SouleMama

getting ready

 

 

 

It's 2pm on October 31st. Is anyone else still trimming seams or waiting for glue to dry? Hmn?

Dressing up is such a blast - What a fun, fun family day!

Happy Halloween and Harvest Days to you and yours!!

Friday, From the Archives :: This Week in 2007

It's Friday! Time for our weekly trip down blog memory lane - this one, written by Calvin.

*** *** *** ***

Calvin Blogs :: Super Rack
{Originally posted October 31, 2007}

"I thought about making my own superhero. Super Rack. Super Rack is a good kind of superhero. He can fly. He can climb up buildings and trees. He can swim underwater for a really long time. He is very very very very powerful. He helps people. That's how I thought about making Super Rack.

Before we made the costume, I  made this poster with all the clothes of Super Rack that I needed to make. I changed them a lot, like at first I thought Super Rack was wearing a red shirt and pants. But then I thought it should be black. And the belt in the picture is brown, but I made a red one. The poster helped me make the costume.

When I was making the mask I did not know yet about Super Rack and who he would really be. I thought I wanted him to wear a mask, but I didn't want to wear a headband AND the mask. So I'll save the mask for another time. Maybe another halloween.

I got some of the costume from my dress up - like the cape that mama made a long time ago. And the pants I sewed to be wetsuit pants in the summertime. I went to Salvation Army with Papa to get the black shirt. And I made the belt and the headband on the sewing machine.

This is Super Rack in his full costume. And today is Halloween! Happy Halloween!"

- Posted by Calvin, 2007 (age 6)

*** *** *** ***

A Note Today:
I do believe that "Super Rack" will forever and always be one of my very favorite Halloween costumes. Right alongside the Song and Dance Man, and a Pirate Fairy Princess...and so many more. There's nothing like a little bit of child-led creativity to make me fall right in love with a holiday.

Today, it really is time to narrow down the field of costume options, don't you think? Photos coming later in the weekend, of course. Wishing you all a Happy Halloween!

knitting notes

Oh, those gratitudes are so, so lovely. Thank you. I could keep going here into another day, couldn't you? But instead - let's talk about knitting! (I know - wild and crazy, huh?). A few little knitting updates for you, if you will. 

:::: Does anyone recognize the pattern for this hat? It's one of my favorites - Harper's wearing it now, but I think I made it for Calvin when he was a babe. It drives me batty that I can't remember the name of the pattern or where to find it - it seems like it might be a perfect one-year old winter gift. I knit it with Lamb's Pride worsted, but I would guess that the pattern called for DK or something similar. I remember being oh-so-confused by yarn weight then. I used worsted for everything. (A little advice to the new knitters out there - gauge matters!)

{Edit: Thank you, The Raven & Liz! I think it's the Garter Stitch Hat, originally from The Baby Book, 1920. Though, for some reason, I added an i-cord tie instead of the button. Oh! And for those of you looking to start knitting, check out all the wonderful resources in this post from last spring. Happy Knitting!}

:::: Lately, Ezra's been modifying a few of the hats I've made for him. At first, I thought the stitches were loosening...until he informed me that he did it intentionally, because 'it looks better this way." So there you have it. Fashion news from Ezra (Oh! I'm totally calling this fashion report into tonight's paper!).

:::: I did a very sad/happy thing this week with a nearly finished Flair. It's been sitting since spring, when I had decided something just wasn't right. I still don't know what I didn't like about i, it wasn't the pattern. Maybe it's the sleeves - the length was off. Or the cotton - I really do love wool best for sweaters. Anyway, I let it sit all summer....and just last week decided it was time to move on. And so now that sweater (above), looks like this (below).

Moving on and letting go is scary and good all at the same time...even when we're just talking about yarn. But it does always feel very, very good. New beginnings are exciting. Now, what to make with 900 yards of Blue Sky Alpacas Cotton? Hmn...I think someone is happy with them just precisely as they are.

more gratitude (is a good thing)

Yesterday was a particularly frustrating day in what I've begun calling 'the new normal' around here - a doctor's appointment in which we were hoping for answers led only to more questions. {Edit: Steve gently points out that I may sound a little dramatic here. He assures you that he is 'fine,' and not to worry.}

So yesterday, I had cut myself some slack in many things, and 'given myself the day off' from blogging today. But then late (late, late) at night, when all of the work of the day was done, I read all of your comments of gratitude. They were so moving and inspiring, I tell you. It's so wonderful reading what others are grateful for - doesn't it always remind you of even more that you're thankful for? It pushes me to think/feel even more gratitude. It really does. And that's always a good thing.

So, indulge me, if you will. In one more day of gratitude. Because gratitude is good, and even more gratitude is better. (Or something like that.)

Right now, I am grateful for...
the (many) moments, scattered throughout the day, spent nursing my littlest one. Each time, bringing a moment of peace, connection, and love that I treasure so dearly.

What else are you grateful for? And if you didn't have a chance to say so yesterday, c'mon and join in! It feels good!

grateful

 

 

 

right this minute, I'm feeling grateful for...

:: dear friends and our traditions

:: the delicate balance between western & eastern medicine

:: The House Above the Trees on audio - that has the whole family dreaming

:: handwork - well, yeah

:: And (though I can't believe I'm saying this...) the humor of six year olds. This is Ezra's 'vomiting pumpkin'. And for all the eye-rolling, protesting and groaning I did about it, you know what? It gives me a much-needed laugh every single time I walk by it. So thank you, Ezra. For your vomiting pumpkin.

What are you feeling grateful for right now?

ada's neighborly

Indeed, I've been knitting - one stitch, one row, one moment at a time through this latest little life adventure we're in. So I must warn you that there very well may be a flood of knitting projects coming this way soon. Or not. I can't really tell if anything is actually getting finished - that feels a little bit less important than all the knitting.

But this one did make it off the needles. The pattern is the (free!) Neighborly by JCasa Handmade. I love the spirit in which this pattern was written up and shared by Jennifer, and thought often in the making of it about the concept, and how I plan to act upon it. I have so much to be grateful for right now, and this gave me many moments of thought about that, which led to a few needed moments of attitude-shifting. Who would believe that a little bit of knitting could do so much good for the soul? (Okay, well I would.)

Anyway. While I enjoyed making the vest, Adelaide likes the end result. She's a little sensitive to the 'itch' factor that goes along with some of Mama's handknits these days, and so I very carefully chose some Manos del Uruguay silk blend from my stash for this one. It's oh-so-soft and silky.

When I asked if I could take some pictures of her with her new vest, she ran to her bedroom and reappeared moments later with this get-up. Be still, my heart - I want that girl's style. And I'm oh-so-flattered by the overload of Mama-mades - the hat is a tiny-Felicity I knit for her, and the legwarmers too. And she's been wearing that skirt I made her from a vintage dress for years now. (I take no credit for the shoes - they're by Simple and she picked them out all by herself. Totally.)

 

Good gracious, I love talking to four year olds. On our little walk, our conversation went smoothly and rapidly from celebration and excitement at the clump of mud she found to a full-on demonstration of the reindeer dance she's learning in ballet (yes! for the Nutcracker!). I do so love 'four.'  Always engaging, excited and very entertaining. (Though, I think I say that about every age.)

As is almost always the case, Adelaide skipped far ahead of me on the way home. Following her footsteps, I came upon this scene:

Which was followed by this one:

 

And I bet you can guess what came next, right? Splashing, stomping, and eventually - rolling. With glee and many giggles.

That's my girl.

weekending

I hope you're having a cozy weekend!

SouleMama Sponsor ~ NATURAL PARENTING CENTER ~

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Today's featured sponsor is the Natural Parenting Center! In their words:

"Natural Parenting Center is an online community offering support to parents and caregivers in the form of parenting consultations, life coaching, and workshops.

Natural Parenting Center is made up of parents, coaches and educators that can help you become the parent, or more importantly, the person that you want to be. Look here for the 'how to' of progressive parenting."

You can also following along with Natural Parenting center through their blog!

{Photos by Heidi Buecking}

For today's giveaway, Natural Parenting Center is offering two winners:

A month of either life coaching or parenting consultation (or a combination of the two). A month includes three forty-five minute sessions.

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post (one entry per person, please!). I'll close comments and announce the winners by 9am EST on Sunday.

In addition, Natural Parenting Center Is offering complimentary half hour trial sessions to anyone referred through SouleMama. Email [email protected] with 'soulemama' in the subject line, and they will schedule your session. (End date November 20th)

Good luck, everyone!
Thank you, to Natural Parenting Center!

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments closed! The winners are:

oh, my fingers are crossed. we are going through some things right now in our parenting world that we are really struggling with. thanks for the offer and i wasn't even aware of this center! Posted by: Nicola

What a great giveaway! I could defenetely use a months of this offer! Thanks a lot! Posted by: MamAmor

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Friday, From the Archives :: October in 2006

Another little trip down blog Memory Lane...

*** *** *** ***

Patiently Knitting
{Originally posted October 4, 2006.}

I snapped this photo on our walk yesterday. We went to to one of our favorite walkways by the ocean for some skateboarding, watching the train, and generally frolicking about. I happened to look down at this scene - with eyes other than my own for a moment - and saw how funny it was that the yarn came with us. I mean, it always comes with us. For seven years - since I started knitting - I've always carried a knitting project with me. I bring them in the car, and they move about from bag to bag (gathering crumbs of food along the way). Just waiting. Waiting for that five minutes that I'm sitting in the car with sleeping children. Or for that reaaally long train in front of us. Or for the (oh, so) few moments that all three babes are happily engaged without me at the beach, playground, woods or wherever we are. And those moments where knitting actually happens are heavenly. Worth the wait. But I started to think about the number of those moments where I actually do knit, and how relatively small that is compared to the number of hours that the yarn travels with us. It's pretty small. Really small. If I had to put a number on it, I'd say about 2%. That's a lot of traveling for that yarn, and not so much action. Which at first I thought might be a bit ridiculous, but the more I thought about it (it was a long walk), the more I liked the idea. That there's always a presence of something being made, of a creation in progress, of the work of handmade. I've got to believe that it's instilling some sort of value in all of that, and that ultimately (bear with me here), the 'energy' of the kids sock (or whatever it may be) is all the more 'full' for having 'lived' with us for so long. And the beautiful thing about that yarn is, it's so patient. The very nature of knitting isn't one of rushing, or quick results. And so, it's presence serves as a reminder of that for me. It says: The yarn will be there. The project can wait. Take a deep breath. Play with your kids.

These were the thoughts in my head on our walk yesterday as I walked around with my little ones, and gazed at that ball of yarn and needles just sitting there. Waiting patiently to be knit.

*** *** *** ***

A Note Today:
Well, well. This one seemed rather fitting for me right now...three years later. (And those socks did eventually get finished and onto some toes!)

Happy Weekend to you, Friends!

autumn smells good

 

 

 

Summer is most assuredly my favorite season, but my goodness, autumn sure has a lot going for it. I find myself falling in love with it more each year. This week I've been noticing the overwhelming, amazing, beautiful smells of the season. Outside - the ground, the wet leaves, the chimney smoke in the air; and Inside - a constant fire now, wool, and preserving the last of the season's harvest. I close my eyes as often as I can remember - to inhale and exhale as slowly as I can - taking it all in before it's gone.

Autumn smells so good.

late-night sewing

Most nights right now are ending with me making nothing less than a THUD as I fall into bed. But! I did find my way to the sewing machine one evening recently. I'm not exactly sure when or how it happened. And in fact, it all feels rather like a blurry dream that may have never happened at all, save for the presence of these two pieces of clothing as evidence. So I know I'm not imagining things. There was some sewing, I am sure of it. (clearly still convincing myself.)

I had in mind to make Adelaide a pair of pants from Carefree Clothes for Girls since the book arrived (remember that I made the White Melton Hat for Harper from the same title).  So late that evening, when I sleepily walked toward the sewing machine, I was met with the book, and the washed black linen sitting on the studio table. So that's what I made. Not the sewing that I have deadlines for, not the sewing I have in-progress, but this. It was just the kind of sewing I wanted needed to do: simple, fun, and for my babes.

The pants were easy and simple to put together with a bit of lace on the hem. And the scarf was so incredibly fun to make - I just opened up my favorite suitcase full of vintage linen pieces and started cutting and piecing, following along the pattern guidelines. So fun. It's backed with a really soft wool - cozy on the neck. I think I want one too.

 

In the morning, she had this ready for her by her bed (I love doing that), and ready for a little trail walk.  She approved, thank goodness. "Four years old" is getting a little harder to get the crafting for right each time - without opting for purple each and every single time, that is. But she liked this, many thanks to the presence of that sweet birdie (thank you, once again, Megan!).

Making things for my babies? It really is one of my greatest joys, I am certain of that. And I am grateful for the little pocket of time I found for making these two little things. Even if I was half-dreaming when I made it...and even if I was a wee bit sleepier the next day. Once in a while, you just have to do such good-for-you/good-for-them things, you know? You know.

the news

You all have been so sweet with your well-wishes and thoughts lately - we appreciate them so much! I wish there was some news to report of Steve's health and the family status as a result, but unfortunately, nothing of the sort yet. We're still waiting on answers, looking for patience, healing and grace in the meantime. The days are long and it's a bit of a trying time for the adults in the house, truth be told. But amidst all of that, of course, blessings abound. And they feel - perhaps - even sweeter. We are reminded in so many ways, in so many moments throughout our days, of just how good it really is.

In the past few weeks, Calvin has started up the Soule Evening News,  complete with everything a newspaper needs. It's heavy on the Sports, Food, Games and Comics. Full color on Sundays! And each day, delivered hot off the press to the kitchen island at precisely 4:50pm ("because that's when 'evening' starts." he says).

And so...rather than boring doctors appointment summaries and reports from a tired Mama, I bring you the real news today...excerpts from recent editions of the Soule Evening News:

On the Front Page:

"There is a sickness dancing around and a lot of coughs from breakfast to dessert. But there are some sickness survivors around the house. Achoo!"

The Weather Report:

3:45pm - rain
3:55pm - rain
4:10pm - sprinkles
4:25pm - barely sprinkles
4:35pm - rain and clouds
4:45pm - still raining

Letter to the Editor:

"Dear Editor.
I want to watch the scariest movie ever made. But my Mom and Dad won't let me. I think they should. My favorite scary movie is Princess Bride.
Sincerely, Ezra Soule"

From the Food Page:

(drawn, with translation by the editor) "Apples, water, cut the apples and cook the sauce. Applesauce!"

In the Classifieds:

The most Soule-loved Brocily Soup - free!
The very best yummy Beef Stew - Free!
The good Burrito - Free!
The very very hot Chili and nutritious brussel sprouts - Free!
All Free! All organic! All fresh! All the time!

From the Sports Page:

In gymnastics, Adelaide Soule had a perfect score of 1000 points for her magnificent couch headstand, to break the world record of 10 points.

"That's the news!"

SouleMama Sponsor ~ THE BACKWARDS LOOP ~

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Today's featured sponsor is the backwards loop! In their words:

"the backwards loop carries the latest and greatest yarns and patterns from indie yarn dyers and pattern designers.  Some of the yarn dyers include: Madelinetosh, Three Irish Girls, Hand Maiden, Oceanwinds and more.  We also carry up and coming designers Stephen West (daybreak shawl), and Laura Chau.  We offer yarn winding on all purchases, yarn and pattern assistance (from picking colors, to pairing yarns with patterns and everything in between).  We would love to be your online yarn shop!"

For today's giveaway, the backwards loop is offering two prizes:

• (top photo) The first prize is for Madelinetosh's latest base of tosh merino in Ginger.  It is a single ply worsted weight yarn.  It is amazingly soft, making it perfect for next to skin wear (hats, cowls, scarves, sweaters, etc). Each skein has 210 yards.  Ginger is an amazing red orange blend, perfect for fall!
• (bottom photo) The second winner will receive two skeins of Three Irish Girls BFL Cary's in the backwards loop colorway (which is our exclusive colorway!).  BFL Cary's is a 100% Blue Faced Leicester wool.  And is perfect for hats, mittens, scarves, sweaters and baby items (like longies baby pants).  Each skein is 220 yards.  The backwards loop colorway is comprised of grey,white, and yellow.  Yellow and gray is my favorite color combination.

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post (one entry per person, please!). I'll close comments and announce the winners by 9am EST on Monday.

In addition, the backwards loop is offering 15% off your entire order this weekend! Use coupon code: FallMama

Good luck, everyone!
Thank you, to the backwards loop!

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments closed! The winners are....

For the Madelinetosh -

Oh, to win some delicious yarn right now would be heavenly.
Posted by: April Coburn

For the Three Irish Girls -

Goodness! They are both so beautiful! I have my fingers crossed.
Posted by: Crystal

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

SouleMama Sponsor ~ SEW LIBERATED PATTERNS ~

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Today's featured sponsor is Sew Liberated Patterns! Sew Liberated Patterns is one of the many projects born from the studio of Meg McElwee. You likely know Meg as the blogger of Sew Liberated, as the author of a forthcoming book of the same title, and of course - as Mama to Finn. In Meg's words:

"Sew Liberated Patterns is a Mama-run design company based in North Carolina. From design, sewing, instruction writing, pattern layout and shipping - it all happens in our home studio. All of our patterns are designed and written with with attention to detail and are accessible to all levels of sewists. We have a fool-proof method of making sure our patterns are easy to understand - if my husband, Patrick, can understand what is going on (having never touched a sewing machine in his life) then we figure that the instructions are good to go!"

 For today's giveaway, Sew Liberated Patterns is offering their three newest patterns to three SouleMama readers (each winner will receive all three patterns) - the women's Schoolhouse Tunic (sizes 2-20), the girl's Flora Tunic and Twirly Skirt (sizes 2T -10), and the children's Woodlands Shirt (sizes 2T-10).

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post (one entry per person, please!). I'll close comments and announce the winners by 9am EST on Sunday.

In addition, Sew Liberated is offering SouleMama readers 20% off orders placed from October 17th - October 24th. Use the following link to the pattern shop to find your discount: Sew Liberated SouleMama Discount.

Check out all of the Sew Liberated goodness -

Sew Liberated - Sew Liberated website

The Pattern Shop - this link will take you to the SouleMama discount page

Sew Liberated, the blog - follow the adventures of Meg and her family

Sew Liberated, the book - available for preorder now!

Good luck, everyone! 

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments closed! The winners are...

oh! pick me! Posted by: Amy Bowers

Who wouldn't love any of these three patterns. I love them all and follow her blog. Such a lovely spot. Posted by: Siew

Oh my, how busy these would keep me. Beautiful! Posted by Liz Saucier

Congrats to the winners! And remember that the discount applies through this coming week! (See above for details). Thank you, Sew Liberated!

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Friday, From the Archives :: This Week in 2005

There's a whole lot of posts in these archives of mine. One thousand, four hundred and twenty two posts , spanning almost five years, to be precise. My, oh my. I do not know where the time has gone, nor do I know how I could possibly have that many things to say. But there they are. I don't often peek at those old posts - sometimes looking at them makes me twitchy with want for an editorial red pen. But every once in a while I find myself looking for a photograph or a pattern or such, and get lost for a little while in there on Blog Memory Lane - grateful for the little windows into the not-so-distant past of my family life, and also at the life of this community and online space.

I thought it might be fun to take you back with me once in a while - taking a peek at a random(ish) post from this month in years' past. And so...without further adieu, I bring you....this week, in 2005:

*** *** *** ***

{Originally posted October 1, 2005.}

It's Cool To Be A Pack Rat

My habit of saving nearly everything comes from my parents. Often, I'm quite grateful for all the "stuff'" they saved -- like this clown suit we found recently in my parents attic. My grandmother made this for her children to wear in the mid-forties. All 5 of her children wore it at one time or another (my dad included), and I remember two of my sisters wearing it too. It was in need of some serious cleaning and mending, but I managed that just fine, and now....Calvin (who's been performing circuses in the backyard since our circus experience this summer), has the perfect suit for his performances.

My crazy performer and the signs he made for the show. There are tickets too, and a playbill. Oh yeah...he's pretty hardcore about his performances. Two showings a day around here. No rest for the clowns.

And Ezra, the announcer and one man band for the show, who bangs on the banging wall for the "music".

Calvin, on the "set" of the circus. In the high spot where he gives his Mama a near heart attack.

I love, love, love all of these creative and imaginative characters and performances that happen around here..it's such a joy of parenting and knowing these little boys!

*** *** *** ***

{A Note Today: One year later, in 2006, this suit was worn by Ezra for Halloween, with a new one added to the collection for Calvin. Both costumes are worn at least once a week around here these days. Also...four years later and Calvin still gives his Mama a near heart-attack on a daily basis with his physical stunts; and Ezra still is rocking the One Man Band. I would imagine these  last two things to be true in ten years too. Fun. }

a baby girl

For the fourth generation, the family cradle is getting dusted off to make room for a new little babe in just a few weeks! 

This weekend was the baby shower for my sister and her soon-to-be here baby girl. I had grand plans of a whole lot of handmade, homemade, crafty goodness weaving it's way into the party, but given life's circumstances at the moment, plans got shifted a bit, and I opted for sanity instead. (My family thanked me.) Besides, who can complain about yummies from the best bakeries in town? (Standard, Scratch and Big Sky - oh my!) Exactly. Delish.

But! When it came time to pick up favors, well...I just couldn't stop myself from doing a little something. Completely inspired by Brooke of inchmark, I packed Katie's favorite candy (Maine needhams), and wrote a simple message on card stock. Paper punch, fabric, a glue stick and a stapler. One little  late-night production line (powered by the needhams themselves, thank you very much), and these simple little treats were done.

I do believe the words out of my mouth upon hearing word of this exciting pregnancy were "Congratulations!!!!"  Slight pause.  "You like pink and purple, right? Will you put wool on your baby?" and on and on. We silly crafters.

After those questions and a bit of thought - given that we're blessed with aunts and grammies to sew the quilt and knit the sweaters and blankets - I decided to make a small pile of hats for this little babe. Hats for the first year. (There are full notes on each hat on my Ravelry page, for those interested in patterns and yarn and such details.)

Baby hats are so incredibly fun to knit, and so stinkin' adorable...but oh, I cannot wait to get those on that baby girls' head and squeeze her up!

how to make applesauce

Did I mention all the apples? Two bushels, to be precise. A lot of apples. I haven't had the circumstances to do a big pie-filling freeze like last year. Instead, most of the preserving I've been doing is in the form of applesauce. Because it's easy, no details need be precise, and most especially because it's easy to make over a long period of time. Say, for example, that I start peeling apples at 9am and get interrupted or distracted approximately four dozen times. When I return to the project four hours later...it's still pretty much good to go! That's an essential to the kind of cooking happening around these parts lately.

So...after many days full of applesauce-making, I do think I've found the perfect recipe. It is as follows:

:: one volunteer to start the washing

:: one very strong boy to peel the apples

:: or to head straight to the cutting...depending on the chosen method of the day

:: one to prepare the pans (bundt pan optional)

  :: one little miss to motor the mill

:: one monkey on the back

:: a caged, carrot-eating cougar named Cathy to enforce stove-top rules

:: one kitchen band for good tunes

:: and one to spin the records (so to speak) when the band goes home

:: and a proper taste-tester, but of course

Add all of that together and you're guaranteed a whole lot of yummy applesauce, not to mention a very good day.  Best enjoyed in front of the seasons first fire. (With just a bit of ice cream on the side.)

{In other words? Wash, peel, core and cut into eighths. Place in pot with just a bit of water. Add cinnamon or whatever else you desire. Cook, covered on low until it's just how you like it. Easy peasy. Sometimes I get lazy about the peeling and put it through the food mill at the end to get out the peelings. It all depends on who's in the kitchen!}

right now :: time to knit

 

 

 

 

{Thank you so much for the fabulous audio suggestions in Thursday's post! They were wonderful, and will surely keep us going much longer than this little injury sticks around these parts. Do read the comments in that post if you're at all interested in audiobooks!}

I tried sewing late one night last week. A mere twenty minutes in, and I stitched the sweater I was wearing to the bag I was making. So I laughed at myself, called it a day, and determined that right now is not a time for sewing. It's not a time for writing either, despite many similar late nights staring at a blank screen in an attempt to do so (and a fast-moving calendar that reminds me I'm approaching a manuscript deadline).

No, right now is not the time for any of that. This is the time for knitting.

When I emptied my camera's memory card last night after a full week of not doing so (I usually do it each day), it became clear. Through the photographs of our recent days was a common theme - a little bit of yarn threaded throughout.

Our home right now is quite literally 'littered' with yarn (and also laundry, but we needn't focus on that). There is knitting in my lap when I'm at a tea party with Adelaide. There is knitting in my hands when the boys are giving me their Halloween costume idea of the day (at some point, we'll need to narrow that down!). There is knitting in my hands as I pause in the day, looking for just a little extra patience. And late at night, when everyone else is sleeping but I, there is knitting in my hands as I've been sipping tea and listening to Thoreau's Walden, catching my breath from the day.

It's not just in my hands - but in the hands of my little ones, too - weaving (that's Ezra above with his weaving loom), stitching, and lacing.  They're doing it too. It seems we're often with yarn on these fall days, on these days of 'waiting' for Papa to get back on his feet. One row here, one row there. I'm grateful for the presence of handwork in our lives right now.

So many times of late, I've been reminded of this Oliver Wendell Holmes quote. It was first sent to me by dear Alicia, and then it wove it's way into the pages of Handmade Home. It is...

Take your needle, my child,
and work at your pattern —
it will come out a rose by and by.
Life is like that . . . one stitch
at a time, taken patiently."

That's what we're doing right now - taking it all one stitch, one step, one day at a time.

Soulemama Sponsor ~ ALEWIVES FABRICS ~

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Today's featured sponsor is Alewives Fabrics! In their words:

"Located in a small historic village on the coast of Maine, Alewives Fabrics has been in business for over 40 years.   For the past 5 years the store has been owned by the mother and daughter team of Barbara Neeson and Rhea Daiute, both of whom are artists and big time fabric-lovers. The shop also employs 3 of the sweetest ladies ever to thread a needle.  We feel very lucky to have a healthy local sewing community that supports us and enables us to carry the variety of fabrics we do.  In the early Summer of 2009 we added an online store that offers the same carefully chosen fabrics you will find in our brick and mortar shop.  There was a time when we would have described ourselves as "contemporary", but nowadays we like to think it is more accurate to describe ourselves as "eclectic."  One of the skills we pride ourselves on is putting together fabric in unique combinations that you may never have thought would work together.  We love modern designers, like Amy Butler and Kaffe Fassett, but we also love classic, timeless designs, such as toiles, tickings and stripes.  Bringing together the best of Fabrics Old with the best of the Fabrics New is both our privilege and our pleasure.  Put simply, we love fabric and we love our job!"

For today's giveaway, Alewives is happy to be giving away one "Gypsy Chic" fat quarter bundle. The bundle includes 20 different fat quarters from designers such as Denyse Schmidt, Kaffe Fassett, Anna Maria Horner, Laura Gunn, Heather Bailey and more. 

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post (one entry per person, please!). I'll close comments and announce the winners by 9am EST on Monday.

In addtion, Alewives is offering everyone 10% off any order placed by October 31st. (Enter the code "soulemama" in the promotional code field at checkout.)

Good luck! And thank you, Alewives!

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments closed! The winner is....

this gypsy mama would love those fabrics!
Posted by: rivermama

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

SouleMama Sponsor ~ HOOT BABY ~

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Today's featured sponsor is Hoot Baby Designs! In their words:

"Hoot Baby clothing is a line for little boys and girls based out of the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina. The idea of something handmade -- something personal -- is very important to us. Every item we produce is made by one of our in-home sewers, talented crafts-people who are dedicated to quality production. We know each and every one of them by name. We care about their lives and their well-being. We pay fair and living wages. And then end result - classic silhouettes in graphic, modern fabrics - puts a smile on everyone's face."

For today's giveaway, Hoot Baby is happy to be giving away one item of their clothing - winner's choice - from the online store!  

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post. I'll close comments and announce the winners by 9am EST on Sunday.

In addtion, Hoot Baby is offering 25% off any order placed by October 31st. Enter the code "soulemama" at checkout.

Good luck! And thank you, Hoot Baby!

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments Closed! The winner is...

Just what I've been looking for for my son and his cousins!
Posted by Bernadette

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

naps are lovely

{Harper fell asleep in the sling on a recent visit to the shore, so I laid him down to give my back a little rest. I thought Martha might like to see how her sweet gossamer scarf doubles as not only what I wear around my neck nearly each day, but also as the perfectly cozy/smells like Mama nap rest spot, too. Martha's new collection - uniform natural launches today!}

You all are so incredibly kind. Thanks for the sweet words and well wishes. We are doing okay. While waiting for things to turn, and waiting on a diagnosis, we're taking good care of Papa and feeling full of gratitude for all that is around us. Though, that isn't to say that I haven't found myself on more than one occasion staring at a sleeping child of mine - like the scene above - with envious longing for just a little nap. I'm a wee bit tired. The days are very, very full right now.

In the past few weeks (yes, this injury has been going on for a while now), audiobooks have been making their way into our daily lives. There's nothing like gathering around and snuggling up together to listen to a story. The little ones daydream or draw; and mama knits or...if all is safe and well, closes her eyes for just a tiny bit of semi-rest.

I subscribed to Simple Audio Books, which we're loving (The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, narrated by Paul Newman, is on tap!). And we've been doing a bit of Boomerang. But what else is out there? Any great online family-friendly audio suggestions for us?

{I likely won't be back before Monday, so I wish you a lovely weekend ahead! And be sure to pop on by here for the regularly weekend-scheduled Sponsor goodness!}

just a little while

{A little backyard quidditch!}

Good morning! Just a quick note to let you know that I'll be taking a few days off. SoulePapa (also known as Steve) has been struggling for some time now with an injury that has finally landed him at home, off his feet and resting. We're a little uncertain as to what the future holds, but hopeful that with some rest and good care he can avoid surgery.

It's getting trickier for me to keep all the balls in the air so to speak, as the solo on-her-feet parent, so I'm doing some adjusting to our days. Among other things, taking a blog break seems like a necessary and good idea right now.

In the meantime, we'll keep keeping on by trying to keep things as simple as can be. We do have nearly two bushels of apples here, which I'm fairly certain could be turned into breakfast, lunch and dinner for at least a week, don't you think? And there's always popcorn!

I'll pop in to say hello in a few days! And I'm sure you'll understand if I share more photographs  and few words for a bit. I've got to save all of my words for these babes of mine. (My goodness, there's a whole lot of talking in one day!)

Have a lovely stretch of days, friends!

xo,
amanda (and the rest of us!)

SouleMama Sponsor ~ NANTY'S NATURALS ~

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Today's featured sponsor is Nanty's Naturals!  

Nanty's specializes in natural, handcrafted soaps, pure and simple. Soapmaker Tracey started making soap to help with her daughter's sensitive skin. Names for the river that inspires her - the Nantahala River, nicknamed "the Nanty." In Tracey's words:

"Our soap, made from scratch using the cold procoess method, takes four weeks to cure. Our soap has luxurious moisturizing properties and wonderful scents. All of our soap is packaged in brown kraft boxes with labels reminiscent of vintage fabric. We us all of our products in our own home, so you can count on quality!"

For today's giveaway, Tracey is offering a package of five Nanty's 100% natural soaps, including Lemongrass, Oatmeal, Honey Almond, Lavender, and Rosemary Mint.

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post. I'll close comments and announce the winners by 8am EST on Monday.

In addtion, Nanty's Naturals is offering 15% off any order placed by October 11. Just enter the code "soulemama" at checkout.

Good luck! And please be sure to visit Nanty's at-

Tracey's blog - This Little Light of Mine

Nanty's Naturals Handmade Soap

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments closed! The winner is...

What beautiful soaps! Lovely giveaway. :) Posted by: Cynthia

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

SouleMama Sponsor ~ BONES OF A POET ~

♫

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

 

Today's featured sponsor is Bones of a Poet, a photography e-course by Madelyn Mulvaney. A bit about Madelyn:

"Madelyn Mulvaney is a writer and photographer living in Vancouver, British Columbia. Her curiosity leads her  to everyday magic and she enjoys taking her camera out to capture the quirks, beauty and wonder in the world.  She loves morning coffee, film, poetry, vinyl records, dancing, reading books curled up on the front porch,  scribbling in notebooks, long drives without a map and saying 'yes!'"

 

For today's giveaway, Madelyn is offering THREE spots in her photography e-course, Bones of a Poet -

a six week journaling/photography e-course which encourages you to unearth your wishes and dreams and give them a 'stage' in which to flourish through your personal journaling and photography.

In addition to the e-course, each winner will also get to choose a photo from Madelyn's Etsy Shop!

To enter, simply leave a comment in today's post. I'll close comments and announce the winners by 8am EST on Sunday. 

Good luck! And please be sure to visit Madelyn at-

Bones of a Poet e-course
Persisting Stars blog
Madelyn Mulvaney Photography Shop

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Comments closed! The winners are...

fabulous timing, I've been looking for a photography class in our city but nothing as interesting as this course has been found. Posted by: Maggie

oh...yes please. I would love a chance to do both writing and photography. Sounds wonderful. Thank you for offering this. Posted by: enchantedmama

Yes! This is exactly what I need right now. I'm wanting to learn more about photography and take my journaling to a more visual level to add a new dimension of expression. I think this would be so theraputic. I would love the chance to take this class. Posted by: Ahna Fryhover Emmert

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

celebrating autumn :: apples

 

 

 

 

 

(Can you read the story of Harper's day at the orchard with these pictures? Curiosity, discovery, devouring, and dismissal - in that order. We couldn't figure out where all the apples were going...until we caught him in the act, tossing them over the side of the wagon with a  fabulously cheeky grin. Oh, those quiet, funny fourth children...)

It just wouldn't be fall without the apples. And now, let the apple baking commence!

Happy Weekend to you!

celebrating autumn :: in harvest

{at the farm}

The ending of one harvest season and the beginning of another. While saying goodbye to summer's flowers, I'm dreaming about favorites right around the corner:

Warm Butternut and Chickpea Salad with Tahini
Thai Spiced Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin-Chocolate Chip Squares

What seasons' favorites are you dreaming about?