Needle and Nest Design

3-in-1: Lace style...

2012-03-20T12:52:00.002-04:00

Happy 'first day of Spring' day everyone! Don't you love how these balmy breezes put the wind back in our weary wintered sails... I sure do.

I thought I'd show some fashion options for Spring based on that lace tablecloth d.i.y from last year.

Who knew the love of lace.doily would become so trendy this year... but sneaky us (we can have the same look for the cost of a thrifted tablecloth)!

One skirt::Three styles

1. My first - and favourite - style is to layer the lace skirt under a shorter skirt or dress.

It adds a lovely ruffle to the bottom of any outfit this way.

2. Wear the lace skirt over some colourful leggings for a flouncy summer look.

3. Hike it up the torso and belt it secure.

I'm sure some of you could pull off this look beautifully... but for me, I kind of feel like a cupcake with too much icing here.

***

Bonus Style Option:

Dum dum da dee... that's right: even bride-friendly styles here, and won't the groom be surprised when you yell "Peep-O"!

----------------------------------------------------

Or maybe this will revolutionise Middle Eastern fashion options... who knows.

Really, this one skirt has limitless potential!

So I hope you are inspired to run out and grab that thrifted tablecloth right this minute.

(For more doily.lace d.i.y inspiration you can go here too.)

You're beautiful!

lace-crazed mama,

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y: Pinterest projects

2012-03-19T11:50:00.001-04:00

Sometimes when my brain feels like mush for creative inspiration (which is often lately).. I hop over to Pinterest to score some ideas. So today's do.it.yourself projects are actually from this source.

When I saw this super fast & easy tutorial for making cute chipmunks from a basic winter glove... I knew we had to make them!

Azriel - my eager assistant - watched as I hacked the glove into 'animal limbs'.

She sat beside me as I sewed on the machine (eagerly stuffing my pin cushion with pins).

Then we stuffed with fluff and stitched them all together.

My stubborn lazy side (that doesn't tend to measure/follow patterns) resulted in a slightly 'mutant squirrel' version of the project.

I also tied on a scrap kerchief for the fella and a wee necklace for the lady.

The real measure of a successful project: my daughter's delight!

Another super easy project from Pinterest was this rainbow ribbon cloud pillow.

I used some leftover ribbons I had (tip: singe the edge of ribbon on a candle and it won't unravel).

This was to celebrate/congratulate my daughter on finally getting into her big girl bed!

****
Are we Pinterest friends yet? Hope so!

Have a beauty day,
sewing mama,
Mel ;o)

moment by moment.

2012-03-16T14:48:00.002-04:00

I said to Ben last night "it seems like we can hear the kids growing" as they shoot up right before our eyes.

The days are quietly stealing away the 'baby moments'. Our wee Hudson is packing on a pound a week... so needless to say, he already looks like a linebacker at one month now.

Then there's Azriel. She is quickly becoming a little lady.

From the moment she gets up to when her head hits the pillow... she is in non-stop banter mode.

I should record every minute of the day for how hilarious it is. She also wants to copy me on everything - hence the baby wrap she's wearing for her doll. ;o)

And then there's my Ben...

You could say we're both growing a lot lately too.

More exhausted - learning patience.

More stresses - learning faith.

***

Having a new baby.. and now recovering from surgery... has put more strain on Ben to be the 'man' & 'mama' of the house. I'm grateful to him for his care.

In the chaos of a thousand dirty diapers and tending to the kids... we can feel a million miles apart.

We catch eyes and give a knowing look that says "I miss you" and "I still love you".

He sees in to me.

in to me see.

intimacy.

Time slips by so quickly... but I am grateful for these moments.

I look back and remember a Dad and his daughter feeding the ducks.

Our first walk outside as a family of four now.

"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom"

Psalm 90:12

Counting the moments,

Mel ;o)

dust fairy..

2012-03-15T16:10:00.004-04:00

You know that beautiful moment when you sit in a glowing ray of sunshine?

But then it illuminates all the dust particles ... and you try to hold your breath to not inhale all the floating junk?!

Well, maybe I'm a germ-a-phob on this issue because it honestly creeps me out (though I know I'm breathing it in all day).. just seeing it is gross.

So, years ago I tried to convince myself is was simply 'fairy dust'... and then opted to sit in the dusty sunbeams as if they were my very own magical snow globe.

Now it seems that someone else in this nest has found the magic...

...and she dances in this sparkling constellation.

Sweet fairy.

dust n' delight,

Mel ;o)

how I did my do [part deux]:

2012-03-13T14:08:00.000-04:00

You may have noticed that for some time I've been living under a toque (thankfully the excuse of winter made it seem fashionable).. but really, I was having a bad hair ~~day~~ month

The last time I cut it was back in August... and as you can see I'm a one-cut-wonder:

...the reverse mullet mama (long at the front, chopped short at the back.. and just to mix it up - short bangs too). Amazing, I know.

What will really knock our socks off is if I can get some wild colour happening soon!

I want the longer bangs side (on the left) to be a fire engine red I think...

So, want to see how this hack job is accomplished?

I thought I'd give you the behind the scenes video:

No I never went to hairstyling school... and yes, the crunching scissors sound does likely mean they are getting quite dull!

No one in our nest is safe from this scissor wielding mama... and now Azriel is also sporting this highly trendy look - but she makes it look cute!

So there's the whole hairy deal.

Anyone recommend dying vs. extensions? Vice versa?

Chopped mop mama,

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y: toddler sewing cards

2012-03-12T18:05:00.000-04:00

This weeks do.it.yourself project is for the wee ones.

Sewing cards have been around for a long time - but since this is my blog I get to show you how I whipped some of these up over the weekend for my daughter.

It's a simple and fast project:

The goal is to have a fairly stiff card that doesn't bend with use.. but not so thick that you can't pop a hole punch through it. So I used crafting foam paper, with a cereal box for the backing.

Design ideas are endless: you can glue a picture onto the card stock (or paint one).

I opted to use some woodland CD stickers since they're so sweet.

I also glued fabric 'clothes' on other cards (t-shirt/brown pants).

Once you have the foam paper glued to your cardboard, and whatever image podged to the top...get your muscles ready and start popping holes through the cards with your hole puncher.

Now you can create your 'sewing needle' by wrapping yarn around a bobby pin and then tightly duct taping it in place. I also looped a bead to the other end of the yarn so that it wouldn't pull through the card while she sews.

...and so she sweetly sews (and plays peek-a-boo too)!

Now she can work alongside her mama as I craft.

Happy sewing folks!

Mel ;o)

she's aliiiivve!

2012-03-12T18:04:00.000-04:00

Hello dear hearts,

Just wanted you to know that I came through the surgery.. and lived to tell!

That is one looopy experience to wake up from... especially when your short-term memory is wiped clean (I asked when I'd get debriefed by the doctor... and they said I already had!).

Providential timing to rush this gall bladder removal for Sunday morning though, since the amazing surgeon said there were a number of gall stones lined up at the escape point of my gall bladder - which would have had me in the E.R in no time!

Now this mama is in recovery mode... finally keeping down fluids, and ingesting a smorgasbord of Jell-O.

Thanks to all my amazing friends and family who are carrying the weight of everyday life that I am ordered not to lift (for 4 weeks..eep).

Thanks for all your kind comments, support, thoughts and prayers.

You're all beautiful!

G'nite,

recovering mama,

Mel ;o)

the kill(h)er diet...

2012-03-10T13:39:00.000-05:00

Hey friends! Here's the health update on this mama:

Looks like I'm playing some Russian Roulette with 25 ~~bullets~~ 'gravel-sized' gall stones. With every bite of food there's the danger of it triggering another painful attack. So I'm on a strict healthy diet to avoid that risk.. when everything else inside me is screaming for chocolate.coffee.calories!

Pretending you're a bunny - and eating accordingly - has caused it's own issues this week.

All those vegetables have made mama & the newborn a gassy.cranky.mess! My list of allowable foods keeps narrowing right now it seems.

Just know that I now have a huge amount of empathy for any of you out there with food issues. I totally took for granted the freedom to shove whatever delicious morsel I wanted in my face - with no consequences (except a more voluptuous figure we'll say).

It is hard work being diligent about your meals.

On the upside (in a painful, annoying way) I'm getting my gall bladder removed tomorrow morning. My first surgery ever.

I better get a badge.. or a ribbon.. but I'd settle for a burger.

What's that? I have to be on a liquid diet for the first few days... and then low-fat, healthy food for the next 4 weeks?

Crap.

I think I better go have a hissy fit now.

But seriously, I would deeply appreciate any prayers you can spare.

They say this is a fairly common issue facing post-pregnancy mamas... but I don't know how us mamas are supposed to "not lift" our big babies for 4 weeks?!

We are blessed with a great support system of family/friends.. but I still find it hard to not worry about the daily tasks with two kids in the mix.

I guess that's it ... I'll keep you posted on the flip-side.

Now go eat a chocolate bar for my sake!

hungry mama,

Mel ;o)

cup o' cuteness & creativity...

2012-03-08T12:44:00.001-05:00

Here I gush again...

...for serious, is there any end to the cuteness?

I'm just going to savour this moment for a second.. (since these past days are starting to convince me that the evil colic monster is creeping in)!

Hudson is still a hoot though, thanks to the ever-growing supply of darling hats!

We were sent this beauty crochet number the other day ..

Sent with sweetness from a delightful blogger buddy Krista. She even personalized the gift tags - she's an amazing illustrator!

She also included this sweet 'cow baby' doll for Azriel, who is already smitten with her!

Don't you just love people that love on your kids?

Our cup runneth over from all the kindness and celebration shown to our growing nest.

I am humbled, and send y'all a big squishy hug!

...Speaking of squishy hugs...

Anyone have some advice on how to teach a toddler about 'personal space'?!

The other day I thought she was going to give Hudson his 5billionth kiss.. but she instead sunk her teeth into his head!! Geeeeeeeeeeez.

Oh, Azriel. You're lucky you're so darn cute, or you'd be out on the curb young lady.

Small Style link up day!

Azriel's outfit:

Sweater: gifted (JOE)

Gray shirt: Old Navy

Skirt: Children's Place

Red Tights: H&M

Thanks for letting me share again friends!

You may not know it.. but you guys out there feel like my one moment of sanity and creativity right now... I blog to remind me of the beauty in the chaos currently.

muah,

Mel ;o)

confessions: [of a mama]. part 10.

2012-03-07T12:59:00.001-05:00

Hi friends!

Well we're now officially starting our third week with the new guy: lately I'm calling him Hudson Blue (because of his eyes).. or Sir.Poops.A Lot...

We're still in a fog around the nest here, and whether or not this is a current moment of clarity, I thought I'd post some recent confessions/thoughts:

First, an update: I haven't had gall bladder surgery as of yet...but am now booked to see my family Doctor tomorrow and figure out the next step.

---------------------------------------------

I confess that most days right now feel like 'motherhood in the trenches'.*

I want to savour these precious moments.. but it feels more like I am enduring them.*

I breathe a gasp of relief when I see my Ben arrive home from work each day.*

Though I feel like Eeyore for Ben after a day spent with the milk-piglet and all his pooh.*

*[I know these feelings aren't permanent.. but chalk it up to sleeplessness. (If this funny blog wasn't so true... it would be more hilarious).]

Whenever I go to burp Hudson... I end up burping instead (weird, yes.).

Most mamas suffer from cabin-fever occasionally... and I'm no exception (though the home-body in me likes our cozy cave).

I kick myself now for never getting my drivers license (honestly... 31years old and never had it!).

I have the cutest kids (but I'm biased).

Azriel and I are still a hot mess most mornings, but I do sympathise for how 'neglected' she feels currently when this lil' pac-man is always feeding or pooping.. or needing attention.

I still want to capture every moment in my heart though.

The sweet. The stressful. The beauty. The mess.

These tiny tots are my tutors. my sages. they keep teaching me every day.

I'm a slow learner... but I'm trying to keep up.

Learning to be self-less.

Patient

Kind

Grace-full

Compassionate

Giggly

Funny how it's only now we start to truly appreciate our own parents - and what we put them through!

Mindful mental mama,

Mel ;o)

foxy friends

2012-03-06T13:19:00.002-05:00

Remember being introduced to Mr. & Mrs. Fox during our tour of Azriel's room a long time ago? Well, I'm delighted to announce that my daughter is currently obsessed with them as her play-fellows.

Gosh, I feel so validated as a crafty mama - my kid actually enjoys the toys I made her!

When Azriel isn't smothering her new baby brother... she's often found snuggling the foxes.

Introducing Mr.Fox to the giant from the Pilgrim's Progress quilt.

Putting Foxy Lady into the baby bouncy seat.

The foxes supervise her while she paints.. or dances.. or has play time with the other stuffed animals.

You'll be happy to know Azriel is past her awkward pronunciation stage too:

not "foc"

"fox".

(I probably should have just called them 'rats' ..)

---------------

Do your kids have a favourite toy?

Do you remember yours as a child?

I was a sucker for G.I.Joe's... and My Little Pony... and Popples!

Playful mama,

Mel ;o)

P.S: the pattern for these foxy friends was from the book "Sew Me, Love Me".

D.I.Y: woodland terrarium

2012-03-05T13:18:00.000-05:00

Feeling the need to satiate my love of all things woodland... I opted to throw together another playful terrarium. You may remember the mushroom one I made for our daughter's last woodland birthday. I just can't get enough of those fungi & fOWLs!

Super fast and fun to make. You just need a large enough glass jar with a lid (I used a big pickle jar - mason jars work too).

Encasing this wee owl and mushroom salt shaker in glass was my attempt to protect them from our cats and my daughter - who already broke the other mushroom. You could tuck any little figurine you like into your jar.

I used a hot glue gun to attach the owl to the mushroom... and then the mushroom to the styrofoam base (painted brown).

I forgot to mention that you'll want some of that 'moss-in-a-bag' from any dollar store. I glued some grassy patches onto the foam base.. and attached it to the jar lid.

Azriel's first encounter: cautious intrigue... and then instantly dumping the jar upside down.

Lucky for ~~her~~ me.. everyone stayed glued in place!

-----------------------------------

I'm tempted to make a plush version of this in the future with my fabric mushroom tutorial as well... wee felted flowers...stitched grassy hills.. how cute.

Happy crafting friends!

mushroom mama,

Mel ;o)

well, of all the 'gall'...

2012-03-02T15:09:00.001-05:00

I wanted to post today about how things are going here at the nest... now that being 'mama of two' is in it's second week. I want to invite you over for a 'virtual tea party'... where we can sip in the sunlight and chat for a moment, yes? Now, this isn't meant to be a whine-session on my part, but it would help if you knew how to play the violin!

So, I would tell you that this has been quite the roller coaster of emotions lately - no, I never did get the 'weepy' days or postpartum blues - but I did see how our daughter is starting to be affected by this addition of a new brother. Sure she still lavishes him with a smothering of affection, but she's way more volatile with me. My sweet gal now starts bawling.whining.freaking whenever I ask her to 'do' anything she doesn't want to (i.e...pick up your toys. eat your food..etc). We are trying to ride this new wave out, and trust that it's just her time to adjust too.

I would tell you that some moments feel like I am clutching at sanity for dear life... and it's a delicate thread that's unravelling. How I fear for the rage that can rise up when sleep-deprivation/whining kids/messy rooms collide in my heart... and I fight to hold the fire in my chest so as not to unleash and burn those I love.

This mama is forever in need of much grace. I catch myself telling my daughter to 'be patient' when in reality, I too, am found lacking.

But I am also learning how resilient one can be... to bounce back from another sleepless night and ride the euphoric energy of seeing your precious children afresh each day.

I would beam with pride at how cute our little Hudson is...

as he smirks up at you with a tiny dimple in his cheek (sure, it's because he's farting).

I'd tell you how he's been such a pac-man with nursing, that he has put on a full pound in one week, and has already returned this mama to her pre-pregnancy weight.

Pretty sweet when you're husband no longer sees you as 'bloated with fertility'... but calls you 'positively svelte'!

Lastly, since many of you are aware from my personal Facebook status... I'd fill you in on what happened here last night:

I woke up at 11pm feeling the sharp pain (like a belt of knives) around my diaphragm. Much like I had felt once while pregnant, and briefly last week. This time it didn't quit... finding it hard to want to breathe deeply... or much else, Ben said we should go to the Emergency Room. ugh... We packed up Hudson (who was sleeping beautifully for once).. and left Azriel asleep in the care of our house-mates/in-law siblings.

After waiting for 5 eternal hours - by which time my pain was gone - the Doctor poked around and discovered the source of the problem... my gall bladder.

A fairly common post-pregnancy issue it turns out.. and now I'm booked for Monday to get it looked at and likely removed with surgery.

Are you still playing the violins?

The biggest hissy fit moment for me is that one should be diligent to eat healthy fruits/veggies/fibre with this condition... and not aggravate it with all the stuff I would actually want: fats.chocolate.caffeine.starches!

These are the times I remind myself of one of my favourite verses:

"...and it came to pass...."

Brighter days are ahead I'm sure!

Thanks for sharing this mama's tea-time and rant,

I would love to hear how you're doing too?

Hope your weekend is beauty.

Mel ;o)

...while baby sleeps.

2012-03-01T17:50:00.000-05:00

Goodness me... are you seeing this?

Like brother like sister - I just discovered Hudson sleeping with his arms up - just how Azriel used to sleep when she was a newborn too. I love seeing the similarities of how they both looked in their first weeks, but that chin is still definitely unique to Hudson!

Oh, how I wish this photo was a reality right now (them both sleeping at the same time)... currently I think they are plotting against me to be awake at opposite times - so mama never gets a chance for shut eye.

Whoever said 'sleep when baby sleeps' obviously only had ONE baby.

Well, that's my quota of cuteness for the day.

Sleepless mama,

Mel ;o)

dance like no one's watching... but the cats.

2012-03-01T07:44:00.002-05:00

Yes friends... we have a magical tutu in our home now.

It gives our daughter Azriel the grace of a ballerina, the moves of John Travolta in 'fever'...

Every day when we go to have our 'dance party' time... Azriel has to pull out her tutu from the toy trunk (and usually take off her socks for some reason) and then she busts a move. I really think we'll have to get her in some dance classes because she's a riot! I find this age to be so fun to watch... she surprises me every day with new phrases.actions.attitudes (good and ugly!). It's just amazing to watch these big.little personalities growing up before our eyes eh?

It's also a crazy experience to look at my daughter and feel like I'm seeing a mini-me (especially when she's trying out my glasses). Is it wrong to secretly hope you're kid will need glasses... because they look so cute in them?!

Speaking of cute... how could I not throw another wee video in here:

You'll also find more cuties over at Mama Loves Papa today.. celebrating one year of Small Style posts!

Which reminds me... Azriel's outfit is all hand-me-down goodness from friends... and the magical tutu (Dollarama!). :o)

Stay tuned for another dose of cuteness later today (featuring baby Hudson & Azi)... because I'm the mama,

I can keep posting and posting these wee wonders!

Dancing in the daze,

Mel ;o)

one. toque. three.

2012-02-29T10:15:00.000-05:00

Can you believe this wee munchin face was our daughter Azriel two 1/2 years ago?

Why does that seem like just yesterday? She was five days old here.. and we were sporting our matching toques. My sweet friend Lynn has knit this tiny number for her, (while the toque I wore was knit by Lynn's Grandma for me - too cute)!

Fast forward to the present.. and here all three of us are. I guess I still have the same haircut (sheesh). Hudson scores his sister's hand-me-down hat... and Azriel just got a new toque knit by Lynn again for Christmas. One.toque.three!

I love the cable knit pattern on Azi's new hat.. but am especially smitten with the hand-pottered buttons that Lynn made. A close up of the wee toque reveal the knit-design of an owl at the front... what a hoot!

Speaking of owls... I just have to show you some more of the sweetness that has fluttered into our nest lately.

A crochet owl from our friend Kathleen, and a cozy owl fleece hat sewn by our friend Erika.

There seems to be a theme around here - we are blessed with super sweet.creative pals!

I love hoooo guys,

Mel ;o)

Mama wears: fashion for latch'n...

2012-02-28T08:34:00.000-05:00

So let's talk about 'fashion' here for a minute... why we wear what we wear.

I've said it before: I'm no fashion-monger.. I just pile on whatever suits my mood for that day.

Yet, throughout my years certain factors have influenced my style.

If there's a red SALE sticker on it... I'll opt for that shirt.

If it seems too trendy/popular... I'll steer clear of them.

If it's got a funky design or lace or army green colour... I'm sold!

But now,

now a different factor (once again) influences this mama's style...

I need fashion that fosters easy latch'n...

I'm sure any of you nursing mamas out there would relate. You may - like me - look at your wardrobe and think, "now what can I wear that allows my baby easy access?!"

Especially in these early weeks where my wee Hudson is an insatiable lacto'vore. In a weird you-always-want-what-you-can't-have way it makes me dream of getting to wear a turtleneck someday (and I don't even like turtlenecks!). But I digress... here's the kind of outfits I tend to favour now:

I'll always be a layers type of gal.

Gold tank top. Purple scoop neck t-shirt. Denim skirt. (all thrifted).

Faded blue jacket - H&M (Amsterdam)

Purple tights - 725 Originals

Moccasins - handmade (d.i.y here).

What influences how you dress?

milk-maid mama,

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y: knitting carrier

2012-02-27T15:22:00.002-05:00

So here's a funny old upcycling project I made years ago... and just discovered while rummaging through our garage on the weekend.

Here's what you could get if you crossed Robin Hood with a supply of yarn/wool...

a knitting quiver.

So how would you make me quiver you ask?

Well, I had a cardboard tube with a slip-on-lid from an old puzzle.

You could use a shipping tube from a postal outlet... or hard plastic tube from an arts supply store (more money though).

I wrapped it in fabric and hot glued it secure. I also tied and glued on a strap of knitted cording.

Having a hard tube helps keep your knitting needles from impaling you or the poor sucker beside you.

Granted, it's not a very big storage space (so you can't keep your afghan stuffed into it). It's good for the kind of projects I used to do when I was a knitting poser...you know, like half-finished wrist-warmers, cup cozies. etc.

So there you have it... may your quiver be all a shiver with creative upcycling delight!

Knit-wit mama,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday.take 34.

2012-02-26T13:07:00.002-05:00

Hello friends!

Here we are at the close of another weekend, and here's another quick slide.show of what ours was filled with:

.. a lot of snuggles with our new Mr. Hudson.

...Azriel and I are competing for who snuggles him more ;o)

...a lot of laundry (le sigh).

...a lot of painting.

...a lot of cat-naps (Tinderpuff/Hudson/Mewsli sandwich!).

...and of course with Family.Dinner.Saturdays.... a lot of good food & memories!

Now it's Sunday... and the kidlets here are sickly...

poor Azi has been all coughs/sniffles. Wee Hudson is sneezing his share too.

...so, a lot of sniffles & snuggles.. and cuteness here.

How was your weekend friends?

Mel ;o)

colour me: ready for spring!

2012-02-25T12:00:00.001-05:00

Beautiful bouquet from my big brother & girlfriend

So this is a bit of cheery colour to remind me that Spring is around the corner. It was starting to feel like it outside this week... and then we got hit with this pile of winter again.

I don't know about you... but I'm eager to see those green popcorn buds start peeking out of tree branches... and the birds to migrate home... and the flowers to start unfolding.

Spring-fevered mama,

Mel ;o)

Quilt*y pleasures...

2012-02-24T12:48:00.002-05:00

Have I told you how blessed we are to have a wealth of friends and family sharing in the joy of our new child here? I seriously have some fantastic folk in my life who are eager to help me ~~survive~~ thrive at being a mama to two now. I'm also thankful for our church family, currently they are delivering meals to our home for this 'transition time' as mama heals and strengthens to reclaim her domestic title here! ;o)

One sweet lady at our church is a quilting/knitting phenomenon... and I just had to share this quilt she brought us. I think she makes one for every new baby at our church (which if you know our church.. is A LOT of quilts!). It's a completely illustrated model of the famous book Pilgrim's Progress. It comes with the little figures - like Christian here - who has the burden that can velcro-attach from his back to the cross of Calvary. Wild eh?

Our daughter Azriel has been all over it: catching the figures in the net of the Enchanted Garden.. exchanging kisses with the giant of Doubting Castle.. inviting her farm yard friends to travel the path too!

Every stop along the way is interactive with pockets and tunnels and hills and trees... amazing stitchery goodness for this nest.

Hudson wanted in on the fun too... even if it was just to rest his head amongst the flocks of sheep in Bypath Meadow.

Aren't handmade gifts the absolute best?

I'm surrounded by crafty friends who have blessed my socks off with sweetness for our kids... and blessed by the kind comments and congratulations you readers have left here too...

thank you!

'Happiness is handmade',

Mel ;o)

P.S: IF you wanted to e-mail this quilt maker you can reach her at: cbarker@canadianacabinets.com

a sister's touch...

2012-02-23T13:51:00.003-05:00

From the first moment you met your little brother your hand reached out gently to stroke his head. You speak in a sing-song whisper to him and he smiles at you.

When he cries... you go "shhhh... it's ok little brother... you patient". Even when mama comes to comfort him, you're still eager to embrace and kiss him better.

Every morning you squeal 'baby brother!' as if Christmas came early... and rush over to snuggle him.

Every morning you melt mama's heart with the cuteness.love.affection you keep showing us.

And I love that you get your brother to smile at only a week old! ;o)

***

Yes, it's a beautiful thing to watch Azriel & Hudson developing their new relationship as siblings. My worries of 'how she would handle a new brother' have been replaced with wonder at her delight in him.

I'm also left in shock as to how HUGE my daughter suddenly seems... she's a two and a half year old going on ten it feels like!

(So I know this week has been post after post about our kids... and you may be missing my d.i.y's and other crafty features... we're just in the babymoon stage right now, so you'll have to forgive me! ;o)

Mama Mel

Hudson's birth story

2012-02-22T10:40:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have been wanting to know how my labour went this time around.. this is the post for you. If you remember Azriel's birth story, you know that I was hoping.dreaming.praying for a more 'natural' labour for Hudson. In many ways this was a completely different experience - and in others it was eerily parallel to Azriel's birth.

So here's the scoop:

Wednesday. February. 15th... 2am - got up for the bathroom and 'bam' my water broke. Feeling slight contractions I went back to bed assuming that I would wake in the morning with a baby ready to hatch!

Morning came, contractions didn't.

Waiting, walking.. nothing. By 2pm we were already booked for the "overdue" ultrasound, and since I was Strep B+ there was the issue of me not stalling with the waterworks depleted. Dr. suggested we head to the hospital and 'get things started'.

Ah yes, the familiar hit of oxytocin ( = contractions on 'crack').

A few hours spent riding the waves of contractions... trying various positions (like the fun bouncy ball seen above). Much like Azi's story, we were starting to notice his heart rate would dip during my contractions.. this was a concern to monitor.

After a warm soak in the tub... and the midwife saying I must have a 'high pain tolerance' since I was still pretty calm through contractions.. the nurses pumped up the volume of oxytocin with a wise crack about "we want to hear you screaming"! Awesome.

The final two hours of labour were INTENSE.

I spent most of the time kneeling on the bed - smothering my face into a pillow from home and groaning loudly through each contraction. They had raised the oxytocin twice now (which is just mean, really!) but I still managed to get through 'naturally' without any pain relievers - call me a masochist, but I wanted to feel this baby come out this time.

10:30pm... out he did come!

After the two intense hours of contractions, then pushing, screaming "Oh God" and wondering if I would make it... the euphoric moment of Hudson's arrival came!

I remember the second he was pulled out I thought "well, that wasn't so hard..." hah.

They flopped him onto my chest and he looked right up at me... melt mama's heart.

My parents and sister were ushered in to watch Hudson get all his vitals checked - and I hollered from the bed "his name is Hudson.. Hudson Blake!".

The final 'wow' moment came when my midwife asked if I wanted to see my placenta...

.... um, noooo thanks.

"Well it's really quite interesting" she said.

I'm not going to pretend to understand the medical/scientific terminology but it turns out there were two rare features happening on/in my placenta with 'exposed blood vessels'. Long story short - because my water broke naturally, it 'knew' to avoid rushing along this vessels. BUT if I had been induced by breaking my water (due to occur the very next day) then it could have passed over the vessels and caused a fatal blood loss for Hudson....

...so we praise God for this sweet mercy!

...this sweet boy - our new son.

I was also delighted to get to spend the first night in hospital with him snuggled in beside me. Azriel was in special care her first night... so I savoured this moment with my lil' man.

Now we're home at the nest, and learning afresh all those little details that come with having a newborn.

Like, how our entire delight in the day depends on if he poops or burps.

Or how all he seems to do is eat.poop.sleep... repeat!

And how he gets a cute lop-sided grin... with every poop!

yep, a lot of poop around here..

Thanks for sharing in our joy (stinky bits and all)!

mama Mel ;o)

recent craftings: [midwifery stitchery].

2012-02-21T10:05:00.000-05:00

So here's another project from the nest, friends.

I wanted to create some special 'thank you' gifts for my wonderful midwives. This time I set to work before the baby came (since I got a sweet 'scolding' from my midwife for creating her previous gift after our first baby Azriel was born! Something along the lines of 'you should be resting, Mel!). I can't help it.. I love to create - especially for lovely people in my life!

Having two 'primary midwives' meant making double the fun. This was the feather hoop I stitched/sketched up for one of them. I also made a fabric gift bag for this and one of my pottered mugs, (etc) to tuck in to.

This nest hoop is for my other lovely midwife, to represent the members of their home. I attempted sewing a version of this felt 'rose' bowl from Pinterest... but it was a flop (literally).. and required me to tie the bowl up around her pottered mug.

So, these were some of the crafty perks to having a slow-coming baby...

more time to create while I waited.

I guess this boy knows his mama well.

I'm very grateful for these wonderful women who guided me all along the way of being pregnant, labouring and caring for these babies in our nest.

I heart midwives.

Crafty mama,

Mel ;o)

confessions: of a new [again] mama.

2012-02-20T12:03:00.001-05:00

Hello friends!

Well, this is Day 5 of having the new fella in our nest... and my midwife always tells me I may get 'weepy' at this stage. Instead, I just feel sleep-deprived and euphoric - so I thought I would record some confessions/observations I've been relearning about this stage of motherhood.

I always considered myself a 'laid-back' relaxed individual... but these times have revealed how manic I can truly be. First, my midwife has told me "rest up to ensure quicker healing".. (yes, I am wobbling around like a cowboy who's been ~~trampled by their horse~~ in the saddle too long). So when my Ben says "just go lay down babe"... you'd think it would be an easy point.A to point.B move:

Yes... that's more me on the right - and yes, I made a chart to illustrate it! On my way to 'go lay down' I'll see a pile of toys that need sorting... laundry that should be cleared... messes like mine-fields on every step toward bed. Let's all applaud Ben for the fact that he perseveres with his nutter wife and takes care of the nest while I sleep. The real challenge is when he goes to work tomorrow... I'll need to face those messes and tell them "I don't care right now" - I need to care for me.

Another confession: I was still wondering what adding another baby to our family was going to do to my love-meter... would I have to divide the love for our new arrival?

I've discovered that instead there's been an exponential factor created - with this new guy to love, I'm also feeling a deeper delight and adoration towards our daughter and my husband - so everyone benefits.

I guess I'm seeing how precious the moments are to be shared with each of them now, and our baby is a new facet to our family by which to see each other in a fresh perspective...

... I am blessed.

...I am sleepless.

...I am a bit nutso (but you knew that already right?)

manic mama,

Mel ;o)

* You don't even know how restrained I am being to not post a thousand photos/blogs that are fluttering around my brain right now! (Let's blame the hormones...)

handsome Hudson, our new son!

2012-02-18T15:16:00.000-05:00

Hello friends! As promised, here's a wee photo-shoot of our newest addition at the nest.

Hudson is sporting this adorable toque knitted by our friend Jackleen (she told me it's actually called a 'Hudson' pattern - before she knew we named him that!). Love it.

He's also tucked into the sweet crochet booties that his Aunt Sarah-Anne made him. (You locals can find your own pair she's made down at GLOW maternity). Like a gangly puppy, Hudson has big feet to grow into it seems... :o)

We're still trying to figure out who he's looking like here... his sister, my side, Ben's side.. but I just can't get over his cute lil' 'bum' chin!

Azriel is still proving to be a delighted.helpful.loving sister.. "dat's baby brother" she's saying!

Day 3 and we're surviving pretty well now.

I'm still recovering.. and hope to share his birth story this week... but I know you'll understand if I don't post like crazy for a bit. ;o)

Thanks for all the love friends,

we heart you.

*P.S - his adorable mushroom sleeper is from H&M - linking up this announcement today over at Mama Loves Papa!

Mel ;o)

he shall be called...

2012-02-16T18:26:00.002-05:00

Azriel is tickled pink to announce the safe arrival of her new baby brother!!

Hudson Blake Inglis

born: February 15, 2012

10:30pm

Just like his big sister... he was 8lbs 11oz... and 21" long.

Most of you facebook friends already know these details.. and we thank everyone for their outpouring of kind congratulations and celebrations with us!

We're already home at the nest now... after mama and son spent one night at the hospital we were ready to get back to our 'four's company' of Daddy and Azriel.

More to come friends,

handsome Hudson deserves a photo-shoot!

Thanks to all for your prayers, love and shared joy with us!

We praise God for a miraculous birth here.

Now to have a long soak.. and sleep.

blessed mama,

Mel ;o)

love is...

2012-02-14T12:48:00.002-05:00

Love at this nest is not seen in Hallmark Valentines cards...

...it's in the hand-painted masterpieces of a toddler for her Daddy.

When I asked her what she was painting him for Valentines, Azriel said ..."a dragon"...with potato-stamp hearts around it... perfect.

Love at this nest is not all sugar n' spice...

...it's being smeared in the snot n' tears of a sickly toddler who has clung to me for the last 24 hours... (unless there's a paintbrush in her hand).

Love at this nest is not seen in over-indulgent gifts (though I wish I could spoil Ben!)...

...it's in hand-crafted felt fortune cookies and love notes.

*If you're still looking for a quick valentines project: my owl heart treat bags have been featured all over the blogsphere.

Love at this nest is not a one-night stand...

...it's an enduring commitment, a choice to stand by my man through the thick and thin.

Ben is my heart,

my bread-baker

our 'dough'-maker

he cracks me up daily with his wit,

he builds me up daily with his warmth,

... but he wouldn't want me to go on here.

In fact, it's because I love him I don't feature him more on this blog... he's not a fan of the spotlight.

This nest holds my heart... my husband, our daughter, our baby-to-be.

I thank God for each of these deposits of His love in my life.

Not just on Valentines Day.. but every day.

heart-full mama,

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y: moccasin slippers

2012-02-13T15:59:00.000-05:00

I promised to share the do.it.yourself instructions for these moccasin slippers a while ago, and am finally getting around to posting the tutorial here, sorry for the delay.

Want some cosy feet warmers for cold winter days?

You'll need:

tracing paper

Fleece/Felt (in three colours/patterns of your choice) 2' squares for each fabric roughly.

Leather/Vinyl for the bottom of slippers

Suede straps/shoelaces

14" of elastic

pins/sewing machine

1. Step on to tracing paper and outline your foot (drawing .5" extra around).

2. Lay paper over your foot and draw a loose outline (this is the top of your slipper).

3. Cut a rectangle that wraps around the back of your heel and meets at the front (7" high).

4. Cut the 'foot bottom' pattern out of fleece and leather/vinyl to double up your slipper bottoms.

5. Cut your 'top foot' pieces out of complimentary fleece/felt. (I added the embroidered 'flower' from a stitched tapestry I had... feel free to add a 'patch' or stitch your own design).

6. You can sew some top trim to the rectangle of 'heel fabric' for a stiffer edge around your ankle - or leave it as an unfinished fleece...

7. With right sides facing each other (bottom of foot and back of heel pieces) pin the heel to wrap around the back of your foot pieces.

7(a). For a more snug fit you can stitch a piece of elastic into the back of your heel piece.

(Hold elastic at stretched-out point while allowing the machine to do a zig-zag stitch).

8. Pin the final top piece of your slipper over the moccasin (right sides facing in still).. stitch around the entire slipper on your sewing machine. Trim edge, flip right-sides out.

9. How you 'lace-up' your moccasin is up to you. I just threaded some suede cording through the front of the fleece (seen in top picture). You could attach velcro, or punch snaps into the fleece, or grommets with shoelace.. depending how fancy you want to get.

Hope that gets you steppin' in the right direction to coziness!

Moccasin mama,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday.take 33.

2012-02-12T14:46:00.000-05:00

Hello friends! Here's the recap of another weekend at the nest:

You know those lazy saturdays when you want a free.indoor.escape for you and the family? If we're not at Chapters... we can be found at our local Art Gallery.

Magical lighting floods in from the shimmering lake outside. A beauty photo-op for wee Azriel.

Since our Art Gallery is a 'glorified wheel-chair ramp' it's perfect for Azi to run up and down - with her fancy shoes lighting the way! We viewed some amazing sketches by: Anne Cavanagh (we were in art together during high school... yes, she was the better artist!).

I'm sooo tempted to photo-shop a turntable in front of D.J. Azi here! ;o)

Enjoying the library collection of 'picture' books in the snowy sunlight.

Yes, 'torpedo belly' is still ready to launch... and waiting...

This HAS to be the week - eviction notice is about to get served to this baby... stay tuned!

Hope your weekend was lovely... what did you get up to?

Artsy-fartsy mama,

Mel ;o)

diners and dancing...

2012-02-10T16:26:00.000-05:00

Yes, we're still a 'family-in-waiting' here at the nest... and today we delighted in some sweet moments while we wait.

sunshine, and 50's Diner jukeboxes.

A spontaneous brunch at the diner around the corner from our house...

...with my sweet folks who are the most supportive.helpful.available parents one preggo mama could ask for! I am grateful for their constant source of love in our lives. Azriel does a shrieking.squealing happy dance in the window every time she sees them come to our house.

Speaking of 'dancing'.... Azi and I thought an Irish jig may help encourage baby brother along. Fun times with my gal today! (Sorry for all the low-quality videos).

Here's hoping your weekend is a beauty one...

...and praying ours is an event-full one!

Dancing mama,

Mel :o)

cats & crayons..

2012-02-09T14:19:00.000-05:00

Here's a bit of cuteness, colouring and cats for your day.

I know I need to be reminded that this gal Azriel is a sweetie since right now she is on 'super cranky.sleep disturbed.whine' mode... hoy!

Have a beauty day friends,

Mel ;o)

a whale of a time.

2012-02-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

What better way to await a new baby... then to sew a whale.. am I right? Yes, this is the latest creation from my nest here.

Since our daughter Azriel has been loving the notion of being a 'mermaid' in her baths lately.. and always wants to read 'Jonah and the big fish' in her picture Bible... I thought she may love getting a whale from her baby brother. We're trying that approach of 'new baby brings older sibling a gift from the womb'...

Ummm, suddenly the idea of equating my womb with delivering a whale isn't so cute of an idea. Maybe I should have sewn her a goldfish...

Yep. He's still brewing in there.

My midwife today even said it didn't look like he was to eager to dive out... after she made me feel like her ventriloquist doll (gah!). Nothing like saying you're in your TENTH month of pregnancy to make you feel like a 'bloatation device'. So yes, I did paint my nails last night (for the first time in...years) and pampered myself with a warm bath, and chocolate chip cookies that Azi and I baked.

I'm going to just force myself to relax (is that an oxymoron?).. and take this babe at his timing. At this rate... I may have to sew him a 'cupid costume' for his take-home outfit.

Whale see... get it?

sorry.

Mega mama,

Mel ;o)

P.S. I meant to ask you parents what approaches/advice you took with preparing you kids for a new sibling? Thanks!

Keepin' it real... at this nest.

2012-02-07T14:01:00.001-05:00

I'm still not sure if I should write this post...

I'm all for being transparent with you readers, and for being awkward if it's humorous at my own expense... but I never want to make it 'weird' for you. I just want you to know where we are here at the nest.

When Ben and I decided to have a family, we both agreed that having me 'stay-at-home' was desired. I could not envision having kids and then leaving them while I went out to earn a paycheck (this does not mean I judge other mothers who still desire to work outside the home!). We knew this decision would mean a sacrifice on many levels, and financially we would lose some 'perks'.

Recently, we have realised our budget is tighter than we expected.

Almost like a choke-hold.

No extra spending... at all.

Looking to cut any/every thing that's a 'frill' in our life until we can get some stable footing.

Sound familiar? I know a lot of young families struggle with this issue of finances.budgets.bills... and I'm not looking for pity.

Like I said, we chose this path: seeking to live simply. placing value on family instead of frills.

Here's my dilemma.

Our Internet is next on the chopping block now... and thus, this blog may go into hibernation.

I've never wanted to pursue advertising in this space, I don't want my posts to be dictated by other motives for 'gain'... but keep them real to what I am passionate about.

Trying to find a solution it was suggested I throw it out to you readers - to give you the option of 'partnering' in keeping this space alive.

That idea seems awkward. I'm not asking for charity. Creative ideas and beautiful blogs abound without asking anything back... I guess I just wanted to provide this opportunity to decide if you specifically want my heart.our nest as part of your daily read.

A buck or two from a hand full of friends will keep this nest hatching each month.

That's why I've added the 'donate' button on the sidebar to your right.

Sorry if this goes against 'blogger etiquette', I would love for you readers to still connect here even if you don't/can't spare some change... honestly!

Thanks for hearing my heart. I hope to keep sharing it with you here in the future.

Empty pockets, full heart,

Mel ;o)

a camel and a bump...

2012-02-06T19:30:00.000-05:00

A gorgeous 'spring-like' day warranted a family trip to the zoo today.

Granted.. the only animals to be seen were the camel (better known as a dirty-brown-shag-carpet on four legs)... a few playful monkeys... a couple meercats.. and that snake (it was actually moving up the glass - so I squealed like a two-year old girl and ~~ran~~ waddled!)

If camels have humps... this mama has... one mighty bump. Yes, still.

Like I said, I breed lazy babies. But I'm still holding out for the fact that tomorrow night is a full moon and it's bound to shift the tides around here... maybe.

We'll keep you posted!

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y: fabric cloud mobile.

2012-02-06T13:10:00.002-05:00

Hey there daydreamers! Here's a sweet and simple do.it.yourself fabric mobile project.

Those who know my paintings know that I adore clouds... so it was fitting that I sew up a few fluffies to hang over our dining area. I've decided to make this a 'seasonal mobile' hence, it was first a doily snowflake mobile. Now, it will be a 'chance of showers' theme..

Want to make one?

Supplies:

Fleece/Felt

Stuffing

Pearl Beads

Clear Thread

Branch (or hanger of some form)

1. Cut a cloud pattern (large & small).

2. Double up your fleece/felt and cut out a grouping of clouds. I opted for a range of white/turquoise/and stormy grey colours.

3. Stitch each matching pair of clouds through your sewing machine - but leave a 1" gap at the end. With your needle still pinning down the fleece/felt... lift the pressure foot and push bits of stuffing into the cloud (a chop stick is great for this part). Finish your seam, trim the edges - and poof - your cloud is ready!

4. To add the groovy 'raindrops' feature, I strung some pearl beads onto clear thread and knotted the strands to the bottom of a couple stormy clouds. You can tie a knot around each pearl..slide it to the length you desire.. and then double knot it in place.

5. String your clouds at varying heights along a natural (or painted) branch. You could also hang them from a clothes hanger wrapped in ribbon... or a quilting hoop... etc.

Hope that inspires you to get your head in the clouds today...

and go get your craft on!

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday. take 32.

2012-02-05T11:16:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, it's that time of the weekend again:

a slide show of our fairly quiet weekend (no new baby yet!)..

Here's our sweet 'big' baby Azriel... all aglow in a cosy sunbeam.

Saturday mornings are for waffles... our Ben makes the best in town!

Getting the 'new baby' car seat all ready - Tinderpuff wanted to supervise.

Mewsli lounged nearby... and I was totally jealous of her.

'Family Dinner Saturdays' up at the in-laws... Great-Granny and Azi share a love of books.

Here we are... ready and waiting to 'pop'.

Every time we talk about 'baby brother' Azriel will yell at my belly "WAKE up baby"! She seems to be eager to see him now too.

Hope you all had a lovely weekend!

See you on the flip side... hopefully with some BIG news... eventually.

Busting at the gut,

Mel ;o)

...here we grow.

2012-02-02T08:48:00.000-05:00

Here we sit. Hovering in that tangible phase of ...the waiting. This baby is due on Sunday (Feb.5th) but we all know how torturous it is to pin our hopes on that day actually delivering.

Like most great things in life worth waiting for ... this forces my growth. No, not just in the literal sense of 'this gut better not get any bigger'!

I see my need for growth in patience... when my daughter's energy level seems inversely proportional to my own exhaustion.

I need to grow in playfulness - to recapture that childlike wonder for so many beautiful moments one could discover each day.

I desire to grow in being present. To accept with gratitude the moment that God has blessed me with... instead of worrying about 'the tomorrows' or getting distracted by the 'to-do-lists'.

So here we are... in the waiting... and it is here, that we grow.

***

Linking up with other growing toddlers at Mama Loves Papa today:

Azriel's outfit:

striped shirt/grey long sleeve: Old Navy

black corduroy pants: Thrifted (George)

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y - upcycle men's shirt into dress.

2012-02-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

So, I'm not going to lie... this project was inspired by wanting to create something that I could labour in (for fear of those repulsive hospital gowns!)... um, yah. Turns out I discovered a pretty cute dress idea instead - so I won't be wearing this while giving birth, I'll save it for a fun summer date with my man! Maybe you'll be inspired to upcycle an old shirt from your fella's closet too. It's in my classic style of super fast.stupid easy too, even my Ben was laughing at how I whipped it up in half an hour!

Supplies

Men's Dress shirt (whatever size fits your frame)

Stretchy Ribbed Fabric (fabric shops sells them for waistbands often?)

Pins

1 metre of lace

Sewing Machine

1. Cut the top shoulders/collar and arms off the plaid shirt. Cut a square of the ribbed stretchy fabric for your chest (10" high roughly)... this fabric is like a tube top and should fit comfortably over your bust... (alter to make it so if needed).

2. With your shirt inside out - sew up the side 'armpits' - this will be the hip part of your dress. Tuck the tube top down into the shirt with right sides facing in... and pin in place.

3. Using a loose zig-zag stitch feed the shirt/tube top through your sewing machine...gently pulling the stretchy fabric to meet the shirt edge as you go.

4. Now we get to use the sleeves from the shirt...as dress straps! Unless you prefer the strapless look - but this mama does not.

5. Slip on the dress and position the sleeves with the wrist cuffs to tuck down in the front panel. pin in place.

Same deal goes for the back.. (overlap the sleeves and pin in place) you may need a second pair of helping hands to reach back there.

6. Another loose zig-zag stitch to attach the sleeves to the tube top with matching thread.

7. Snip two small holes into the front of the dress seam (orange pins marked here)... and thread a metre of lace through. This adds a cute finish to your dress and helps tighten the dress for a secure fit. Tie any leftover lace in your hair for added flair!

Rock that ~~baby belly~~ upcycled men's shirt.

You can layer it with lots of outfits... and undo the buttons if you need to hang your gut out - since that's ladylike. I plan on using this lots more - once this baby pops out (any day now).

I have a few more variations I hope to try out in the future/ and share with you.

Maybe I'll start a 'miss.lumberjack.lady' clothing line.

Preggo in plaid,

Mel ;o)

colour me: sunny with a chance of clouds.

2012-01-31T11:25:00.000-05:00

This palette post is brought to you by sunshine, lemon cranberry muffins and cat naps...

Is it safe to say we're all a little smitten with buttery yellows. charcoal. and smokey greys lately? I like a punch of colour like cranberry red in the mix, too.

Azriel opted to ignore the lemon.cranberry muffin the size of her head... and go 'tickle' the grey cats with a feather. "Wake up Mewsli... a feather!"

How about a kiss?

Hope you have a sunshiny day friends!

muffin-making mama,

Mel ;o)

Five.for.Five [travel]

2012-01-30T12:28:00.000-05:00

Source Image

Here's another edition of five facts.five foibles about myself... and today's theme is: travelling.

In my 20's I was blessed to have that rare thing called 'disposable income' (having squirrelled away my hard-earned income for a few years)... and I had a wanderlust seeking to be satiated.

Over various trips - for many reasons - with different friends I managed to travel:

Scotland

Pakistan

England

Paris

Amsterdam

Italy (Rome/Florence/Venice)

Canada's East Coast

New York

...

Travelling is a great tutor for life... I adored every moment of it (well, almost.. some tiny parts are just... nasty). You learn so much about yourself, and mankind.. when you go out into new spaces and places. What did I learn you ask?

Fact #1: Walking throughout a city is the best way to experience it... but make sure your footwear is kind to you.

Foible #1: So, I may have felt like the queen of 'frump' trudging around Europe in hiking boots, while women strutted in stilettos along the cobblestone streets of Rome, but you just can't cave for fashion when you're backpacking.

Fact #2: There's a daily euphoric feeling to the freedom that comes with travelling (call it the lack of responsibility).

Foible #2: This euphoric sensation may also have come from the strong Americano's I sucked back throughout Europe... returning home to Canada, I was addicted to espresso's for a while.

Fact #3: Never underestimate the universally understood/embraced beauty of a smile.

Foible #3: Paris and Pakistan had me doing a lot of smiling and nodding... when I, in fact, was clueless to the conversation being had.

Fact #4: I bet you didn't know I have a castle in Scotland?! Well, our family name Bothwell, has a castle in the town of ...Bothwell... so that's something.

Foible #4: My closest attempt to reclaiming it's throne was sitting on a toilet there.

Fact #5: In all seriousness - the most valuable lesson for me - the absolute intimacy and nearness of a great God. Call it coincidences (but there were too many) call it flukes (but they were too designed)... in every trip I've ever been on - God has helped.led.guided when I needed it most.

Foible #5: Call it delusional, but even when I was suffering from food poisoning while in Pakistan... lying on a cot... all my physical comforts lost... I realised I could still praise the God of all comforts and have a deep joy in the midst of utter poop-ville. That's the most powerful lesson I could ever learn - and still need to this day.

*P.S: Pakistan is also where my Ben confessed his ~~adoration~~ crush for me! Yep, took him half way across the world to start our romance. :o)

Thanks for joining my in this edition of my 5.for.5 series.

What has travelling taught you?

Wanderlust mama,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday.take 31.

2012-01-29T17:32:00.001-05:00

Hello friends, this weekend was a quiet one around the nest.... intentionally.

Our crew was needing some rest and family time after a busy week.

So here's what it looked like:

Mama/daughter 'maternity photo-op'... hence, our matching stripey outfits (more to come).

Proof that we aren't all glamorous around here: doing loads of laundry!

Ben's strumming on the mandolin made for a sweet Saturday soundtrack.

This is our current 'success' with getting Azriel used to her big girl bed...

A snow-filled day called for a sled ride down the sidewalk... and building a snow-kitty-owl creature.

We thought Azi's aunt & uncle would appreciate coming home to this creature on their doorstep... and here she is caught in the act of trying to throw another snowball at her mama (she may have seen her Dad doing a similar move...).

Hope y'all had a rockin' or restfull weekend!

See you on the flip side..

...and no, we haven't had a baby yet!

Mel ;o)

D.I.Y - doily infinity scarf

2012-01-26T22:02:00.003-05:00

I'm excited to share this easy do.it.yourself project with you today, friends! You just knew I was going to upcycle my doily stash again didn't you? Seriously, I want MY face to appear when one googles the word 'doily'... ha! But I digress, back to the 'super fast.stupid easy' approach to sewing:

You will need:

A doily table runner (thrifted, or 'borrowed' from your Granny's tea table).

Your choice of scarf fabric (mine was a linen/cotton mix... but stretchy stuff works too).

Pins

Sewing Machine

1. Lay out your scarf fabric: cut it to 16 inches wide x 56 inches long (or fold and cut to 23").

2. Pin your doily table runner down the centre of your fabric strip to hold it in place for sewing.

3. Zip that baby through your sewing machine... running a stitch all the way around the doily runner. This the 'full-length' shot I'm holding up here.

4. Now fold the scarf in half (right sides facing in) and sew those raw edges together.. then run a zig-zag stitch over that seam to flatten it on the inside.

5. Now that you have the full 'loop' of fabric, fold in the edges and sew them down. (To avoid seeing a raw edge you can double fold your edges/iron flat/then sew). Make sure you're using matching thread to hide your stitch lines.

Enjoy your newly upcycled doily table runner turned delightful infinity scarf!

1. Double it up for a cosy cuff.

2. Hang it loose to cover a 9month baby belly!

3. Drape it from your head... cuz you can.

You may recall my last infinity scarf was upcycling t-shirts & lace.. well, I like this one better! Hope you enjoy making one too!

To infinity, and beyond.

Mel ;o)

life is like a chocolate chip cookie...

2012-01-25T20:13:00.000-05:00

My sweet daughter helped me bake cookies the other day... and it struck me that these will be the moments that I can teach her about life... infusing wisdom (or the attempt thereof) into the milieu of the everyday moments.

Dear Azriel: life is like making chocolate chip cookies.

In the moment we may just be given flour... or raw eggs... and on their own - it would taste pretty gross. But don't despair, in time goodness will follow. Life needs both the salty and the sweet.

Sometimes we have to wait...

...and wait,

for that goodness to fully 'bake'. Patience is a hard virtue when the stomach growls and the mouth drools... but the waiting makes the reward taste even sweeter.

Warm and gooey right from the oven. Sweetness stacked upon sweetness.

These are the moments of celebration.

We savour. We laugh. We munch!

Sharing these joys makes for doubled delight. We can't hold blessings in tight fists... but let them pour out into the hearts of those around us.

Bless this mess.

..This beautiful.happy.sweet.salty.mess... called life.

Mama loves you forever, now let's have another cookie.

....

D.I.Y - valentine owl treat bags!

2012-01-24T18:41:00.000-05:00

Here's a simple and sweet do.it.yourself project you may find to be a hoot.

With valentines coming up... you may want to make a special treat bag for your sweetheart... or for the kids to take to school!

A bunch of us bloggers/gal pals surprised the lovely Caren for her birthday yesterday... and I had made these heart hoots for the occasion (since she's a fellow owl enthusiast!).

Step 1. Cut a template of a heart/owl shape (don't hate me for cutting up one of my daughter's masterpieces).

2. Fold some brown craft paper so that with every cut you get two heart/owls.

3. Paint some quick circles for the eyes... and chevron stripes for the feathers with white acrylic/craft paint. (You don't have to stress it, or be an 'artist'... keep it simple).

4. Use a permanent marker (mine was sepia brown) to sketch in some quick eyes, eyelashes and a beak.

5. Run the edges through your sewing machine with white thread... while a 'pocket' still remains open.. slide in your treats (I used heart gingersnaps, but you could throw any small candy/notes/money inside!). Finish sewing the edge and you're done.

You can personalise a message on the back: "Hoo loves you!" or "Owl love you forever" or

"You're a hoot" or "my tweet*heart"... whatever cheesy notion you can muster!

Hope you found that to be a sweet & simple project for any upcoming festivities.

I'm still kicking myself for taking a 'dead' camera to the surprise party... would have had pictures of all the lovely ladies there too!

Happy fabulous 40th Caren!

Mel ;o)

my baby.fruit basket.10

2012-01-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

Well it's official, we've now reached the end of the produce aisle for documenting this baby's progress! I was hoping it wouldn't come to this... comparing my baby's size to a watermelon. Hence, I opted to use a 'baby watermelon' for fear of heaving a full size one into this picture...

...am I the only one freaking out right now? (Oh wait, my husband is rocking back and forth in the corner too...). I'm not sure how many more reality checks are going to hit me before the labour pains do their share - but today was another one of those moments.

The secretary for my midwife's said today "so you'll come in next week - for Feb.1st then?".

"Feb.1st is next week?!" I gasped

"I'm having a baby next week?!!" (my due date is the 5th...) and it suddenly hit me again how quick this moment is approaching, and I swear I've lost a week recently because it's not supposed to be February already!

Ok. Deep breaths. I am ready to sink my teeth in... er, metaphorically speaking.

My midwife said today that he's dropping, but the head is still not quite 'locked and loaded'. I'm starting to notice more practise contractions as well - a good reminder to relearn how to ~~embrace~~ breathe through pain instead of running from it.

One final word on this lil' guy's progress: his heart arrhythmia was ruled out as being any real issue of concern for now - even today he sounded a bit more 'normal' - but the Dr. assessing us said he's likely going to be a "big boy" (9lbs+)... argh!

Sure, our daughter Azriel was 8lbs 11oz.. (you can laugh at my pain - her birth story - here)... but I'm just hoping for a small measure of grace this time around! Think light thoughts everyone! :o)

Thanks for following our journey through the produce aisle of my baby.fruit basket.

Maybe I'll post a bonus edition if I'm still preggo in 2 more weeks (10 months!).

Melon Mama,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday.take 30.

2012-01-22T19:58:00.000-05:00

A purr-fectly sunny and delightful winter weekend had here, friends!

Azriel and I tried out her sweet red sled... and she was keen to drag it home.

I was giddy with all the fresh diamond dust snow falling... but Ben protested my desire to go snow-shoeing (something about..."blah blah blah you're too pregnant").

Any guesses on what that baby's 'fruit' size is now....?! ;o)

Crafting like crazy while Azi naps... and Ben bakes an apple pie.

'Family Dinner Saturday' up at the in-laws...

...then dropping Azi off at my folks for a sleepover = date night with my Ben! Eating/drinking deliciousness at St.Veronas.... and my air hockey 'game face' before we went to a late movie!

After church we did an art hop downtown to different showings... and then hiked in our favourite park (Jackson Park).

Twas glorious... I totally love dating my husband whenever we're lucky enough to get babysitters... and when the sun sparkles off every snowflake, that just makes this mama's heart shine.

Hope your weekend was a beauty!

See you all tomorrow,

Mel ;o)

colour me: maternity & moccasins...

2012-01-19T22:05:00.001-05:00

Here's an 'outfit post' featuring my latest creation: cozy moccasin slipper.. things.

Funky, eh? I like the Scandinavian vibe to them... colourful and full of patterns. It felt good to create something again (I even attempted to make them a D.I.Y project for you folks... stay tuned next week). I think my sewing machine was starting to suffer abandonment issues...

More hand-crafted goodness: my wood & lace earrings ... I gifted these to myself since they matched the wine colour of my skirt! This yummy green infinity scarf was sewn by a friend.

You may remember this navy & lace dress from earlier on in my pregnancy... it's still a favourite part of my wardrobe now that this baby bulge is ever-increasing... the fabric keeps on stretching!

Tinderpuff wanted in on the photo-session too. Seriously, this cat is my shadow... I can't sit without her instantly jumping up on me... and she constantly follows me room to room through the house (waiting to lunge onto my big belly I'm sure).

Sheesh, ok, where was I? I think this was a colour palette post... and a recent creations post.. and an upcoming d.i.y preview... and an outfit post... and a rant about one of our cats...

Ummm.... lets just say having a baby head-butting you in the cervix makes it hard to stay focused.

Waiting to bust,

Mel ;o)

colour me: cocoa & conversations...

2012-01-18T14:02:00.001-05:00

Hello friends, care to join me over a cozy cup of cocoa?

If you were here I would tell you that this is one of my favourite colour palettes.. limey greens, turquoise, and chocolaty browns.

I'd also tell you how today marks my 37th week - this belly is full-term now (which means I better get my delivery bag packed for the hospital)... wowsers.

We had recently discovered that our lil' guy has a heart arrhythmia (erratic heart-rate)... and had to get it assessed to see how benign or serious the issue was. We were booked for Sick Kids in Toronto, but managed to see a local specialist first. He assured us that this seemed fairly harmless and was common enough to likely 'right itself'. [Phew]... these past couple weeks had been a battle to not stress/worry since that never changes anything for good any way.

I'd tell you how recently I've been nesting and resting.

Cleaning around the house, baking muffins with our gal Azriel, trying to be still, reading, reflecting...

Lately we're developing a good new rhythm in our home - now that Ben finally has a more consistent work schedule... our days seem more structured (my brain needs order!).

I'd say how rewarding it is to push forward in our faith as a couple/family... after a season of wading in a milieu of mediocrity.. re-capturing the wonder of Who God is always brings a sense of 'coming up for air' when you forgot you were even suffocating.

I'd share how cats.cocoa. and cable knit sweaters are especially delightful right now.

How exciting it is to be featured today on Prudent Baby (one of the top 'Mom' websites for my harem pants d.i.y)! Who knew that post would continue to be the most googled subject on a daily basis here!

In other random news, I would say how there was a dead hawk in our backyard... but it was so untouched... asleep looking. I felt struck by how haunting and beautiful it was.

By now I've reached the bottom of my cocoa, the marshmallow is gooey and ready to be slurped back in one final delicious swig.

Wiping my mouth, I'd look up and say... "but how about you? How's your world lately?"

Thanks for hearing this mama's heart today,

Mel ;o)

mmMMMmmagic...

2012-01-17T12:13:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have kids... don't you love those magic moments of 'firsts'... the first word, first giggle, first high-five? Well, today this mama got to experience another one of those delicious times... first baking session with my 2+ daughter! So fun!

Clad in her sweet chef hat/apron (Christmas gift from in-laws) Azriel delicately placed each raisin in a bowl of water (since they were wizened almost beyond hope). She also helped squish the gooey bananas into the mixing bowl, and stir all the ingredients together - a delightful assistant for her mama.

mmMMmmmmm raisin banana muffins... steaming from the oven and soaked in butter!

And that is the face of sweet satisfaction.

I think the next muffin adventure will have to be ginger-carrot... nom nom.

Look out baker Ben... the girls are taking over the kitchen!

P.S - Sorry this blog post does not have a 'scratch n' sniff' feature, you'll just have to trust how yummy this adventure was in our nest,

Mel ;o)

knit.wit.

2012-01-16T17:57:00.000-05:00

I used to be a knitting-poser.

My gal pals and I would get together and knit while chatting, watching t.v... whatever.

I could knit.purl. row on row... and that was it.

I have no patience for patterns.

No commitment to counting.

Knitting and I were just not going to be friends for too long I fear.

And this, this bunched up pile of knitted hat was my only real 'project'.

Sure, I just invented the pattern... namely, knit two tea cozy type shapes... and stitch them together ... and flop it on my noggin.

I have to push all the extra 'bulges' in at the side - otherwise, to my husband's great delight - I have huge teddy bear ears sticking out the side of the toque.

If I twisted the hat around I would resemble a rooster - a highly adaptable piece really.

I can't even take credit for the neck warmer, (bought at a craft show).

Everyone tells me to try crochet... it's supposed to be more my style: "fast and easy".

Maybe I'll tackle that new venture in the future... or maybe I'll force myself to commit back to knitting (since the ~~hoarder~~ optimist in me still has a nest full of needles and wool).

Do you stick with projects if they require more than an ounce of creative commitment?

What group are you in... the knitters or the crocheters?

Knit-wit mama,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday.take 29.

2012-01-15T16:57:00.000-05:00

Brrrr.. that was a real taste of winter this past weekend! Needless to say our family stayed pretty quiet and cozy in the nest here:

Frosty windows... darling daughter.

Ben and Azriel take advantage of steamy windows... as a scribble pad.

Big mama caught in the act - Ben and I are playing with a new camera (he had the new one here)...

A delicious brunch with friends... while the kids were a blur of activity.

Up to the in-laws for family.dinner.saturdays...

Snuggles with Nana...

Chuckles with Grandad and great Granny... as Hazel the wonder dog licked Azriel and she squealed "Ew.... gross!"

Hope you had a cozy and fun weekend where you were too!

See you on the flip side,

Mel ;o)

colour me cozy (outfit + palette post)...

2012-01-13T09:09:00.001-05:00

If my clothing was transformed into a colour palette....

You may recall that I am persuading 'plum' into my wardrobe recently. Hence, the purple tights. I'm still enjoying this combination of tans.browns.taupes.cinnamon and plum.

I used to make these palettes in past posts... and it's so much fun I think I'll start doing them more regularly again. I'm a total colour addict... (when I used to work at Benjamin Moore I would always be found inventing colour combinations with various paint chips!). If you share this delight then here's three beauty sites for your perusal:

Colour Lovers

Design Seeds

Creature Comforts

.... you're welcome! ;o)

Back to the outfit details

Mel's palette:

Hat: DeLux

Audrey Hepburn button: handmade.

knitted cowl: thrifted

grey cardigan: thrifted G.A.P

russet brown shirt: Reitmans

brown skirt: thrifted

plum tights: 725 Originals.

suede boots: Zellers

Have a colour-full weekend friends!

Mel ;o)

blue eyes, bellies & bicycles...

2012-01-11T21:51:00.000-05:00

Today the sun was shining... so Azriel and I got all dressed up to strut the sidewalks.

Here's her classic 'maniacal cuteness' face.

She opted for one of my hats (you'll see why)... my plastic blue 'pearls'... and a freshly discovered handbag gifted to her from Christmas. And yes, like last week's small style post, I still adore this gal in navy.white polka dots!

My blooming two year old is starting to look like a mini-me... I lived in ball caps as a kid.

Sometimes I still do... hence, Azi sees - Azi wears one too. I think her face here is hysterical, as if she's expecting to be crushed any moment from mama's 9month baby belly.

Then it was time to hit the sidewalks... on a push-bike... which inevitably ends two seconds later and Azriel - or I - have to push an empty bicycle the rest of the walk.

These mama-daughter days are extra-special lately on the eve of our new addition.

With baker Ben working full days again... we're getting a lot of time together just Azi and I.

I love discovering the world afresh through her blue eyes!

Linking up with the other sweet kids at Mama Loves Papa:

Azriel's small style:

hat: mama's...

polka dot shirt:thrifted

white shirt:thrifted

jeans: Zellers

coat: thrifted

purse: S.W.A.K

P.S: I'll even throw in a 'mama style' post for y'all later!

Have a beauty day friends,

Mel ;o)

home decor: child's play 'feng shui'...

2012-01-10T14:52:00.001-05:00

So, I used to chuckle at people who were always 'renovating.reorganising.reformating' their living spaces. I laughed because I couldn't understand why they didn't just organise their rooms the 'right' way the first time (since I would map out a room - with graph paper - before arranging the furniture.. and then live with it permanently).

Then I became a stay.at.home.mama.

Then I understood.

Now I laugh at myself as I heave the tables.couches.chairs from one spot to another... weekly!

This is one of my recent 'organizing frenzies'... creating a nook for all of our daughter's books... in the fireplace. In lieu of it not being a functioning fireplace (I wish it were) I opted to make it functional for Azriel's growing stack of books.

It's a great - accessible - spot for her to go grab a favourite read.

(Side-note: yes, those are her harem pants I sewed from a blouse)!

Here's a 'play zone' I recently created in the living room for her too. Every time I talk about creating a new 'nook' or 'zone' in our nest... my husband gets a wary look. Try convincing your minimalist partner that bringing more furniture into a space will help it feel more spacious!

So, I grabbed this bench from our garage to create a play area for our daughter next to the upcycled furniture oven. Now she can sit here and cook.play.read.colour. Ideally there would be some wicker baskets under the bench to house toys... since one must always have more baskets tucked around the house! ;o)

I guess this living room just keeps morphing since it's where we spend the majority of our time.

It's our living space.dining area.entertainment station.play zone.

Call in feng shui or just the fact that many females are intrinsically connected to their surroundings... but I just keep changing it until it 'fits' right.

So what about you?

Does the dust have time to settle on your furniture... or do you manically move it around too?!

Nesting mama,

Mel ;o)

my baby.fruit basket.9

2012-01-09T21:52:00.000-05:00

Somebody hit the 'pause' button... we're suddenly entering our ninth month here! It's all starting to become more of a reality now... there's a new addition and he's coming soon. The majority of my pregnancy was a dazed stupor of not really acknowledging that this baby is for 'reals'... call it being distracted by the baby outside the womb - namely, this sweet gal Azriel...

Yep, she's pretty distracting with her daily chatter now of "whatcha got here mommy?" and "snugg'oh me" and "what doing mommy?" etc. I think she - and the cats - are still convinced I'm just growing them a 'perch' to sit on... with all this combined weight I'm sure the babe is forced downward. Though he still seems to have room in there to thump and bump all day long lately. I feel like a clothes dryer with a bowling ball and cue balls being bashed about inside... goodness. Anytime I put Ben's hand on my belly to feel the rumble he shakes his head and states "that will never not be weird".

Weird and wonderful.

Two defining terms for this family I'd say....

To be honest, I still have no clue how this nest will change soon.

Sure, there's the obvious lack of sleep.. and surplus of diapers.. but I'm still not sure how this heart will transform again. How this birth will cause another 'doubling' of love and delight for a new member of our crew. How my patience will be tried by two voices crying for attention. How our marriage will stay priority in the wake of these changes...

I'm not sure how my heart can handle anymore love to gush out on this newest babe... but I know its here, growing like my belly each day, waiting for the moment when I see his wee face and overflow in affection for him!

Sweet moses... I'm having a baby!

Melon mama,

Mel ;o)

P.S... you can follow this baby's progress down the produce aisle here.

slide.show.sunday.take 28.

2012-01-08T18:37:00.000-05:00

Hope you all had a great weekend out there friends...

here's the recap of ours:

Shopping/thrifting score: wooden alphabet for Azriel...

Friday night 'College & Careers' church group... which I want to rename 'Babies & Bellies' for where most of us are at!

Mmmmm mint ice cream at our friend's house after a Saturday lunch together.

...and a dinner of 'champions' later that evening!

Sunday cat-naps after church... Mewsli hasn't moved from her spot all day!

A fun visit to our local Canadian Canoe Museum for 'free' open house day...

Lots to see.. painters.carvers.miniature train makers... etc.

Sasquatch mama and Azriel in a wee lodge... and the absolute highlight of our trip: I just found out from my Ben that Narwhals are REAL!! Ohmigosh, I thought they were out there with unicorns and jackalopes... but, wonder of wonders they exist. I told Ben that's gotta be on our life to 'see' list now! :o)

We'll just say that was a 'baby-brain' moment for me,

the not-know-it-all mama,

Mel ;o)

she wore a painted feather...

2012-01-05T13:10:00.001-05:00

As mentioned in yesterday's small style post.. I recently customised my wardrobe again.

Namely... I grabbed a fairly boring navy thrifted skirt - and painted a sweet feather on to it!

Here I am free-handing the feather on to the skirt with some latex paint (tan and white). I was using this image from Pinterest for inspiration. The fabric is stretchy so I tried to just pat the paint on pretty thick... I was tempted to stitch/embroider the details on to the feather - but opted to use my new fabric markers since it's super fast.stupid easy.

Voila. A happy feather for my 'upcycled' boring skirt.

I'm not sure what I'm looking up at either... and then... it was raining... ugh!

And here's the full outfit/creative combination:

Lace & Leather necklace: Needle and Nest Design

Yellow shirt: thrifted maternity.

Doily sweater: Needle and Nest D.I.Y

Feather skirt: thrifted (and truth be told.. it's hiked way up over my 8month belly!)

Cable leggings: H&M

Suede boots: Zellers

I'm still tempted to sew some lace along the bottom hem... and it was all I could do to not plaster it with a doily instead of a feather... but sometimes a little doily restraint is needed at this nest. Sometimes.

Happy friday friends - have a beauty weekend!
Mel ;o)

indigo & ivory [mama/daughter style]...

2012-01-04T21:19:00.000-05:00

Yes, I'm still a sucker for the indigo blue with ivory polka dots combo... and this is the most recent version I thrifted for Azriel here. Maybe it's her blond ~~mullet~~ hair and blue eyes that make this colour so yummy on her...

And yes, I still struggle sometimes with that silly 'matching wardrobes' issue... so here we both are in our navy/ivory outfits! Maybe when this lil' guy joins the family in February... he'll get to dress like Ben (I better stock up on plaid now).

Azriel wears:

Navy dress: thrifted (Zellers)

Cream shirt: thrifted.

Tights: Zellers

We're linking up once again with the cutie faces over at Mama Loves Papa.

Mama wears:

Yet another outfit that I have 'customised'... more on that tomorrow!

Indigo gals,

Mel ;o)

studio tour

2012-01-03T21:39:00.000-05:00

Hey there friends! I know we've toured my wee art.sewing.crafting space before... but I've recently re-organised and thought some fresh peeks would be fun.

Here's one of my 'nook' shelves with sewing books, my pottered birds, and a stuffed beaver stitched by a friend.

In the foreground you can see Tinderpuff nestled on our bed... dark brown fabric stretched over a wooden frame makes for a headboard/room divider to my art studio (in the back third of our bedroom).

I perched all my vintage owls above my sewing desk... and hanging on the wall beside is a great quote from Jackson Creek Press.

My main fabric.thread sewing stash - all crammed into a bookshelf beside my sewing station.

I said it before - and I'll say it again - those large plastic salad containers from the grocery store make great storage for fabric! You can see a quick view of various palettes in each bin without an avalanche of fabric everywhere. You're welcome.

And here's my newest addition (last may) I got gifted one of those Martha Stewart organising box.shelf.things. Only in the past week did I finally sort through and make each cubby hole a specific zone for my various crafts.projects.... I also decorated the top 'mantle' with various family photos. inspirations. pottery. etc. Loving it!

I don't know about you, but it sure feels good to organise.

Turning chaos into calm.

Overwhelming into order.

I've been doing this all around our house lately... gosh, I must be in serious 'nesting' mode.

Do you get the urge to 'clean sweep' at the start of a new year?

Thanks for stopping by for the tour,

Mel ;o)

Five.for.Five [pregnancy]

2012-01-02T14:35:00.002-05:00

Alright I'm back with my 5 facts.5 foibles about my life post... you may recall my past rants about childhood and school years. I guess I got side-tracked with a million posts over the past month(s) of d.i.y's and Christmas themed ramblings. I thought the theme for this confession should be on pregnancy - since that's where my ~~belly~~ mind is at lately:

Pregnancy

Fact #1: This is the only time in life that I enjoy my gut.

Foible #1: There's no 'sucking-in' for pants or photos... just let it all hang out!

Fact #2: I haven't had any cravings this time around (unless chocolate counts).

Foible #2: With my daughter I was obsessed with lime slushies..popsicles.. all things lime and cold - even while delivering her I was sucking back those popsicles!

Fact #3: I don't enjoy people ~~groping~~ grabbing my baby belly.

Foible #3: I'm still tempted to make the t-shirt that says "Not a petting zoo, thanks".

Fact #4: I miss having a glass of wine or stout with a good meal.

Foible #4: I told my husband I plan on becoming an alcoholic to make up for lost time! (please don't call A.A... I'm only kidding.... really.... )

Fact #5: I'm still shocked that I am a mama... and pregnant again..

Foible #5: Yes, I know how it happened... I just don't feel like the reality of having two kids is really sinking into my head yet, and this is the last month for me to get a clue!

***

So there, a few more tidbits on who I am here... and thanks for hearing me out! I'm honestly trying to savour this last month of pregnancy - knowing that as we give birth to a new child, we're also birthing a 'ticking clock' : every second.moment. that we spend together is a gift to be appreciated while we have them in our nest.

Off I waddle to snuggle my gal,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.sunday.take 27.

2012-01-01T18:47:00.000-05:00

The first slide.show of the New Year:

A snow filled weekend (though it's been raining all day today).

Azriel and I made our first snowman of the season... see it? Look harder...

Ok.. 'snowlump' with a carrot nose and cedar umbrella... the snow was too powdery!

Sleepy Saturdays... pyjamas, tea and 'proof' I can actually read still!

Organising my wee studio (more on that to come this week).

Cleaning up the living room (taking down all the Christmas decor...) and snuggles with this 'happy camper'.

...and of course - let's all say it together now - "family.dinner.saturdays" up at the in-laws.

Always a precious time for the generations to feast on food and memories together.

Then, Ben and I watched movies and fell asleep by 11pm... Happy New Years!

Eager to see what this new year brings,

Be well!

Mel ;o)

resolved...

2011-12-30T21:50:00.001-05:00

To be honest, I'm not a big fan of making 'new years resolutions' (maybe I can't handle the disappointment of failure - hehe). Now I know it's good to have goals.hopes.plans to keep some form of direction.momentum.vision for ones life - so in the spirit of embracing lofty resolutions to ensure a better year ahead - I publicly declare the following resolutions:

I promise to eat more chocolate.

I will have a baby.

I must read more - like, a book a month (since my husband is starting to think I'm illiterate for how little I read anymore)...

I hope to grow as a wife.mother.daughter.sister.friend.

I need to keep growing in the grace and knowledge of my great God.

I desire to keep crafting.upcycling.and creating.

I will put crazy colours back in my hair.

So yah, there's a rundown of my resolutions - specific and broad alike.

What about you?

Happy New Year friends!

Mel ;o)

mama style... [preggo & posing]

2011-12-28T13:25:00.000-05:00

Don't worry friends.. I haven't made a new year's resolution to post more 'outfit shots'!

I did however date my husband yesterday - and decided to get out of the yoga pants/hoodie combo:

I've decided that maternity clothing is really a 'fashion line' created from some senile granny who loves clown clothes... so I have forsaken it altogether.. and am forcing my wardrobe to work in my eight month here.

(Key elements: vests.cardigans.dress-shirts.leggings.stretchy skirts!)

I was stoked to get these cream cable-knit leggings for Christmas (thanks Mom!). A perfect combo with my suede boots... and stretchy enough for baby bulge.

If you looked in my closet... it's like the palette from a boot camp (everything is army greens/olives/browns/blacks...) so sometimes I try to force myself to try a new colour - hence a yummy plum vest (and normally I do despise purple).

Heck, I even tied on a skinny belt... though it's loose enough to not throttle the wee guy.

So yah, I'm loving this palette lately: plum, olive, russet browns, creams.... mmmMMMm!

Mama wears:

earrings: gifted from sister

wooden beads necklace: thrifted

plum vest: Reitmans

Olive dress: H&M

Skinny belt: Reitmans

Brown waffle shirt: Old Navy

Cream Leggings: H&M

Suede boots: Zellers

Rest assured, I did still get myself a huge white cable knit sweater for cold winter days... so I do still resemble a Sasquatch some days.

Preggo. poser. mama,

Mel ;o)

handmade Christmas: [gifts I made...]

2011-12-27T18:29:00.000-05:00

Remember the recent post about my plan to turn a mop into a trotting mare? Well here it is!

Ok... so I ended up going more with a reindeer/horse thing... almost did a unicorn horn instead, but opted for wee antlers

I sawed the end off the mop to shorten it... and then padded it and bound it with leather strapping. I pulled chunks of the mop up through the reindeer head to create the mane... then stitched and hot glued it all nice and snug. I like the sleepy eyes (stitched felt over a shiny blue button) they remind me of Skunkboy Creature's work. I also stitched pipe cleaners into the edge of the ears so they can be twisted up and down. Fun.. fun!

My daughter Azriel and I both were happy with the end result! (There's blue velvet reigns that I made too... but Azi already snapped them off before this shot!).

And then... I stitched.painted.drew a Jackalope for my guy Ben. Yep... a pretty fierce furry creature in all his wild glory here. You'd have to know my Ben to know that this delighted him...

handmade Christmas success all around!

*For my own sanity(ish) I opted to not finish the doll houses out of clementine crates... but am currently working on them for Azriel in the future... stay tuned. ;o)

Crafty mama,

Mel ;o)

slide.show.Christmas version!

2011-12-26T20:08:00.000-05:00

gifts tucked under the tree with care...

celebrating the real Gift of this season...

and gifts that prove people 'know' me!

Annual jigsaw puzzle at the in-laws.

Jammin' with the jukebox...

Annual Christmas Eve feasting and movies...

Christmas morning stockings...

Pretty centrepiece at my parent's home...

Sleepy.happy.reindeer. family!

That was the 'restrained' photo.slide.show... since this entire past weekend has been packed full:

feasting

family

friends

gifts

movies

birthdays

<phew>

Today was the 'back to reality' day... cleaning up the house from the crafting.gifting.cooking.socialising remnants strewn throughout this nest.

And... we're all sniffles here too. Not to mention the coughing/hacking/snortings... seems like head colds are the companions to festive holidays!

Hope your holiday was a blessed one!

Now, should we make new year's resolutions?

Mel ;o)

Wonder-full.

2011-12-23T21:10:00.001-05:00

It's officially feeling like Christmas at our nest now! Ben's off work today... the tree is aglow... the gifts are wrapped and tucked into our stockings... the massive family feast is packed into this baby belly from tonight...

... and it snowed today!

That glorious sparkling diamond powder kind of snow... it swirled in the air like a snow globe... and coated all the trees in beautiful lace.

Call me a Canadian, but it's really hard to picture having a green/brown Christmas... there's just a certain sparkle that comes with having the snow here (I hope it lasts).

I hope that you and yours are enjoying the beauty of this season too!

May your weekend be merry and bright,

Mel ;o)

wee lass style.

2011-12-22T09:14:00.000-05:00

You may remember seeing this bonny lass munching on her Dad's orange.chocolate.shortbread from a previous slide show.

Just had to share more cuteness since it's her 'festive' outfit for this weekend.

Nom nom nom... I'm not sure which is sweeter in this shot - Azriel's chipmunk cheeks or the shortbread.

Then we waddled outside for a mama.daughter.baby belly shot.

Azriel wears:

Plaid dress/hat: The Children's Place

White shirt: thrifted

Pink/fur booties: Robeez.

Linking our post up with Mama Loves Papa today!

Have a merry day all you lovelies,

Mel ;o)