given birth, and begun the task of nurturing a whole other child. I smiled at her words and thought about how that phrase would evolve for Julia throughout her life, just as it has in mine. I remember the times when those words rang true for me; learning fractions in second grade (something that still baffles me today when I'm trying to double a recipe), my first heartbreak - sitting on the steps of my house in tears listening to Tim McGraw convinced that I would never love again (dramatic, I know!), learning to drive - our beat up truck used to haul hay was my introduction to the roads - I initially refused to drive it because it was a stick shift, but it was my only ticket to freedom at 16. After months of tears and tense moments between my parents and I, I wrangled that truck and hit the open roads. In college and beyond the tasks became more difficult. As I struggled to become </span><span style="line-height: 18.99305534362793px;">independent</span><span style="line-height: 19px;">, the refining moments were more real. I rode out to Arizona after college to deal with who I was and I uttered, "this is the hardest thing I've ever done" throughout that whole summer. I made it through the heat and thought that life could not dish out anything more trying. I learned that even when we deal with the hard stuff, it's never really over. Our lives are not linear, each trial overlaps with our previous experiences and we face it again, but this time with a different approach and stronger armor. Even in the joyful moments, I have uttered those words. Though </span><span style="line-height: 18.99305534362793px;">Charles</span><span style="line-height: 19px;"> and I were well prepared to say our vows after months of pre-marital counseling through my church, I moved to Massachusetts within weeks of the wedding. The joy of saying good-bye to a long distance relationship and basking in the glow of marriage was constantly challenged by the reality of leaving my home. It was by far the most difficult thing I had ever done. At every phase of my life I have stopped sa</span></span></span><span style="color: #403b34; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px;">ying those words for a little while. We are refined, we go through the fire and then we are shaped over time. We come to a place where we accept where we are and we learn through the hard stuff. Just as there is a moment of sheer terror whenever we take a leap - will I fall? will I fail? will I lose everything?, it is met on the other side with the fact that we survived. Whether you're climbing up a slide and taking that last step to safety or pushing through the pain of childbirth, the breath of knowing that you made it through alive is what makes it exhilarating. </span></span></h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">first solo ride on the Merry-go-round</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QkvQWc-gcYU/UtIhKDHfSvI/AAAAAAAACo4/2MkYHzqfAY0/s1600/Thanksgiving+252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QkvQWc-gcYU/UtIhKDHfSvI/AAAAAAAACo4/2MkYHzqfAY0/s1600/Thanksgiving+252.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">running with abandon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">first jump off the diving board without a bubble</td></tr>
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<span style="line-height: 19px;"> Much has happened in my life between my fear of fractions at Kemblesville Elementary School. The hardest moments of my life have shaped me to this very moment today. I am now a mother to 3 beautiful children and I have learned so much about myself in the process. I think it's safe to say that I have learned the most in the last 4 1/2 years. Though I have experienced many things, parenting (by far) has dealt me a wealth of days that have left me uttering, "that one was the hardest ever!". Give me driving lessons or teenage break-ups any day - it pales in comparison to the day I just had involving my 4-year old who refused to wear a coat to assert her independence on the coldest day of the year (and by refuse I mean kicking and screaming like a million bees were in the coat stinging her as it touched her body). The same day that my 2-year old had to be attached to me at every moment or else he was crying on the floor. This was the day that my 3-month old went through his biggest growth spurt yet and was feeding approximately every 20 minutes. When he wasn't feeding he was screaming. And of course on that day I was out of any kind of salvageable food in the pantry, so off to the store we went. As I pulled in to the parking spot, I was reduced to tears with the realization that I couldn't make it to the front door with my unpredictable children. On that day I decided that childbirth was a piece of cake. </span></span></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #403b34; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px;">Parenting</span><span style="color: #403b34; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px;"> is the great leap into the unknown. The kind of leap where you're not sure what's going to catch you, but each time you're safe. It may be messy, and humbling, and a bit scary at times, but life is found here. Until we confront the hardest things within us, we can never tap into the parts that make us feel alive. It often requires a few layers of armor from mistakes made in days past, but it sure is </span><span style="color: #403b34; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.99305534362793px;">exhilarating</span><span style="color: #403b34; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px;">! </span></h2>
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<strong><em style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">"The most difficult part of birth is the first year afterwards. It is the year of travail - when the soul of a woman must birth the mother inside her. The emotional labor pains of becoming a mother are far greater than the physical pangs of birth; these are the growing surges of your heart as it pushes out selfishness and fear and makes room for sacrifice and love. It is a private and silent birth of the soul, but it is no less holy then the event of childbirth, perhaps it is even more sacred." </span></em></strong></h2>
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<strong><em style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"> - Joy Kusek LCCE</span></em></strong></h2>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-65362922080341461392013-11-03T16:24:00.001-08:002013-11-03T17:33:40.179-08:00Remembering<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear Julia,</i></div>
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<i>Last night as I tucked you into bed you asked me to tell you
a story. You have moved out of the fairy
tale phase and you want to know about the people in your life. A few weeks ago you wanted Mimi to tell you stories about when
she was little and more specifically when she did something bad as a child. It’s funny to you that Mimi was
once your age and mischievous. Because Mimi
and Papa are in Italy you asked me to talk about why Italy was important. I told you about your great-great
grandfather, Poppop’s daddy who was from Italy.
I talked about why the culture is important to us and how when his
family came to the United States, they worked hard, were dedicated to their
family, and cooked good food so that everyone could gather together. We talked about how this was important to me
because when I was growing up we always went to Grandmom and Grandpop’s house
for homemade spaghetti and sauce. You
loved that this was the one time each week that I would get to drink Ginger Ale. I told you about how she dried her
own tomatoes and I used to think that it was fascinating to see them hanging in
the basement. From this story, you
wanted to know more about the people who were important to me as I was growing
up. We talked about Babci’s husband,
Beeb. I told you that we always called
him Beeb because that’s the name the Papa picked out for him when he was little
because he couldn't say “Poppop” so he said “Bee-bop”, which was shortened to
Beeb. You told me that you were sad
that Babci was still living without her husband. Death is not an easy concept for anyone, let
alone a four year old who doesn't understand the finality of death and why
someone just wouldn't come back if they tried hard enough. As we continued to talk, there was a desperation
to your voice as you tried to understand why Mimi’s daddy wasn't living. The concept of living without a daddy or
husband was harder for you to take in than it was to understand that those
people were no longer with us. The funny thing is Julia, I do
this all the time for my work. I talk to
kids about death when their loved ones are at the end of their life in the hospital. You make me think about the words that I say
and how children are impacted by them. I
want to answer your questions. I also
want you to be a carefree preschooler.
I always tell families, “children won’t ask if they don’t want to know”
when something serious is occurring within a family unit. I’m often caught off
guard by what you want to know - you rewrite the textbooks on the workings of a 4-year old's mind. I want
to be the best mom to you. I want your
tender heart to seek the answer to these questions while I also shelter you
from the intimacy of death. I pray that
it’s a long time before you experience what we inevitably all face in the wake
of loss. You were content with the shift
that we took with our little chat. I
told you that the best way to remember the people that we love is to see their
qualities in others. I talked about
Papa’s gentleness and how we can know Beeb through Papa, Babci and mommom’s
stories and how Papa does things (and now we see some of this in your brother, Charlie). You
live out the Cirillo tradition of gathering when we visit family and you’re
excited to see that this tradition started way before you were alive. You excitedly want to know when you will learn to make sauce
and homemade spaghetti (which I admit, I need to learn too!) You are kindhearted and inquisitive like your daddy's grandmother, Mary. You now love the name Mary and find peace in hearing stories about her. You were enthralled to know that Grandpop Herold
was an amazing artist. You even put
together that your own creativity must be from him. With tears in my eyes, remembering his quiet
confirmation of his love for me, I told you that he would be very proud of you
– you added, “Yes, he must love the way I draw hearts!” Yes, and how you love nature and have an
appreciation of good food. <o:p></o:p></i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>This morning we celebrated All Saints Day at church – it is
a service of remembrance for all of the families that have lost someone this
year or members of the church that have died.
I love this service because each person’s name is read and I recognize
some of these names from the hospital. I
have stood by these families as they have said good-bye. This service is a wonderful way to honor them
and to reflect on the people in my life who have died. You and I brought a flower to the front of
the alter as the music played, but before this I leaned in and talked to you
about our conversation from last night.
I told you our purpose for offering the flower is to remember. We will do many things to remember, but today
we will think about our loved ones and offer a flower in their honor. You were so proud of this task. You asked me to hold your hand as we walked
down the aisle, which you rarely ask to do.
When we arrived at the front all you were required to do was hand your
flower to the pastor and walk away, but you kneeled down and then placed your
flower as if you were offering a prayer as you gave it. It was a moment that I just wanted to bottle
up. I would have given anything to know
what was going on in your mind at that moment.
Without knowing these important people in your life who loved you before
they even got to know you, I wonder if in a spiritual, childlike way you could
see them in your mind? After this was
the children’s message – Pastor John pulled together every piece of our
discussion by talking about the people that we are thankful for. You put your hand in his face and demanded
that he call on you. You proudly told the
whole congregation that you were thankful for “Mimi and my friends!” He expanded on this by saying that we can
also be thankful for the people in our lives who have died, who we cannot
see. By remembering them, we can
continue to feel their love and impact in our lives. When Pastor John asked why we are thankful
for this you said, “I am thankful for them because they are thankful for
me”. Yes, they are. I see each of them in you and I am in awe of
the gift of life passed on from generation to generation. I am thankful for these qualities that allow
me a glimpse of the important people in my life. Having you is the greatest way of
remembering. </i><br />
<i>Love, mom.</i></div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-83444413017675511562013-10-23T09:59:00.003-07:002013-10-25T07:44:03.016-07:00One month learning curve<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak9phwruC-8/UmbqT_kb6ZI/AAAAAAAACkA/Bs6qPqEBkz4/s1600/henrysherephone+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak9phwruC-8/UmbqT_kb6ZI/AAAAAAAACkA/Bs6qPqEBkz4/s320/henrysherephone+062.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Vernada, Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Ooh child things are gonna be easier</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Vernada, Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Ooh child things'll be brighter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">-Beth Orton</span></div>
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In the weeks leading up to Henry's arrival I spent those frustrating sleepless nights laying awake thinking about all of the things that I should be doing. The only thing worse than insomnia is the added component of the knowledge that things are about to become difficult and all you can do is think about it. A few days before delivery, I mustered some energy, emerged from my paralyzed state and set to work on a project. I decided that I was going to make "coming home" outfits for the kids. Henry needed something neutral to come home in (at this point, his gender was still a mystery) and I thought it would be a cute photo opportunity for the kids to match on that first day home. The final product was adorable...adorably unrealistic. A few hours after Henry's birth the kids arrived - Julia was wearing her pinafore "Big Sister" dress with Charlie's "Big Brother" shirt underneath of it (something about the Big Brother writing should have tipped off my well meaning mother-in-law or the fact that the 24-month shirt looked like inappropriate attire on a 4-year old). Julia, fresh from cutting her own hair, was barrette-less to pull this whole image together. Charlie was dressed in mismatched attire with a crust of his latest sneezes all over his face. I looked down at Henry in his pure, newborn state and I wanted to shield him from this disheveled crew that was about to interrupt his sleep. It was perfect. The perfect reminder to throw away the "coming home outfit" mentality and just get by from here on out. </div>
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Having your third child is a far cry from having your first. I learned this the last time around. It's tough to reenter that blissful first child world that we experienced 4 years ago. The world where Julia slept on my chest for the entire day while I wondered how I would ever be mobile again. I miss those days, but I also worried a lot more then and I invested my time and money in things that didn't really matter. Now I know what Henry needs. He needs to sleep on my chest, but he will also do just fine in a sling or wrap or in the swing. He doesn't need anything new. He will be just fine if he cries a little bit. We can wing it for bath time and dip him in with the kids. I don't have to fret over pumping and when to introduce a bottle. Julia decided that she wanted to feed him the other day and so I pumped and we all found out that he was just fine. Recently I read an article that highlights the preparation involved with parenting. It emphasizes lowering your standards. Once these standards are lowered, lower them some more. In full embrace of this concept, until further notice, there will be no matching outfits, no beautiful pictures that I can capture of the three of them (I will leave that up to the professionals), there will be no gourmet dinners that I've cooked with my own hands, we will rely on the amazing kindness of our community (which has fed us for the month and has added a freezer stash for the weeks to come). Pajamas can be changed at noon (sometime soggy diapers too). The fact that milk is seeped and spit into my clothing helps me to rationalize my constant rotation of yoga pants. Henry can use pink bibs if that's what is available, and Scout can lick his face a time or two. It's okay that I can't remember what we named him for the life of me, especially when on the phone with our pediatrician. I feel like I'm on Jeopardy and the answer is right at the tip of my tongue. In my defense, I usually get it right at the buzzer.</div>
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I'm okay with all of this. I really am. So is Henry. He is so laid back. He doesn't mind if Julia kisses him incessantly or that Charlie wants to give him a Dr. kit check up (under close supervision!). He has remained immune to the billions of germs that have entered into and permeated this house over the past month. We've both even called a truce on the wake-up calls every 2 hours that have not let up - we've decided that this is our best chance at time together and we're going to live it up!</div>
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The part that's hard is the complete shift in dynamics within our family. Our independent little girl has become increasingly independent. Though this is developmentally appropriate, I just want to put her in a sling to force a cuddle or two. She is so grown up! Charlie is really struggling with this transition. He was once unphased by much and now is very much aware that he's not the baby. Though I was getting antsy in the hospital post-delivery, I sometimes transport myself to that place in my mind. The place where it was the nurse's job to make sure everything was okay and the only thing that you had to worry about was documenting the last feeding and diaper change. I laugh at the simplicity of it. </div>
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The stark reality of the first month at home is that it's not easy. Blending little personalities and needs with post-partum recovery and sleep deprivation is an interesting concoction with a variety of crazy outcomes. Though I've heard statements like "you look so good" or "so put together" (and I use them myself when encouraging a new mom), those words seem overwhelming to me. What does good really look like? When you're living from feeding to feeding with tantrums abound and attempting to keep up with a schedule that feels overwhelming if it involves any type of transition but just as overwhelming if there are no plans on the horizon, it seems impossible to be anything more than functioning. On most days I laugh at how I have reworked standards that I never thought I'd be okay with. I am pretty proud of how we're doing despite a lack of structure. Maybe we will never abandon this idea of lower standards. Who really set these standards anyway? Yes, there are some non-negotiables, but for the most part these "standards" are ones that I've set for myself - doing the things that I think make me a good mom and give me some sort of sense that my children will be well adapted, eat from a variety of food groups, and will experience enough freedom to guarantee that they won't be living in my basement at age 40. Pure sugar for breakfast once in a while won't thwart this plan. Neither will the fact that Charlie is dressed like a princess by his sister instead of allowing them to get outside a bit more. In fact, in the long run, the lowering of standards will make me a better parent. I will never again be the mother who dotes on every detail as I did as a brand new parent. I am more relaxed now. It doesn't all have to get done, it doesn't all have to look "good". I hope that my kids look back someday and realize that during even the stressful times, they remained well loved and that having a sibling made their lives better. I think they will. And the good news? Even if they need therapy in a few years to recover from the lack of structure, I'll at least have one child who remains unphased by this whole ordeal. As you can see in the photos below, throughout our month of transition, Henry has slept through it all. </div>
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And another tip on having multiple children: enlist help. Whether it's the grocery store clerk who offers to load your groceries, the amazing friends and neighbors around you who offer home cooked meals or a quick "reality check" visit, or family who is willing to enter into the lion's den of your home for a few days to survive this chaos with you...say YES to it all! </div>
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Thank you to everyone who has kept this family going! </div>
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And now onto month TWO...</div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-55546195023360821312013-09-26T16:47:00.001-07:002013-09-26T17:07:00.943-07:00Welcome! Welcome!<div style="text-align: center;">
After a much anticipated arrival, baby Gray is a BOY! </div>
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<b>Henry John</b> (named for both of his grandfathers) arrived on Sunday afternoon, September 22nd, 2013. He weighed in at 7lbs 12oz and was 19 1/2 inches long. </div>
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It all started with a fairly bumpy hay ride at a local corn maze on Saturday the 21st. Contractions started up again later that night and they finally crossed the threshold of being hospital-worthy. The only advantage to having weeks of contractions was that I was ready for them when it was actually "go time". The experience of labor was completely different than Julia's or Charlie's and with the help of Charles and my mom, I had an amazing and life-altering unmedicated birth experience (Disclaimer: the end product was absolute perfection, but I wouldn't want to relive those final moments of labor again!) Since his arrived, he is the source of peace in a crazy home. We've added a 7lb tiny being to our world, but somehow it has shifted the dynamic enough to feel pretty overwhelming. This part will take some time, I'm sure. I told Henry that he's probably not going to experience a quiet home until he is an only child again in 16 years - when Charlie goes off to college. In the midst of post-partum recovery, I am learning to sit back and take in the noise and recognize that life will always be loud. Life will be filled with 3 little loves who will grow together and always have eachother no matter what. And this is just the beginning...</div>
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And we're home!</div>
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No, there are no other children on the horizon, the fourth little pumpkin is for Scout. </div>
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Our family is complete. We are feeling so blessed and giving thanks for this precious gift.</div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XG730j5GjEI/UkS3QaMOiVI/AAAAAAAACjg/WyokFUi-Uak/s1600/Henrys+here+345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XG730j5GjEI/UkS3QaMOiVI/AAAAAAAACjg/WyokFUi-Uak/s320/Henrys+here+345.JPG" width="320" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-52843115424601832022013-09-03T17:49:00.002-07:002013-09-03T17:58:17.943-07:00sidelined<div style="text-align: center;">
In middle school I had dreams of becoming a basketball star. Those dreams were dashed one day during my freshman year in high school when my team played a school that was completely out of our league. As we were warming up, I realized that there must be something in the water in that town- these girls had hit their growth spurts and towered over most of our team. They were big and fierce and they were still just warming up on their own side of the court. I can remember praying that I would't play in that game and that I would survive to live another humble, freshman, JV day. Well, I don't remember much from that game. I do know that we lost that game by a large margin and my basketball days were numbered. I decided shortly after that experience that it may be in my best interest to move on to other activities. </div>
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I was thinking about that game recently when I was talking to a friend on the phone and telling her that I feel sidelined during the final trimester of this pregnancy. Due to some issues that indicated a risk of preterm labor, travel was out of the question and I had to rethink many of the activities that I tackle without thought on a daily basis. When we first found out we were pregnant with our third child, there was a small fear that our friends with 2 children were off and running. Well established in their routine and able to travel on a whim without bags and gear, we realized that we were going back to the trenches again - sidelined for a while as we readjust family life. As I said "no" to countless opportunities and (more importantly), traveling home to PA to visit family and friends, I was feeling overwhelmed by what I felt I was missing out on. This was reframed as I was reading a book to prepare for childbirth (ha, prepping for childbirth..we shall see about that one). One of the chapters expands on the experience of "nesting" by explaining that this is a time of preparation - a time of innate emotional and physical energy that focuses on preparing a space for our transforming family. How appropriate that this comes at a time when we're fresh from the move. There is so much to do! As I think about my statement of feeling sidelined, I realize that sometimes this can be very freeing. Sometimes you're praying that someone will just take you out either to take a break or on a larger scale, to realize that this game is to big for you to be playing. Sitting it out provides a wonderful opportunity to focus on the details that matter, regroup, and realize how to change your gameplan. My gameplan involved less travel and more time to unpack. It involved time on the couch watching movies with the kids and making up games in the backyard rather than running around from activity to activity. When I was feeling guilty, I realized that this time is so sacred. It will never be like this again. As we countdown in days the arrival of Baby Gray, I am reminded of how temporary this is. I will get back in the game. There will be days of endless activity again. Patience is not a virtue of a 9-month pregnant woman, but I truly am thankful for the opportunities of the past few months. It has been different and humbling, but it will all be shaken up very soon. I will jump back into a whole new game. Are we ever really prepared? No, but I must say that without a mandatory sideline break, it's hard to gain perspective of how far you've come. </div>
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Here are some of our quieter moments over the past month:</div>
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Loads of fun in the backyard treefort.</div>
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Our last weekend away-Maine in July</div>
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Endless hours spent in the pool. </div>
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Julia is quite the fish and is just about swimming on her own!</div>
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Charlie would prefer to play golf...</div>
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Hanging out with Papa during a visit</div>
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Getting creative (and naked 99% of the time) in the backyard</div>
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Smoothie mornings</div>
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Reupholstering 10 chairs!</div>
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Celebrating the little things - like organized spaces</div>
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And wearing ourselves out!</div>
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And now for more sideline action, we wait for little one to arrive this month...</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">life is about to get interesting!</span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-18840617583491122922013-08-02T20:18:00.000-07:002013-08-03T20:28:30.760-07:00Our own little fairy tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>“Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” </b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>― <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1069006.C_S_Lewis" style="color: #666600; text-decoration: none;">C.S. Lewis</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Whenever my wedding ring flashes a prism in the car we say that Tinkerbell is visiting us. This morning as we were driving to swim lessons, Julia whispered, "Mom, I think Tink wants to tell me a secret about how much fun we had when we saw her in Disney!". That magic is precious. In the most mundane moments, I am transformed by the ways in which my children interpret their world.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">In the midst of our whirlwind lives (a move and a baby brewing) we took our summer vacation to Florida. Yes, this was planned before we knew we were moving! This trip included some wonderful time with family and a little stint in Disney. While I'm wildly skeptical about contrived fun (I grew up in the country where you didn't wait in line to have fun - you went outside, played in the dirt and life was based on Little House on the Prarie and less about finding prince charming), I was converted by the magical experience of Disney. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Maybe it's because I was 7 months pregnant at the time and had a low tolerance threshold, but I will offer the perspective that probably many parents have when they are entering those magical gates...(mind you, it took us 2 hours on a Monday morning in June to get from our car into the park). During those sweltering two hours I had to repeat over and over to myself, "Abandon your annoyances, this is for the kids!" Luckily Charles and I were joined by my parents who could fill in with the fun-factor that I was lacking. As we entered the gates, I watched Julia become captivated by everything around her - the princess castle straight ahead, sidewalk singers as we walked down Main Street, princess gear abound, and enough magic to leave a child </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">speechless</span><span style="line-height: 18px;">. It's as if you become transformed, maybe softened a bit. Though the heat was still fierce and we had yet to enter the lines for rides, I was repeating my mantra a little bit less. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">The part where spouses compliment </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">each other</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"> well came through loud and clear. Charles figured out the "Fast Pass" approach to the park within minutes and by the time we hit our first ride, he had strategically thought through the entire park, which cut the waiting time significantly. Within the first hour, Julia had conquered Thunder Mountain Railroad and in my mind she matured a ton! By lunchtime we were doing Disney - really enjoying it! We had it mastered and there was a skip to our step as we met Princesses and mapped our way through the park. We learned that Charlie REALLY enjoyed these pretty girls, but was terrified of the characters. I was amazed that there was so much for him to do and expierience. Julia's ride choices reinforced that she's is not only adventurous, but fearless and </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">up for anything! She had stars in her eyes as she took in her surroundings. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">The next day we did it again and it was even better. We walked straight into the park thanks to a Breakfast with Pooh reservation an hour before the park opened. </span></span> After breakfast we met Tinkerbell in a small, intimate setting where Tinkerbell knew Julia by name and spent a considerable amount of time talking to her about life in Neverland. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">J</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ulia was smiling, Charlie was smitten, and I was sobbing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Twenty four hours into the Disney experience I was converted. I hold strongly to my belief that little ones need to be encouraged toward great ambitions and I want Julia to know that she is beautiful without a princess outfit, but I learned that Disney isn't taking that away from them. Every child has a gift of fantasy and make-believe. This place was where make-believe became real. Where she can see that the magic exists - we can find it anywhere and enjoy it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank goodness that I have children. I might just be a cranky person who believes that everyone should just grow up and act their age. Instead, I get to sit on the floor and have tea parties, I am privileged to sing every night before bed, I reminded each moment that the world is bigger than just my small perspective, and I even get to go to Disney! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will I spend every vacation here? Heck no, there is so much of this world to experience with my children. Though Disney may have a good market on the "fairy tale", these tales are all around us waiting to be captured. Sometimes they pack a 2-whole day punch full of magic, but mostly they are in the prisms shimmering in the car - a little reminder from Tink to gather some perspective and enjoy this fantasy around us.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0tT02ntS2sI/UfxmBx7pObI/AAAAAAAACcU/pkSQG21_NQo/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0tT02ntS2sI/UfxmBx7pObI/AAAAAAAACcU/pkSQG21_NQo/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+344.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole crew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QNsadnUdEFQ/Ufxm1phwG6I/AAAAAAAACck/caq-aIttbyE/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QNsadnUdEFQ/Ufxm1phwG6I/AAAAAAAACck/caq-aIttbyE/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+448.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noah's first big adventure. This is my most favorite picture!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K02xxIXzQ0c/UfxnMteARDI/AAAAAAAACcs/SYI_L2v4qGo/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K02xxIXzQ0c/UfxnMteARDI/AAAAAAAACcs/SYI_L2v4qGo/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+460.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Julia experience</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3NyRribFqQg/UfxnRy_YaRI/AAAAAAAACc0/I1ds7NFsdSs/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3NyRribFqQg/UfxnRy_YaRI/AAAAAAAACc0/I1ds7NFsdSs/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+464.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Charlie experience</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxGYXP6Tkn0/UdOiIXrOUzI/AAAAAAAACaM/9HNBNi7SgKY/s1440/phonesummer+079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxGYXP6Tkn0/UdOiIXrOUzI/AAAAAAAACaM/9HNBNi7SgKY/s320/phonesummer+079.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GrNar9DpY1M/UfxoFU6VF-I/AAAAAAAACdE/8vej7OhFX_I/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GrNar9DpY1M/UfxoFU6VF-I/AAAAAAAACdE/8vej7OhFX_I/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+501.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She is pretty cute, huh Noah?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s6OJ52flv5w/UdOiNuhbI3I/AAAAAAAACac/eE0pzAjoiDo/s1440/phonesummer+089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s6OJ52flv5w/UdOiNuhbI3I/AAAAAAAACac/eE0pzAjoiDo/s320/phonesummer+089.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie would have abandoned us to run away to Neverland with Tink if we didn't drag him away...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMDNxhe0D7w/UfxnbEaZN8I/AAAAAAAACc8/qECiufpYdsc/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMDNxhe0D7w/UfxnbEaZN8I/AAAAAAAACc8/qECiufpYdsc/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+498.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julia and Tink</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6eBCm4yUsQc/UfxpSzKw6xI/AAAAAAAACdU/52_Ba5QIP5I/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6eBCm4yUsQc/UfxpSzKw6xI/AAAAAAAACdU/52_Ba5QIP5I/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+515.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splash mountain</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qltcpRSlWG4/UfxpV6IU2QI/AAAAAAAACdc/Dnkss9b3e1U/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qltcpRSlWG4/UfxpV6IU2QI/AAAAAAAACdc/Dnkss9b3e1U/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+523.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun with Mimi and Papa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EmjxKUPEbM/UfxpZwJDBSI/AAAAAAAACdk/UAxZwprKpEU/s1600/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EmjxKUPEbM/UfxpZwJDBSI/AAAAAAAACdk/UAxZwprKpEU/s320/Julia-Charlie+birthday+and+DISNEY+558.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julia and Donald </td></tr>
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And since we spent a total of 10 days in Florida (only 2 1/2 were in Orlando), here are some of our other favorites from our time in Palm Harbor with Aunt Kirstan, Uncle Greg and Noah and during Charles' conference in Naples. </div>
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</span>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-28347090476693350382013-07-12T21:27:00.005-07:002013-07-12T21:27:56.979-07:00Charlie is TWO!<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Happy Birthday to my sweet boy. </div>
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Tonight I rocked him to sleep and he was so peaceful in my arms (something that happens rarely at this stage). As we wound down for bed and said our prayers I told him that at this very moment 2 years ago we were anxiously awaiting his arrival. We had no idea what he would look like, his personality, or how he would fit in our little family of three. When I think back to the unknowns of those moments before his birth, I am struck by the life that opened up as he arrived. He was Charlie from his first cry. He is his own person - gentle and sweet to the core. Curious and mischievous with every waking moment. </div>
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I just love this boy and all that is contained in his two year old self!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">newborn</span></div>
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ONE!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">TWO!</span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-29292617531961002372013-06-13T04:00:00.000-07:002013-06-13T04:00:07.924-07:00Happy Birthday Julia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last week we celebrated Julia's Pre-School Graduation - though she has another year before she starts Kindergarten, I couldn't help but think that this is the beginning of many end of the year celebrations. Someone mentioned in passing that it won't be long before we are planning her high school graduation. Ugh, wasn't she just wrapped snuggly in a blanket, never outside of earshot? Each milestone is another step toward independence, which Julia embraces without a second thought. I, on the other hand have an ongoing struggle with, "is she really ready for this?". Thank goodness she's my first. Charlie may have to thank her someday for paving the way through mom's hesitations. </div>
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Today we celebrate four whole years of her life. Another step, another year. She never ceases to amaze me with her joy and her daily dose of perspective on life. It is just so amazing to me that she is capable of learning to pump and swing on her own, deciding that she knows what love is, figuring out that she'd like to be a doctor and a mommy when she grows up, cultivating such a nurturing spirit, and becoming such a unique individual in such a short period of time. Some days after I put her to bed I take a deep breath (after the challenging task of helping her unwind) and wonder how things could get much better. We have so much in store and the one thing that comes to mind when imagining our life ahead is that life with Julia will be quite a story. Sometimes a nail-biting thriller and at other times a poetic prose offering a gentle twist on life. We will continue to enjoy every page turning moment!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zGim8uW-t5w/Ubk5r0UtG5I/AAAAAAAACY4/0-T0M8QmC_Y/s1600/earlysummer+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zGim8uW-t5w/Ubk5r0UtG5I/AAAAAAAACY4/0-T0M8QmC_Y/s320/earlysummer+036.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pzSFCB9Bezc/Ubk6OU9-yPI/AAAAAAAACZA/T5RrnVyW8hU/s1600/earlysummer+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pzSFCB9Bezc/Ubk6OU9-yPI/AAAAAAAACZA/T5RrnVyW8hU/s320/earlysummer+068.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julia with her friend, Patrick. This is her first real crush. <br />
It is completely clear by their body language!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This artwork by Julia was so striking to me. This is was their Eric Carle day and they read stories and decided on their own scene. Our creative child who has endless ideas of fairy tale lands decided to depict a rug. It's totally fitting for our current chaos of packing up for our move. The rug seems very symbolic right now!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cmk-M9Qoms/Ubk682pTsoI/AAAAAAAACZo/qiqEkk9oBWw/s1600/Phone2013summer+119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cmk-M9Qoms/Ubk682pTsoI/AAAAAAAACZo/qiqEkk9oBWw/s400/Phone2013summer+119.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two peas in a pod - totally different and yet the best fit.</div>
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Hopefully Charlie will get his fair share of cake for the festivities. </div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-19819575393781351972013-05-26T18:23:00.001-07:002013-05-26T18:27:39.858-07:00and in further growing news...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have been open for business for several weeks, but to be perfectly honest, the idea of promoting things made me wonder if I was going to have to have sleepless nights sewing perfectly straight lines. I have since learned that it is possible to balance. </div>
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So here you go - an addition to the balancing act of our growing lives...<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/4stories">Our Etsy shop: 4 Stories.</a> </div>
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Here are the general responses to the questions that we've fielded so far about the shop:</div>
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Why the name 4 stories? - This shop is a reflection of many months (ok, maybe years) of talking through ways to share creativity between my college friend, Kate and I. Kate and I met on the 4th floor of WITMER (shout out to Witmer!) dorm the very first day of our freshman year and have been best friends since that day. We wanted a name that was a reflection of us - our friendship, our roots, and also the current place in our lives. The name 4 Stories is not only the floor where we met, but a reflection of the chapters in our lives, and a whimsical play on our target audience - little ones (ha! I just read 4 stories to Charlie tonight!)</div>
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What are we selling? I believe that this may evolve over time. I get on kicks with when sewing onesies and then I move onto something new. In wintertime it's cozy owls and in the summer, crabs are usually my favorite simple creature all made with fun fabrics. Kate has been making capes and banners for some time now and I have been sewing onesies for friends since I purchased a sewing machine 4 years ago. After people started requesting custom onesies to purchase, we figured it was high time to open a shop on Etsy. Our goal is simple handmade items made with great fabric. (Yes, we text each other when we've struck a cool fabric find). </div>
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Can I place a special order? Yep, we're pretty flexible. Etsy allows us the ability to post our items, but we are more than willing to think outside the box for whatever you'd like for your little one or a gift. We love personalizing items! I come from the theory that little ones should have personalized things. Again with my tangent on monogramming...</div>
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So check us out and keep 4 Stories in mind for yourself or friends with little ones. Each item makes a wonderful gift!</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/4stories">http://www.etsy.com/shop/4stories</a></div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-48523459899148703452013-04-30T20:24:00.002-07:002013-04-30T20:32:54.797-07:00Growing season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Big news at the Gray house! </div>
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We are growing in big ways (hopefully not so big). Yep, baby #3 is set to arrive in September. In a twist of completely unrelated fate that arrived with perfect timing, we have decided to leave our home on Ridge Road to move a few miles away. Our favorite salt box colonial house in town went on the market. In a matter of 24 hours we went from a fun thought of checking out an open house to actually putting in an offer. After many sleepless nights (involving waking up with bouts of extreme cravings for sugary cereal and thoughts of "what the heck are we doing?"), we have sold our home and will be moving this summer. </div>
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It will be perfect timing to sip lemonade from the sidelines while allowing my husband to unpack. More likely, my nesting self will take over and in all of my 3rd trimester glory I will have a lot to say.</div>
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So those are the big ones. </div>
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Julia reminds me everyday that she's growing too. She makes us measure her after every carrot that she eats. She is convinced that she can feel herself grow by the moment. This desire for growth is fueled by our upcoming trip to Disney and Julia's insistence on riding all of Disney's finest and fastest rides. She's fearless and very determined. If a child could will herself to grow, she would do it.</div>
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Charlie is finally starting to talk after a bit of intervention. He is growing in great strides with the help of a speech therapist. The benefit is that we finally know what's going on in his little world, though he has finally learned "no!", which I would have rather they skipped. In the past 2 weeks he some sort of feistyness has risen up within him. I call him the Sass-Monster. Though he can't say his own name, he chants "Ju-wah" all day. He wants Julia to be a part of everything that he does. We are currently working on putting words together. I keep telling the speech therapist that he is way smarter than all of us and one of these days he will break out in complete sentences to give us his thoughts on the past 22 months in this crazy home.</div>
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So this is what happens after a few months of a blog-hiatus...big news and a bit of growth. We are excited about every part of it. </div>
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Here are our favorite shots from the past few weeks - most from Easter. Who can resist this handsome boy in a bow tie?</div>
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At Easter brunch Julia introduced a new family tradition of opening the hard boiled Easter eggs by cracking them on your head. We are a big fan of new traditions and are willing to try anything.</div>
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Now that we are moving I have this great desire to capture the kids in every part of our current house. This is where each of them were brought home from the hospital after their birth and there are so many great memories in every corner of our home. This is our pre-bath craziness that occurs every night. The Sass-Monster is in full effect trying to scare me at the top of the stairs. And Julia is quite smitten by him. </div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-25979084939682880432013-02-27T17:35:00.003-08:002013-02-27T17:35:39.027-08:00ode to King Arthur<br />
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Today I received my King Arthur flour catalogue. It's equivalent to the feeling that arose within me when the thick JC Penney catalogue arrived 2 months before Christmas when I was 10. I want to flag every page. Sure, I'll try cooking with some lemon curd. Yep, I'm so in need of a scone pan. Who wouldn't want to try out the abundance of flours? </div>
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I'm such an Italian. I love my carbohydrates. I love cooking with good ingredients. I am convinced that my baking won't turn out the same if my husband comes home from the grocery store with some other sort of flour. Since winter has decided to stick around in all of it's icy glory, we have been spending a lot of time inside. Time inside means we get creative in the kitchen. King Arthur and I are on a first name basis. </div>
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Here is my latest favorite recipe:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Triple Cheese Bread</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span>(a King Arthur recipe)</div>
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3/4 cup water</div>
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2 tsp yeast</div>
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3 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-purpose flour</div>
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2 Tblsp sugar</div>
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1 1/2 tsp salt</div>
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2 Tblsp butter (soft)</div>
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1/2 cup Cabot Cheddar (shredded)</div>
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1/2 cup cottage cheese</div>
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3 Tblsp grated Parmesan Cheese</div>
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Dissolve the yeast in 1/4 cup of the warm water. Add the sugar to activate the yeast. Mix dry ingredients together and add all of ingredients together with the yeast. Knead in the mixer or by hand to make a soft dough. </div>
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If using a mixer turn on a floured board and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (at least 45 min). Keep in a warm place.</div>
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Deflate the dough, form it into a 9 inch log and place it in a 9x5 loaf pan. Cover loosely with greased plastic wrap and let it rise until the bread domes an inch above the rim of the pan. </div>
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Bake the risen dough in a preheated oven (350 degrees) for 30-35 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing. </div>
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Bread making has become an integral part of our winter days.</div>
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Charlie is an old soul. He likes his bread buttered perfectly. If the butter is not spread evenly, he points it out. He brings me his slippers each morning to put on his feet. </div>
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I love this boy.</div>
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And some other baking - (King Arthur inspired, of course)</div>
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Julia's creativity at work.</div>
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Pink strawberry ricotta pancakes for Valentines Day morning.</div>
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Spreading the love to daddy.</div>
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We are looking forward to spring around here - I think it may give us some permission to let up on the carbohydrates! But for now, nothing beats waking up to homemade cinnamon bread baking in the oven on a snowy morning!</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-63310108660431047022013-01-22T19:57:00.001-08:002013-01-22T20:03:42.308-08:00Kirstan's whale of a shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now that Noah has made his arrival, it's high time I posted pictures of Kirstan's shower. Noah's nursery has a nautical theme, which we decided to carry throughout the entire shower day. From the invitations to the decorations, all elements brought the sea and sunshine to Pennsylvania on this chilly fall day in November. After looking through the pictures, I had a sudden realization that it is virtually impossible to host a shower and take pictures at the same time. I can hardly walk and chew gum...I should have handed off the camera. </div>
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When going through the planning process with Kirstan's lovely lifetime best friends, the first priority of the day was the signature drink. This is totally Kirstan (unfortunately she couldn't partake) - these signature drinks were a mixture of champagne and blue curacao. We called them the "sunken ship" because unfortunately the clementine did not float, but it created a fun fizzy dynamic! Definitely a hit to kick off the brunch!</div>
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Here are just a few of the decorations. Fabric is always a great way to make a room feel whimsical and as soon as I found out that Kirstan was pregnant, I got started on some personal onesies for this little one. There were several others with fish and "school of fish" garland that didn't quite make the photo shoot.</div>
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So much can be learned about my sister from the little touches throughout the day - the food included all of her favorites (including our mommom's homemade meatballs) and whale shaped finger sandwiches. Also, the favors reflected one of Kirstan's favorite little gifts, Yankee Candles. Luckily I live close to the big Yankee Candle in Western Massachusetts and I scored some "sand castle" scented votives for just $1. I used some linen fabric (confession, I buy this in bulk at Walmart when we go to Maine for less than $3 a yard), and used heat and bond to add a square of starfish fabric. I simply sewed easy edges and tied them off. Each favor cost around $1.50, made the room smell like sun and sand, and fit the theme perfectly. I set them out on a large round plate covered in sand. </div>
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Kirstan picked out the cake recipe when we were together in Florida a month earlier from a fall edition Martha Stewart Magazine highlighting a first birthday party. I am not a cake baker, but this <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/925638/brown-sugar-layer-cake-caramel-buttercream-frosting?center=0&gallery=925607&slide=925464">Brown Sugar buttercream cake</a> turned out amazingly well. Thank goodness for Gram who committed several hours to see this to completion with me!</div>
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Diaper cake curtosy of Kirstan's great friends!</div>
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The banner was personally made by Kate, my dear friend. This fit as the perfect backdrop for the day (and can be seen throughout these photos). It is now hanging over Noah's crib. </div>
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Another tidbit to learn about Kirstan is the fact that she is so slow. She eats slow, she is on her own timeline for EVERYTHING. Imagine all of the Christmas mornings when I had to spend hours trying to pry her out of bed! She opened her gifts slowly and loved and admired everything in typical Kirstan fashion. </div>
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This is the way it should be :) </div>
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She got some really cool gifts, including this Peanuts nativity set. Yep, I'm jealous! Noah, I'm coming to play with it! Just know that Lucy is cool and all, but she's not a good substitute for Mary!</div>
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Little helper.</div>
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Julia having some fun with "Nik-chop", my cousin who Julia adores!</div>
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My beautiful mom and her longtime best friend. </div>
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Sisters.</div>
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The beautiful blissful couple who are anxiously anticipating this precious boy!</div>
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And the kids taking a break from the day to enjoy nature's playground at Mimi and Papa's. </div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-9503969447154503012013-01-15T08:09:00.001-08:002013-01-15T10:21:10.109-08:00Year in review<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_177200427"></span><span id="goog_177200428"></span>I mention quite often that I'm not the most organized individual. In my attempt to keep up with technology, I have downloaded some apps to keep track of a schedule. I get it set up and then quickly forget to update my information. It's purpose is totally defeated within the week as it feels more cumbersome to enter information at the time I am thinking of it. I just ordered my new paper planner for the year from <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/index.html">Paper Source</a>, which marks the start of my year. It is fresh paper, waiting to be filled with appointments, dates, vacations, recipes and birthdays. I am a firm believer in small notions that bring this kind of joy. Give me finely pressed paper over a designer bag or fancy jewlery any day, I like to keep things pretty simple. </div>
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My other dorky confession is that I keep all of my planners from year to year. I have my college countdown to graduation from 2002 and it was endearing to me that on February 4th, 2007 we had our wedding tasting at Winterthur and exactly two years later on this day we had an ultrasound revealing that our first child would be a little girl. Packed in to these planners are papers revealing special finds of the year - recipes, conference notes, and ideas for a business adventure that still remains a dream. Before I pen the many appointments and events in store for 2013, it is fun to look back. Here are the highlights from the last 6-ish months of 2012:</div>
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<b>May 6th, 2012 - </b>We brought Julia and Charlie to Point-to-Point at Winterthur where Charles and I met after our first date. The day before this, we learned that my sister may be pregnant. It was an exciting weekend filled with many celebrations!</div>
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<b> June 30th, 2012 </b>- We celebrated our 5 year anniversary with an album counting down our 5 years of great moments. We also enjoyed a date in the Berkshires at our favorite outdoor concert venue - Tanglewood. </div>
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<b>July 11, 2012</b> - Just a random day, but I love this picture. This is Julia enjoying Mimi and Papa's house. (Papa is in the background watching her run). It is a snapshot of one of the many exciting adventures to be had at this special place.</div>
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<b> July 12th, 2012 </b>- We celebrated Charlie's first birthday in PA (a day early). He enjoyed every moment of his cowboy party!</div>
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<b> July 13th, 2012</b> - I was privileged to stand by my best friend Kristen during her beautiful wedding! This is her rehearsal.</div>
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<b> July 14th, 2012</b> - A shot at Kristen's wedding. It's quite unique to have such close friends for so many years! We love each other and we love a good excuse to be together!</div>
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<b>September 4th, 2012 </b>- Charlie dips his feet into the Maine ocean. A first of many...</div>
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<b>September 13th, 2012</b> - Julia's first day of preschool. She's hugged by one of her best friends, Andrew who won't start until next year. He is very excited for her!</div>
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<b>October 9th, 2012</b> - Charlie shows off his onesie while visiting Aunt Kirstan in Florida. We had quite the family visit! This was our first time seeing her pregnant! (Noah has a 0-3month "I love my Auntie" onesie that he will be wearing soon).</div>
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<b>November 10th, 2012</b> - Just a few weeks later we celebrated Kirstan (and baby-to-be) with a nautical themed shower. Everything was beautiful!<br />
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<b> November 18th, 2012</b> - I accomplished an amazing goal with some amazing friends - running (and finishing in a decent time) the Philly Half Marathon. And I had a really cute fan cheering me on at the end, which made the finish so much sweeter!</div>
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Erin and I started with a small goal (a local 5k) and somehow it evolved into the half marathon. I not only had 5:30am accountability, but I made a wonderful friend throughout this training.</div>
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<b> November 22nd, 2012</b> - We started off Thanksgiving morning with our annual Turkey Trot. This year we had a surprise guest, our neighbor ran in a turkey suit (and finished quite well!). We love our community!</div>
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<b> December 1st, 2012 -</b> Our annual family trip to pick out our tree - a milestone to begin our Christmas traditions. This year we were blessed with snow. I always have this image of a beautiful Christmas card photo on this day, but it never quite happens. Their faces reveal just how cold it was!</div>
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<b> December 9th, 2012 - </b>Charlie decides that he's not a huge fan of Santa.</div>
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<b> December 25th, 2012</b> - Two sleepy little ones wake up on Christmas morning. This is the first year that they captured the anticipation (well, Julia did and therefore Charlie followed suit)</div>
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AND a glimpse into the start of this year...</div>
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<b>January 11, 2013</b> - I became an aunt! Noah John Cazzola arrived a bit before his scheduled date. I think it's going to be a wonderful year!</div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-49336782416363081152012-12-18T18:25:00.002-08:002012-12-18T18:38:59.968-08:00Messengers of faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the wake of the tragedy in Newtown, CT we have been filled with a variety of emotions. The closeness, the raw footage, the precious faces. There are many perspectives to take on this-a strong stance on gun violence, a call for greater mental health intervention, an awareness of the threshold of trauma that children are experiencing these days. While I have been sneaking updates from the media, I have kept the television off in an effort to not expose the children to unneeded anxiety. It's the social worker in me, I utilize teaching moments (what is safe? what feels unsafe?), but mostly just maintain the perspective to keep them sheltered while they are still little enough to do so. </div>
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What hit me the most were the phone calls that we received from family and friends who do not have small children at home who just wanted to hear Julia's voice. There is something peaceful in hearing her giggle and her innocence when the world is experiencing such sadness. As the weekend unfolded, there were several encounters that reinforced the power that children have to heal and to change ones perspective. The following is an excerpt from an email that I sent to our pastor after some amazing encounters with some of the youth in our church this weekend. It was an email emphasizing the power of the calling of our youth - a calling that is happening today, not one that they are waiting to grow into. This story underlines the influence of our children, powerful messengers of faith: </div>
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<em>Yesterday Julia embraced the wrong person when we were in line at Starbucks. It was an innocent mistake-(the woman was right in front of me and Julia was so busy looking at all of the trinkets around her that she didn't look up to see whose leg she was grabbing). Instead of releasing Julia from her leg, the woman began stroking Julia's head and let her stay there for a moment. The woman turned to me and introduced herself as Sister Mary from St. Michael's church in East Longmeadow. She said, "With the tragic events from this week, this little gesture was exactly what I needed, a hug from a small child". As she was saying this to me, Julia realized that she was in the wrong place, but instead of embarassingly drawing away, she stayed there and enjoyed Sister Mary's gentle touch. All of us experienced the great blessing in this moment.</em> </div>
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In a season of hope, I am grateful for moments like this. Sometimes it takes big events to rethink our perspective, though often the smallest ones reignite our flame.</div>
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But Jesus said, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom
of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children." - Matthew 19:14 NLT</div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-44748715709200305622012-10-26T08:51:00.004-07:002012-10-26T11:54:33.302-07:00Earning my stripes<div style="text-align: center;">
I am having one of those days. <br />
One of those days where I can't believe the words that come out of my mouth. In the midst of a fort building afternoon (which proudly leads me to believe that Julia will be an amazing architect who will design me a house with a view one day), I heard a muffled cry from Charlie. Since my hands were full with wet towels mopping up an, "Oops, I didn't make it to the bathroom because the fort holds me captive" potty moment, I realized that I didn't have the resources to save Charlie, so I simply shouted, "Julia, can your brother breathe? Just make sure he can breathe!" She assured me that Charlie could breathe and in a few moments he came toddling toward me for the added piece of mind that he was freed from the fortress. </div>
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While I don't promote trusting a 3-year old to look out for the wellbeing of a 15-month old, I realize the daily need to triage much of what's going on around me. It's the reason why nothing in my house gets put away, it just gets placed somewhere else while I have to throw it to the side to grab Charlie from his summit on top of the dining room table. It explains why Julia's new phrase is, "Will I have to ask you again in 5 minutes?" The bottom line is that most of the time I see the tasks ahead, but I can't get out of my own way. Life feels like an obstacle course right now, the kind that you look at from the outside and think that it's simple but once your doing the army crawl you realize that you weren't quite cut out for this. </div>
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Sometimes it takes a phrase you never thought you say coming out of your mouth or a humbling scenario that makes you wonder who is in charge. These precious cherubs fill me unlimited joy and a dose of hair-raising reality. Well, today I have earned my merit badge. The one that involves Tent Making, Teaching Children to Follow the Rules, Home Organization, the ever so coveted Baking Badge (for multiple Halloween parties), Potty Training 101 (when I thought we had accomplished this one months ago), Teaching a Teething Toddler not to Bite, and How Long Can my Dog Last before I have to Pack Everyone Up to Take Her for a Walk? Badge. The ones I never cared about or acheived as a trusty girl scout. On days like this I wish I'd focused a little bit more on that Survival badge years ago.</div>
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Don't let these little faces full you parenting is not for the faint of heart. :)</div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-84298101289382819392012-10-17T19:14:00.001-07:002012-10-18T05:34:57.798-07:00The world according to...<div style="text-align: center;">
Along with bath, books and brushing teeth, we have added some storytelling to our bedtime routine. Julia is not afraid to let me know that Daddy is so much better at this than Mommy. I'm okay with this reality most of the time. Other times I am told mid-story how the rest must go and how Daddy would have done it better. Yes, I take my direction from a three year old. </div>
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When I let Julia take the lead we are often in for quite a fairy tail. It ALWAYS begins with "Once upon a time there was a beautiful princess named Julia Claire Gray..." Julia is ALWAYS joined by her best friends, which vary between her many "real" friends, a pet squirrel, and sometimes Jesus. This is where I jump start into the story, but I have to be careful to say the right things. I have quickly learned that Julia must ALWAYS be strong, the scary parts must quickly be remedied, and Julia ALWAYS wins in the end. Without that framework these stories become "horrible" in Julia's eyes. As we have dreamed up incredible feats for Julia, I am struck by her very own storytelling skills. Since this has become such a big part of our routine, Julia's imagination comes alive as she slays the fire breathing dragon with the "King Daddies" and realizes that the dragon was always very nice (he just talked funny) and he comes to live with her in the castle where he eats popsicles to fix his fire breathing problem. <br />
Needless to say, bedtime is always entertaining. </div>
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There are so many outlets to treasure these moments with my children. About a year ago I wanted to extend beyond the blog and create a keepsake that is more personal for Julia and Charlie. I found the perfect way to do so when I was searching for Christmas gifts on Minted.com. I found<a href="http://www.minted.com/journals-for-kids"> personalized journals</a> that were a perfect way to jot down some notes to Julia and Charlie on special occasions and on regular days when their personality shines through and I want to capture their reaction or statement. I have been writing periodically in these journals - one each for Julia and Charlie. When they are older they can enjoy the emergence of their personality inked with insights about parenting, prayers, and pieces of advice along the way. After every entry in Charlie's book I find myself telling him to never let go of his kind heart and soft affection. His latest involves his refusal to say many words so his "yes" is a huge giggle. I look back on my notes for him and I see such a sweet boy unfolding. I wonder how that sweet boy will take in these words when he reads it years from now. I am often laughing when I look back on my notes to Julia. She is the only 3-year old I know who can be fiercly feisty, yet incredibly nurturing and in tune to the needs around her at the same time. Life for her could be an ongoing musical in which she is the main character and singing permeates each scene.</div>
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Whether our days are filled with phrases that cause Charles and I to laugh uncontrollably, stories of the latest and greatest from Princess Julia, or tender moments that can never be replicated, my hope is to take a small piece to preserve this time. </div>
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And as of tonight in the world according to Julia, her prayer is that everyone should love pink and glitter and live happily ever after...</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-84565394729079891272012-10-04T13:12:00.002-07:002012-10-05T09:02:24.190-07:00C is for....<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">CHARLIE</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><em>and coughing </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><em>and cloudy days</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><em>and cinnamon bread</em></span><br />
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When it rains, it pours. Not only were we stuck inside most of last week due to the weather, the children's colds evolved into a hearty case of bronchitis for me. Here are some of our outtakes from our week inside. My sanity remains intact thanks to a quick but well timed visit from my mom! </div>
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I can usually take on project that requires 10 minutes or less due to the overlapping of naps that occur in our house. As Julia becomes easier to occupy, Charlie rarely sits still. His latest accomplishments? Climbing on TOP of our dining room table, spreading powder throughout the house, and becoming a fearless flyer on top of the couch. He requires constant supervision and if I could grow an extra set of hands, they would be dedicated solely to him. Here is my latest "10 or less" project. The inspiration came from the simple fact that I'm not a huge fan of my child being a billboard for a brand of clothing. Therefore, I added own twist to this cute little romper. The letter "C". </div>
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He wears it quite well. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PeQSVJ_4gx8/UG3dwiiANlI/AAAAAAAACB8/kTfkJGDJwQM/s1600/Fall+2012+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PeQSVJ_4gx8/UG3dwiiANlI/AAAAAAAACB8/kTfkJGDJwQM/s320/Fall+2012+024.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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"C" also stands for "climber". Crazy climber.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7xNslN5Azg/UG3d1xyJU-I/AAAAAAAACCE/xfF3E7DPRxU/s1600/Fall+2012+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7xNslN5Azg/UG3d1xyJU-I/AAAAAAAACCE/xfF3E7DPRxU/s320/Fall+2012+051.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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With my mom's help, I was able to steal a little time to bake bread. It is honestly one of the easiest tasks since you can leave it to rise and pay attention to it in shifts. Bread is my latest baking obsession and I am justifying the unlimited carbs filling our house with the fact that all of this 1/2 marathon training needs some fuel. These little adventurers need quite a bit of fuel too!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGK0UjKjQZE/UG3d5CmCrZI/AAAAAAAACCM/YVI08_F5gCI/s1600/Fall+2012+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGK0UjKjQZE/UG3d5CmCrZI/AAAAAAAACCM/YVI08_F5gCI/s320/Fall+2012+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you again, <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/08/homemade-cinnamon-bread/">Pioneer Woman for this amazing recipe!</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WH6VxnrYXgo/UG3eBVotChI/AAAAAAAACCc/XZTLmIMxp1Q/s1600/Fall+2012+059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WH6VxnrYXgo/UG3eBVotChI/AAAAAAAACCc/XZTLmIMxp1Q/s320/Fall+2012+059.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Given the simple fact that "powder play" occupied about an hour of their time today, it's an understatement to say we need to get out. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1hMoKVjf4c/UG3eLyGfLeI/AAAAAAAACC0/zCk7lLc9FEM/s1600/Fall+2012+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1hMoKVjf4c/UG3eLyGfLeI/AAAAAAAACC0/zCk7lLc9FEM/s320/Fall+2012+068.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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"C" is also for <em>C</em>ounting down to Florida...it can't come soon enough!</div>
<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-60409870223147956492012-09-13T18:43:00.002-07:002012-09-13T19:02:16.608-07:00FIRST day of preschool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WnOribNWhVg/UFKGzqvDMgI/AAAAAAAACAE/u5Bsbe0r2fw/s1600/IPhone+Photos+2012+438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WnOribNWhVg/UFKGzqvDMgI/AAAAAAAACAE/u5Bsbe0r2fw/s400/IPhone+Photos+2012+438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Today marks the start, though Julia's preschool career comprises only a few hours of her entire week, this is her entry into the world of school. She was ready for this a long time ago! </div>
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She couldn't get there fast enough. </div>
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I made her wear a jacket (despite the 80 degree weather) just so she could use her cubby. That darn cubby. There is something about it. Maybe it is the books that I grew up with that talk about the cubby at preschool. Maybe it's because I still remember my own red cubby from preschool, this moment made me tear up.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bnf7Z-hHaic/UFKHWqrD9WI/AAAAAAAACAk/Z972yeVZEkY/s1600/September+2012+175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bnf7Z-hHaic/UFKHWqrD9WI/AAAAAAAACAk/Z972yeVZEkY/s320/September+2012+175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Once we were in her classroom Julia was ready to go. Picture every other child still clinging to their parents. Julia hit the ground running - she had figured out each of the craft stations before we left her.<br />
She was mighty content on her own and in awe of her classroom.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-W9uu2cpUM/UFKHbsfs7JI/AAAAAAAACAs/pZUlgPcpcTU/s1600/September+2012+187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-W9uu2cpUM/UFKHbsfs7JI/AAAAAAAACAs/pZUlgPcpcTU/s320/September+2012+187.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Even Charlie pulled up a chair and decided he'd like to stay. </div>
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No way Charlie, we get some precious 1-on-1 time now!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WR-s036aZmM/UFKJhhKgkQI/AAAAAAAACA8/7GrB2DoVr3E/s1600/September+2012+181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WR-s036aZmM/UFKJhhKgkQI/AAAAAAAACA8/7GrB2DoVr3E/s320/September+2012+181.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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And this is how I left her.</div>
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There are so many big things happening in Julia's world. Each reminding me how much she's growing. This morning I asked her what she would like to be when she grows up just to document it on this day (and hopefully each of her first days of school). She replied that she'd like to be a dentist. We're not really sure where that one came from! Later today she snuggled into my lap and quietly announced, "Mommy, I changed my mind. I want to be like you when I grow up". I asked her what that meant. Without a thought she quickly replied, "I think it means I love you!"</div>
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I will take these moments and bottle them up. Though she asserts her independance on a minute to minute basis, she reminds me how much she needs a solid foundation. She's ready and eager, but needs some reassurance. </div>
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Welcome to the world of preschool. </div>
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Fun times are ahead.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>"Blossom of snow<br /> may you bloom and grow,<br /> Bloom and grow forever"</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">-Eidelweiss </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">(my favorite song that I learned in preschool)</span></div>
<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-66260058774797882872012-09-06T20:01:00.005-07:002012-09-13T18:43:56.466-07:00Honey Girl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A few weeks ago we had the pleasure of spending the weekend in Pennsylvania without an agenda. It doesn't happen very often. Agenda-free typically turns busy pretty quickly, but my mom and I were able to steal away some time to cook together. In all honesty, I get the better end of the deal when the two of us are in the kitchen. There are just some things she does better - even the simple art of sauteeing garlic. I get to pick up her cooking tips and we mostly (with only a few interruptions) have an opportunity to listen to Sirius radio and talk about our world. </div>
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While embarking on our Bon Appetit weekend, Julia, my mom and I happened upon the Farmers Market at Winterthur (the hilly fields of the estate where Charles and I were married). This wasn't just any Farmer's Market. Yes, we found our vegetable selection, but we were also entertained by a man selling fudge along with birdhouses (an interesting duo), a dog centered "au natural" mecca, and a honey girl equipped with a fabric hive to show off her sweet arrangement. Julia was immediately enthralled by the Honey Girl. It may have been partially due to the fact that this girl was beautiful and had a captivating voice, but the simple fact was this 19-year old and her whole display looked like it had been clipped out of an Anthropologie display window. Honey Girl began spouting off bee facts to a mesmarized Julia. "Do you know that it takes 10 bees their whole lives to make just one tablespoon of honey?" Julia was sold. We would not be leaving the Farmers Market without some honey. We bought Julia a $2 tiny bottle, which was probably the best money I've ever spent on something that has captured my child's attention. Julia's honey became the most popular "prize" of the weekend. She thought a dab of honey would make everything taste better and it was true. We managed to fit some honey into several of the recipes when we barbequed later that night - peach crisp drizzled with honey, a splash of honey here, a dab on her burger...it did get a bit out of control.</div>
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Since our trip home, Julia's little honey bear sits on the counter like the key antecdote to her medical kit. According to Julia, a little honey will fix anything. </div>
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I hate to be the bearer of bad news, so I agree and we have incorporated honey into much of our cooking lately. From marinades to dessert, it is the perfect natural sweetner. Maybe my small affection for bees has rubbed off on my little girl. </div>
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You know, it does take 10 bees their whole lives...(I think those bees would be proud that someone is cherishing their hard work!)</div>
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The following recipe has been our staple, simple homemade freeze pop recipe - made with our favorite fruits and, of course, honey. It was inspired by Coastal Living, with a few of our own variations. </div>
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<strong>Pineapple/Blueberry Pops</strong></div>
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2 cups fresh pineapple</div>
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<span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> unsweetened pineapple juice or whatever juice is in the fridge (usually lemonade)</span></div>
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<span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon</span><span itemprop="name"> honey</span></div>
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<span itemprop="amount">1 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> fresh blueberries</span></div>
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1. Combine first 3 ingredients in a blender, and process until smooth. Pour mixture evenly into 6 (3-ounce) ice pop molds, leaving about 1 to 2 tablespoons purée in blender.</div>
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2. Add blueberries to blender with reserved purée. Process until well blended; pour over pineapple mixture in ice pop molds. Insert wooden sticks, and cover if necessary to hold wooden sticks upright. Freeze 4 hours or until firm.</div>
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And for an icepop recipe that requires a little more work, but will send you into a blissful summer state with just one bite, check out<a href="http://www.artandlemons.com/2012/06/strawberry-yogurt-pops.html"> this blog - Arts and Lemons</a> for the Strawberry Yogurt Pops (and you won't have to look very far for further eclectic culinary inspiration!) </div>
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So today we squeeze out our last ounces of summer. A few more pops sit in our freezer awaiting another hot night. It is likely that our honey recipes will take a pumpkin filled turn. <br />
Until then...keep busy bees.</div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-33547790102080700822012-08-18T22:19:00.002-07:002012-08-20T17:43:15.097-07:00Relishing the moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yesterday I received an email in my inbox that scared the heck out of me. It was an email confirming some details about Julia's preschool start just a few weeks from now. If I hadn't filled out the application myself, I might have deleted the message with the words, "I am so excited to have Julia in my class this year..." thinking it must have been meant for someone else. Those words looked foreign in front of me. My child? Old enough to attend school? </div>
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Preschool is right around the corner. While it only comprises about 7 hours of her week, this is her introduction to school. </div>
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It begins. </div>
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We talk about it every morning. We discuss what her first morning will look like and who will be in her class with her. We pass the church everyday that houses Busy Bee's and she proudly announces that this is her school. We have bought a new pink lunch bag and have scheduled a hair cut. Julia has decided that she would like to eat "Rice Krispies and pumpkin pancakes" on the morning of her big day. Though that breakfast is 3 weeks away, I have already bought the ingredients. Mimi has bought her a new book on the transition into school and we tell stories at night about what she will learn in her classroom. I keep telling myself that all of this preparation will make the first day (and every subsequent morning) go smoothly. As the time draws near, I realize that as much as Julia requires the preparation for this milestone, we need a crash course in sending our child to school.</div>
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I think this is going to go a lot easier for Julia than it will for me. </div>
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I have watched others send their children off to school. When your children are young it is difficult to imagine that they will ever be ready for "big kid" milestones. When diapers and sleepless nights are the only tangible measures in sight, buses and friendships do not enter into any kind of reality. One day they just seem to arrive at your doorstep without much announcement. We are forced to acknowledge that times are changing, our children are growing. </div>
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Julia reminds me everyday that she is growing. She wants to be big enough to go on the waterslide at "Mimi's club". She has a few years to go on that one, but every morning she asks if she is big enough. She reminds me that she is ready for preschool and ready to learn. She holds conversations with me that surprise the heck out of me, like when she asked the other day how Jesus can fit inside of her heart since we describe Him as "so big". All of this growth is so exciting. I have resolved that it is inevitable and therefore it's best to embrace it. I have found that the only way to preserve any ounce of this fast paced scene is to document it. I wish that I had the luxury of taking family photos at a certain time every year. Though it does't seem to happen often enough, it is so important to capture these times. </div>
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The following photos were taken by Becca Neufeld (best photographer ever!) on Charlie's first birthday. I cherish these pictures - this is truly Julia and Charlie. We were also able to capture the 5 generations in my family. </div>
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On Julia's first day of preschool, the plan is to walk the 1/2 mile to Busy Bee. I like the thought of drawing out every moment of this morning :) </div>
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I will be walking behind Julia with my camera in hand, snapping photos of every step. </div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-44806894493158416682012-08-10T19:15:00.001-07:002012-08-10T19:21:11.360-07:00Blues are back!<div style="border: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">We admittedly have a stash of blueberries in our kitchen at all times. They are the perfect snack for every member of the family (except Scout, she steers away from fruit, but will gladly partake in any other morsel). We have them no matter what the season. The problem? When you taste fresh blues that are in-season, picked straight from the vine, it is difficult to ever imagine buying a carton in the grocery store mid-January. They'll be there, but the freshness can never be replicated. There is nothing like a true blue. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Today we went blueberry picking. It was bright and early - our first task of the day. Even Julia had her own half carton hitched to a rope that set conveniently around her neck for free hands. Charlie was content to pick his own from the comforts of the Boba carrier. He had a perfect angle and a mighty appetite. The other pickers thought he was quite hysterical. Something about this simple task of picking our fruit made my heart quite happy. I am thankful that I live just minutes away from farms that help teach my children the value of local produce. We are blessed to experience the abundance that we have around us. There are so many lessons involved for Julia and Charlie. The best part of the whole experience was the sense of accomplishment that Julia felt as she picked her own bucket. The blueberry muffins that we made later today tasted so much better with the our morning's work added to the mix. It helped that this was the <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2009/07/browned-butter-blueberry-muffins/">BEST EVER blueberry muffin recipe</a>...the secret is in the "burned butter". </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Blueberries for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We will all be dreaming in blue tonight.</span></span></div>
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It's true, she picked almost all of them on her own (besides the ones that she stole from our buckets when we looked away)...her giggle is a precious give-away.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-86470035182928169562012-08-02T19:06:00.001-07:002012-08-02T19:09:40.941-07:00The way life should be.<div style="text-align: center;">
Maine.<br />
Where we pick our favorite lobsters straight from the docks, we're serenaded by an old man playing the accordion at the local farmers market, the kids are lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean, and "a double scoop of chocolate" is a daily order. </div>
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Simple.</div>
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I picked up this adorable fabric in Portsmouth, NH on our way home. I couldn't help it, I'm on a lobster kick. The one on top is for Charlie and the crab is for Charlie's new baby cousin who will make his appearance in January (he'll need some beach inspiration mid-winter!)</div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-11003142711953266572012-07-22T08:01:00.001-07:002012-07-22T08:07:33.782-07:00Cowboy Charlie's First birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With the combination of a well timed vacation and an opportunity to take part in one of the greatest weddings ever, we just so happened to celebrate Charlie's birthday in Pennsylvania. When we knew we were going to throw him a party here, a cowboy theme fit perfectly. Mimi and Papa's home in the country surrounded by horses provided the best backdrop and Papa is a true cowboy, so we had plenty of western decorations to fit the theme. We just added a few bales of hay (which works well for toddler containment), a "watering hole" water table, some squirt guns, some sheriff banana cupcakes, and a real deal BBQ and we had ourselves a wild west extravaganza! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12 months of Charlie birthday banner</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The growing bunch of future best friends</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Babci got really into the squirt guns. She's a quick draw and did not hesitate to take down her great -great granddaughter!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A make-shift (free hand) horse cake. It was an interesting endeavor with limited baking utensils...</td></tr>
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For the favors I made some "Little Buck-a-roo Trail Mix" - perfect for little ones. It was an inexpensive and cute favor idea! </div>
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3/4 box of Honey Graham squares </div>
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1/2 bag mini Marshmallows</div>
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3c. Cheerios</div>
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1 bag Craisins</div>
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1/2 bag wagon wheel pretzels</div>
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Mini Chocolate Chips (optional to keep this baby centered you can forgo the chips, but every trail mix needs a bit o' chocolate!)</div>
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Mix in a large bowl. If you have a toddler, this is the perfect activity! If you are feeling extra creative, wrap them in a bandanna, add some labels, and/or attach a harmonica. We were going to add the harmonicas, but they went missing for a few hours. The favors were just as cute (and less noisy) :)</div>
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Despite the photo, Charlie and his cowboy friends had a blast!</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505088945705764306.post-57312191803322794002012-07-13T06:28:00.001-07:002012-07-15T16:38:48.454-07:00Charlie is ONE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The moment I laid eyes on this sweet boy, I felt like I knew him. I believe this is the gift of parenting your second child. Gone is the "can I do this?" fear, it is replaced with the confidence of knowing that I am a parent, I am equipped to attend to his needs (and I can pretend that I know what I'm doing in the middle of the night when I'm really at a loss). In those early morning hours on July 13th, I was blessed with the most amazing gift, a baby boy. As this year unfolded, we've had our difficult moments. The teething, the highs and lows of Julia's adjustment, unexplained sickness, and another realization that there is never enough time in the day...</div>
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Despite our adjustment, Charlie has been along from the ride from the beginning. I laugh that our lives became easier when he arrived. It is beyond true. There is a contentment that seeps from his body. To hold him in your arms is an experience in this peace. Though he is quite proud of his recent accomplishments (which typically involve moving pretty quickly), he remains happy in the arms of someone he loves. He makes his presence known, but it's not with bells and whistles. It is a quiet presence with an insatiable giggle and and a sense of humor that shows that he knows what's going on around him. His favorite things are usually his sister's toys, but he makes them his own. He plays so differently than Julia ever did. He is into things that she never bothered with. He has already accomplished the stairs (under my trusty guidance...I only looked away for a minute and he was giggling at the top). And he is teetering on his feet - ready to walk at any moment. </div>
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This time last year, Julia was walking into the hospital room tentatively climbing on the bed to catch a glimpse of her new brother. At this very moment he is clinging to her back, ready to climb all over her. It is exciting to watch this unfold and anticipate our year ahead. I'm sure it will involve many falls, scrapes, and headfirst dives into a make-shift adventure. My delicate newborn is now becoming quite the daring child and as we hold our breath, we love every bit of it!</div>
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Happy Birthday little one!</div>
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What a year, Charlie. </div>
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What a year!</div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01360617957064742735noreply@blogger.com0