A Quick Update

Where to start?
Well, first off I would tell you that "Things are Good."
We are good, happy, more or less healthy (though we've had our fair share of bugs this winter!) and all-in-all in fairly good spirits.

Eloise is getting bigger and smarter everyday, not to mention a HUGE personality to go with such a teensy package.
Her words right now consist of:
- Bapa (papa)
- Hippo
- Balle (ball in french)
- Suse (soother)
- Numnum (for food)
- Uh oh!
- Mama
- Lait (milk in french)
- L'eau (water in french)
- 'gard! (for 'regard' or 'look' in french)

And I'm sure of a few others that I've forgotten off the top of my head.

We've had an insane amount of snow this winter - and it just keeps piling up! I can't help but feel very Canadian as we shovel off our cars and drive in all sorts of crazy weather (at 10mph mind you...)

I have been keeping busy with all sorts of little crafts and my herbalism. I've even started getting some orders for my winter skin balm, which I handed out some samples of.
It makes me optimistic enough to think that maybe I really could work at home and make a little income this way.
I've been enjoying my quilting and drawing and also learning how to even do some gluten-free baking!
While none of us are celiac (thank God) we do have some carb issues and hubby may have a gluten intolerance, so we're slowly cutting it back and seeing if it helps.

Jeremie is in his first contract as an IT tech and really enjoying it. It's quite the change from the welding shop, and it was so funny having the discussion that yes, you needed to wear nice slacks, and a button-up shirt or a nice sweater...yes, you need to wear a belt and nice shoes...

Poor guy, he's only ever wore clothes that could get grease stains, rips, tears or catch on fire as opposed to a nice, clean-cut look.

Although personally, I think he looks very handsome in his  "office clothes." ;)

We recently celebrated my 26th birthday this past weekend by going to the Museum of Nature and then out for some wonderful Indian food while Grandma and Grandpa graciously babysat for us.

And today we just finished celebrating Shrove Tuesday with family and ate a wonderful pancake dinner! My Mum and Dad thought I was a little crazy when I told them I wanted to make blue, red and green pancakes; but being the wonderful sports that they are (and used to my weirdness by now) allowed me to play with the food colouring!

(yes they did taste better blue)

Lent is now upon us and I'm trying to get into the season! I've decided to do the 10-10 challenge for the internet/computer usage. Meaning I can't be on the computer between 10am and 10pm. I'm also going to try not to make any meat dishes on Friday and really honour Lent this year.

And that's what we've been up to!

Coming up, my DIY project for table-runners, and recipes for bottling your own berry cordial and gluten-free bread.

Peace,

Homemade Oil Of Oregano

I had gotten introduced to Oil of Oregano a few years ago and have been using it as a go-to method when I feel a cold or flu coming on.
The one thing I wasn't impressed with however, was the price.
Thankfully I found this recipe online and decided to whip myself up a batch!
Here are a few of the benefits of Oil of Oregano:

• Destroying organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems.
• Strengthening the immune system.
• Increasing joint and muscle flexibility.
• Improving respiratory health.

Skin Infections

Oil of Oregano can be applied directly onto the skin to treat itches, skin infections, and irritated gums, but only if it has been diluted. Always follow the instructions on your particular bottle before applying topically onto the skin, since highly concentrated oils may first need to be mixed with Olive Oil or Coconut Oil before application (usually one teaspoon of Olive Oil or Coconut Oil per one drop of Oil of Oregano). 

Digestive Problems

The high concentrations of thymol and carvacrol in Oil of Oregano have been shown to calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Therefore, a quick home remedy for mild indigestion is to drink a glass of milk or juice that is mixed with 2 or 3 drops of the oil. 

Sinus Congestion

Oil of Oregano is a wonderful natural remedy for sinus congestion. A common solution is to add 3 drops of the oil into a glass of juice and drink this mixture daily for 3 to 5 days.

Colds and Sore Throats

Oil of Oregano is an excellent early defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. Simply take 3 drops of the oil once per day (you can mix it into a glass of orange juice) and you should notice results within a few hours. Repeat this once per day for up to 5 days until the symptoms are gone. 

http://www.homeremediesweb.com/oil_of_oregano_health_benefits.php

DIY Oil Of Oregano
You need a ratio of 1:1 with fresh Oregano and Olive Oil.
I used 1/2 cup of Oregano to 1/2 cup Oil, but you can reduce the amount of oil if you'd like a stronger batch.

• Wash and dry your Oregano
• Place Oregano in a ziplock bag, cover with a tea towel and hammer at the leaves using a meat tenderizer or something similar. This will bruise the leaves causing them to release their oils.
• Heat up a small amount of Olive Oil (in the microwave is fine) until warm than add to ziplock baggy of crushed leaves. Close the bag and squish and smush the oil and leaves around for a minute or two. (This ensures that you pick up the released oil.)
• Now pour the leaves and remaining Olive oil into a clean, dry glass container with a fitted lid, and place in a cool, dry place for 2 weeks.
• After 2 weeks strain the leaves from the oil and bottle. 

Please keep in mind that there are side effects to taking Oregano oil continuously, and should be avoided if pregnant. 

Voila! You've just made your own Oil of Oregano!

Peace,

Mommy Lessons Prt. 2

Mommy Lessons I've Learned So Far, Continued

11) Mommy's food is always preferable.
It doesn't matter that she just ate a huge bowl of the same meal pureed. The food on Mommy's plate is where it's at.

12) Diaper changes cut into valuable playtime, and escaping while bare bottomed is always hilarious.
She can crawl amazingly fast while half-naked, probably because she's less 2lbs.

13) The t.v. remote is more fun than any other toy.
Way more fun that a toy, slightly more fun than the phone and TONS of fun when all the electronics shut off at the same time when the power button is pushed.

14) Standing in the tub is the ultimate thrill.
Mostly because I have to keep saying "on your bum" and sitting her down, just to have her laugh and pop back up again.

15) EVERYTHING MUST BE TASTED.
Flecks on the carpet. grass, twigs, shells on the beach, rocks, mommy's face and the odd time, even food.

16) Kitchen cupboards and drawers are much more fun to play in than the toy chest.
Throwing towels, hot plates, utensils, pots and pans are much more exciting - plus they have the added benefit of making WAY more noise.

17) Kisses can make anything feel better. 
But we all know that.

18) Dropping a nap can be a good thing!
Just no sleeping after 4pm or that little party animal will be up 'till midnight.

19) "Baby Einstein" can be a lifesaver. 
Need 20-30 minutes to do a task? Pop that baby in, and get 'er done.

20) Board books are an awesome teether.
I have board books used just as chew toys and are full of little tooth dents.

Peace,

Dear Eloise: A Letter To My One Year Old Daughter

Dear Eloise: A Letter to my One year old Daughter

To my darling daughter,

It's 8:30pm right now, and exactly 12 months ago at this moment I was shaking with contractions and working harder than I ever have my entire life, to meet you.

At 4:07am, tomorrow morning you will have been born, and will have changed my life forever.

I saw, through bleary, tired eyes, your tiny face and Papa holding you up to me, and gently asking “What should we name her?”

We decided on “Eloise” a French name, meaning “warrior.” An apt name it turns out, as we battled though 28 hours of labour together; but you were born healthy and strong, weighing 7 lbs and 8 oz.

I had to have an emergency cesarean, your heart-rate was too fast and we decided that you had been working hard enough, it was time to meet each other, and I didn't want to wait any longer.

You won't remember this, but Papa always will.

While I was getting my stitches, Papa got to take you into a quiet room, sit in a chair in the corner and stare down at his new beautiful daughter.

Papa told me you looked right up at him and watched him intently, and thats when he fell in love with you.

Shortly after Grandma, Grandpa and Auntie Nessa got to meet you, and Papa introduced you to your new family.

You were a very happy baby, and a very hungry baby, you had no problem figuring out how to nurse, and it was your favourite place in all the world, to be cuddled up against me and it was my favourite place too.

After two days in the hospital, we went home, and then you started to grow.

Everyday you did something new and amazing. Overnight you would change and get a little bit bigger, a little bit heavier, a little bit stronger.

Too quickly you outgrew your little cradle that sat beside our bed and moved into your own crib.

I remember being amazed as I watched you grab for things above you, and how you'd laugh in your sleep.

Suddenly you were sitting upright by yourself and playing with toys, you laughed all the time and were eating solids.

When you were 8 months old, you figured out how to crawl and started getting into everything.

Now you're walking along holding onto me, and I will rejoice and be a bit sad the day you let go and walk by yourself.

You are amazingly smart and talented, and every day I see you getting smarter and more talented.

These past 12 months have been the most amazing, precious, challenging and exciting months of my life.

The last year has flown by, and though you're still a baby, you're creeping up on toddler-hood, another stage I'm excited to go through with you.

God has blessed us immeasurably when He gave you to Papa and I; you are the most precious thing in the world to us, and we thank God every day for such a gift.

We love you so much, and we will always love you, we will always be there for you, we will always help you, and we will always be on your side, no matter what.

Happy Birthday, beloved daughter, my darling Eloise.

Mama & Papa XoXoXo

Raised Bed Veg and Picnics

This past week has been extremely busy. Between Eloise's teething, getting the house ready for the hot weather and gardening, we've been jumping.

Jeremie and I are currently renting our little home, so I didn't want to put too much effort into making a large garden, flower or vegetable. However, having grown up most of my life with large vegetable and flower beds, I really found myself missing digging in the dirt.

I have many fond memories going to one of our many gardens at my parents home, and weeding with my dad, or picking beans with my mum.

So after a quick chat with my dad and hubby, they were able to put together a raised bed for me. I was even able to get all the supplies from dad, including dirt and plants! (because I'm just spoiled that way) and Jeremie knocked the box together for me lickity-split.

Really, I say "my garden" but the most work I've had to do thus far is water!

The box is placed right out my front door on what I suppose would be the 'side-lawn' of the house. It's easily accessible by hose, I'm never too far from baby if she's inside, and I can protect it from the groundhog family living under the shed in our backyard.

I have lettuce, green onions, basil, tomato, peppers, dill and a few others I'm sure I'm forgetting. I even have some space left to put a cherry tomato plant in, and room for one more; but I haven't decided what yet.

For my flowers this year I decided to get window boxes. They were very cheap and I got to walk around the garden center and buy pretty plants that "made me happy", like my lovely straw flowers, which Eloise finds hilarious every time she touches them. In my little boxes I also have lavender and spearmint, so I can easily add them to summer drinks.
I tried something new this year and bought a tiny Stevia plant from the local farmers market. I had never grown/tasted stevia still on the plant and was amazed by how sweet the leaves were!
I'm glad Eloise is too small to try it, or I'd fear my child would eat it all because it tastes like candy!
I look forward to drying it out and trying it in some recipes.

It was so hot this past week, we decided to go to the park and have a picnic with my sister-in-law and her family. They have a little girl just 4 months older than Eloise.
Great fun was had by all, and as you can see, the baby swings were a great success!

The river was so warm and lovely, I almost considered jumping in, in my clothes.
I didn't think to change into a bathing suit before we left, but I should have! Eloise loved the warm water, as long as Papa had a good hold on her.

I hope you all have a lovely week!
Peace,

Of Flowers, Brown Paper Packages and Chubby Strays

Yesterday I was spoiled. I went out to check the mail and found a lovely brown paper package on my porch, I wasn't expecting anything so this came as a wonderful surprise.
My friend Teri has been following my blog for some time, and when I had talked about embroidery and learning to crewel, she jumped right in saying she had tons of crewel yarn, and that she was happy to share.
A couple months later, this appears!



A shoebox stuffed with brightly coloured crewel yarn and a lovely letter! It made my entire day, so Teri, if you're reading this THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I LOVE IT!

Just when I thought the day couldn't get any better, my folks dropped by with this:

Some beautiful Crocus'! My mum and dad just wanted to drop it off 'for no reason' apparently, other than that they knew I loved flowers.
Like I said, completely spoiled.
I've also had this little guy hanging around.

I don't know why he's decided to try and adopt us, but he shows up most mornings, mewing at the door like he lives here.
He's very friendly and cute, and not exactly a 'starving stray' either.
I think he's a polygamous cat, and has several houses he visits regularly.
I keep trying to explain he doesn't live here, and that we're just not interested in making that kind of commitment right now, but like the song: "The cat came back, the very next day. The cat came back, he just wouldn't stay away."
He sits on the back porch while I hang laundry, he looks through the window at baby Eloise who squeals in delight every time he paws the screen.
Sorry kitty! You're cute, but not that cute!

Peace,

Unplugged...Kinda

Well, I'm back! (sorta.)
I decided to go unplugged for Lent.
My rules were simple:
1) No Facebook
2) No general internet browsing
3) E-mails are to be checked once a week.

It all seemed simple enough I was excited to start. I had fiddled around with the idea of getting rid of Facebook all together, but there was a bit of a public outcry from long-distance family members who wanted to be able to keep up with baby Eloise's exploits and glamor portraits.

I had to physically remove my laptop, or I knew I'd be too tempted to use it. So I unplugged it and threw it under the couch where it sat.
One of the odd by-prouducts of not having my internet is that I suddenly had little patches of time, normally used to browse, which I didn't know how to fill.
I grabbed one of my unused journals and started journaling with reckless abandon. Sometimes I'd have up to four entries just in the one day - I'd write about my plans for the day, Eloise's eating and sleeping schedule and general thoughts and feelings.

I had such lofty thoughts about being internet-free until the end of Lent, but I didn't make it.
I got to the three week mark and I started making little allowances, like checking my emails more often or peeking over at pintrest, until finally I admitted defeat.
I have been off of Facebook and will do my best to keep off until the end of Lent.

It was eye-opening to realize how much time I actually spent on the internet and not actually being productive; even though I was rarely online for long chunks of time, I was constantly flipping my laptop open just to "check" something.
It's that need for constant information, to know everything that's happening right away, even though it's not of any consequence. (Do I really need to know what my friend is eating for dinner through facebook??)

I also read more than I had since having Eloise.
For my birthday in February, Jeremie got me a Kindle! My folks got me this beautiful cover for it.

That, coupled some free e-book sites like Inspired Reads and Pixel of Ink, I had more than enough to keep me busy.
I tried out some new recipes, decluttered and cleaned out more boxes from my basement.

It was a good experience and I'm glad I did it, even if I didn't quite reach my initial goals.
I'm going to try to unplug more often, and will probably do so again in a couple of months.

 Peace,

Sledding

I just couldn't resist the warm sunshine that filtered through my windows.
The snow glittered like a million little diamonds, and my feet were just itching to take me outside.
I bundled up my little bird and went over to my sisters - my little nephews were just dying to go sledding, so after much more bundling, yards of scarf, and fuzzy mitts, we were off!
Henry, the almost-4-year old had no fear as he climbed a fairly substantial hill, took position and flew down it; his face stuck in an expression of childish exhilaration the entire time.
Sam, took a few rides with me, but had more fun shuffling around and down the hill on his rump, little "whoa, whoa, whoa's" following him.

And Eloise, my little muffin, slept.
Slept right through everything.
Actually, as soon as I strapped her in her stroller, she passed out.
It must have been the fresh air and the bright sunshine.

And a lovely time was had by all.

Peace,

When Baby Wakes Too Soon

When Baby Wakes Too Soon

From the bedroom back yonder, I hear a small cry.

I glance at the clock, and I breathe a big sigh.

I trudge down the hall for a peek through the door

At baby who thinks she can't sleep anymore.

Her hands are exploring the mattress's bumps;

One foot tests the air, while the other one thumps.

She coos to her teddy and plucks at her bib,

and then she spies me through the bars of her crib.

Her brown eyes grow sparkly; she doubles her grin

And hopes that her welcome will hasten me in.

And in that brief instant, I see in her eyes

The reason she thinks she must quickly arise...

Surely now, Mom, you have seen the day fly

As it hurries to follow the sun through the sky.
And you know there is more for my fingers to do

Than I'll ever get done before the day's through.
The hours grow older, and night chases noon...

How can you blame me for waking so soon?

- L.J. Martin

Mommy Lessons Prt. 1

Mommy Lessons I've Learned So Far:

1) A (loosely) scheduled baby is a happy baby.
I was doing so well!

2) A diaper explosion will almost always happen when you're not at home, and within easy reach of a diaper or wet-wipes.
There must be a reason for this; I've yet to figure out what it is though.



3) Never fall asleep immediately; because as soon as your head hits that pillow, and you get comfortable, a soose-is-loose cry will happen.
Every. Single. Time.


4) Don't plan on eating any food while its hot, for at least 5-6 years.
It's amazing how good cold eggs can taste...

5) Constantly keep trying on clothing you think is "too big", they grow out of it while you're not looking.
I've missed so many pretty clothes this way!

6) Movie dialog is overrated.
Baby adds her own dialog, and unlike the movie, the volume cannot be controlled.

7) It doesn't matter where you go, that's where baby wants to be.
Washing dishes, doing laundry...going to the washroom, and all with an audience!

8) Don't count on wearing your first choice outfit; as baby will be sure to burble all over it as soon as you're about to leave.
The same is true for when you've just spent 20 minutes getting baby all dolled up too.

9) Never plan on being on time, guaranteed a feeding will be required as soon as you're out the door.
Make sure to thank all those wonderfully patient people who are waiting on you.

10) Stash burp blankets and soothers around the house. The best defense is a good offense.
'Nuff said.

Peace,

Christmas Preparations!

It's getting closer and closer!

I've been trying really hard this year to decorate in a simple, but very festive way.

We don't have a lot of space in our apartment, so Jeremie and I chose only a few Christmas items to display this year.

I love my wreath, it's so pretty and natural - my Father actually pulled off a bunch of wild grape vine and wound this for me.

(Don't feel too bad for the grapes, we have so much of it, it chokes out the trees!)

I absolutely love it.

Somehow, and I'm still not quite sure how; I was talked into getting a fake tree.
Jeremie likes how easy a fake tree it, there's little mess, no watering, it fits in small spaces, so I suppose it's a wise decision. 

If only they smelled as nice as a real tree. 

However, when all was said and done, I still like our little fake tree.

I was given for a few years running, parts of the WillowTree Nativity set.

Some people can't get past the fact that the figures have no faces, but that's what I find so endearing.

The body language is so lovely, that all the expression you need is right there.

I have it in my entertainment unit, and is visible as soon as you walk through the door; a good reminder of the reason for the season. 

Apart from that, just a few candles, some Christmas cards is all that is displayed.

This is very 'toned down' for me, as usually I decorate everything to the nines with Christmas stuff.

All in all though, I really am enjoying  my simple little Christmas. 

Merry Christmas friends!

Peace,

What's In Your Purse? (or diaper bag!)

I've been reading about the "minimalist wallet" and how we can pack so much in our wallets and purses. 

So here is the contents of my diaper bag, its all I need even in winter!

Top row: terry-cloth bib, hand cream, Burts Bees bum cream, changing pad, wipes, diapers, baby Sophie and wallet.
Bottom row: 1 onsie, 1 pair socks, 2 fuzzy sleepers, Buggy the toy, and nursing cape.

Generally I stuff a knitted blanket in there too, because...you never know!

All of this fits pretty easily in my Baby Sac. 

I don't use a purse at all anymore, as there doesn't seem to be much of a point!

So here's my diaper bag!

Peace,

Our First Snowfall

Winter has come! 

We woke up this morning to a winter wonderland. 

Everything was covered with clean, cool white snow.

Here's the view from our front porch. 

It's caused me to feel quite festive, and break out the Christmas music. 

Last year Jeremie got me a record player, and I have the perfect record! 

I'm a huge Bing Crosby fan, and have already watched "White Christmas", which is by far one of my favourite Christmas movies, followed closely by "Christmas in Connecticut."

Sadly, I think the snow will melt this week, but hopefully be back soon, and stick around until Christmas. 

Time to get cozy with some hot chocolate! 

Peace,

Curry Leek Soup and Knitted Lovelies

I tried a new recipe the other day, and both Jeremie and I loved it!

It was amazingly easy and deliciously healthy.

Curry Leek Soup



 3 Medium Leeks, white portion only, thinly sliced

1 garlic clove, minced

2 T. Butter

1 (14.5 ounce) can Chicken broth

3/4 c. Water

1 1/2 cups thinly sliced Carrots

2 Celery ribs, thinly sliced

2 t. chicken bouillon granules

1/2 t. Curry powder

1/8 t. Pepper

1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk.

In a 3-qt. saucepan, saute leeks and garlic in butter over medium heat until tender.

Add the broth, water, carrots, celery, bouillon, curry powder and pepper.

Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until veg is tender.

Cool slightly.

Place 1 cup soup in a blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth.

Return to pan.

Add milk; heat through.

Do not boil.

Here is Mum with Eloise, and her new cardigan and bonnet she knit for her.

It's so soft and warm, and looks just adorable on Eloise.

Perfect for those cold Fall days!

Look at those cheeks!!



I love the back of the bonnet almost as much as I do the front!

Thank you so much Mum.

Peace,

Happy Fall

Happy Fall My Friends!

The leaves have all turned here.

They are either bright yellow, red or brown and crunching underfoot. The air is fresh and cool, and I find myself throwing open windows to try and perfume our apartment with the crisp fall scent.

Our little Eloise is getting so large! Here she is in one of her last "warm weather" outfits. She's been living in those fuzzy sleepers mostly and I feel better knowing she is warm and comfortable.

In other Eloise-related news; she has officially moved into the nursery. I shall try to post pictures of it soon, but I admit it presently is quite a disorganized mess.

She is sleeping well in her crib, and I found my eyes a little misty as I packed up her small cradle that has been sitting by my bedside since before her birth.

We have reached another stage in her 'babyhood' and I'm in constant amazement how quickly its flying by.

My darling Husband has hung these hooks for me by the front door.

We didn't really have closet space in our entryway/living area of the house, so these hooks have been wonderfully handy.

I think they look quite pretty!

I've been re-reading through Beatrix Potter's books.

Eloise was gifted the first 11 from Grandma and Grandpa. She loves the illustrations and will happily stare at them and coo. A love we both share; here are some of my sketches of her wonderful characters.

We have also been very much enjoying: "A Child's Garden of Verses" by Robert Louis Stevenson.

She lays on the couch, and I prop up the book so she can see the pictures while I read his poems to her.

The rise and fall of my voice and the repetition of verse keep her very entertained.

I've also been working on some embroidery.
I'm making up the pattern as I go along, and just doing it for my own enjoyment.

I have an interest in crewel work, but am having trouble finding crewel thread, as it's thicker than embroidery (which itself is becoming scarce.)  

I'm afraid that these skills, cross-stitch, embroidery, crewelwork and rug hooking are fading away.

It's becoming more and more difficult and expensive to get supplies, and I don't know anyone else that does embroidery.

I am determined to do my part in keeping some of these traditional crafts alive.



I hope you all are having a lovely week, and have a happy weekend!

Peace,