SouleMama

on holiday

The matching holiday dresses and bowties were not finished in time for Solstice or Christmas, but just in time for a family Christmas party this weekend, postponed from snow earlier in the month. It was perfect timing, the girls and Harper were thrilled to have something special and matchy to wear...and their big brothers were a little bit relieved, I think, that I ran out of enough fabric to make theirs. Good sports that they are though, I think they would have done it for me.

That seems to be the way of this holiday season for us. A little bit on the late side, with a slow start, but such pleasant joy once here that we don't want to quite leave it yet. With all the change and excitement earlier this month, it seems only right and perfect timing that now we slow it all down a bit - that we let it all linger as best we can. We are filling the days with entertaining friends and family, exploring all the new hiding and climbing spots in Gram's room, playing charades and Scattegories by the fire at night, clearing snow off the pond for skating on all day, and all the other good comforts that are home and family and the holidays together. The tree is already up longer than it ever has been before, and I have no desire to take it down yet - to put an end to these days. We woke to another foot of snow this morning. I don't think the errand I had planned to run is going to happen this morning and I don't mind at all. I'm glad for another excuse to stay at home. We have what we need right here.

Wishing you a lovely start to this week, friends...and hoping that whether you are back at work now or travelling or hunkered down at home, that you have many full moments of lingering in the goodness of this season.

mid-holiday moments

 

How are you doing, friends? Are you enjoying your holidays? Are you reveling in the nothingness that comes this week after and before? I hope you are. I hope you are sinking into the fullness around you - embracing the mess and the beauty in the chaos and the imperfections that make these celebrations so fully alive.

Here, we are trying our best to do just that. There has been an ice storm. And snow that keeps falling. Chores to keep up with. Traditions and parties to attend. And a new family member to welcome into the fold of home. There have been games and fireside knitting and mimosas nearly every day (oh my) and sometimes pajamas all day, and so much goodness that comes along with abandoning the to do and should have list and just enjoying what is. For what is...well, that is lovely. And this in between time? My favorite, really. Days of nothingness. Oh sure, there are still two more parties to host and some presents to still (!) make, but the overriding theme of these days is of being together and embracing that first and foremost. Celebrating the light that connects us all. Home and hearth. 

I'm going to dive back in. But before this weekend starts, I want to wish you many more days of just the same. Enjoy! 

in celebration

Ah....now all the errands are done and deliveries made and moving trips complete. And we are all so very ready to dive on into the walks in the woods, visits around the tree, sharing, baking, hosting, and merry making. Our Solstice celebrations began this morning and with any luck, we hope to stay put right here for days to come as we celebrate the Yuletide and Christmas together at home.

I'll be back later in the week. Until we talk again, I wish you and yours all the very best - of peace, and family, and joy - this time of year! 

{this moment}

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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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moving day

Our path to this house was a long one. I know I've shared that with you here before. It was many years in the making - the getting to here - with a lot of bumps along the way.  So many times in those years, we were asked the same question: why don't you just build? I don't know how we knew, but we knew that wasn't in the cards for us. That building from scratch was not what we were looking for, that it was not what we were capable of at that point in our lives, at least. I have such admiration for those who can do it, honestly. Those who can find just the right piece of land, who can identify the trees and the water they need, who work their tails off, and go on and up from there. I am inspired by these friends of ours - mystified even. But it is not us. I need a starting place at which I can work from. From there? I am convinced I can make anything work. Truly. But I need a place to start. 

This process, of 'building on' to our old farmhouse has been a reminder of all of that. That I do love old things. That I need a place to start from. That from-the-scratch-beginnings are a stretch beyond our comfort zone, to be certain. Balancing economy/taste/ecology is a tricky thing that sometimes feels impossible. This particular new space has had the added confusion of being in my house, but not quite for me. And so there's that. What do I want? What does she want? What does the budget demand? Whatever shall we do? (She, for the sake of clarity, has been nothing but wonderful. All these games and questions exist nowhere but in my own head).

Ah, but all of that is thankfully behind us, and now we are here. Here, at last, at the place of completion. And simultaneously, at the place of beginning. The place where we say goodbye to the lovely workers with whom we have shared our house these past few months (just before my children attach "Uncle" as a prefix to their names, for love and frequency of them). The place where my children turn over this empty room in which they have played endless games and practiced their grand jetes over and over and over on the newly finished smooth floors (honestly, this empty room has kept my children so peacefully entertained for days, I've hardly seen them). Where I have fussed over every.knob.and.switch for months. Where we have made sacrifces and compromises as a couple, as a family of seven, as a family bigger than that. Where we have wondered and anticipated - greatly - what comes next.

Now we are in the place where generations meet. Where old and young (and middle aged - I guess that's us) learn to live together. And I find myself at a loss for words. I do not know what comes next. I have great hope, I have some worries. But then, I turn the corner and find a thing like this. And I know, with every ounce of my being, that everything will be okay. For her. For them. For us. This, I know, is family. And we are all home, together now.

And so, let me steal the words right out of the mouth of my babes today...

Welcome Home Gram.

making light

It's been a very long time since I've made little teacup lights, but I've been wanting to do so again. Amber's instructions and lovely photographs in the latest issue of Taproot prompted me to make it happen now, with another set of little ones who have never shared this particular craft with me. With a snow day yesterday, inching us closer to the solstice and all that means for light, yesterday was the perfect day. After a quick trip the the flea market, Adelaide and Harper were happily engaged - from peeling stickers and washing cups to holding wicks in place and finally, testing one out just as soon as it was dark enough to warrant one (we didn't have to wait long for that). I followed Amber's directions, and used what we had on hand for supplies - my handy "craft only" double boiler, these wicks, this wax, different essential oils, then our beeswax when I ran out of soy. These will be little gifties just from the two of them. They are enormously proud of them, and eager to share. (They gifted one to me right before bed - all bundled up and gift tagged. So lovely.)

All in all, another reminder for me that simple and special really is where it's at anytime, but especially at the holiday season. Some time spent creating together, thinking of those we love, and sharing. And in the end, a little bit more light.

a start

I did a little bit of sewing this weekend, in hopes of dipping into the great list of nephew and niece gifts I want to make this year. Yes, yes....there is only a week to go, I am aware. But you've got to start somewhere. And this fabric tutu seemed like a good place to do that. Online tutorials for these things are all over the interwebs (search "fabric tutu"), and with so many little nieces, I thought I'd give it a go. A simple elastic waistband sewn together, then fabric strips tied to the waist after that. It was a little cumbersome to get the fabric on, but not too much. And certainly a fun way to play with fabric combinations. An easy while-you're-playing-scrabble-with-Ezra kind of project. I was feeling optimistic that it would work as a fun dress-up themed gift and grateful to have the first one (of seven) done. (Seven little nieces! I'm such a lucky auntie.)

And then I pulled a total amateur move by having Annabel try it on. Just to see if it would fit someone her age. Amateur, indeed. Because do you think she was ever going to give that thing back? Not a chance. And do you think I could ever pry that thing off such a happy girl? Never. 

So. Two hours of cutting, sewing and tying = back to square one in the gift department. But one very happy baby girl. So all is well. (And I best move my crafting back to the solitude of the nighttime hours.)

wintry weekend

Ah, wintry weather. It arrived this weekend in full force, putting a kink in our plans. The family party we were scheduled to host here was postponed as we all watched the snow come down...and then come down more...and even then some more. No bother, we will reschedule somehow, for certain. And instead this weekend, we got the unexpected gift of a weekend at home, just the seven of us. With a clean house (impending parties are always good for that), and plenty of fun party food in the fridge to boot. It was the first wintry weekend of the season, really, and a lovely one it was. With the tree now decorated, all hats/gloves/boots/skis/sleds/shovels present and accounted for (oh wow!), I do believe we are ready for the season ahead. 

Wishing you a warm and wonderful start to your week, friends!

SouleMama Sponsor ~ A Gathering of Stitches

Today, we bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, A Gathering of Stitches. In Samantha's words:

"A Gathering of Stitches is a maker space for fiber and textile craftspeople located in Portland, Maine. We offer studios, both short term and long term, to artists, businesspeople and craftspeople with access to a wide array of specialized tools. Instruction in sewing, knitting, quilting,  embroidery, crochet, quilting, dyeing and screen printing is available at all levels. Equipment such as sergers, knitting machines, sewing machines, and full dyeing and screen-printing facilities are available to rent by the hour.

Our blog is called Stitches and can be found on our home page."

SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job? the most challenging?

Samantha: I love it when the studio artists are in the space working, creating, interacting, and a workshop or two is taking place. Most of my life I have pursued my crafts by myself. To experience so many others all working together under the same roof is electrifying. You can feel the energy in the air. The buzz is amazing. It makes me truly happy to see this space being used as it is intended. When the machines are whirring and the steam irons are puffing and the chatter of making floats through the air, I am in heaven. The biggest challenge at this point, as we are just 4 months old, is getting folks across the threshold. When they get here they fall in love, but getting them in the door is still tricky. This model of a collaborative, collective space for fiber crafts is still a new one. As more people catch on to the potential I'm sure our workshops will fill up.

SouleMama: Tell us about a business you admire or use as a role model in the work you do?

 

Samantha: One of my heroines in the modern world of textiles in Natalie Chanin of Alabama Chanin. Her business is an inspiration to me. She believes in creating a beautiful product in an ethical and sustainable manner, and she doesn't compromise on her vision or her beliefs. She has control of her entire line from the growing of the cotton, to the milling, the designs, and the production. I love that her couture garments are hand sewn in this fast paced digital age. I admire her ability to integrate what is important in the analog experience with what is digitally expedient. I love her emphasis on the intimate experience of hand crafting, and her respect for her community and the local experience. She is an inspiration to me.

SouleMama: What does 'being creative' mean to you?

Samantha: Being creative is the same as breathing for me. I cannot imagine a day without some form of creative activity in it. Everyday I spend some time knitting or sewing, some days it is a short period of time, others it is longer. But I have my hands on fiber and textiles every day. I also think there is creativity in other daily occupations. To me, cooking is a very creative act. It is the practice of an ancient craft (like knitting and sewing) that you engage in at least twice, sometimes three times a day. I feel sorry for people who think they don't have time for cooking. What pleasures they are missing. Being creative is my fuel, it is the engine that propels me through each day.

For today's giveaway, A Gathering of Stitches is generously offering the following gift to ONE winner:  

~ A spot in An Introduction to Modern Quilting (saturdays Jan. 1, 11 & 18),  a three week workshop!

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In addition, A Gathering of Stitches would like to offer SouleMama readers a 15% off any registration until the end of December. Use code "smholiday13" at checkout.

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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 8:30 am EST on Monday, and announce the winner, chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed! The winner is...

Oh my goodness, what a wonderful giveaway......sounds like a wonderful class, fingers crossed!
Posted by: margot

Thank you, A Gathering of Stitches!

SouleMama Sponsor ~ Lavender's Blue Homeschool

Today, we bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Lavender's Blue Homeschool. In Kelly's words:

"Lavender's Blue Homeschool offers a Waldorf-inspired kindergarten curriculum for parents who want to inspire their child's learning through story, play, nature, and art. I write about peaceful parenting and holistic homeschooling on the blog, where you'll also find seasonal songs, stories, and circle times."

SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job? The most challenging?

Kelly: My favorite part of my job is that it brings together so many of my seemingly unrelated interests and strengths (it's hard for me to believe this is possible, but it is!) in service of one of my biggest passions - supporting parents with peaceful parenting and homeschooling. The most challenging part of my job is that my family relies on my income, not for extras but for the basics like groceries. That's a lot of pressure! But I've realized that it's a great challenge because it pushes me to get the word out about my curriculum. It pushes me to learn new things and get better at what I do, which is important to me anyway.

SouleMama: How are your children incorporated into your business?

 

Kelly: This is my other favorite part of my job - Lavender's Blue exists because I'm fulfilling one of my greatest dreams, to homeschool my own children. Aiya and Sierra are my inspiration, my motivation, my real-life experience, my curriculum laboratory, and the joy that makes it all meaningful. Lavender's Blue is a reflection of my life as a homeschooling mama (oh, and when I named the business, Aiya's favorite color was purple and Sierra's was blue - but of course they have since moved on).

SouleMama: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

Kelly: Yes! “There is no single effort more radical in its potential for saving the world than a transformation of the way we raise our children.”  --Marianne Williamson

For today's giveaway, Lavender's Blue Homeschool is generously offering the following gift to ONE winner:  

~  One full-year Lavender's Blue Kindergarten curriculum package, including:

 

- a full introduction to the what, why, and how of Waldorf-inspired kindergarten at home

- guidance on creating daily and weekly rhythms that work for your family

  - audio recordings of all the circle time songs and verses
- 12 extra stories for summertime

 - support from Kelly and our wonderful community in a private facebook group

 

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In addition, Lavender's Blue Homeschool would like to offer SouleMama readers 20% off any curriculum purchase through Dec. 31st. Use code "HOLIDAYS" at checkout.

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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 8 am EST on Sunday, and announce the winner, chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed! The winner is...

I am doing so much research on Waldorf and homeschooling - this would be a joy to win!
Posted by: Christina

Thank you, Lavender's Blue Homeschool!

{this moment}

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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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nearing the finish line

There's nothing like a fresh coat of paint. Newly finished floors. And a big wide open space to play in. This new corner of our home is the very place that everyone wants to be these days. Clean, shiny, and a perfect dance studio. Oh, the performances we've been attending in here! They'll surely be sad to lose their stage with great acoustics, but of course appeased by the fact that Gram will be here instead. We are so very close to the end of this construction project that move-in date has officially been set. Gram will be with us before Christmas. There are a few little details left for both the contractors and us to do - but they're the little and rewarding things that complete a project (hello, fun light fixtures!) and I think they'll happen quickly over the next couple of days. 

Today - I think (I hope!) - I get my laundry room back. I'm embarassingly excited about it. For the next few days, anyway, I will be smiling the entire time I am doing laundry. It's the little things, yes? And it's a good thing I'll enjoy it, because there is so much to wash. At a certain point in the construction process I kind of gave up on always cleaning behind the traffic of people in and out of the house, the sawdust that - despite their best attempts to contain - is all over everything everywhere. Today's the day I can start that clean up, beginning in the kitchen. The entire contents of my pantry is now sitting on the kitchen table, and on the floor beside it. Every single jar, every appliance, every pot and pan - ah, it'll feel so good when it's done. 

Have I mentioned the party I'm hosting here in just three days? Yeah, there's that as a bit of a deadline to get my house put back together. I have so many little helping hands, of course. But I still think today might be the perfect day for the rare treat of a cup of coffee. Or maybe even two.

Enjoy your day, friends!

in a day

A (dusty) shelf in my daughter's room. Apropos of nothing, except that it makes me happy.

Perhaps I've painted a picture of our at-home days, our 'skip week' this week as nothing other than sitting by the fire with my hand spun yarn and making artisan cheese in the kitchen with my children. But I know you know there's a whole lot more. Just yesterday - a full day at home - a regular day at home, really - might be a perfect example. A sampling of what we did around here yesterday: 

- First thing in the morning (before tea, good gracious), held a bucket under the behind of a lovely little dairy cow named Peach trying to catch what she had to give out. I've decided that what comes out of the behind of a slightly-not-herself jersey cow is, well, oh my. Oh my! (Am I really talking about this here? Why yes. Yes, I am. This is farming, my friends. Analyzing manure is at the top of the list.)

- Greeted a new-to-us livestock vet for whom I now have a crush on (these things happen). I mean, really. Who drives their fancy vet pick up truck right on into the yard and gets things done (up to the shoulder, I tell you) such as a livestock vet like this woman? Someone here's a little inspired.

- Felt only a little bit silly for calling said vet for what essentially amounts to - wait for it - a stomach bug - in our visiting dairy cow (Winter Dysentery if you want to get fancy). Peach is fine - or rather will be, very soon. I needn't wake Steve up at midnight tonight to go check on her again (Ahem. Not as though we did that for the past three nights or anything. First time parents, indeed.)

- Attempted (unsuccessfully) to convince one of my pre-teen boys that the engraved gold chain necklace he found on Etsy (bonus points for that) that he wants to get his girlfriend (I know, I know) for Christmas might just be a little....well....over the top, shall we say. In so many ways. But ultimately - who am I to decide what's cool? I wear insulated coveralls with pride. Maybe gold chains are where it's at. (Is it?)

- Slightly (inappropriately) hovered over the painters in our addition putting on the first coat of paint. The paint color is called "wool". Literally. WOOL. Please tell me how I was not to hover? 

- Searched all over the house for Jackie the kitten who was due for a vet appointment (two vets in day! Such is the life). She missed it. Or rather we did, by not searching in my basket of fabric scraps (really, how foolish are we?). 

- Reminded my daughter that while walking her goats on a leash is wonderful, it doesn't mean they can be walked into the kitchen. (She hasn't done so, but she'd certainly like to.)

- Tried to keep my attention on the computer where I need to be focusing on hiring a new member of our Taproot team and lining up the last of the details for our next issue, BREATHE, but got distracted by the repeated requests to read Crafty Chloe (her favorite book) to Annabel. Because even though Papa was right there and willing to do so himself - who can resist the charms of the fifth baby with blond hair, blue eyes, a seriously raspy voice and sweet two year old round belly? (I know. We are in trouble with this one.)

- Realized that we've been reading the much-loved Little House books out of order to the latest family fan, Harper. Oops. (I think he'll be okay. Right?)

- Made/ordered/purchased exactly zero gifts for the holiday season, bringing my total to approximately zero. (Of this fact I am not proud. Just quietly nervous.)

- Looked at the washing machine (still) beside my kitchen sink, the sawdust (still) on my pantry shelves, the (not yet defrosted) pork and chicken, and the (ticking) clock....to decide that takeout was going to be the only way to evening happiness.

- Was a little disappointed when we realized said takeout - literally our only option for local takeout ("farmhouse pizza!") - is closed on Tuesday in the winter months. Bummer.

- Poured a glass of wine and made popcorn. (You saw that coming.)

- With great intention for late night holiday crafting, or goodness me - even some cleaning - then promptly (and happily) fell asleep with the first child to crash (it was Harper).

Somewhere in there, was a moment of knitting my cardigan by the fire (almost a complete row if I remember correctly). And somewhere in there, I flipped the hardening (parmesan!) cheese in progress. But that of course, was just a part. There is so much that happens in the course of a day in the life a family. I feel - each day - simultaneously rich and blessed and overwhelmed and honestly, a little puzzled sometimes too, as to just how and when it's all going to get done (spoiler alert: it never all gets done). There is chaos and beauty....and  then beauty in the chaos. And there's not a single part of it I'd want to be without. Well, save for that bucket behind the cow. But you know - all in all. This is a good life. 

december snow

A wintry hello from the pasture yesterday.

snowfalls

The very last of the (paper) snowflakes have fallen on the 2013 Nutcracker season. I am so proud of those kids - not just mine, but every single one of them on that stage. So young, but so professional and so responsible and really just so kind and supportive, the lot of them. It is a true privilege to so closely watch them perform - to watch them all grow on the stage as they do. The end of this season is bittersweet, as I so long to be at home, but understand too the sadness at something so great being over for my guys. Oh, but thank goodness there is always next year...and before that, so many more performances and shows for these kids that just can't get enough, and their parents who go along for the ride. Ah, Cinderella is next, you say? Okay!

Short of the absolute essential outings (right now I can think of nothing that fits under that category), Mama declares this our annual Skip Week. HOME is the focus, and HOME is where I am so happy to be. With the Nutcracker schedule behind us, we can dive on into the holidays all together with full steam and gusto. So far, the Christmas vinyl has been brought to the front...and holiday cards are being written in the evenings. I do so love that. Each year I consider eliminating it from the budget, from the schedule, from the list. But then I am reminded how much it is really one of my favorite things - tucking into a cozy writing spot in front of the fire late at night with a quiet house, writing notes to friends and family. And so that is happening. 

And sewing, too. I've been holding onto this gorgeous fabric by Phoebe Wahl for a few weeks, knowing exactly what I wanted to make with it just as soon as I saw it. And I'm just so pleased that it looks like there is time enough to do so. Matching dresses for the girls, with a favorite pattern we love to layer all year long - Suzanne by Citronille. I have two nearly completed dresses for the girls...and there's just enough fabric left over that I think I can eek out three bow ties. Bow ties! A sorta matching set of five! I can hardly contain my excitement about that. The girls and Harper are fully in on the fun (that boy loves a bow tie), but the older two might need some convincing. Surely, I tell them, wearing a matching bow tie with your brothers and sisters for just one day can't cause life-long trauma, now can it? Surely, for the Mama who cooks and cleans and loves and drives you everywhere all the time, one could summon the excitement - or at least the patience - to wear such a thing one time, yes? I'll keep you posted.

The (real) snow is falling outside this morning. I haven't checked an official forecast, but I'm hearing rumors of a small storm, and it certainly felt like one was coming this morning when we were out doing morning chores. Whatever comes today for snow, we'll take it. I'm happy to be here.

SouleMama Sponsor ~ Silk Oak

Today, we bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Silk Oak. In Jan's words:

"Silk Oak, handprinted, eco-friendly clothing and accessories, made with love in IThaca, NY since 1977!"

SouleMama: In your mind, what is that one thing which makes your business different?

Jan: In the world of handmade, the majority of businesses are relatively new. Handmade is so intimately connected to the maker that people may not keep the same business but move on to other pursuits. Silk Oak has been around for over 36 years so almost 2 generations have grown up wearing Silk Oak. In a manner of speaking, we've become part of the family, part of the memories of childhood and of watching your children grow. What a privilege!

SouleMama: If you could eliminate one thing from your daily schedule, what would it be?

 

Jan: It's not exactly a task on my To Do list but, I would eliminate stress. Sometimes, we have a tendency to take on more than we can reasonably handle (I have trouble saying No!). Inevitably, with too many balls in the air, one or more get dropped or we don't complete our tasks at a level that we know we could have. When that happens, I find myself wasting precious energy and getting stressed out. I view the new year as an opportunity to recalibrate and set new directions. For 2014, I plan on being more strategic in what I take on, taking some time each day for myself and practicing being in the present moment. Ahh, I'm less stressed already!

SouleMama: How does the balance of family and work play out for you?

Jan: This isn't a new one for me but life has come full circle. For decades, my entire life was built around my children's schedules and needs. As they grew, the demands on my time shifted. With all of the kids grown, I have taken on more accountabilities in the community and outside of the home. My challenge lately has been finding the flexibility in my schedule to be available for my 2 grandchildren Emmett and Mischa. That's an important reason for my recalibration of priorities for 2014. Building the time into my schedule to NOT have every moment already accounted for! (That's Mischa modeling the Farmyard tee).

 

For today's giveaway, Silk Oak is generously offering the following gift to TWO winners:  

~ $100 Gift Certificate! Happy Holidays!

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In addition, Silk Oak would like to offer SouleMama readers a 15% discount from now till December 21st. Use code "SOULEMAMA" at checkout.

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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 8 am EST on Monday, and announce the winners, chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed!  The winners are...

Perfect for the holiday! Thank you Silk Oak and Soule Mama!
Posted by: jenny

So generous! I would love to share the winnings with my little loves. They'd look so cute in these sweet prints!
Posted by: Monique

Thank you, Silk Oak!

SouleMama Sponsor ~ Crafting Connections

Today, we bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Crafting Connections. In their words:

"Crafting Connections is a magazine, blog and e-course dedicated to providing others with the tools and inspiration for raising creative children, while learning a bit about yourself as well. Everything we do - on the blog, in the pages of our magazine, and in our e-course - is designed to help make the dream of a creative life with littles into a reality.

Our main blog, Crafting Connections, is where we focus on all the things needed to craft an authentic, creative life.

We've also just launched our first e-course - Craft to Connect! Craft to Connect is a six-week e-course that will take participants step-by-step through the process of developing a creative habit. Together we help you to gather the tools you need to live a creative life, find the time in your routine to make crafting a habit, and make the space (physically and emotionally) for creativity in your home."

SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job? The most challenging?

Danielle & Andrea: Our favorite part of the job is also the most challenging, working as a creative team of two! It is so amazing and wonderful to work side-by-side with a good friend - sharing and building on the work of each other often times coming out with something better than either of us had originally envisioned. That being said, working together with a friend - a passionate one - can be tricky when we have strong visions that don't always match up.

SouleMama: How do you keep yourself motivated, and avoid burnout?

 

Danielle & Andrea: Truth is, we don't. Not always, anyways. One of the beauties of being small business owners is that there are so very many things to be done. If we don't want to work on finances we might write blog posts instead, work on a layout, or - best of all - do a project with our little ones! We also give ourselves permission to take a break from time-to-time to refresh and recharge!

SouleMama: What's your greatest craft/art skill, and what's something you'd like to learn more about?

Danielle: My greatest, well longest-lasting, crafty skill and passion is knitting. I've knit for more than a decade in different cities and countries, with children and without. One thing I am dying to learn is how to do beeswax encaustic. I think 2014 might be the year!

Andrea: My greatest craft skill is one that I will forever consider a work-in-process - painting. I paint stones and canvases, with watercolors or acrylics - pretty much anything I can get my hands on! I'd love to learn so so many things - but I think at this chapter in my life, my biggest draw is to both sewing and photography. Now I just need to make the time!

 

For today's giveaway, Crafting Connections is generously offering the following gift to ONE winner:  

~ Free enrollment for yourself (or a person of your choosing) in our e-course, Craft to Connect, starting February 3, 2014. As a participant, you will get six weeks of lessons, live coaching calls, access to a private course and Facebook page. Basically, everything you'll need to identify the tools, find the time and make the space for creativity with your little ones.

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In addition, Crafting Connections is offering 10 lucky readers 25% off (that's $50!!!) of our upcoming e-course. Space is limited, we hope you'll join us! Use code "SOULEMAMA" at checkout.

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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 8 am EST on Sunday, and announce the winner, chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed! The winner is...

This would be a great thing to win. Thanks for the chance.
Posted by: Jeanna M

Thank you, Crafting Connections!

{this moment}

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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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RECLAIM

Well, this is an exciting sight to me. With the launch this week of RECLAIM, we wrap up our second year at Taproot, with a collection of eight issues out in the world. Eight! Eight issues after we announced our wild and crazy idea to create a print only, advertising free, independently published journal - each one of those things a challenge, but all three? Of course we couldn't know how it would work, but we hoped greatly and we certainly worked hard. And with each issue, we are met with such encouragement and enthusiasm from folks reading our pages. Yes. Eight issues...and counting.

And I do think RECLAIM is my very favorite yet (why yes, yes I do say that each time). This issue is so full of goodness - some thoughtful and provocative ssays I've gone back to read over and over again, and an extra full HANDS section this time around with food, craft, knitting, and sewing. Yes! A pull-out full size pattern for a tunic by Sonya Philip created especially for us. So much goodness, I tell you!

If you're a subscriber, your issue should be arriving any day now (give us a little extra time for those of you out of the US, of course!). And all the information on subscribing, rewewing, gift-subscribing, etc are on the website. 

With each issue launch, we release two prints from the pages. This time around, those two prints are (above) by Michelle Kroll and Phoebe Wahl. They've signed those for us, and they're now headed to the Print Shop where they'll join past prints, along with notecards and our 2014 calendar, nearly sold out. 

I say it again and again, but I am continually in awe of and inspired by the people I get to work with on this project. Our contributors share so much of themselves and their art (in whatever medium it may be) with us and you readers. It makes the work of putting these pages together and ushering them into the world a real pleasure. And it just keeps getting more exciting - as we welcome new folks (we're thrilled to have Geninne Zlatkis making our 2014 cover art!); as we listen to your feedback and try new things; and as we work to strengthen each issue hopefully a little more than the one that came before. We're all looking forward to what comes next for us in 2014 ... and getting to work on BREATHE, SEED, MEND and BREAD.

sewing. yes, sewing

I have absolutely no business sewing right now. None at all. And yet - perhaps that's the very time at which one should be sewing. That's what my gut told me anyway, at about midnight one night last week. Of course, I didn't go for the mending that needs to be done, nor the hoped-for-holiday gift sewing. Nope. I headed straight for a fun fat quarter pack of Lotta Jansdotter and decided to dive on into a quilt. A quilt that isn't really 'needed' and a quilt that I actually have no end plan for. I have no pattern even. I just started sewing. 

It was a quick fix, and it worked. Just an hour of sewing is what I managed before my drooping eyelids drove me to bed, but I felt better. A little more normal. Refreshed, I dare say. And since that night, ten minutes at a time (and never any more), I've been sneaking (sometimes quite literally) into my studio to stitch together just one more square. And slowly, as those seams were made, a plan was formed. I think I know what I'm doing with this pile of fabric after all. Some backing has been located, another fat quarter stack was purchased. It's growing. This morning, before anyone was awake, before I wrote this blog post, before I milked the cow or packed the bag I need for today's adventure, I made myself a lovely little pile of strips that I'm eager to sew together. Whenever I manage to make it back here. 

It will be lovely, if at the end of this, I have a quilt. But really, in this particular case as it sometimes is with crafting, that finished object will just be a bonus. For it's the sewing that I'm really after, and the sewing itself that is precisely what I need and am so grateful for. It's a very good thing.

 

in the land of the sugar plum fairy

Deep, deep in the land of the sugar plum fairy - that's where we are right now. This is the thickest of the thick of it and we are living and breathing (and driving) this annual goodness - the Nutcracker ballet season we've come to know and love. This year brings with it so much rhythm and familiarity along with new tradition too. Calvin and Ezra are ever so pleased with their (combined) roles of Fritz, Party Boy, Mouse, Cavalry and one of Mother Ginger's Children. And I'm doing tiny bits of stitching here and there backstage and watching from the wings when I can be helpful there. And of course, loving the time I get to spend in that wild and wonderful boys ballet room. Ballet boys, they're a special lot, I tell you. Not that I'm biased in any way (ahem)...but they really are some fine young gentlemen. (Oh, but I've already gone on about my love for those boys.)

I am quite keen, I'm sure you understand, to get back to our regular rhythm of home. For the every day rehearsals and performances right now are certainly enough to throw one's equilibrium for a whorl (a triple pirouette gone awry, perhaps?), not to mention the great feats of schedule coordinating and juggling to even make happen at all. And I've got a serious stash of milk waiting to become cheese! Sometimes, I find myself getting caught on that train of just running to the next one, checking to make sure I packed what we need, and looking forward to it being over. But it's too special of a time to stay on that train for long, and thankfully, the boys' contagious excitement keeps me firmly planted in a place of joy. For there is so much magic in this experience - from wherever you are - the audience, the dressing rooms, the stage, and even in the wings. At each and every performance, there's always a moment - or more - of awe at what I see in front of me - whether it be my child on the stage or someone else's. This year, my boys share the stage for one long scene for the first time. And while I've seen the rehearsal of it nearly a gazillion times (really, truly), and had my eye on costumes that might need attention...standing in the wings on that opening day was a delight. Seeing them both there together - doing something that fills them up so much? Well, I'm so glad this is part of their lives. (And mine too.)

SouleMama Sponsor ~ Nova Natural Toys + Crafts

Today, we bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Nova Natural Toys + Crafts. In their words:

"We sell toys and crafts that inspire and encourage children and families to learn, share and play together. By selling toys made in Europe, the U.S. or in fair trade businesses, we ensure that our products are as good for the people producing them as they are for our customers. Because our products are made primarily of natural materials like wood, cotton, silk and wood, we ensure that they are renewable and safe. It goes without saying that they are also fun!"

SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job? The most challenging?

Nova: We cherish our relationships with the family businesses and craftspeople from around the world that supply the majority of the toys and crafts we sell. Knowing that sharing the things they make (often by hand!) with our customers has a real impact in the craftspeople's and our customers' lives makes the challenge of guessing how many we'll need during the holidays all worthwhile.

SouleMama: what advice do you have to a new artist/crafter/maker looking to make a business out of their passion?

 

Nova: Seek honest advice about the feasibility of commercializing your creations and don't forget to include your own labor in the cost of your product when selling it, even in the beginning. As farmer Joel Salatin says, "You may as well do nothing for nothing." People who appreciate what you are doing will be willing to pay what it's worth. Of course, finding those people is the challenge! We're glad that many of our customers are people who value the work of artists and crafters.

SouleMama: What role does 'handmade' play in our society?

Nova: Our lives are surrounded by artificial shapes. In our homes and our workplaces everything is so smooth, shiny and bright that we can easily forget the organic forms that connect us to the natural world. Indeed, many of the things we use on a daily basis are lifeless; it is impossible to find the any trace of the person who made it. In contrast (on the other hand?), handmade things are imbued with the life of their creator, both in their perfection and in their flaws. It is especially important for children to have the experience of what is handmade as it helps to create true warmth and love in their hearts for the Earth and other people.

For today's giveaway, Nova Natural Toys + Crafts is generously offering the following gift to THREE winners:  

~ $100 gift certificates!

 

Visit our new website with over 200 new items and find the perfect gift for one of the littles in your life. Our new items include our Sweet Baby Doll, Double Playstand Set and Building Blocks. Keep the kids warm this winter with the line of NUI organic Merino wool clothing we've added to our Wearing section (we still have our customer-favorite Ruskovilla woolens as well!).

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In addition, Nova Natural Toys + Crafts is happy to now offer Free Shipping on all orders over $100 in the Contiguous United States.

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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 8:30 am EST on Monday, and announce the winners, chosen via Random Number Generator, shortly after. Comments closed! The winners are...

Love their kitchens!
Posted by: Diana Bradley

thank you, amanda!
Posted by: Loli

Oh, my. My family would be overjoyed to win!
Posted by: Kristin

Thank you, Nova Natural Toys + Crafts!

December 1

 

Hello, December! 

Welcome (and Welcome back!), to the newest Sponsors here at SouleMama. I'm so pleased to introduce them to you this morning...

Oak Meadow

creative, experiential homeschooling curriculum for children in kindergarten to grade 12...use independently or through our fully-accredited distance learning school

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Playful Learning

amazing little eCourses with big life lessons—for kids and their grown-ups

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Alena Hennessy

 

online art classes for the spirit

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Check out all of their handmade, natural, and creative offerings - and those of our other Sponsors - in the days and weeks to come. I thank them and you both for your presence and support here. And if Sponsorship is something you're interested in for your own business, do be in touch.