Yesterday morning Henry woke up and asked for breakfast in bed. Why not? I thought. I grabbed some (mostly spill-proof) vittles and we snuggled in for breakfast. I wiped hands and tried to prevent spills the whole time, but it was fun to bend the breakfast rules and a tiny bit magical in the way that any little shake-up of the routine is magical when you're a child.
I have three goals for our summer days:
* work * read * play
We try to get our chores and 30 minutes of reading done in the morning and then we get on with our fun. Do you know how great it is to plan an afternoon when the only objective is "have fun"?
Really great.
Anne and I need a little summer break, so we're going dark for a few days; we'll catch up with you here in a week or so. Happy 4th!
We had a roller coaster weekend. Friday we had back-to-back plans for birthday fun (Nate's), but he came home from work with a fever and chills, stripped right down to his skivs and crawled into bed. We canceled all plans, made a warm drink and hunkered in for the night. My sister came over and we watched Nie's 20/20 segment. I didn't love the way they reported certain aspects of the story. Some parts seemed sensationalized to the point of being insensitive. And they seemed to skip over the most miraculous and beautiful parts. Did you tune in? What did you think?
It was a long, ugly night for Nate. Thankfully, the bug didn't linger very long. By Saturday afternoon we were at the park with the kids - Nate was moving a little slower than usual, but feeling much better.
Sunday we invited friends and family for a b-day celebration. It was just right - everyone helped with food, the kids played like champs, the conversation flowed easily and so did the laughs. I had seen an idea (in a Martha magazine, of course!) that I wanted to duplicate, so I made a photo collage on the wall in the front room.
*note: Anne made me that darling Birthday banner and i cannot tell you what a fun gift it's been. It's part of our family birthday tradition now - we get it out for everyone's special day. I think it would be cute to give for a wedding or bridal shower gift - a family tradition in a box. What is better than that?
It was so nostalgic to get out our big box of family photos and find all the most memorable ones of Nate - shots from his childhood, our engagement and wedding pictures, the births of our children. The ones that really got me were pictures of big, strong, handsome Nate being so tender with our tiny babies. If there's anything sexier than that...?? We have several pictures of Nate and Henry napping together when Henry was very small and, so help me, I cannot keep my eyes dry when I look at those! So anyway, the project was really fun and meaningful to put together and it was such a fun conversation piece at the party. Nate and his mom stood in front of it for a good while reminiscing on memories from his childhood. We laughed about the picture of little boy Nate in a polka dotted dress. Lots of fondness and smiles. A great way to start a party. And a snap to pull off.
It is easy to celebrate Nate; his goodness is as big as the sky.
Happy Monday, Em
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
We follow a little calendar at Bloom; it's our attempt at organization and looking ahead. Today I am slated to post something about "creative wall art." But I haven't taken the pictures. And I don't want to talk about wall art. I want to talk about home. I hope Anne won't be too mad at me (wink!)
I've had a few occasions recently to feel humble. To realize that the way I think of myself is not necessarily the way I am perceived by others. To feel vulnerable and misunderstood; to question some things I thought I had figured out.
I feel equal parts dislike and gratitude for these experiences. It's good to shed the vanity, the pride, and disillusionment. It's good to reevaluate. But humility, though sweet in the end, is a lemon on the way down. And introspection, so likely to yield peace, often brings thunder in the interim.
Captain America and his little sister enjoy a story from their dad
So in the midst of the swirling periphery, I have been exceptionally grateful for home. For me, it is true north. I get my bearings here. It is the place I understand, and feel understood, best of all. I live with a 5 year old boy who likes to dress up like heroes and talk about powers - the super and secret kinds. (I love that imaginary chatter). I've been thinking recently how home is the place where certain gifts, like secret powers, are really brought to light - where I can discern needs and calm fears and dispense love and give courage with more power than I have anywhere else.
Been feeling extra tender about that lately. And grateful that what I get from life "in here" helps me confront things "out there."
Disclaimer: we don't place many products on Bloom. But, sometimes, when we think something is so awesome that we want to shout it from the rooftops, we do.
Last Mother's Day threw me a couple of surprises. Having sent my husband off on a three-week, European business trip, I wasn't planning on a special breakfast or any presents on Mother's Day. But, lo and behold, a few days before the holiday, a package arrived from Amazon. I was puzzled (I hadn't ordered anything, had I?). Inside the box I found a Flip and a note from my husband explaining that for Mother's Day, he wanted to give me something to help me preserve the memories of these magical and (believe it or not) fleeting days. It was a (MUCH) bigger present than we'd normally do, but since he was gone, he wanted to do something extra special.
The Flip is the best present I have ever received relative to mothering. And here's why. I can't count how many times we've been in this situation: "Honey! Rog just took a step! Quick, go get the camcorder!" "Where is it?" "In the closet! Hurry, he's taking another step!" "Here it is. But where's a disc? And wait, the battery's not charged." And then Rog stops performing and we all sigh.
With my Flip, all of those woes are gone. My favorite things about it: *The thing is tiny! It's the size of my cell phone. I have it in my purse at all times so, no matter where we are, I can capture the beautiful/hilarious/ridiculous things my children do and say. *The battery lasts for ages and ages. *The Flip is all digital. No messing around with discs (although you can, of course, burn your videos onto DVDs). *All the content can be uploaded quickly onto your computer, because the Flip plugs directly into a USB. Then, the Flip software helps you quickly share your videos on your blog, you tube, facebook, etc.
For a taste of the Flip, here's a video I shot on Rog's birthday. Things to note: -The look on Rog's face after he says, "Good!" Kills me every time. -Taylor's mad cake skills -If it seems like I'm being rude to Blaine, it's because he was being ultra sassy about stealing Rog's part of the cake.
The Flip has critics, of course. If you are a hard core videographer, you might be frustrated with the Flip's imperfections, the biggest of which, in my opinion, is that it doesn't do a great job in low light situations. Also, when uploading to Blogger, the picture is pretty grainy. It's much more clear on your computer, and also on you tube. Here's the same video of Rog, this time on you tube. The picture is much more clear.
Even with its imperfections though, I am in love with my Flip. It has completely revolutionized by ability to capture the everyday.
And, because I really love you, and because it's Friday, here's a clip from the Cropper family Christmas Eve Talent Show. Taylor and I decided to kick it up a notch this year and sang a karaoke version of Lay All Your Love on Me (a la Mama Mia). Things to note: -I have never been more nervous in my life, as evidenced by my lack of breath support, my nervous/awkward dance moves, and my profuse sweating (which, thankfully, the Flip did not capture). -Taylor should be the next Glee Star -Our friend, Brian's hilarious commentary
(you're welcome for the good laugh.)
Next week on Bloom we'll learn from wiser mothers, plus share more ideas for fun and indulgent Mother's Day treats! Happy Weekend! xo anne and em
It's hard to stay on top of scrapbooking/journaling as my family grows. I'm hoping my personal blog will suffice as a family record; I've been fairly diligent at it for about 3 years now. But I would also like to have other little treasures by which to taste these years in retrospection. And a few smaller volumes that I can gift my children as they get older.
I've been collecting pictures of my children for a "When You Were Little" book. I think I'll use Snapfish or Blurb or some such self-publishing/photo processing option. And maybe give them to my children when they turn eight. Or ten. Even at five, Henry is already amused when I tell him about the way he used to pronounce words, or the gestures and routines of his toddlerhood - there is an obvious warmth and satisfaction in imagining himself as a tiny boy.
I just thought I'd share the idea. And if you're inclined, you can start capturing your littles with this in mind. Here's a little sampling of what I've collected so far (for Henry):
When You Were Little...
You were kind
You had Fred Flintstone feet
You loved to suck your thumb
You were smart We played in the Texas rain
We were pals
I kissed your cheeks all day long and wanted to eat your neck for dessert
I could post 47 (hundred) more, but I think you get the idea.
We told you it was difficult to choose finalists for the Spring photo contest. As we share all of the entries in a series of posts over the next few weeks, you'll see exactly how difficult.
A Day Like This by Mandi
"March is such a tease! That odd wintery fog crept up in the morning, but we've still got signs of spring on its way. Make up yer mind, March! ;) "
Spring by Stacy
"My little girl loves dogs. Spring has lured the neighbors into taking their dogs on walks oftener, and the minute she spots these dogs her face lights up with pure joy. She screams excitedly and stretches out her pudgy hand to them and it couldn't make either of us happier."
Windy Sunday by Sarah
"My son James is flying his kite at the end of our cul-de-sac on a windy Sunday afternoon, enjoying rare time with his Daddy. Audrey loves to be outside, and the cat likes to tag along too!"
Lilac Blooms by Dani
"I always look forward to lilac blooms. To me, these fragrant blossoms are the essence of spring. It makes my heart happy to see these lovely lavender blossoms, and my spirits soar when I get to enjoy their scent while watching my little ones frolic in the spring grass. Happy spring!"
Walks by Victoria
"Spring is walks. Sometimes 2-3 a day. I'm introducing my 5 month old to the outside world: sunshine, flowers and birds. When the sun was in his eyes, he pulled the draped blanket (used block the sun) inside so he could have more shade without missing beauty strolling past."
Bikes by Jenny
"Spring for the Hiett Family means the return of family bike rides."
Tiny Flowers by Jen
"These tiny, delicate flowers have suddenly appeared in our back yard, spreading across the lawn from under the bare fig tree. They've been a beautiful reminder to me that even the Phoenix desert (where winter just means you can't swim or wear flip flops every day) knows that spring is here."
Just Her Boots by Christina
"Spring to us means more sunshine and less clothing!"
P.S. Friends, we are guests of the Mother Huddle today! Come find our bullet list here!
There is just one bad thing about this Spring Photo Contest and it is this: it is incredibly difficult to choose finalists. Oh, is it hard!
Please don't be sad if your submission isn't in line below; we think your kids are cute. We think your blossoms are magnificent. We think your moments are beautiful. It's just that we were trying to narrow it down to ten from an incredible collection of submissions. (And then, heaven help us, we couldn't quite do it-so we chose twelve finalists!) Thanks to all of you for your lovely submissions. What we especially loved, was the variety of photos we received--so many different takes on Spring. Through your photos, you represented the diversity of the United States and world and your own unique lives. So beautiful.
The process of choosing finalists has rendered us completely incapable of another round of judgment. So, we need your help. There's a poll on our sidebar right now which lists each of the following photos; it will stay up through the weekend. Please vote (just once) for your favorite photo.
Voting will end Sunday night at 10:00 pm PST. Winner will be announced Monday morning.
Southern California Spring by Darcy
"Here in Southern California Spring may not arrive with such a dramatic entrance as it does in other parts of the country, but Spring is still alive and well here in Los Angeles! The rain falls and the flowers begin to bloom and we find ourselves surrounded by all the beauty of the season."
Potential by Jessica
"This cactus jumped out of nowhere from the side of a busy desert road--unintended, untended and beautiful. It made my day. To me, this image is a reminder that even under the prickliest of circumstances, all things--including cacti and people like you and like me--have BLOOM potential."
Spring by Kayli
"Spring-- finding water, throwing rocks, hunting frogs, building dams, being out again."
Flying Kites by Melissa "In California, March brings the wind and clear, crisp, sunny days. Our Daddy is the kite flying master, and we love going to the park to fly our kites!"
Spring - The First Bits by Sabrina
"This photo was taken last week when the temperatures got warm for the first time this year here in Chicago. I was able to "air out" my kiddos and it was a glorious afternoon for all of us. My oldest (pictured) plopped down on the driveway, closed his eyes and said, 'This is the life!'"
Birdie eating tree by Annelise
"Spring comes late in Colorado. Just yesterday we got nearly two feet of snow. I love this tree! All winter long, when everything else was dreary gray, the pods(?) remained a gorgeous red. In the last two weeks, the birds have come out to enjoy what's left of winter."
Adelaide in Flowers by Heather
"We went to the park earlier this week so I brought the camera along. My daughter, Adelaide, was completely mesmerized by the wildflowers around her."
Playing in the Dirt by Kristy
"I went outside with my little boy to play in the yard. He loves dirt. I can't wait until it is a little warmer so I can strip him down and let him play in the mud :)"
Kids Reading by Katrina
"We've had a few warm days the past couple weeks, and this day all four kids sat outside on our front porch in the late afternoon sun to read. A true sign that Spring is here!"
Laundry on the Line by Kelly
"Spring means it's time to hang laundry outside again!"
Ginormous spider webs by Toria (taken in Dubai!)
"Pointing these out to my 5-year-old on our bike ride to school would likely mean being late (yet again). His fascination and excitement, as well as my own intrigue in the beauty of these little creatures was worth being a few minutes late."
Pikes Place by Sara
"I was at Pikes Place in Seattle last weekend. Stunning floral visuals!"
We hope you've had your cameras out and that you're clicking away, trying to capture Spring. The submissions have started trickling in and we can already tell that this is going to be beautiful!
Speaking of beautiful, let us show you the prizes:
First from Bloom's favorite designer, Emily Yates (of Trestle Design), an original set of Spring greeting cards:
Four Original Spring Designs (two copies of each card for a total of eight cards; envelopes included) Think of the cheerful greetings you could send out - and better still, you could include your Spring Photo!
We are crazy about all of Jessica's designs. You will love these yellow gems on your ears (don't they just exude spring?!), and you get a darling bobby to boot.
And finally, an offering from our latest Etsy discovery, Ruby + Stella Home. Shopkeeper Jennifer uses gorgeous designer fabrics to create pillow covers. Her taste is impeccable--you will love everything she makes! And her shop offers various shapes and sizes of covers, plus oodles of to die for fabrics to choose from. What better way to say 'Welcome, spring!' than by sprucing up your home with some colorful decor?
Thank you so much to all of our prize package donors. What a delightfully springy and useful trophy this is going to be!
Oh, and because we're silly for surprises, we'll probably stick a couple of extra treats in the prize package. We just can't help ourselves.
We loved that. We thought it was fun and paradigm-altering, and inspiring. So we've decided to have another one. This time we're calling it "Everyday Spring." We want to see your photos that capture the essence of Spring time - rain drops, planting seeds, playing in the dirt, daffodils, six inches of late-March snow - whatever it is for you.
Here are the guidelines:
You keep your camera close by.
Capture a moment that is in some way indicative of the essence of "Everyday Spring."
Send us the image (just one, please) by this Thursday evening. You may include a caption/explanation of 50 words or less. Send to: aplacetobloom {at} gmail {dot} com
Please don't be discouraged if you don't have a fancy camera; we're more interested in the moment than the photograph.
We will select and display our top ten favorite photos (at least) and we'll ask you to vote for a winner beginning on Friday, March 26th. We'll keep voting open through the weekend and announce the winner on Monday morning (the 29th).
The prize for the winner will be a delightful "Package of Spring" delivered right to your door - adornments for your home, your stash of paper goods, your children's Spring collection, and yourself! Stay tuned Bloomers because tomorrow we will be spotlighting the individual prizes and they are desirable and darling!
Good Luck! We can't wait to see what you capture...
Here are more examples of your everyday photos submitted for the photo contest (I linked if I knew where to link to)...
"Breakfast" from Anna
"here's a snap shot of my 3 year old during quiet time. he reads the nintendo game booklets cover to cover. hilarious! this one was good enough to sleep on apparently." - from Sarah
"My little Olivia B. was anxiously awaiting a playdate with Olivia C., who only comes into town once in a while, and drew this picture to help pass the time. I love the phonetic "K", and the careful symmetry of the names. ("Bolivia" just makes me giggle!)" - from Trina B.
I left her alone for a few minutes and she got her hands on her sister's preschool artwork (colored rocks)! - from Kira
"Here is my everyday, every minute, every thought... My 4 month old baby girl Denali. I love being a mom for the very first time." - from Savannah
"This where I begin and end everyday... it is where I pray. Prayer is the essence of my day.
I pray throughout the day. It helps me through daily struggles, helps me recognize beauty,
helps me express gratitude, joy and love!" - from Danette
"I snapped this picture of my dad with Asher while we were out walking. Asher was so happy to have Grandpa holding him. It turns my heart into a little puddle to see my baby with my daddy." - from Katrina
- from Jamee * jamee, do you have a 16 month old? I have this scene at my house everyday, too :)
"This is my 13 month old, Oliver. I took him outside to keep him happy during the "witching hour" before Daddy came home. His diaper is sagging and the lawn needs some work, but the sun in shining and my son is happy! That is the essence of my everyday life." - from Katie
"The repetition of my life, yet I never weary of it. A forced pause in my day's routine and an interruption to my night's sleep, but I never resent it. He and I revolve around one another, each within the other one's gravity, symbiotic." - from Barb
"This is the essence of everyday happiness for me: roaming the springtime woods with my children, marveling at all the new greenery, laughing at the squirrels, and with a bag of "duck bread" clutched firmly in a chubby fist as we walk towards the lake." - from Rachael
"My 2-year-old wears costumes on and off all day. He'll have me help him get dressed up and then tell me "I'm spiderman" or "I'm bird" or "I'm cowboy". Once I acknowledge that he'll take it all off and tell me "I'm James" as if he had fooled me." - from Jeanine
"This is a torn book. My oldest son is the size of a three year old with a mind of a one year old. One of his favorite things is the sensation of tearing/ripping paper. Unfortunately, this involves books. He can destroy books. Even those chunky board books that are built to last longer around little children. Because of this, we don’t always invest in books or try to read to our children as much as we might want to. But I still love him and we still try and this photo represents not only our struggles, but also the beauty of our everyday. Who knew that a ripped book could actually be beautiful?" - from Megan H.
"This was the morning of his 3rd birthday, a beautiful Sunday morning. And I just got done telling him happy birthday and how much I love him!"
We follow a little calendar at Bloom; it's our attempt at organization and looking ahead. Today I am slated to post something about "creative wall art." But I haven't taken the pictures. And I don't want to talk about wall art. I want to talk about home. I hope Anne won't be too mad at me (wink!)
Captain America and his little sister enjoy a story from their dad
You were kind
You had Fred Flintstone feet
You loved to suck your thumb
You were smart
We played in the Texas rain
We were pals
I kissed your cheeks all day long and wanted to eat your neck for dessert
A Day Like This by Mandi
Spring by Stacy
Windy Sunday by Sarah
Lilac Blooms by Dani
Walks by Victoria
Bikes by Jenny
Tiny Flowers by Jen
Just Her Boots by Christina
Shopkeeper Jennifer uses gorgeous designer fabrics to create pillow covers. Her taste is impeccable--you will love everything she makes! And her shop offers various shapes and sizes of covers, plus oodles of to die for fabrics to choose from. What better way to say 'Welcome, spring!' than by sprucing up your home with some colorful decor? 
