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{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.
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8.29.12, 6:35pm
On the table: dinner plates and napkins waiting to be set out; Adelaide and Harper's art from the day waiting to be moved; a game of Set in action; today's harvest of tomatoes that didn't fit into the dinner pot; and my great grandmother's (now broken) rolling pin on its way to the workshop where I hope it will have a proper fix and come back to me right away (there's some consolation in knowing that my grandmother and mother both would forgive me knowing that I broke it crushing ice for magaritas).
At the table, my three boys wait patiently for a late dinner. It's a quiet(er) one than usual with just five of us, as one sister sleeps early and the other enjoys a sleepover. We've just compromised on the music we're listening to - between The Lumineers and B.O.B., we landed on Spearhead. Calvin says I can share his picture on the blog just so long as I get the shot of his (fake) tattoo in here. Ezra narrates the game in pig latin. Harper is reminding us all that soon he'll be jumping on a trampoline in gymnastics class (four weeks away). Tomatoes have been slow roasting in the oven, and sausage cooks on the stovetop, all to be placed over pasta just as soon as Papa comes in from doing evening chores. With all of us right here, there won't be a dinner bell. But the hot food coming off the stove will be the call to action they've all been waiting for as plates and napkins are spread out, water is delivered, candles lit, and we all sit down to dinner. We'll pause for a moment of peace to bless the meal and give thanks to each other. And then we'll share our evening meal, together, here at the table.
(Last time, at the table.)
There's been lots of time lately for thinking, and for meaningful family conversations about all things big and small. There's so much I want to talk to you about as well - I have so many new ideas to share - and I will, just as soon as our regular rhythm returns. For now though, we're not yet there. We are well - all are blessedly 'out of the woods' so to speak - though we are not quite yet 'ourselves'. Mostly, we are (I am) just tired (the nights are long on care and short on sleep), and moving slowly. And that's one of the very things I've been thinking a lot about - the idea of convalescence in our lives. The lost art of convalescence, more specifically. Because we have this expectation of ourselves (and each other) in this culture and modern world of ours, that in times of being sick, once we've popped the magic, instant cure-all pill, we then promptly rise from our beds and return to our regularly scheduled work and paycheck, school and datebook. That's nobody's fault, of course, it just is what is right now in our world. But I've been dreaming about something different - a world in which we give ourselves and each other a proper convalescence - the space and time we need in which to recover and heal from whatever life might toss our way. A flu, the fever, whooping cough. Gently, thoroughly, thoughtfully.
Like I said - it's a bit of a dream - not entirely based in the culture and modern world in which we all live and work. But a dream nonetheless. And like all good dreams - it's one worth thinking more about. For me, anyway, and us right now, I've been working to be sure we convalesce in the tiny little ways that we can - by being gentle with ourselves and each other, listening to our bodies, and caring for the whole of who we are - body and spirit. By being still. And so we, the seven Soules of us, find ourselves doing just that these days. Lowering expectations of ourselves, keeping up as best we can, letting go, and keeping on. Convalescing.
I don't know that we currently live in a world in which we can all lay low, painting in the sunshine and spending weeks recovering from illnesses. But I do know for certain that in small but important ways, we can all be a little bit gentler on ourselves - and each other. And that a cure for so many things lives in moving slowly and being still.
Wishing you all a gentle start to your week...
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Today, I bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor,Tea and Ink Studio. In artist Brenda's words:
"My shop, Tea and Ink Studio, houses original woodblock prints, some gouache and watercolor paintings and the occasional seasonal woodblock cards. I sometimes have Christmas ornaments around the holidays as well. I don't sell reproductions as I like to keep it pure, original art straight from my hands to yours.
SouleMama: Tell us about a typical day.
Brenda: I get up early, carve, paint, print or mull ideas and prepare new drawings and designs. I get the kids up and ready for school. Then, off to yoga, the gym or a walk. When the work-out is done, I dive right into the studio with a plan for the next few hours until pre-school pick up at 11am. This fall will be very different with both kids in school all day. There will be more time to make art and I'll be getting my feet wet in social work again.
SouleMama: Tell us about your background. What path led you to the work you do today?
Brenda: I grew up in a small town on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State surrounded by mountains, beaches, tidepools, sandbars and animals. I spent a lot of time singing, drawing, reading and painting. Also, there were many hours of hanging out with the horses, sheep, cow, cats, dogs and chickens. Our family took many weekend ferry rides across the Straits of Juan De Fuca to Victoria, British Colombia - a beautiful, cultured city as well as shopping and concert trips on the ferry to Seattle. There was much to do and see in those cities, including art museums and old architecture which had an early influence on me.
Brenda: This is going to seem crazy and all over the place... but inspiration happens to be that way. It can come from anywhere. Here are some current obsessions: our kids, trips to the beach and museums. My husband and I are opposites and he introduces lots of things I wouldn't have looked at closely. I also am drawn to old machinery of any kind, people's stories, animal behavior (ie migrations) and the psychology behind relationships. The ocean is endlessly mysterious and inspiring. Also, crows, shipwrecks and rock stars. Fashion, the Depression Era and the strength of a person who gets through difficult times (thinking of Dickens' and Austen's characters). I come up with a lot of ideas from my dreams and also while taking very long weekend dog walks.
SouleMama: How do you balance work and family in your life?
Brenda: Balance of family and work is harder as the kids get older. They are busy doing more things and have their own agendas. They are also consumed after school activities, likes and dislikes which is great. It was easier to work when they were babies and took naps! I did a lot of large paintings on canvas back then. Now, woodblocks are the best choice because I can start and stop easily since the groundwork of drawing and design has been done.
For today's giveaway, Tea and Ink Studio is generously offering the following to THREE winners:
~ one of the above woodblock prints - Midnight Bath, Afternoon Rehearsal, and Pupil of Turbine
To enter today's giveaway, please leave a comment (one entry per person, please) in today's post. I'll close comments by 8am EST on Monday, and announce the winner(s), chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed!
Thank you to Tea and Ink Studio! The winners are...
Midnight Bath -
Love these prints - especially midnight bath which captures one of my favorite daily moments I get to share with my little girl! Thanks for the opportunity!
Posted by: Amy
Afternoon Rehearsal ~
How neat! I love your work. I admire and respect the process so much!
Posted by: Megan
Pupil of Turbine ~
Wow! What work. She is a very good artist. The black and white one is my favorite. I think it is very interesting. Thank you for the giveaway!
Posted by: birdsofafeather
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Today, I bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Kelbourne Woolens. In their words:
"We are the sole wholesale distributor of the Fibre Company yarns and Kelbourne Woolens and Knitbot patterns. All the yarns are interesting blends of all natural fibers; alpaca, camel, silk, linen and cashmere, and each colorway is unique.
We maintain a blog at kelbournewoolens.com/blog to keep knitters up to date on what's new from us. Kate and I also design knitting patterns for The Fibre Company and all of our designs can be found online at kelbournewoolens.com/patterns.html. We also have a new book coming out in September, called November Knits. November Knits is a compilation of Autumn inspired designs from our friends, colleagues and some of our favorite knitwear designers working today. It was so great to work on a project with passionate knitters from all over the world and we're so pleased with the outcome.
SouleMama: How long have you been in business?
Kate and Courtney: This August marks our fourth year in business, and it's been amazing! We're both looking forward to year 5.
SouleMama: Tell us about your background. What path led you to the work you do today?
Kate and Courtney: Kate and I both have bachelor degrees in Weaving, Kate also has a masters degree in textile design with a weaving concentration as well. In addition to our educational background in textiles and design, we have always been knitters. After a few years of working at LYSs and for other artists, we formed Kelbourne Woolens. While we do both love weaving, knitting surely is more portable!
SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job? The most challenging?
Kate and Courtney: The favorite part of our job is not working in a cubicle! Being able to nurture our creative selves, making beautiful yarns and fibers that bring a little joy to others is amazing. We are also lucky enough to employ three amazing women on our staff, who are all talented knitters.
SouleMama: How do you keep yourselves motivated and avoid burnout?
Kate and Courtney: Every day is a little different, and we're always working on new projects, designing new patterns or new yarns and colors. I can't imagine being tired of it. We both feel very lucky to be able to work in a field we love.
SouleMama: Tell us about your customers.
Kate and Courtney: Our customers are the best! The only downside to being wholesale only is that we don't get to interact with customers. We travel and teach classes at yarn shops during the fall, and it's a great way to connect with the shop owners and knitters. We both worked in yarn shops before starting our own business so we enjoy getting to spend time in the shops.
For today's giveaway, Kelbourne Woolens is generously offering the following to TWO winners:
the pattern and yarn to knit up this cute little dress, perfect for the oncoming winter season!
(Recently we started wholesaling the Knitbot line of patterns. We have been close friends with designer and Knitbot owner, Hannah Fettig, for many many years and she has been a fan of the Fibre Company yarns and designing with them since day one, so supporting her by providing an additional method of getting her patterns to our retailers made great sense.
Hannah has a new baby at home and as she awaited her arrival she whipped up this adorable little frock using our new yarn, Tundra.)
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To enter today's giveaway, please leave a comment (one entry per person, please) in today's post. I'll close comments by 8am EST on Sunday, and announce the winner(s), chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed!
Thank you to Kelbourne Woolens! The winners are....
Yes, yes, yes! I need a ray of sunshine in my life. Thanks for the chance :)
Posted by: Jessica
What a sweet little knit!
Posted by: Betsy
We are all doing okay, (due in part, I do believe, to all the sweet words of encouragement and healing thoughts coming our way - thank you). The nights are long and the days much quieter than we're used to. Technically free to roam about the world without worry of infecting anyone else, we've decided to stick close to home for just a little bit longer. To let the coughs quiet some more, to catch up on some very missed sleep, to give our bodies time to heal and remedies time to do their work, and well, to be here with each other.
We're treating ourselves with all manner of concoctions which are quite helpful to our lungs and immune systems. But hands down, the family favorite medicine is the combination of art and vitamin d. A cure-all for most troubles under the sun, we think, with immediate and direct results, straight to the soul.
Today, I'm feeling grateful for....
:: a garden that is providing sustenance, ease, and nourishment, despite the bit of neglect it's been getting from us of late.
:: a freezer full of our own meat, combined with the above, meaning that we needn't leave for the grocery store at all, and that our bodies are full of good food.
:: (big) boys who are strong, mostly healthy, and entirely capable and happy to be in the kitchen.
:: garlic, by the pound. In our meals, in our teas, in our tinctures, on our feet. (Who knew?)
:: honey. Oh, those magical, mystical wonderful bees.
:: you, whom I deem the best readers in all of blogland, for: your warm and thoughtful words; sharing of knowledge and stories; and the overwhelmingly polite and kind words you shared here yesterday. They were so very much appreciated.
I wish you and yours a most lovely day today.
I haven't been sure how this particular chapter of our lives was going to fit into the space of this here blog. Because, I hope you'll understand, this Mama is very tired, and a wee bit vulnerable, and most definitely not up for controversy or playing the role of mediator beyond that of my five littles at the moment. (Which is my gentle but sincere way of asking that we skip the volatile topic of vaccines in the comments here today. Thank you so much!).
We've been sick, the seven of us, with whooping cough. Apparently, there's a bit of it going around, especially in Maine, and it's affecting lots of folks (not vaccinated and vaccinated alike - there's some talk that it's a strain potentially not covered by the vaccine).
I won't lie to you - this isn't fun. The cough is a nasty one, and particularly for the very young and the asthmatics amongst us, it's been very hard. With some wonderful medical attention though, we are walking the lovely blend of western medicine and traditional, grateful for access to all of it. From all I read and hear, it's possible that these symptoms could go on for quite a while, and so I'm settling in for the long haul, learning ways we can heal and comfort ourselves as the weeks (and months, oh my) go by. (Rachel's wonderful healing tips from her own family's experience last year has been enormously helpful.)
We have been under a bit of a self-imposed quarantine these days, with just a few more to go before I feel extra certain that we're safe and ready for public consumption. Which means that we've been nowhere but home, home, home. It's made for a different kind of August, to be certain. Camping trips cancelled, summer camps not attended, parties going on without us, visits postponed, beach visits few and far between, garden harvests left un-preserved, ice cream even (!) on the sparse side (the dairy doesn't help). I must confess, there were a few moments in the beginning of it all, watching little ones feel so sick in the summertime, when I wanted to stamp my foot and whine that it just wasn't fair. But we all know how much good that does.
And so I - we - have been doing our best to find the joy in this strange sort of summertime gift we've been given. And it's there - to be found, of course - just as soon as we look for it. There's plenty of adventure right here in our own backyard - stories to read aloud to each other (taking turns with whoever has the clearest voice of the day); audiobooks to discover when no one feels like reading aloud anymore (Anne Hathaway narrating the Wizard of Oz is a new family favorite); "boats" to set sail in the farm pond; hornworms to hunt; music to play for each other (Harper is sitting on our much-loved Curvy Board in that photo); furniture to rearrange when we feel tired of the space we're in; the rare treat of watching shows together (oh Mister Rogers, what a sweet and gentle spirit); pine needles and bee balm to collect for tea; gardens to visit for nourishing food for our bodies; and oh so many naps to take - here, there, and everywhere (and as often as possible).
Home is good, and it's a very good thing we like each other so much. This is the place, and these are the people I'm so glad to be sharing this adventure with.
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edited to add: I'd love to leave the comments open on this thread, as there are some lovely words and helpful tips being shared that could be of benefit to all. However, I'm unable to 'moderate' the language and tone of comments any further (those sweet babes need their Mama), so I'm going to reiterate a few things here as a gentle reminder to folks. Please do read before you comment:
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{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.
(living room dance class)
There's some kind of grace by which the Mama gets sick last, at least in my experience. After everyone else is reasonably taken care of, and it's even possible for Mama to rest just a bit. And so it is that I find myself a little fuzzy headed today and slightly out of sorts, but I'm going to roll with that because I have a whole bunch of little this-n-that things that I wanted to share with you anyway. Perfect for today.
~~ Denyse Schmidt will be in Maine this weekend! She'll be at Alewives teaching Saturday and Sunday (class info here). She'll be at the August S.E.A.M. (Sewing Enthusiasts and Arts of Maine) meeting, launching her new fabric line Chicopee (details about that on the SEAM website). I'm crossing all fingers and toes that I can make it.
~~ Thanks to the wonders of this here box we call the nternet, I will for certain be able to attend Meg McElwee's brand new Craftsy course, Sewing With Knits: 5 Wardrobe Essentials. I'm still not the biggest fan of sewing with knits, I must confess, but if there's anyone who can pull me out of it, I think it's Meg. (I need that maxi dress in a big way.)
~~ I had the great pleasure of seeing the Cowboy Junkies at Stone Mountain Arts Center last weekend. For years I have wanted to get there, and the trip did not disappoint - what an absolutely gorgeous place (and the Junkies were amazing too!). I'm now on the lookout for any and all opportunities to hear live music in a barn in the middle of the woods. Yes, yes.
~~ I am having so much fun over at Habit this month, celebrating the everyday, with the lovely ladies there.
That's all for today, friends. I've got a date with the couch, some honey tea, a book and some littles. The boys have insisted that I read The Hobbit, they think it's a tragedy that I've made it thirty-five years on this planet without having done so. Just a few chapters in, and I already agree.
Wishing you all a most lovely day!
Backyard baseball in the summer is an important part of my life, and I can always be talked into a little bit of badminton too. Croquet? Yes, please. But my favorite summer sport without a doubt is summertime dinner making. A sport, you say? Why yes, yes it is. When the summertime days are full and long, and not a moment's thought is given to the evening meal until there are not just two but five hungry children asking what they can eat....that's when the game begins (and not a moment sooner). And the thrill of the hunt is on as I head to the garden to pull a little of this and a little of that until something starts to come together to look like, well, a meal. Most often, the game becomes a team effort, as a child - or a butterfly - joins me in the game. It's a favorite of theirs too, ("I found a cucumber! We could make....cucumber ice cream!"). Then comes the kitchen work, where I find what I can from the mostly-empty-in-the-summertime refrigerator, and add it all together. If I'm lucky, there will be butter or milk or cheese or at least one of the above (I need a cow). A little bit of music, maybe some wine, perhaps a child on my back to keep things interesting, and the clock begins to tick as the hunger rises, the light fades, and far off in the pasture I can hear some pigs losing patience waiting for their turn to come. Yes, yes...this is a serious sport, my friends.
Winter time meals take more planning and forethought, I find - knowing ahead of time to pull something from the freezer, or the pantry, or from the market. Which is all fine and well come wintertime when that pace feels good. But I do so love this daily summertime shuffle of hunting and making. Of course, victory (for all) comes at the end as we all settle down together and celebrate - another day of health, another day of togetherness, and the bounty of the garden we grow in the summertime.
It is such a treat to watch people doing their thing, isn't it? When they can make magic happen with their ideas and their hands, their dreams and plans? It's been such a pleasure watching the flowers grow - literally and figuratively - at the farm of my friend Stacy Brenner. On a morning last week, she was gracious enough to invite me into FLORA*BLISS (a dooryard farmstand at Broadturn Farm) to watch the height of a weekend of flower activity - where I could hover, click away and even play with the flowers myself. It was a barn full of gorgeous organic flowers and the lovely ladies who turn them into creations that make me want to get married all over again so I can cover every surface with their goodness. Or maybe just throw a big party. Or heck, bring home a boquet and make every single day the party. Yes, please. Sweet bliss.
I brought a little of it back for you. I hope you enjoy...
8.12.12, 7:15am
On the table, Harper waits patiently for his breakfast with sleepy eyes and watercolors - a stack of finished pictures at his side (including the one titled "Mama with a Big Face"). Adelaide joins with a horse tucked under her arm and a costume book by which she's planning her halloween attire that she'd like to sew today. Annabel prefers her fingers to the spoon for oatmeal. I forgot the flour in the dutch baby (yes, there are only three ingredients), but so far, no one has mentioned it. Last night's basket of eggs still sits at the end of the table, and an empty harvest basket waits for a break in this morning's rain to gather the rest of the beans for freezing. There are flowers. Frente is on the iPod. And there is tea with honey, lemon and ginger for all as a summer cold has taken up residence in all of our lungs. My pile - a book, some knitting, a journal - remains as evidence of the quieter moments my day began with.
As the kettle whistles, oatmeal cooks and eggs bake, slowly they make their way into the kitchen on this sleepy, dark, rainy morning - one by one, youngest to oldest, as happens to be the order today.
And in this way, and at this table, our day together begins.
(Last time, at the table.)
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Today, I bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Aurora Shoe Co. In their words:
"Our small shop in rural, Upstate New York is proudly producing some of the only American sourced and manufactured footwear in the US. We make all of our shoes in house, one step at a time, using the best materials we can get our hands on.
Our blog is meant to bridge the gap between technology and reality. We love featuring snippets of family life, local events, and friends and neighbors who inspire us. Our Facebook page is also growing steadily and includes lots of photos and ideas that don't make it to the blog. Facebook updates are faster, so they happen more often.
SouleMama: What inspires you?
Alyssa at Aurora: Lately I've been inspired by small business owners who are building careers that align with their ideals. The push to earn a living can sometimes pull us away from our core beliefs, but these people have found a way to put them together. I think that this kind of ingenuity should be recognized and celebrated so I've started a series on our blog called "Birds of a Feather" to highlight examples of businesses and products whose ideals match our own.
SouleMama: What have you been working on lately?
Alyssa: Our summers are spent with our kids and at the lake as much as we can possibly manage. It's been a hot and dry summer here in upstate New York, so our beautiful lake has been a real blessing!
At the shop, Dave has been putting in some extra hours playing around with a boot design. It's still in the (very) early stages, but we're getting excited about the prospect of adding a new style to our collection, which until now, has not seen a change in 20 years! Expect the end result to be about ankle height with laces.
SouleMama: Do you have any other news to share?
Alyssa: My spring trip to the Squam Arts Fair confirmed that we belong there. I'm looking forward to making the trip up again for the Fall Arts Fair in mid September. I'm planning to take my family for a weekend camping trip, so at this point I'm really hoping that the weather forecast looks good!
Coincidentally, while I'm heading to the Northeast, Dave will be traveling to the northern Midwest for the NorthernGRADE men's market on that same September weekend. I'm hoping that he finds his experience there to be as positive as mine has been at Squam. As you know, making a great product isn't enough, you also have to find the people who appreciate it. After a few years online, we're finally starting to feel like we're making those important connections.
For today's giveaway, Aurora Shoe Company is generously offering the following to ONE winner:
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To enter today's giveaway, please leave a comment (one entry per person, please) in today's post. I'll close comments by 8am EST on Sunday, and announce the winner(s), chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after.Comments closed!
Thank you to Aurora Shoe Company!
The winner is....
I saw these a few months back. I'm a long time Birkenstock wearer so these are just my style! I've never had custom shoes before!
Posted by: [email protected]
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{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.
Upon returning home from a lunch date yesterday, I found this on the kitchen table. A note from Harper, transcribed and typed by Ezra.
Hi mama it's harper could we make a telescope?
can we have rice for dinner and ham and meat and oatmeal?
i rode my bike today
all of them!
i was takin a nap then dad poured my water out that i was gonna drink.
i scootered today too and we got a new tent a new one cause we did!
and we did set it up
and mama when me wake up, can me and papa have noodles?
could you get some more gum the good kind? are you tired of the noodle part? cause I want noodles for dinner too.
Harper from
Mama to
Love.
Was it really a year ago now since you stopped by for the last full and proper farm tour? Well! I'm glad you stopped by today....
Though everyone will likely have come out to say hello, it's the youngest two who will lead the way. By bicycle (short as the ride may be) Adelaide and Harper lead us through the orchard, where you might hear this oft-repeated conversation.
Adelaide: Orchard, mama? Where's that?
Mama: You know Adelaide.
Adelaide: Oh right. (Hands on hips.) But really, Mama. Those tiny trees? With no apples? You call that an ORCHARD?
Mama: Just you wait.
Abandoning their bicycles, they'd stop for raspberries. (See, Adelaide? Berries! An orchard!) Harper would present you with one in each of his little hands and say, "You want the small one or the big one?.....Um, maybe you would like the small one."
And then we'd say hello to the bees. Two hives are thriving and doing oh-so-well and making SO much honey (one was the swarm and the other the swarm left behind with a new and healthy queen made). The third hive, the purchased package from this spring, is barely hanging in there. We debate about how much to 'help' something along that naturally isn't doing well on its own....and we talk to friends who know more than we do...and we get better and better each time at 'reading' our bees.
You'll likely ask about the color of the boxes, which will launch me into a whole conversation about paint color not at all related to the bees, but entirely related to my, um, love for painting.
While I fill your ears with more thoughts about the bees, and for certain about the paint, than you probably wanted to hear, and little ones pick berries nearby, Steve will most certainly have wandered to the garden right next to the bees (he can only handle so much paint chat). From the safe distance of outside the fence, he might be wondering what on earth is going on in that jungle. Or he might be marveling at just how much is actually growing in said jungle. It's hard to tell. Let's move on, shall we?
We head to the barn, where the turkeys are still in the brooder waiting to be big enough for pasture. (And yeah, maybe they're waiting for some fencing too. Someone's always waiting for more fencing.) These new turkeys of ours are doing well - we've had very little loss in these early days (I swear it's the molasses and apple cider vinegar that I put in their water, which we'd never done before). Though they're in a rather awkward-looking adolescent phase, that doesn't stop them from being the primary chosen plaything for all little ones.
With pockets full of grain and scratch from the barn, or scraps from the kitchen, we head to the main pasture where the sheep, hens, and duck live. While Adelaide has the full attention of the sheep, Harper sprinkles scratch for the chickens and invites you to do the same.
There is duck chasing. And catching. And kissing. (Oh my.)
Adelaide will show you all the tricks of her sheep. Like how Charlotte climbs the chicken tractor on command. Or how she can get Cinnamon to keep her hat on.
Walking in the direction of the pigs, we'd look around the pasture - both fenced and unfenced and invite you to dig some fence hole posts with us. Wanna?
Arriving at the pigs, we'd find Harper testing out the fence (pretending, that is). "Yup, it's on! Careful!" he'd warn you. These two fellas might give your pant leg a little nibble (it kind of tickles), always looking for a snack. Adelaide would remind Paul and Arthur (also known as Pauly Spots and Arty Pants) to mind their manners. They generally do.
Leaving the pigs, we'd come to almost complete the circle back to the house as we see the Freedom Rangers. They're about nine weeks old now, and we've been so pleased with the switch to this breed so far.
As we head back to the house, we'd likely come across Angry, everyone's favorite chicken (who isn't really very angry at all). Angry doesn't mind fences very well, but that's okay, she's always a pleasure to see popping around the corner in the barn, dooryard or kitchen (well, she tries, anyway). Adelaide would tell you where Angry's latest laying spot is (in the upper barn, in the insulation....what?).
At this point, Annabel would likely want off my back, Harper would be asking for a snack, and the boys, who long ago ran off for the treehouse or bike trails, will have set up the iPod dock outside so they can show you their latest breakdance moves. And I think it's time for a glass of wine, yes? Or tea? One or the other...it's a pleasure having you stop by.
It's been just about a year since my beginnings with Taproot magazine. As a family, we've settled into a nice rhythm and groove of just how and when I do that work, which hasn't been all that different really from when I've written a book. My (as early as I can) morning hours are spent in the studio writing and reading and talking to folks.
My studio space though, wasn't quite reflecting the way my time is spent in here these days. (Here's how it looked before.) I needed a calmer corner for screen time, and a little more room for all that comes with that. And change feels good anyway - I love a proper room redo to keep things fresh. On that most humid day of the summer, I lugged furniture from one end of the room to the other, swept out and purged. It felt so good. And just a few hours later, found myself with something that suits much better the work I'm doing right now. There's still plenty of room for sewing and crafing to happen at a moment's notice, but ample room for all the other things I'm doing too.
{I'm guessing you might ask about: art by Lisa Congdon, Amy Karol, and Samantha Lamb. Blue shawl details here.}
My favorite addition is without a doubt the rocking chair. I'm moving towards every single room in my house having one, actually. It just feels right. And in here, reading all of the wonderful Taproot submissions that come in on the computer screen felt all kinds of wrong for a magazine and writing that is meant to be read in hand. A cozy spot in which to read is so welcome for that, a change of view for me, not to mention when a moment's break for spinning or knitting is in order. Or....when company comes to sit a spell. I do have good company.
I must be straight-up with you from the start. There's no way I can be unbiased about this book. Not only do I have the utmost respect and love for my dear friend Ashley English, the work she does, and her sweet family....but, um, I contributed to this very book as well (Summer Fern Pie!). So with that out of the way, let me tell you about how I love this book. Because I do.
My family, you see, is a pie family. I've gathered that there are 'cake' people and then there are 'pie' people. At this here Soule homestead, it appears that 9 out of 10 prefer pies (which translates roughly into five of the seven of us, though my math is always a little flexible. Ahem).
And so, when Ms. Ashley English's book A Year of Pies was released just as few days before Papa Steve's birthday, I was thrilled. Because truth be told? Though my people seem to be evolving into a pie-exclusive lot, the reality is that I'm not all that much of a pie cook. Apple pie, quiche (Summer Fern Pie!), I've got those down. But beyond that, not so much. Ashley's book, though, might just help me full embrace the switch from cake to pie, as the savory, sweet, seasonal compendium kind of rocks my world as I flip through the pages.
This weekend, there were four pies from A Year of Pies. Two Classic Blueberry Pies and two Chicken Pot Pies. My chosen first pies are most certainly of the more classic, conventional in her book, but that's just what I was looking for - some classics to add into the mix. And for certain, these two are here to stay. The blueberry, though named 'classic' had a yummy twist of flavor that I wasn't expecting, and the chicken pot pie was amazing, and eaten so quickly despite the hot humid day on which I decided to cook it (my sweet boys did ever-so gently request that it be made on a ski day sometime this winter).
And yes, I said four pies - two of each. With seven of us, we're most defintely of the two pie ilk these days. Plus...well, there's always that one piece that gets saved (with great restraint) for a post-birthday breakfast. That's a given. Oh, pie. Pie is good. A Year of Pies? Very, very good.
Congratulations, Ms. English! It's a beauty...
(And Happy Birthday, my dear!)
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Today, I bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Stubby Pencil Studio. In their words:
"Stubby Pencil Studio is a small, family run, boutique offering eco-friendly art materials and school supplies that are healthy for children and the environment. Some of our most popular products are the ones that we love most for our own kids: crayons made from soy and beeswax, sketchbooks made from 100% recycled paper, pencils made from recycled cedar scraps, and washable markers made from recycled plastic. You will also find a terrific selection of children's crafts, stationery. party favors, and many other creative products that your family will love."
"To see latest arrivals and current specials, like Stubby Pencil Studio on Facebook!"
SouleMama: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?
Kate at Stubby Pencil:“Act as if it were impossible to fail” – Dorthea Brande
SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job?
Kate: I've mentioned before that my favorite part of the "job" is sourcing new products for the store. It's a never ending treasure hunt and I love it. Another aspect that makes my job fun and exciting is working and building ongoing relationships with "mom" bloggers. It's completely rewarding to watch their families grow up and know that we have been a part of their lives along the way. It's a great feeling when I get a glimpse into their daily life and recognize our products in their blog post photos - not necessarily as part of a review - but because these items are part of their everyday creative supplies. Seeing projects and drawings made with our crayons, paints, and pencils gives me a connection to these families and makes this job all the more special.
SouleMama: And the most challenging?
Kate: Over the last few years, we've struggled with the challenge of the economy (along with many other small businesses) but I have always forged ahead, adding new products and concentrating on our service. I've never really worried about competition because I have always felt that Stubby Pencil Studio is unique. Lately though, we have noticed more and more retailers (with much larger marketing budgets and resources to devote) starting to focus on eco-friendly products and actually stating that they'd like to duplicate our store. Although it's flattering (in a way) it's very scary to think of this major competition and how it will impact our future. I've never really focused on marketing - we have always grown by word of mouth and recommendations - and so marketing and creative ways to promote Stubby Pencil Studio will be my biggest challenge.
SouleMama: What's the product or offering you're most excited about in your shop right now? Tell us about it.
Kate: We have a bunch of new arrivals to the shop, but the one that my kids love most right now is the modeling clay. It is amazing! Feather light, flexible, and air dries without cracking. The kids play with it for hours - no kidding!
For today's giveaway, Stubby Pencil Studio is generously offering the following to ONE winner:
In addition, Stubby Pencil Studio is offering SouleMama readers 15% off your purchases. To redeem, use code MAMASAVE15. Offer expires 8/31/12.
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To enter today's giveaway, please leave a comment (one entry per person, please) in today's post. I'll close comments by 8am EST on Monday, and announce the winner(s), chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed!
Thank you to Stubby Pencil Studio!
The winner is:
So marvelous! We would be so happy to win this! Thanks!
Posted by: Taryn
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Today, I bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Little Spruce Organics. In their words:
"Little Spruce Organics offers a unique selection of organic baby apparel, organic cloth diapering products, breastfeeding apparel, and natural wooden & organic cotton toys. We specialize in wool for babies and are committed to carrying only apparel & cloth diapering products that are made from organic and natural fibers."
"On our blog we provide information on the benefits of natural fibers, instructional articles on cloth diapering and using wool cloth diaper covers, as well as a glimpse into our family life. We also have a YouTube channel with a variety of videos demonstrating various cloth diapers and wool covers as well as instructional videos on wool care."
SouleMama: What inspires you?
Bethany at Little Spruce: The enormously challenging and satisfying task that is motherhood is my biggest inspiration for what I do. Being a mother is not only what inspired this business, but it is the driving force behind the overall philosophy of my store. The products I choose to carry in my store are all a result of my experience as a mother and my strong desire not only to select the most nurturing, natural products for my own children, but to spark the same passion in other mothers who are committed to providing their children with a childhood that is as close to nature as possible.
SouleMama: Tell us what you envision and dream for the future of your business.
Bethany: I envision a place where parents can come to find children’s apparel that soothes and nurtures the senses and also discover the beauty and simplicity of toys that inspire creative, imaginative play that can so easily be overlooked in our modern world. Our product selection grows right along with our children as we observe them discovering new ways to explore the world.
SouleMama: Tell us about your customers.
Bethany: Our customers are strong, like-minded individuals who value quality over quantity when it comes to selecting clothing and toys for the children in their lives. Through our products, our customers discover the benefits of choosing high quality items and a more simple lifestyle; for example, choosing one or two items made from pure, organic wool for the winter and reducing your child’s toy box to several heirloom quality wooden toys or organic cotton dolls that will be cherished and passed down for generations.
SouleMama: What's the product or offering you're most excited about in your shop right now? Tell us about it.
Bethany: We are currently expanding our collection of wooden toys! We are thrilled to offer a lovely collection of unique toys, including beautiful wooden toys and organic cotton Waldorf dolls filled with pure organic wool. By simplifying our children’s wardrobes and playrooms and filling them with a few high quality, natural items, we are enriching their childhood and leaving a great deal of room for their powerful imagination.
For today's giveaway, Little Spruce Organics is generously offering the following to TWO winners:
~ a $50.00 gift certificate to Little Spruce Organics!
In addition, Little Spruce is offering SouleMama readers 20% off your purchases (they also offer free shipping on domestic orders of $100 or more). To redeem, use code soule20. Offer expires 9/30/12.
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To enter today's giveaway, please leave a comment (one entry per person, please) in today's post. I'll close comments by 8am EST on Sunday, and announce the winner(s), chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed!
Thank you to Little Spruce Organics!
The winners are:
The wool diaper covers look surprisingly soft! I would love to buy my new baby niece some things from here!
Posted by: Clover
Ooooo, wonderful!
Posted by: Leslie
I'm thrilled to be joining the lovely ladies at Habit again this month of August! Stop on by for a visit when you can.
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{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.
I know I've said so many times before that I want to be a tomato farmer when I grow up. But this season, I'm thinking about taking that back. I think a garlic farmer would be fun. Nothing but garlic - of all sizes and varieties! Oh, garlic, had I known how fabulously easy and wonderful you were to grow, I wouldn't have waited all these years to plant you in a garden of my own.
But as it was, last fall was my very first planting of garlic, with several varieties and a few pounds purchased from The Little Girl Garlic Farm at the Common Ground Country Fair. I planted them with little fanfare, covered with leaves, and rather forgot about them after that. This spring, I did pull back the leaves, and there was a bit (really, just a bit) of weeding and then the scapes, and this week, my very first harvesting of said garlic. Out of the ground I pulled and tugged (with the help of many little hands wanting to prove just how strong they are). I hauled an old crib mattress spring frame out of the barn (neverending in its gifts, that barn) and left them to dry a while before brushing off the dirt (Harper's job), and cleaning them up for storage.
I'm marveling at just how much grew (this is a third, there are still two more varieties waiting in the ground for me to get to them), and grew so well, with so little effort. Each time I reach into the crock of garlic in the pantry - or send eager helpers there for that very thing - for another clove for another meal, oh a rush of gratitude comes over me for this strong and simple little bulb that grew underground.
It's been a very long time since I've done a proper 'ten things' around here. Today feels like just the kind of day to do so. A pause, a shift, an exhale. It always comes along with a list of joy.
And so, these ten things are bringing me great joy right now....
1. Sandor Katz's new book, The Art of Fermentation. I loved Wild Fermentation, but goodness this new (hefty!) one is sure to become a standby resource.
2. The fiber lovin' happening by all of my people right now - spin, felt, cast on, knit. Repeat.
3. The garlic scape swag on each of my doors, from a few scapes left behind uneaten.
4. Watching Stephanie, her cycling team, and the knitters behind them all as they brave new adventure, break fundraising records and show the world the kindness of a bunch of knitters. (Read this post if you haven't yet. Be prepared to cry happy tears.)
5. The farm pond in progress in my pasture, and the crowd of old men from the 'hood that it draws everytime another piece of equipment shows up.
6. Tracy Clark's new book Elevate the Everyday: A Photographic Guide to Picturing Motherhood. Full of the work of talented Mamas, good technique and lots of advice, it's an inspirational treat.
7. Spying the little bits of love on the walls all over my house in the form of Shanna Murray's illustrated decals. Love, love, love.
8. This morning's discovery of my knitting row counter - missing for months - found in the tall grass of the 'outfield' where it was being used to keep track of balls and strikes. (Which is legite. I guess I'll get myself a new one.)
9. Sleepovers with special friends. Six and seven year old farm girls and their amazing imaginations.
10. The constant stream of flowers coming in the house, all over the house, everywhere in this deep, deep summer.
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And you?? What are ten things bringing you joy right in this moment? Write it down, say it out loud, photograph it, or share it with those you love...
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Hello, August!
Welcome (and Welcome Back!) to the newest Sponsors here at SouleMama!
I'm so glad to be sharing this space with them, and our ongoing Sponsors, in the coming month. Do check out their handmade, crafty, creative offerings in the days and weeks to come!
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Greetings! I'm Amanda Blake Soule - mother of five, author of four books on family creativity, editor & owner of Taproot Magazine. I live with my family in an old farmhouse in Western Maine where we raise animals, grow vegetables and make lots of things. I write about it all here on the blog. Thank you for visiting!
