Life in a Pink House

For The Love Of The Bob

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

At 2yr and 4mos. Dotty was overdue for a haircut. I had trimmed her bangs in one quick snip a few months ago, but this time we took her to my friend and hairdresser Kari.

Here is her after picture. Cute as a button! She even got some sparkles to go with her lollipop.

I am a big fan of my girls wearing short hair. We do not have to use bottles of No More Tangles just to brush their hair each morning and it is out of their way. Of course about age 6 they want to begin growing it out. I am always a little sad when that happens and have said that is why I keep having babies, so I can bob their hair.

Gracie

I couldn't resist adding these pictures of my other little girls with their bobs.

Pearl

Look at that amazing a-line, on a 2 year old!

Ruth

Many years before Miss Suri Cruise brought it back into fashion.

Hush Puppies

2012-02-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

I just stumbled upon Hush Puppies 1958 collection and put a few in my Zappos cart. I love them because they mainly consists of flats. (did you know I am taller than Papa?)

The sandals are my favorite.

Homemade Bath Paints

2012-02-03T07:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a something fun for bath time. Put some shaving cream in a container and mix in couple of drops of finger paint. (or any non toxic washable paint) Give your child a paint brush and let the fun begin!

Dotty spent her bath time painting and washing Kewpie!

Dragon Party

2012-01-29T21:26:00.000-08:00

We are big on theme parties at the pink house. The Lunar New Year and two of my daughters birthdays were within a week of each other. We had a year of the dragon birthday party. I made a circle skirt for the occasion and Papa and Ruth made dragon cupcakes.

We ate yummy food.

I bought this Lucky Buddha drink at our Asian market. I was halfway through it before Papa informed me it was beer. I truly thought it was mineral water!

This was a family party and the girls' great grandmother, Delight, came 600 miles to join us.

Urban Decay VS. Cover Girl

2012-01-26T13:27:00.000-08:00

Urban Decay Surreal Skin

Remember this post? It was the one where I gave up cosmetic counter makeup and bought all new drugstore brands. I wanted to find out if there really was a difference worth paying double-or more, for.

I did research and discovered Cover Girl's Simply Ageless had the best reviews for what I was looking for. I bought one, well I bought two because I got too dark of a tint the first time. Total $30.00

Add that to the $38 I spent yesterday to purchase Urban Decay Surreal Skin and you have $30 down the drain.

Here is what I liked about the CG; it went on smooth and moisturized my dry skin (that was my only problem with MAC Studio Finish, too dry) and it covered consistently.

Here is what I didn't like; after I talked on my phone there was a residue from my make up on the phone and the container lacked convenience in design. This caused fumbling when applying. I also looked like I had on foundation when wearing this brand, where I prefer it to be invisible.

This is my first day using Urban Decay and so far I am pleased. I was attracted to it because it is a cream that goes on as a powder, giving me the best of both worlds. I am not sure of the small brush applicator, but I will give it a few more tries before switching to a sponge. The shade matches perfectly which I knew because, unlike a drugstore, I was able to test it. The compact is similar (same color) to the CG, although it is a cinch to use.

You may have heard when it comes to makeup your foundation should be what you spend the most money on. It is true. Lesson learned.

Cover Girl Simply Ageless

I Will Always Be A Little Stuck In The 80's

2012-01-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

New haircut!

I had a hard time finding a "before" photo where my hair wasn't pinned up and showed the length.

This is a cycle I run about every 3 years- short, to long, and back to short- or you could say long, to short, and back to long.

I have been seeing my favorite 1980's asymmetrical hairstyle around lately. Maybe it has to do with the fact I just turned 40 and this was the hair cut I wore in 8th grade, that I decided it was the cut for me. It isn't very flattering on me, I knew it might not be, but I decided to wear it for a while. This will be the final destination...

a 1950's short style.

I wish I could have the kitchen to go with the hair!

Where Will Baby Sleep?

2012-01-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

Recently traffic on this blog skyrocketed, thanks to a link on Baby Cheapskate. The content of their article was regarding a Montessori approach of using a floor bed rather than a crib. This is the post they linked to. It is about an infant environment and not truly about a floor bed. Here are a couple of beautiful examples of families doing just this: Tall Tara and Sew Liberated. I have never posted on this method because it isn't one we were successful with.

Enter background story:

Our first daughter never slept in a crib and she did sleep on a mattress on the floor-but it was as a co-sleeping family.

We co-slept with Ruth, for 4 years. I nursed her on demand until she was 2.5 years old. We were Dr. Sear's dream family.

Here's the tricky part- I was miserable.

I believed it was the right way to parent and was determined to accomplish attachment parenting regardless of our families best interests. We were completely sleep deprived. Ruth slept on top of me and remained latched on all night, for over two years.

My lactation consultant had me log her nursing for one week. One day it was right at 18 hours! In the beginning I also had to pump between feedings to try to get my milk supply up. I never succeeded and she had a failure to thrive resulting in formula supplements, which basically became her meals, while I was the snack and constant pacifier.

At age three she had to be hospitalized in order to have 5 teeth crowned. Yes, breast milk contains sugar and sleeping with it in your mouth, night ofter night, is very similar to sleeping with a bottle.

I am not going to go into detail of my medical history/medications/conditions that caused the nursing problems. You will have to trust me when I tell you I did all that -whatever your suggestion is, or what worked for your friend, and did I talk to Le Leche- and more. (sorry, I am bit over people telling me what I should have tried.)

The real problem was I lacked the confidence to trust myself more than a book and other people's opinions. In my world NOT breast feeding, cloth diapering and co-sleeping is taboo. In a perfect world that would be the path I stayed on. The truth is children are not one size fits all. Sometimes the shoe simply does not fit-not matter how we try to squeeze into it.

Would I do it all over again? Hell no!

Okay, actually I have to believe we did what was best for Ruth. We may have had a rocky first few years, but by age three she was a dream and we haven't ever had 'discipline' problems. (This is amazing because she will be 15 years old on Sunday.) I attribute this, in part, to those first years which means it was worth it.

I can tell you though, we did things differently with our next three children! We still co-slept with the second for a few months, less with the third and our fourth maybe a month. They simply slept better and more regularly in a crib. I also nursed each one less than the one before. I am not advocating for any particular method. I am advocating for parents to be willing to put parenting methods aside for their babies' best interest. Only you know what is the best way to mama your baby and sometimes that means flexibility. I am very proud that I learned to stand up for what is best for our family.

Back to the original point of this post.

If you are considering a floor bed or co-sleeping, (both wonderful choices) and aren't sure it is best for you, I think this makes a great choice.

BabyBay

We use a pack and play because of our limited space. Had I known about the Baby Bay we would have used it instead.

Preparing For The Dragon

2012-01-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

I am sharing this post from my School In A Pink House blog. Even if you don't homeschool it is fun to celebrate Chinese New Year.

I love that our Asia continent theme coincides with the upcoming Chinese New Year. In addition my oldest daughter will be 15 on January 22nd, and Grace will be 7 on January 28th. We have decided to give their combined family party a Year Of The Dragon theme. Party favors will be the lucky red envelopes each with two dollars inside. We will make one great big dragon out of cupcakes, play pin the tail on the dragon, eat moon cakes and extra long noodles (long noodle = long life). Decorations will be red and gold accented with fresh flowers and fruit-tangerines, with leaves intact, and persimmons. The girls have been at work making dragon cut outs for invitations.
You can see our past Chinese New Year celebration here.

For our family it is difficult to keep all Asian countries represented as we study Asia. Last week we focused heavily on Japan. We naturally lean towards Chinese themes. My husband has a background of experience in Chinese arts and language. It is a country he and I have travelled to and plan to take the girls. I am trying though! This week we added yoga cards to our Asia shelves as a little shout out to India and tonight we are cooking Thai food for dinner.

As for today, I decided to capitalize on the girls wanting to play store, and set up shop for school today. We found items from around the house and priced them using Chinese numbers. To make it simple we started with 1, 2, and 3. Later we added 8 and 10. Using play money (U.S.) I gave the girls a certain amount and they had to spend it all. Lots of math was happening! Grace is beginning to understand and count money, but needs practice skip counting so I kept all her work in increments of 10 or 2. What I am sure they enjoyed the most was Mama playing store with them, providing just the enthusiasm we needed.

You can look forward to a post on our origami work and our new Montessori Asia map. Next up I want to introduce haiku and Pearl will begin Rosetta Stone Chinese. I'll keep you posted!

Here are three of my favorite picture books from our continent shelves:

Ruby's Wish

How My Parents Learned To Eat

The Girl Who Wore Too Much

Credit All The Tattooers

2012-01-15T21:39:00.000-08:00

I have a small pet peeve I'd like to share and I believe you might be able to help. We all know tattoos are EVERYWHERE these days. As a family supported by other people getting tattoos I think this is a very good thing. The problem I have is coming across pictures of tattoos, on Pinterest for example, and they are rarely credited to the tattooer.

I know pinners/bloggers can't always find who the artist was and I accept that. You have the right to share it regardless. Other times I can see the artist name has been intentionally removed in order to give the picture another caption. Tattoos are not all the same and by removing or not mentioning the artist you are giving the incorrect impression tattoos/tattooers are generic and all equal. It would be wonderful if good tattooers were recognized as well as the bad ones, benefiting both consumers and tattooers.

If you have a tattoo you like, it is a very nice thing to let people know who did it. In outfit posts everything the model is wearing-clothing, jewelry, makeup, even hair color, are credited but never a tattoo artist. I am sure many have never have given it any thought, but wouldn't it be swell if that changed? If tattooers got as much credit as your local thrift store?

Of course there are pictures of tattoos that show up in our photos not front and center. For example, in every picture of me a tattoo is probably somewhat visible and I wouldn't credit every one, just where the tattoos are prominent.

This one I wouldn't.

Maybe.

photo by Solanah

Yes.

The flip side is if you don't like your tattoos then leave it unsaid out of politeness. (or not)

Crediting other people's tattoos in you photos is too much to expect.

Credit!

Not necessary.

I am trying to give you food for thought, of course the decision of how, or if, it is applied is up to you. The step I am taking towards a solution is labeling, in the side bar, where my tattoos are done. Of course considering it is our shop, it doubles as shameless promotion.

Revlon Over MAC (you heard me)

2012-01-12T13:16:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd give you a little update on my big make up switch. You may recall I replaced my make up counter brands with drugstore ones. The one switch I already know will be permanent is the lipstick. I gave up MAC and bought Revlon Super Lustrous. When I first put on the Rum Raisin I was sure I had found my new shade, then I tried the Black Cherry- I love them both. I highly recommend this lipstick. Just today I came across this image on Pinterest-

Source: fuckyeahletsgoshopping.tumblr.com via Solanah on Pinterest

I am off to buy Cherries in the Snow lip and nail color.

Mama Tips

2012-01-11T12:48:00.000-08:00

What is a mama to do when she has spent her grocery allowance on new shoes?
Here's a little advice from a mama who knows-- When papa gets home and is hungry for dinner he will hardly notice you are serving top ramen as long as you are wearing pretty lingerie.
True story.

Chopstick Pride

2012-01-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

We are working our way through each continent as a homeschooling project. Currently we are on Asia. Tonight the girls learned to make sushi as a follow up to our weekend visit to the Portland Japanese Garden. I had to share these two pictures from dinner.

Here you see Dotty's intense concentration as she practices with chopsticks.

This is Dotty and big sister Grace's reaction when Dotty perfectly picks up a piece of sushi and puts it on her plate. I love seeing Dotty's joy and Grace's pride.

Time To Give Up My Spanx?

2012-01-05T13:43:00.000-08:00

I have been enjoying over the knee socks paired with patterned stockings this winter. I say stockings, but truly they are pantyhose *gasp* -I know real sexy right?! Some of us need the 'control'. I have thought of switching to a girdle but want to try them on before purchasing. I have the feeling wearing them for their actual purpose, as opposed to back when I wore them for the sexy factor, changes how I want them to fit. What about you? Do you wear a girdle? Which one and how did you find sizing? I am especially interested in hip to waist ratio because my hips (large) and waist (not so large) do not adapt to standard sizes.

Forty Years Of Living

2012-01-03T19:51:00.000-08:00

I turned 40 on New Year's Eve. Here I am on my way to happy hour with a few girlfriends (channeled a bit of '80's Coedith) and below my absolute favorite thing about my birthday...

Fondue with my family while we ring in the new year watching Little House On The Prairie.

This year I decided to do something different for my 40th New Year. I am buying all new essentials, basically the things that are closest to my skin, makeup, lingerie and bedding.

Let's start with makeup.

I have always bought my makeup at department stores. I have been wearing MAC studio fix nc30 and del rio lipstick forever. I also like Lancome and Clinique (especially their free gifts!)

Over the years I have begun to question their superiority over drugstore brands. Here is what I am doing about it, for my birthday I bought all new drugstore makeup. I am tossing all the rest and going to give it a go. Below are my purchases which I will be reviewing in future posts.

Lucy Topp Visits The Pink House

2012-01-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

I am starting the New Year off with a visitor to The Pink House blog.

There are very few people I meet online that, although our status is 'friends', I truly consider a friend. Lucy is the exception. She has always come along side to encourage and help me see the brighter side of things. I chose Lucy for my first post of 2012 because I have been inspired by her to be a better me, and I think you will also. She is a beautiful person inside and out. I am happy to introduce to you, Lucy Topp.

Welcome! Thank you so much for joining me here at Life In A Pink House!

I have many questions to ask, but they are all summed up in just one- How do you do it?

How do you manage to remain absolutely glamourous while being a doting mother, loving wife, and successful make up artist? Topping it all with the fact you are one of the kindest people I know.

Goodness.... well that is VERY kind and certainly not how I think of myself every day! Honestly, I just try and do the best I can on a daily basis. Some days I feel exhausted and like I am only just keeping all the balls in the air and other days everything goes according to plan and I feel like Superwoman! My Husband works as a Personal Trainer, so he is always gone in the morning from 6am and is gone most evenings and Saturday’s too! So I have learnt to be very organised with the kidlets and get as much sorted the night before as possible! Kid’s clothes out, lunches packed, breakfast stuff out.... this way things flow a lot more smoothly! I adore my job, so that makes it very easy to do... it is still a juggle with the kids but it always works out somehow! I feel very blessed that I am paid to do something I am so passionate about.... but my babies have always come first! As for glamour, I practise what I preach! I know that a scarf, some red lips and a pretty brooch can work WONDERS for how you feel each day.... Look Good, Feel Good! So true! Take a little time to make an effort with your appearance and you will feel so much better in yourself and in your day! You are worth it! xxx

Describe for us a typical Lucy Topp day.

Well.... they are ALWAYS different.... but I will give it a go! I usually get up at 6am before the kids and do about 20mins of exercise in my pyjamas! I do either yoga or some light weights and body exercises! I do this about 3 times a week, more for my headspace than my body! It just makes me feel good (although sometimes I skip it and sleep in!) Then I make a cup of green tea and put my face on and do my hair, before kiddies wake up at 7! We have breakfast together, get dressed, do lunches etc... (find lost library books/shoes/hats... come up with news....) then we walk to school!
I come into reading with the kiddies... I love doing this and getting to know all their friends too! Then I usually rush home and catch up on my email enquiries and bookings, check my Facebook Makeup page and update it with (hopefully) something interesting! I might take the doggies for a walk and tidy up, then head off to do a Makeup Lesson or Bridal Trial! Once a week I do a big grocery shop, but I usually pick up a few things for dinner and then it is time to pick up kiddies from school at 3pm. A few afternoons a week we head off to swimming or baseball/dancing.... we might have a milkshake after, then home for baths and dinner. We have quiet play and read books before I tuck them in about 8pm. If I don’t have a Bridal Shower party or Corporate Job and am home instead, then I will make a second dinner for Hubby and myself! He gets home about 8.30.... we will have some dinner, maybe watch a film. Then we tidy up and sort out things for the next day! I get to bed about 10pm and try to read for a while! Lights Out.... boom, asleep! (Until one of the kiddies creep into bed with us of course) x

If we met you at the playground what would you be wearing?

Well, I dress pretty much the same no matter what I am doing. It is Summer here now in Sydney Australia, so you usually find me in a long sundress, belted with my favourite rose buckle belt, maybe with a little lace jacket over the top. I would have a long scarf tied around my neck, an assortment of bracelets, rings and earrings. A cool hat of course to keep my face out of the sun (I have millions!) I love my lace up ankle boots which are comfortable and cute! Always red lips and a vintage brooch and a spray of my favourite perfume ‘Angel’.

Is there a secret to your positive attitude?

Hmmm.... Well I know this sounds simple and silly but I just CHOOSE to be happy and to spread joy as much as I can! I love helping people and making them feel good... it makes me feel good too! Don’t get me wrong, I still have bad days where everything seems to go wrong and I get cross or sad, but after a little bit I CHOOSE to snap out of it and move on! I had a bit of a rough childhood, my Daddy used to be very physically and verbally abusive to me, when I was 15 he died of cancer. My Mama was an alcoholic and after Dad died she moved in a boyfriend with a heroin addiction. I moved out of home at 16 and lived with my best friend and her family until I finished school. From 17 I was fending for myself and never had anyone to catch me if I fell. This sounds like a sad story, but it made me very strong and independent. My Mama died of Emphysema three years ago and her illness and death have shown me how precious life is... don’t waste a day, you don’t know how many more are coming.
I have been VERY blessed to have lovely people come in to my life, who’ve guided and protected me, even though they didn’t have to and that meant SO much to me. I choose to surround myself with good, kind, fabulous people. Also... I truly LOVE my life and feel so lucky that it turned out this way.... that makes me so happy!

I know, like myself, you will be turning 40 soon. Has your sense of style with clothing or makeup reflected this maturity? (While we are here, the crease in my eyelids is now so deep my eyeshadow practically disappears. Do you have a suggestion for younger looking eyes?)

Yes.... I am 40 in March, 2012! How did that happen! I don’t think my style has changed because of my age...just a natural progression of changing inspiration and getting bored with myself! I have recently become a redhead which is SO much fun! I am naturally brunette and have been black for the last 5 years. I decided to lighten up, but due to the lightening process, I started going red and said to my fabulous hairdresser.... ‘lets’s just go with it!’... it was weird for the first few weeks... I got a shock when I looked in the mirror... but now I feel it suits my personality much better and who knew for all these years, there has been a redhead waiting to get out!
As for eye makeup in your older years... I have worn less and less and let my ‘red’ mouth do the talking. I find as you get older heavy eye-makeup ages you and smudges and creases in all the wrong places! It doesn’t mean you can’t wear it... just be light with your application.... a soft shadow, with a smudge of liner on your lashes and lashings of black mascara on top and outer corner of bottom lashes looks amazing.... define your eyebrows (a lost art) add some pinky blush and a slick of bright lippy... you will feel fabulous!
As I get older I am much more confident and happy in myself... so much more so than in my 20’s! My amazing body has birthed 2 gorgeous babies.... how fabulous is that! xx

I recently saw a very tasteful picture of you nude. Your body is amazing! I know you are married to a personal trainer, and I wonder what your exercise regimen consists of? How do you find time?1

I will be honest with you upfront and say that my figure is mainly thanks to genes! Although I was very fit in my 20’s and worked as a Personal Trainer myself for 7 years before I had my babies.... after I had them I was SO busy with baby stuff, all exercise routines fell to the wayside. Back then I couldn’t imagine a day without a run and one hour workout... but now, although I am active with the kiddies and doggies... I don’t go to a gym or have a set exercise routine! I walk everywhere... I try and do yoga or light weight exercises 2-3 mornings a week, we eat pretty healthy (but in NO way health food) most days. We eat pizza every week and every night I have a little chocolate! I believe in everything in moderation.... the fastest way to want to eat a bucket of something is to deny yourself it!! I want to live a long, happy and healthy life for as long as possible... you need to look after yourself to do that!

You do beautiful pin up styles and makeup. What is the main ingredient to achieving a 'pin up' look?

Well... I think the first step is a flawless base! Most people think that is the easy part... slap it on and move on to the next step. But I spend most of my time making the base perfect.... then everything else will look amazing. You don’t want to look like you have good ‘makeup’ you want to look like you have good skin! After that... brows, liquid line and red lips perfect the look!

You offer great tips to encourage others look and feel their best on your facebook page. (btw thank you, just last week I wore the updo you suggested.) What tips do you have for women who might read this blog?

Firstly.... there is only ONE you ever.... embrace who you are and what makes you unique! Our differences are what make us memorable! If you like blue eyeshadow and feather earrings WEAR THEM... don’t let other’s style dictate what you should like! Be yourself.... experiment! Makeup is FUN and comes on and off.... it is not a tattoo... so don’t get stuck in a rut! Look through magazines and try new looks, wear a kick ass red lippy.... try false lashes! Change your hair colour; wear something you wouldn’t normally try! We only have one go at this thing called life.... ENJOY it!

What are your essential beauty items/products?

For skin care I have always kept it simple.... Cetaphil lotion, Rose water, Oil of Olay moisturiser and Paw Paw ointment as lip and eye cream! I use a light scrub once or twice a week and take fish oil capsules. I wear a sunblock everyday and a hat if I am outside for a long time... and I drink a LOAD of water (my Grandma told me to do that!). Otherwise... I am addicted to red lipstick, gorgeous perfume, scarves, earrings, and brooches.... they make every outfit look finished! x

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I love that as women, we are all sisters and it is wonderful when we support and love each other. Thank you so much Coedith, for asking me to share a little of myself with your readers.... I hope some of it is helpful and if anyone ever has any makeup or beauty questions I would LOVE to help you! Contact me on my Facebook Makeup Page https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lucy-Topp-Makeup/127145863995268 or on my Website http://www.lucytoppmakeup.com.au/ to send me a message or enquiry.

Much Lucy Love to you all...... xxx L

I Am "the Mom"

2011-12-27T14:02:00.000-08:00

I have been a mama for 15 years and I have moments where the realization that I am "the Mom" still surprises me. The weight and responsibility that come with being "the Mom" is often borderline unbearable. (ha! Funny I said 'weight', true in more ways than one) As "the Mom" we have the power of joy should we simply choose. There are stories of adults looking back onto their childhood never having realized their lives were less than ideal. The number one factor being "the Mom's" attitude. It isn't always easy- heck it never is.
Christmas brought a few more truths about being 'the Mom'. We have a brunch Christmas Eve with about 30 of our nearest and dearest. The adults there are truly a hip bunch, even if I do say so myself. This year though, I realized a few of our teenage children really don't see us as cool at all. They do not care about our tattoos, style, art or the bands we might be in. We are just their parents. It is their turn now and it is all ahead of them. It is an adjustment I have anticipated and welcome.
Second Christmas I am 'the Mom' moment came Christmas Day. This is our families day to stay in our jammies, eat sweets and play with new toys while the TV is on. Nobody is expected to do chores on Christmas-unless you are 'the Mom'. Meals must be prepared and packaging materials need to be removed from the floor before someone gets lost in the living room. If someone wet the bed for the second night in a row, there is no ignoring that laundry. This relaxing day can be exhausting for 'the Mom'. It all reminded me of a story that circulated Facebook a while back. (I like it, even though it is pretty cheesy in a Hallmark card kinda way.)

The Invisible Mother

author Unknown

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'

Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more! Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this??

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'

Some days I'm a crystal ball; 'Where's my other sock?, Where's my phone?, What's for dinner?'

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history, music and literature -but now, they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going, she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . She had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when she turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'With admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: 1) No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. 2) These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. 3) They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. 4) The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A story of legend in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof, No one will ever see it And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was Almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does.

No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, no Cub Scout meeting, no last minute errand is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for 3 hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, he'd say, 'You're gonna love it there...'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible mothers.

Disclaimer I am talking about mama's but there are papa's who also fill 'the Mom' role mentioned above, and some like my husband share in the responsibility.

Wearing A Tree Skirt

2011-12-24T13:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday-the day before I needed to wear it- I decided to make myself a Christmas skirt. I do not sew, so this is quite an accomplishment! (my daughter Ruth does sew and helped me out some)

Doesn't it look just like a Christmas tree skirt!?

Followed online circle skirt directions. I would link you but I truly used a hodgepodge of many. I had the hardest time with the waist. Following the circumference divided by 3.14 equals the diameter....somewhere something was off and the waist was way too big. Some creative altering involving scissors and safety pins and no one was the wiser.

The felt appliques were from a garland I took apart.

This is our actual tree skirt, maybe next year I will end up wearing it!

Merry Christmas!

O' Christmas Tree

2011-12-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

Growing up we always had flocked trees. When newly married Mav and I had ours flocked pink. (best tree ever!) Now we have an artificial white tree. I am waiting to find a pink one that stands at least 7 feet tall and is full. Soon. Very soon.

Shiny brites. Can you spot the one Papa made our snowman painting from?

This is new this year. I picked it up for cents at a garage sale. It is meant to be a table cloth, but we made it our tree skirt.

My Week In Blogs I Read

2011-12-12T22:33:00.000-08:00

In no particular order....

Almost Unschoolers
Livin' Vintage
The Big Mama Introspection
Miss Messy Jessie (this little gal is awesome. I hope my girls turn out like her)
Pretty Little Things
Sew Liberated
Colour Her Hope
Bleubird Vintage

There they are. My favorite blogs at this moment. A lot of my favorite bloggers aren't posting much anymore and my blog roll needs some serious updating. Leave me suggestions if you have any. I like vintage, but most importantly I am a mama- so vintage is simply icing on the cake.

In The Kitchen For Christmas

2011-12-07T12:21:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday was the big baking day. My girls and I, along with Solanah and Dana, spent hours in the kitchen loving every minute of it. We made; white apricot fudge, red velvet fudge, pistachio tart, scones, vegan cupcakes, chocolate pretzels, brownies and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. Needless to say I have some happy neighbors now that the goodies were given away.

Ruthie cooking the fudge

Pistachio tart

White apricot fudge

Red velvet fudge

A few days later the girls and I were in the kitchen again. This time building gingerbread houses.

We are counting down to Xmas using the alphabet (started Nov. 30th) and it was G for gingerbread day. We have done a for angel, b for baby, c for caramel apples, d for delicious (as seen above) e for elf, and f for fun.

Most recipes can be found on my Pinterest page

My Week In Cool Stuff Papa Paints Me

2011-12-04T18:15:00.000-08:00

One of the perks of being married to an artist.

(I wish I had better pictures, so you could see these in their true glory!)

Mav gave this to me for our anniversary last week. It is my favorite! Our tattoos are even correct. It is a rendition of a Norman Rockwell illustration, 'On Top Of The World'.

This one is our family as snowmen. It was inspired by my favorite vintage ornament.

Using a vintage postcard.

He knows I love pink bows.

We are love birds.

This is what my first two years as a mama looked like.

Classic

All paintings are done in ink and watercolor. Yes, watercolor.

Mudroom In A Pink House

2011-12-02T19:19:00.000-08:00

Living in a small house, we are fortunate to have a mudroom. A room, as we enter the back door, where we can remove any "muddy" shoes or whatnottery. Our back door is the one we most often use so this room is a catch all; backpacks, shoes, coats, hats, socks, laundry, dog stuff, cleaning supplies....it goes on and on. Making it attractive and functional is a delicate balance-if not impossible.

Mav recently repurposed an old crib to replace the drying rack that was taking up valuable up floor space.

I mirror to check yourself before entering the world. Next to that is an old glass cabinet door, also repurposed, serving as a weekly calendar.

Shelves, enough said.

Cute bulletin board my niece made for me.

Thanks for stopping in! You can see other rooms here and here.

Toddler Project

2011-12-01T14:59:00.000-08:00

Look at that concentration!

Dotty (2) enjoyed this tray. It is simple to set up. You need:

Marbles
Small tongs (fingers can be used)
Dish to hold marbles
Bathtub gripper, with the little suction cups

Set it up where the marbles are on the left suction cups on right-left to right, just like when reading.

I like putting it all on a tray to keep the marbles from rolling away.

It also makes a nice gift!

My Week In Photobooth Photos

2011-11-28T09:05:00.000-08:00

As you may have read, it was our 17th wedding anniversary this weekend. One way we celebrated was with dinner at Jake's, shopping at Powell's Bookstore and stopping by the Ace Hotel photobooth.

(now if you visit Portland you have the three places to check out. All within 2 blocks)

Happy Anniversary To Us!

2011-11-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

Papa and I have been married 17 years today. I was about to bombard you with pictures from our life together, but I decided to tell our story with words this time. Here you go...

2 days before our wedding

   I met Mav when I was 15 at my very first gig, The Adolescents. He was 19 or 20 at the time and he and my older brother hung out in the same circle. That night he may have kicked me under the table or given me an extra glance. Somehow he gave me just enough attention to cause me to give him all of mine. I fell in a 15 year old girls' version of love. He really wasn't interested in me. I was young and his buddy's sister-although that probably didn't bother him too much. Soon after he went into the Army. I wrote to him EVERY day. (I get embarrassed for young me) He was home on leave for my 16th birthday and I saw him out that night. He was drinking with his friends and with a girl. I managed to get him alone for a little bit. Long enough for a kiss and him to say he loved me. (did I mention he was drinking?!) He also said he would miss me and that I shouldn't go out with any of the other loser guys. (the nerve!) Well it was what I wanted to hear, so I refused to look at it level headedly (can someone that age even do that?)
  Again he left, and again I sent my letters, receiving maybe a handful in return. After nearly a year I slowed. I remember sending him a final letter where I inform him that when he someday returns, married, unhappy and full of regrets, I will no longer be interested. It was prophetic! (-except the I will no longer be interested part.)
Fast forward to me at 21. I have had my boyfriend for 4years and I'm out with a girlfriend. I see Mav and we chat. Yep, he's married, separated-but married. I remember telling my friend "we either leave now or it's all over, I'm so his." We stayed.
It was a very rough year that followed, the best and worst of my life. I was running from an abusive relationship and wanted him to rescue me. He wanted to have fun with me but made it very clear there were to be no strings attached. I agreed because I didn't want to push him. There were nights I left his apartment and cried for hours. I loved him, but he just didn't love me back. We were in a small social circle, so I would hear about-or worse, see him with other girls. My friends thought I was crazy, they hated me with him. I recognize that some people will have a hard time that he was still married. I saw him out with other women and knew of other relationships since his separation so the marriage really wasn't much of a concern to me. (Yes, I see it differently now) The thing about the marriage that gave me concern was knowing the last thing he wanted was to be stuck in another relationship. I gave him all the space he wanted.
Slowly, he began to change towards me. I watched as he recognized his love for me. He would fight it one day and give into it the next. Then one day he told me he loved me. We were walking in San Francisco and as he said it a homeless person began serenading us as we slipped in to an Italian cafe. It was very romantic. We still had a rough few months ahead of us. It finally took me breaking down and telling him he was like a vampire who was killing me a slow and painful death. (I am twisted enough to find that kinda hot-) I let him know I could not do it anymore. That changed everything. Within the month we had moved 400 miles away and had our own place. It was all I had dreamed of. He flew me to Hawaii to propose in October and we were married in November.  As soon as we knew we wanted to be married we went through a spiritual awakening as we knew we had to change our path. I am not one to preach but I have to say without a new and growing faith we never could have survived. We have not had to face any of the above issues again in our 17 years. We had one heart breaking year and then we have had 17 fairy tale years. It was more than worth it. I would do it all over again.
When I look at our children, I believe I knew that first night we met that I had to have him and one reason was to have them.
So there is one facet of our story. Friends we have now have a hard time believing we haven't always been a perfect couple. Friends from then have a hard time believing we are even the same people. I guess we really aren't.

The Cow Came Home

2011-11-22T09:14:00.000-08:00

Betsy the cow with the little pink playhouse in the background.

Mav surprised me with this cow on Christmas, 2002. Her name is Betsy and I adore her. He and I had been out one day and saw her in a local antique shop's window. Love at first sight. We had a peek at her, but I am cheap and she wasn't. Then a few days later I kept thinking about her. I had my mom call the shop (I never call places-weird I know) and they let her know it had been sold. Then, of course, I wanted her even more! Fast forward to Christmas Eve when I come home and she is in the backyard. Perfectly sitting under the apple tree where I can gaze at her out our kitchen window as I wash dishes. (yes, I pretend I live on a farm) It took 4 men to get her lifted and moved into our yard because she is solid concrete.

Here as a prop for Christmas cards

Just when you thought we couldn't possibly fit one more on her...

All four of our girls. They have so much fun with her.

Cow washing time!

My Week In Something To Dress Up For

2011-11-20T18:20:00.000-08:00

Flash Back Friday

2011-11-18T08:56:00.000-08:00

Coedith and Mike Ness

I think this is 1990. Private show on a boat out in the SF Bay.

How Do You Feel In That?

2011-11-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

Today was a blustery and rainy day. I had groceries to get, children to shuttle and a trip to the airport. I got dressed in the above Portland mom look of nontraditional geek who doesn't care. I mean it was cold and windy, I wanted pants and I only own capri length- so black thick socks and Danskos to the rescue. But...um...not so much. Was I comfy? Yes. Did I look comfy? Yes. Did I feel good about myself? No.

I hate to put so much energy into looks when there are thousands of things of much more importance. I also hate to feel like crap because I believe I look like crap. I am not a beauty. (If I were I would most likely live in jeans and a tshirt.) I need all the help I can get. Which is why I have always worn vintage. It simply flatters me more than other clothing. Dressing to make myself feel good is one of the few things I do for myself.

So I changed into this.

Basically traded the pants for a skirt. Made all the difference and it was just as comfortable. Although when I left the house I looked like this..

With that hat and coat I pretty much could have worn anything underneath. That is the wonderful thing about a good coat.

Lounge In A Petticoat

2011-11-14T14:14:00.000-08:00

A little late for a Halloween post...but oh well.

Here we are going out trick or treating. I decided to dress up simply because I wanted to wear this wonderful petticoat that happened to be at my house.

I do not wear petticoats for two reasons

1. I do not need any extra girth added to my hips.

2. They are itchy.

While this one didn't help in the hip department it was super soft and comfy. I am asking for one from Papa for Christmas just to lounge about the house in. I will feel so decadent.

I want one with a bit more length and I the perfect one here. I pinned it to my 'Papa Buy Me' board over on Pinterest. I hope he gets the hint.

My Week In Blogger's Fall Looks

2011-11-13T22:36:00.000-08:00

http://blog.boobookittycouture.com/

http://livinvintage.blogspot.com/

http://blog.bygumbygolly.com/

http://tuppencehapennyvintage.blogspot.com/

http://www.twilajean.com/

http://artdecodame.blogspot.com/

"My grandmother use to tell me that you didn't have to always dress your best but at least dress well enough that you'd never be embarrassed if you ran into an ex-boyfriend or a girl you didn't like." Art Deco Dame

The Girl's Room

2011-11-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

This room is shared by Pearl, Grace and Dotty. (although only Dotty sleeps in there-that's a whole other post) It originally was mine and Mav's bedroom. I picked out the wallpaper he hung for me. But making a family of 6 comfortable in a small home requires sacrifice. The antique dresser was refinished in this sunny yellow by my dad. A big basket for stuffed animals (I swear they breed like rabbits) and a small chest for American Girl dolls.

Here is the old iron bed that has been passed down in our family. Underneath are their Barbies, and no telling what else! I love the idea of a hope chest at the foot of the bed-although at the moment it is full of my vintage clothing I can't part with. The pictures are of local treasures, Ft. Vancouver and the Portland bridges.

Here is the closet they share. On top are boxes filled with polly pockets, calico critters, and etc...

Dotty's clothes are in bins to help her "do it myself!"

You also get a glimpse of her bed. She is just over 2, and has not yet discovered she can climb out. (fingers crossed)

Pearl's special chair her cousin Solanah painted her while in high school.

Ceiling Maps!

We (Mav) just finished this project which I absolutely love. Maps on the ceiling. If you were to look closely you might notice among them is a circle beginning with the world, followed by; our continent, our country, our state and our city. This helps them recognize their place in the much larger picture.

Pinafore Destiny

2011-11-10T12:07:00.000-08:00

Funny thing, yesterday when I was wishing I looked half way decent in overalls, I realized the next best thing would be a pinafore. I looked at a few patterns....

But do not sew.

What a coincidence that Mary Deluxe had a post the same day regarding a giveaway at The Black Pinafore. I totally want this....

I entered the give away and so should you! (even if that make us competitors)

Wait a minute....

I just realized something else. I had saved this picture of Tasha of by gum, by golly for a post on Fall looks I love. She is wearing a Black Pinafore creation.

As you can see it is destiny that I, one day soon, have one of these babies as my own.

Unflattering Clothes I Love

2011-11-09T12:23:00.000-08:00

I am putting together a post on maintaining a classic/vintage look while running errands and caring for small children. My staple, a simple cotton frock, will no longer be practical in the cooler weather. I am prepared with plaid and wool skirts, cardigans and tights-but what if it is windy? I wouldn't want this to happen...

There are days when you just need a good pair of pants. What I totally want are the overalls pictured above. That is my Grandma Lois, my mom and her dad, circa 1937ish. How fabulous are those with the little caplets?!

But alas I do not sew, and overalls are only flattering to a select few. (my grandma obviously was one of them) I am not one of them. But I still want them.

My Week In Sunday Morning

2011-11-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

What hips are for.

Loretta!

The girls slept in their fort.

Joey smells bacon.

Bacon upside down pancake

Remembering we have a bottle of champagne-perfect for mimosas.

Resist Sweatpant Temptation

2011-11-03T13:46:00.000-07:00

Introducing my winter uniform. This outfit, or variations there of, will be my staple during the cold weather. My go to outfit for the days I have "nothing to wear". It is my version of the homeschool mom yoga pants.

I have a handful of plaid skirts. Although I love the Pendleton's they just aren't very comfortable. I'll still wear the ones I have along with my other wool plaids. But I also picked up a couple of these skirts from Lands End. No they are not vintage, rather classic and timeless. I love them-although I might like just a tad more length. Cozy tights and sweaters complete the look and I am ready for winter!

What about you? Do you have a go to look that keeps you from falling into the sweat pants rut?

I came across this post by The Glamourous Housewife. Here she is going to run some errands. Beautiful!

Share your everyday "cold weather uniform" by linking below or emailing me at coedith@gmail.com. Next week I'll do a round up post so we can all gain inspiration from each other.

Mad For Plaid (and Dots!)

2011-11-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

I am super excited for Gwen Stefani's Harajuku Mini collection for Target.

It is due out November 13. I hope to get each of my girls coordinating plaid pieces for our Christmas pictures.

Makes me wish for a boy! I might have to find one to buy this for.

As a mama who has had babies spaced over the past 15 years I can't tell you how happy I am with the direction children's clothing has gone. Everything I once had to order from catalogues- as internet was still pretty new, is now available so easily. Just finding leopard baby clothes was rare when my oldest was born.

How perfect for my little Dotty?! Too bad it isn't functional now that she is toiletted.

Hot For School Marm

2011-10-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

Here is a Coedith outfit post.

I share this one with you because it is Papa's favorite. I find it interesting, of all my clothing this is always his favorite look- school marm.

Button up, cardigan, wool and oxfords. Easy enough.

I have been pinning my hair up a lot lately. I have noticed the longer my hair is the more likely I am to have it pulled up/back. This was inspired from a gibson tuck tutorial seen here.

Speaking of Gibson girl hair...I came across this truly wonderful and authentic tutorial here.

It makes me hesitant to call what I did to my hair anything close to a gibson!

I am in love with it! I need to figure out something to do with my bangs to make it work.

My Week In Pins

2011-10-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

Source: tumblr.com via Nichole on Pinterest

Source: hipsandcurves.com via Nichole on Pinterest

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Source: inofashion.com via Nichole on Pinterest

Source: lmncouturier.blogspot.com via Nichole on Pinterest

Source: no1hasmorefun.blogspot.com via Nichole on Pinterest

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Source: theweekendhomemaker.com via Nichole on

href='http://pinterest.com' target='_blank'>Pinterest

Source: homemademamas.net via Nichole on Pinterest

Did I mention I Love Food?

2011-10-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

You have seen me taking food to parties....

And here I give you me arriving home from parties...

I just can't say "no" when asked if I want to take this or that home.

That particular day I scored a chocolate cheesecake, salmon dip and a goat cheese, marscapone and lemon curd plate of yumminess.

Yeah, it's kinda a problem.

Things We Do After Naps

2011-10-27T22:06:00.000-07:00

Inspiration for "Things We Do After Naps" from Sew Liberated. This is one of my absolute favorite blogs and Meg is the mother I long to be. If you have never visited Sew Liberated, do it!

In true Pink House style, once again we are in the kitchen!

I have four daughters and only one, Dotty, is nap age. (she turned two last month) Dot almost always wakes up hungry. The first place we go is the kitchen table where a snack is waiting. A lot of times she needs to sit on my lap as she transitions back to the land of wakefulness. An activity set out on the table also helps. After a few snuggles she is ready to go!

Our homemade Halloween play dough made an appearance twice this week.

Nap time is also when I can get some cooking done. I try to have one thing the older girls can prepare. If they are still working when Dot gets up she will skip her snack in order to get right in on the action.

This day we made pumpkin cinnamon rolls.

We changed things up one afternoon and instead of a snack in the kitchen, we had a tea party outdoors.

Two Products I Discovered Today

2011-10-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

I am always happy with my hair because I have had the same hairdresser for nearly twenty years. She was my stylist in California and then, she too, moved up here. How lucky am I?! She is also a close friend. We are pictured below in 1994.

(I have to tear myself away from longing thoughts of that couch we left behind....)

And back to my point, this morning she introduced me to Color Bug by Kevin Murphy. I had heard of "makeup for your hair" and had mentally written it off. It just sounded cheesey. But I trust Kari and since she recommended it we gave it a whirl. I love it! It went on bright pink even over my dark hair. My girls and I have a lot of fun ahead of us with this stuff.

The next product I have a crush on today is this bad little kitty.

A self defense key chain with a new spin on brass knuckles. It is made of airplane steel and I am quite certain it can pack a punch if needed.

Just thought I'd share!

Paper Dolls, Barbie, and the Pin Up

2011-10-25T14:57:00.003-07:00

An oldie but a goodie!.....

Did you know I own a tattoo shop? I do. Deluxe Tattoo Parlor. Truth is I have very little to do with it, my husband, Mav, is the one who runs it. When I was in high school I wanted to become a tattooer. The problem is I don't like touching people, or having a job. So instead I married one.

Our girls do not think of tattoos as anything odd or different. They spend a fair amount of time at the shop and they always pick out a tattoo. They choose from the flash, find the tracing, make a stencil and put it on. Often times they go over it with a tattoo machine-sans needle. Sometimes one of the guys at the shop "tattoo" them in this way. Cartoon characters are the top choice followed closely by mermaids.

A lot of people ask if we are going to let our children get tattooed. No, I will not let my children be tattooed, not as "children." Once they are grown of course they can make their own decisions. I have the hope they will rebel against us-the establishment, and not get tattooed.

This has given the girls a unique perspective in imagery. Lots of dragons, swallows, skulls, pinups, daggers, koi fish etc... and I often wonder how it will play out in their lives. I have a hint of what it might look like with my niece. She also had a lot of exposure to tattoo arts beginning at a very young age.. Here she is photographed by my daughter Ruth. See a correlation?

Are pinups my children's version of Barbie dolls? I think maybe. We do try to counter this and create healthy body image. Raising young girls I can tell you it isn't easy. I also know if we looked at Mav's art since having his first little girl we would notice a more modest approach to pinups.

Acorn Hats

2011-10-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

This time of year we find a lot of acorns on our walks. We collected more than we needed for our nature table and found this craft to take care of the rest.

You need: acorn tops, pom poms, feathers and glue.

My Week In Texts

2011-10-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

Continues.....

Do Se Do Bike Ride

2011-10-18T13:27:00.000-07:00

Today the weather was just perfect for a bike ride. These days are coming to an end as the longest season of the year here in the Pacific Northwest is about to begin; rain season.

As you know, dresses are my favorite thing to wear-but can be tricky on a bike. (though when I was younger and trimmer I never gave it a thought) My favorite solution is pettipants. Today I wore a square dancing pair along with a square dance dress I picked up at a garage sale for .25 cents.

The tattoo peeking out is a pin up- you can just see her legs, which mine mimic today with the cowboy boots. Cute coincidence!

Cradle Crap Remover

2011-10-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a product I love, Mustela Foam Shampoo For Newborns. I think it should simply be 'Foam Shampoo' considering I just bought it for my 2 year old. She had a bad case of cradle cap. (is it still called that at her age? or simply dandruff?)

I remembered using Mustela with my other girls so we ran out to Nordstrom and bought some. Target carries some Mustela but I haven't seen this product. It costs about $10 and lasts a long time.

Within 4 washes her cradle cap was almost completely gone. Love it!

My Week In Instagram

2011-10-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

I would like a pair of these shoes.

We locked ourselves out of the house.

Trader Joes

Walking the dog

Leaf art

Our local bakery

How I like my kitchen best

Wonderful time at the pumpkin patch

Flashback Friday

2011-10-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

This is Mav and I in 1994, I am 22 and he is 27. I love that it has the feel of a an old photo-(well I guess it actually is, but I mean much older) Because his eyes are closed and my lips are pursed it screams film. Remember when you didn't know if you got a good shot or not? I miss these candid imperfections with digital.

My Week In School Lunches

2011-10-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

Spinach wrap with carrots, cucumber, provolone, and veggie "turkey", granola bar, grapes and- what I believe to be the perfect invention applesauce to go.

Spinach wrap, number 2 cookie from Dot's birthday party, and veggie stix.

Bagel with cream cheese, capers and lox, tangerine and banana.

Pita sandwich with hummus, cucumbers, provolone cheese and carrots, yogurt raisins, grapes and milk. I really like these ziploc reusable sectioned containers. The food stays in it's rightful place without mixing flavors. I had heard great reviews of the Goodbyn lunch containers. I purchased one and was greatly disappointed. Too expensive, too large (HUGE) and too hard for young children to open/close.

Spinach veggie wrap, granny smith apple, veggie stix, and organic toaster pastry (aka poptart)

I am trying to use reusable packaging. I like the 'Wrap and Mat' and 'Keeper Sacks'.

This lunch didn't get packed at all. PB and honey on raisin bread, boiled eggs and kiwi.

Halloween Felt Wreath

2011-10-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

I picked up a black wreath at an after Halloween sale last year. This year the girls, Papa and I made little felties to embellish it. I am glad Halloween isn't until the end of the month so it can hang the whole month.

I was just catching up on my blog reading and discovered Bombshell Bettie has a DYI post with a different take on the same wreath. Great minds think alike!

My Week In Clothes

2011-10-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Balancing mamahood and fashion.

Chambray

My new black watch plaid skirt-I wish you could see it better. I have felt I was too old for white socks for awhile-and now I am old enough not to care.

Square dancing dresses are a favorite

I prefer to show my slips

Trusty Swirl

Great full skirt for sitting on the floor with children

Polka dots for Dotty's birthday party

Here's my week in outfits. Lazy hair throughout a pony tail or down, I'll work on that next week.

Rooster Tofu Recipe

2011-09-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

There was a bit of interest in my recent post that included Rooster Tofu skewers. They are delicious! Enjoy
1 (8 ounce) container extra firm tofu, drained and sliced into large chunks
1 zucchini, cut into large chunks
1 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks
10 large mushrooms
2 tablespoons sriracha chili garlic sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1/4 cup diced onion
1 jalapeno pepper, diced
ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Place tofu, zucchini, red bell pepper, and mushrooms in a bowl. Mix sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, onion, jalapeno, and pepper in a small bowl, and pour over tofu and vegetables. Toss lightly to coat. Cover, and allow to marinate at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grate.
Thread tofu and vegetables on to skewers. Grill each skewer 10 minutes, or to desired doneness. Use any remaining marinade as a dipping sauce.

Ruth's Room

2011-09-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

Ruth upcycled our old chest of drawers. The handles are extras from our kitchen and I think added the perfect finish.

Her 1920's wrought iron bed. I love the original light. Notice the picture by Slovly.

Books!

Another upcycle project. This was a plywood work table we picked up at a garage sale. She decoupaged the top and added a bright coat of paint-or two.

Our friend, and legendary tattooer, Terry Tweed painted this for her. She was the tattooed lady in a parade when she was 4. (Her middle name is Magnolia.)

This represents a new era in parenthood for us; teenager. I am surprised to discover I actually enjoy and relate most to her at this age.

(We told her she has to cover the bong with a sticker or something.)

So there you have it, Ruth's room.

Wear Dresses!

2011-09-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

I have been wearing this dress a lot this summer. It has been my summer 'go to' dress, cool and comfy. What I'd like to share with you is this; a dress is the absolute easiest thing to wear and gets the best results. I'm a busy and sometimes lazy mama, so for me there is nothing better. I took the above picture when I got home from the grocery store. I have on no lipstick and my hair is simply in a pony tail. BUT while at the grocery store (3 times in 4 days) someone complimented me. They didn't compliment my dress (it wasn't this one each time) but instead told me I looked beautiful. My point is not to brag- (I know it was the dress they noticed not me) my point is to show what a difference a dress can make.

There is another funny thing. One of the stores I was at is one I refer to as a self esteem booster as I am usually one of the few not in pajamas.

So just a little reminder if you have a dress-wear it!

Deluxe Tattoo Family BBQ

2011-09-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

This is me 5 minutes before guests arrive. Our house is shoe free so I really should invest in a cute pair of slippers.

We don't serve alcohol at our parties. But I always like to have a glass before everyone gets here. shhh, don't tell.

Tofu skewers in rooster sauce marinade.

The rain caused us to move the bbq from the soggy yard to the driveway.

Our girls baked and served dessert-Pie shop style

I snatched these off my niece's instagram. Love the candidness.

The kitchen is where it is at.

The Deluxe Tattoo Parlor bbq. We want the guys and their families to feel like a part of ours and food and opening our home is the best way we have found.

Kitchen Helpers

2011-09-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

My girls always want to help in the kitchen. They are never too young.

Dotty came in while I was making dinner and I needed to come up with ways she could work along side of me.

Adding cucumbers to the salad

Buttering bread for toasting (notice the bites)

This was my favorite and completely spontaneous-breaking spaghetti noodles and putting them in a bowl

Coedith Cooking Fail

2011-09-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

It is rare that I post about food gone wrong. Is this because it doesn't happen? Nope. It happens. Often. The above are two recent examples. The first is a lemon meringue pie. We made two, one for the picnic we were invited to and one for my mom. We are pictured on our way to deliver the pie to Grandma. Good thing we cut a piece for my mom because it saved me from taking the runniest filling ever to the picnic. It was like slime. So we ran by the market and picked up a dessert to take. Not exactly what I like to show up with after hours in the kitchen but...

The second was from today. We had a BBQ for the guys who work for us at the shop. I thought 'salsa', I'll make salsa. After all I have a wonderful food processor I got for a Christmas gift. Can you say "over processed"?! It was more like a Mexican take on gazpacho. I had made A LOT. So I hand chopped a few tomatoes added some of the 'salsa' to them and it was a go-although the flavor was quite weak. Let's just say no one complimented me on it.

My point is, when it comes to cooking I win some and I lose some. It wouldn't be fair to only share the winners.

Jumping Into Fall

2011-09-16T16:27:00.000-07:00

My Gracie is such the poser!

It is beginning to feel like Fall. If you know me you aren't surprised my favorite part of each season involves food. We jumped right in and baked pumpkin bread last week as the perfect back to school breakfast treat. This is a family recipe that just happens to be vegan. (which does not translate healthy) I LOVE this bread! It may well be my favorite all time food. Many have baked pumpkin bread for me once they learn of my pumpkin crush. I always feel bad because it never even compares to ours. Family recipes are like that aren't they?

Coedith's Favorite:

4 cups sugar (we started using raw for our favorite vegan)

1 cup oil

5 cups flour

2 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. cloves

3/4 tsp. salt

3 tsp. baking soda

1 large can pumpkin (I prefer the consistency of canned to fresh for baking. Libby's is the brand to use.)

You can add raisins, craisins, nuts and our personal fave chocolate chips

Combine sugar and oil

mix dry ingredients and add alternately with pumpkin to sugar and oil

Bake at 350 degrees for 1hr and 15min. or until toothpick comes out clean

Coedith Doesn't Wear Earrings

2011-09-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

Papa and I go out for coffee often. We love our local and independent cafe that has coffee tables, couches, and games for the girls. It is like the comfort of home with friends popping in and out to say hello. Here I am one day last week going out for coffee.

Do you notice anything unusual in the above picture? I am wearing earrings! That is very rare. I had my ears pierced when I was younger and whenever I left my earrings out for more than a day or two the holes would close. Having to basically re pierce my ears each time I wanted to wear earrings was a hassle and I soon gave up. So now it is the occasional and uncomfortable clip on pair. The necklace and earrings were my moms when she and my dad met- early 60's.

I also wanted to show you this adorable charm bracelet I purchased on our recent trip to Laura Ingalls Wilder's home. There is a charm house for each one she lived in with the city name on the bottom. I just love it. The green bangle is bakelite that Papa bought me because he thought it matched my eyes. I love it for that reason more than it's beauty.

Get Pinned!

2011-09-10T20:01:00.000-07:00

You might remember I signed off Facebook for good. (well, sorta for good...I do sneak a peek here and there on Papa's account.) I now spend less time and emotional energy on facebooking and have more to give elsewhere. (children) I am not as far behind on housework, I am more organized and crafty, meals are prepared, babies snuggled, and bedtime stories are not (often) rushed to get back to my laptop. Yes, I highly recommend ditching FB. (I wish that all my friends would and then I wouldn't feel so left out.)

I have found a wonderful much more positive time sucker-Pinterest! I am having a lot of fun there. It's similar to Tumblr, minus the porn, and -bonus! you can easily pin from anywhere you are online. Best of all, it is just me and eye candy- so it never brings me down. If you are there, you can find me here. I don't have much pinned yet and I'd love to see what you have.

Montessori Home: Kitchen

2011-09-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

Our oldest daughter being fourteen means we have had our kitchen set up for children for quite awhile. So long I no longer think about it, until someone comes over and begins looking for a plate. The first thing I recommend in creating a Montessori friendly kitchen is to remove any unsafe tools from a child's reach. Sharp things, poisonous things, things you would be devastated were they to get broken. As you see the children are allowed to use sharp items with supervision and we have red tape marking a 'do not enter' space in front of the stove.

Next create a space for the items your child uses, silverware, plates, bowls, cups etc.. and place them on a low shelf or drawer. Do the same for food items, table setting needs and tools the child needs for clean up. You can see in this picture the cups are next to the water dispenser (yes, I have an earthen ware one, but we prefer Hello Kitty) On the next shelf is everything the girls need to make pancake batter, another time it might be muffins. On the bottom shelf are the cloth napkins for setting the table.

Washing dishes is another favorite toddler activity. (Again remove all the knives.) We really love our learning tower stool for this as the sink is too high to reach with a traditional step stool. Although our children out grew the tower by about 3 years old I still think they are a good investment. You can check them out here http://littlepartners.com/

Remember when your child washes dishes you more than likely will need to rewash them. Please do this when your child isn't present.

I will talk more about kitchen preparedness is future post.

Blueberry Mama

2011-09-07T22:53:00.000-07:00

Not only is Blueberries for Sal one of my favorite children's books, the mother in the story has a style I love. As fall approaches I begin to think of cardigans, Pendleton skirts and loafers as perfect mom attire. I plan to hit up a few thrift stores here in town to freshen up my fall wardrobe.

Written in 1948, it reflects classic timelessness. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading this book I highly recommend you check it out. Here in the Pacific Northwest blueberries are everywhere this time of year making it the perfect time to re-read Blueberries For Sal.

Why I Homeschool Repost

2011-09-06T13:33:00.000-07:00

It occurs to me that I haven't answered the question of why I homeschool our children. Not only have I not answered it on my blog, I have always had a hard time putting it into words. I am going to attempt to do that now.

First let me tell you what homeschooling is for us. The activities of our family are the foundation of our girl's education. This education that began at birth fostered in an environment of love and caring (for oneself and the world). Our home environment is carefully prepared, created to be rich artistically, culturally and scientifically. The world outside of our door was also created to foster curiosity and if you yield to that curiosity and spend time exploring it, education happens. Education that is not forced but rather is a result of living. Living and learning should not be separated. I in no way wish to recreate school in our home.

I have yet to find my niche within the homeschooling world. Some people think I homeschool because we follow Jesus. No. That doesn't make sense to me because as Christians we are to live in the world not create our own little bubble. I do not use 'curriculum'. (the stringent time schedules and demands of certain popular curriculum sets I believe is the downfall to many a homeschooling moms) We are not unschoolers in the truest since of the word. My children attended Montessori preschool. Having children attend preschool isn't the homeschooling norm-I am actually surprised at the amount of blogs dedicated to homeschooling preschoolers. My oldest daughter chose to go to public school in the 6th grade. We compromised on this because she was accepted into a small, wonderful, arts magnet school very close to home. (Another time I will address this transition for her.)

Okay so why? Why do we homeschool? We chose to homeschool because I have no faith in the public school system. I do not agree with 'No Child Left Behind' or what it has created in its' wake. I put very little on standardized testing-although state law requires my children to be tested each year. Historically public schooling is a relatively new concept begun with wonderful intentions, but it has gone off track. It is my belief that parents are genetically designed to nurture and educate their children and children to learn from their parents.

My children are very social and can and do interact with people of all ages. Well meaning family members have asked how they will be prepared for the 'real world' with out school. It is a ridiculous question because the real world is not socializing with only people your own age in a competitive and rewards based environment that you have no choice but to attend. Public schooling focuses on social behavior where we focus on social development.

All this said the main reason I homeschool is that I want my children to be cared for and about. In turn I want them to care for and about others. I do not see much of that in schools. I read an article recently about the socialization of school age children. It was so bothersome to me! The article suggested peer rejection is caused by the rejected child's "social skill deficits" or "behavior problems" and gave parents tips on how to help their child become more socially accepted. It was basically coaching you on how to get your child to conform to whatever the norm happens to be. I disagree that most children which are rejected by their peers have something wrong with them that needs correcting. I do not want my child to feel the need to conform to another's standards. Why instead wouldn't we try to educate children that differences are okay. I want my child to be respected as a person should their actions merit it and I feel this is lacking in our schools, child to child, teacher to child, and child to teacher. In short public school would undermine the very qualities I hope to instill in my children. Confidence. Caring. Curiosity. Self motivation. Peaceful. Generous. Honesty. Humility.

I hope you don't think I am an over protective mother who shelters her children from life. The girls are exposed to a lot. They have seen birth-and know how the baby got there, watched death, lost loved ones to addictions and suicide, been exposed to the consequences of horrible accidents and cancer, we have travelled through out the States and Europe. They spend a lot of time in a tattoo shop. They know Chinese deities and Buddha, don't believe in Santa, believe in Jesus, are aware of Haiti and the recent oil spill, I could go on and on. I just want you to know we are all for them experiencing life along side of us. I just refuse to believe public school is "life".

And that is why I homeschool.

p.s. We also now unchurch, having walked away from institutional religion for very similar reasons.

Food Love

2011-09-05T14:02:00.000-07:00

I have big food issues. I just love it. Totally.

I hadn't told you that I returned to Weight Watchers. (I am a lifetime offender) That was 3 weeks ago. I lost three pounds the first two weeks. This was a disappointment because I followed plan to the T. (Usually the first week on program is a bigger loss.) Could it be as I inch closed to my 40th b-day the weight is just getting harder to take off? Yes, I know three pounds is an accomplishment. I, in true Coedith form, chose to celebrate my losing with lunch of french toast after weigh in. Of course I know I could have simply tracked it and kept to plan...but.....

Of course it didn't stop with french toast, or the fries, or the goat cheese with lemon curd and marscapone (to die for!) So I skipped my week three weigh in, ya know to get back on track before weighing in the following week.

No I will not be going this week either. I am officially off the wagon.

What to do?

All this is happening at the same time my squirrel mama instincts are telling me to stock up for the winter. I have been menu planning, recipe searching and discovering the world of cooking once and stocking my freezer with hearty homemade meals to be ready in a flash. I want us to eat real food, balanced food and enjoyable food.

Food is more than nourishment for me. I know that can be seen as an "issue". It is a way to bring people together, to connect, to share to give and to receive.

So that is where I am with food. Wanting to be a size 10, just not enough to give up french toast- or is it the love...

Get Okified

2011-09-02T23:42:00.000-07:00

My great-grandparents Frank and Ethel Attaway (I am wild about her socks and shoes)

Me circa 1994, in my favorite socks and shoes, where I grew up in Woodlake California

You know that favorite dress you have practically worn out? The one with the stain, tear or missing button? Do not despair you can still wear it with an Okie flair. Here are 10 ways to incorporate true depression era fashion into your vintage attire.

clothing doesn't fit just right-usually a little too big
overalls
socks-not mates if you dare
one button different from the rest
dresses made of feedsacks
mend and patch-get creative
worn oxfords shoes
clothing clean but worn
layers-sometimes they had to wear all they had
aprons- what dress you do have needs protecting

How awesome is this?! Here is an informative feedsack post by Vintage Viviant.

I haven't seen it (because I heard it was scary) but Carnivale appears to have wonderful costumes.

Also I have heard rumors of a Ghetto Gatsby picnic held in Southern California. Does anyone have any information about this event? I am intrigued.

Montessori For Home: Hand Washing

2011-09-01T22:01:00.000-07:00

I set up a hand washing station for Dorothy (20 mos.) earlier this summer. I used her kitchen shelves-seen here before hand washing supplies.

She needed a step stool to be at the right height to reach the bowl. Here is what you need to set up a hand washing station.

medium sized basin (bowl)
small pitcher
water source
small dish with travel sized soap
bucket for used water
hand towel
apron

Model this for your child

put on an apron. (not necessary)
use water dispenser to put water in the pitcher, (some mamas are more comfortable getting the water for their child)
pour the water into the basin
using soap, wash hands (love making bubbles!)
rinse in same water
dry hands on the towel-rehang towel
pour water out into the bucket (for us it is the big pot on the floor)
use towel to dry table, basin floor etc...

This will be messy. Patiently help your child clean up spills. It can be useful to place a towel on the floor for your child to stand on. (less slippery) They might spend a long time with the soap part, repeat parts over and over or lose interest in the middle. This is all okay. Be available but try not to hover. I like to wait until help is asked for or absolutely needed.

Activities like this one or drinking from a cup, feeding and dressing themselves require much more of you in the beginning. More patience and a lot more clean up. Persevere and within no time they will be able to do it with little or no assistance.

Okie: Great American Style

2011-08-30T23:01:00.000-07:00

"These are women of the American soil. They are a hardy stock. They are of the roots of our country...They are not our well advertised women of beauty and fashion...These women represent a different mode of life. They are of themselves a very great American style." Dorothea Lange speaking about the 1930's migrant workers in California, known as Okies.

The three photos above are from our family album.

The Dorothea Lange quote above is my absolute favorite. It brings tears to my eyes, because my love for their fashion is as complex as it is. I have always preferred cotton to silk, socks to stockings, and oxfords to heels. I like to think it is because of my Okie roots.

If you want to know more about this subject read or watch the Grapes of Wrath. I can't recommend it enough.

Food and Family Picnic

2011-08-29T00:20:00.000-07:00

Little House on the Prairie

2011-08-27T20:31:00.000-07:00

Truthfully as a child I didn't read the Little House on the Prairie books and was completely devoted to the show. The show, as many know, is about 10% based on Laura's books and 90% pure fiction. That is fine with me, I have a deep respect for both. As a young girl growing up in central California we weren't too far from Sonora, which was where on location filming for the show took place. My mom, being her daughter's mother, booked us at the same motel the cast stayed at. I think I was 8 years old. We got to hang out at the pool with some cast and their children. Here I am with Pa, Michael Landon himself.

Yes I am trying to get away. He was asking for a kiss. This wasn't perverted, my mom was taking the picture...but it was creepy to me, so I refused. My mom and aunts on the other hand were tripping over themselves to trade places with me.

Now as a mother we own all the dvd's and I love watching them with the girls. I also read them the books. So this summer's road trip to visit 2 original Laura Ingall's sites was coming full circle.

Visiting her home in Mansfield, Mo. was amazing. I can not believe how well preserved and accessible her home and museum are to the public. It truly brought tears to my eyes standing there in the home she and Almanzo built together. (I also got a lot of style inspiration!)

De Smet, South Dakota is also fabulous. I can't believe we were in the actual surveyer's house where the Ingall's spent their first winter and that the Brewster school (Laura's first teaching job) and Loftus store (where they bought Pa's Christmas suspenders) are all there to explore.

The Ingall's Homestead was heaven. It is the original land they homesteaded although all the structures have been moved or built there for tourist. Because of this I thought it would be cheesy and I wouldn't like it... I loved it! (But I do love cheesy) The girls could run and play in barns with animals, drive a wagon team, have a lesson in an old school house, go into a sod house, pump water... you get the picture. There were very few other people there and if I could live there I might. I wondered why we go to Disneyland so often when a place like this exists.

Ruth almost the same age Laura was when she taught

The house Pa Ingalls built-amazing artifacts inside

still in the same location

can't get this in a classroom

"whoa"

wash day

barn cats

Okie Eye Candy

2011-08-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

"Unemployed lumber worker goes with wife to the bean harvest. Note social security number tattooed on arm." photographer Dorothea Lange, August 1939/Oregon.

535-07-5248 belonged to Thomas Cave who would have been 27 years old at the time of photo. He died in Portland, Oregon the year 1980.

I came across this picture in a book from the library today. Dorothea Lange is a bit of an obsession with me at the moment. (hint of posts to come) I have always appreciated her photographs, which more than slightly resemble the ones in my own family album. This picture stands out to me as different though. Maybe it is the wonderful good looks (man and woman) which gives it a bit of a Hollywood feel.

I have a feeling if I looked up handsome rogue in the dictionary this guys photo would be there. He has trouble written all over him. I am in love.

Laura's Pink Stove

2011-08-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

I am wanting to do a blog post but my iphoto is in disarray. I am running a program to remove duplicates (why isn't this a feature of iphoto?) and it takes 23 hours to cycle through all our photos. Which wouldn't be so bad-except the fact when it was almost complete yesterday I was vacuuming and bumped the power cord and had to begin again. "Arrgh!" I say. Anyway I hope to get a post done this week, until then I leave you with a sneak peek at things to come....

This is Laura Ingalls Wilder's kitchen in Mansfield, MO. I was in love with this stove. It is pink! We weren't allowed to take pictures inside the home and the postcards available made the stove look greenish white. So when I found this one representing its' true color on the web I had to nab it. Her home is my dream home. It was left as it was upon her death n 1957. She died in February and in May of the same year the home was available to tour. Until I get my own post up about visiting Mansfield you can view Solanah's.

Epic Road Trip: What I Wore

2011-08-17T23:04:00.000-07:00

Day 1, picnic lunch in Pendleton, Ore. (home of THE Pendleton)

Cheyenne, Wyoming- Oh the boots in that building!

Hardly a view of my outfit...just imagine this shirt with the first outfit.

Branson, Missouri. This is outside of the Titanic museum, which just happens to be housed in building built like the ship.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas. I am sitting outside an amazing and haunted old hotel.

What's with that hair Elvis?

Mansfield, Missouri. Laura Ingalls Wilder's grave

Kansas City, Missouri. Lewis and Clark Corp of Discovery monument. We singled this one out because the girls had done research on their dog Seaman-who is represented here.

Madison County, Iowa. A covered bridge. Romantic because in the old days you could steal a kiss without anyone seeing. I must say this dress was my favorite on the trip. I don't ever buy anything online but I saw this from http://stores.ebay.com/lebombshop and loved it. I ordered the wrong size (they are sized juniors) and had a very pleasant exchange experience.

De Smet, South Dakota. Ingalls homestead. If you enjoyed the books, go there! This dress was not pictured in my "what dresses do I pack" post because I bought it while in Kansas City.

Mt Rushmore, South Dakota.

Deadwood, South Dakota. Cemetery where Wild Bill and Calamity Jane are buried-and for some bizarre reason next to each other.

Yosemite National Park, Wyoming and on our way home.

The first picture my hair is set in curlers (proving I had good intentions) and the next picture it is down but the whole rest of the time it was SO hot that I wore it up like so:

I love the bow barrette. It happened to be in the clearance basket at Anthropologie right before we left.

Girls Love Pink Boots!

2011-08-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

Dotty has been loving her pink cowgirl boots lately. I had packed them away because she wasn't interested in them a few months ago. (I think they may even be a little too small.)

Recently she came upon them in the garage and has had them on since.

As you see I have my own and she is quite impressed that we match! I have two more pair of children's pink cowgirl boots. I wish they fit the girls all at the same time, we would wear them with matching kerchiefs.

Epic Road Trip: Out Takes

2011-08-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

I as put together posts from our trip I am coming across photos that give a little peek behind the scenes.

Papa deserves a lot of praise for travelin' with 6 girlies!

This wasn't even the worst of it!

Loading up in Colorado

I started to take pics of all the pink houses-but that ended up too big a task to take on. I like this one for my reflection.

Tired!

Thank goodness for our hotels happy hour!

Ga-ga over bathrooms-this one is in the middle of nowhere in Wyoming.

This photo of Dorothy in gingham and ruby slippers was taken in Kansas. (ala Wizard Of Oz) You would never believe the drama we went through to get it before we left the state. We didn't realize the whole state wouldn't be farm like, so it isn't what I had envisioned.

Me climbing in with a new born calf.

Too hot!

Too hot for bras!

Here we all are, true to form. Look at Dot with a Mountain Dew! I have no idea why we are all in this room when there were two more bedrooms. We like cozy.

Not all nights were spent in suites.

There's No Place Like Home

2011-08-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

We have been home from vacation 10 days. "Home" is a big word. A wonderful word. I enjoyed our time on the road and would do it all again-but right now my heart and mind are focused on home. Watching our youngest in full melt down for the last 4 days of our trip, it became clear how much security and comfort being home gives. Up until this time I have lived by the saying "home is in a mother's arms". I felt as long as we were all together we would be home. I still believe being together is the most important security factor for children, but I have a new appreciation for the house we live in. It makes the feeling of home tangible for children, it's familiar, and routine. Of course not every house is a home. It makes me sad to think about the children who live in houses without security and stability and how they are often labeled as "difficult children". Those last few days of traveling I began to wonder if my daughter had been taken over by hostile aliens. A few times it was like a scene from a horror movie with her tantrums being so intense I thought she may levitate-and her screams were those of a soprano banshee!
Now that we are home my focus has been to provide a home where children are nurtured and nourished. It's like a nesting instinct. I have been super busy; cleaning, rearranging, baking, sorting, shopping etc... On the trip I was selfish and I chose to deal with the consequences, after all it isn't everyday I am at Mt. Rushmore. As parents we make those exceptions. Seeing the effect it had on the girls made me realize we are all happier when I put mothering first. Focusing on and meeting their needs- as I am modeling and equipping them to meet their own, actually creates more space for myself. Time invested in my family creates secure little people who are not misbehaving to get some attention.
I'll be posting soon on some of the projects I have been doing around the house to make it the perfect place for us.

County Fair

2011-08-08T20:45:00.000-07:00

We went to the county fair today. We go for two reasons...

the food & the animals.

I wore a dress I picked up on our trip. I love it but because it is lined/reversible --but that meant it was too hot to wear while traveling in 100+ temps.

(I need to work on getting better pics!)

I liked my scarf in the front, now looking at the back not so much.

and reversed!

Coedith + SnoopDogg

2011-08-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

You know our family recently took a road trip where by day we followed pioneer trails, Lewis and Clark, & visited famous authors homes. But do you know what I was doing in the evenings? I'm sure you'd never guess I was catching Snoop Dogg live in Kansas City. A friend we were visiting mentioned his tattoo shop was right above the venue putting on the show. I think he was surprised to see me giddy with excitement. Very few friends know of my secret crush- don't judge me, I can't help it. I think it's all those naughty things he says- I should be offended-but I am not.

The Doggfather

Outside our friends tattoo shop. I have seen Snoop in a cowboy hat so I went with the boots.

Balcony view with my ever indulging husband.

From below. I actually snagged this pic from the Kansas City newspaper.

Love/Hate Facebook

2011-08-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

I am deleting my facebook account. My reasons for this are mine. Only you know what is best for you. For me it is deleting my account.
My number one reason is that my time can be better spent. Sure I could simply reduce the amount of time I am online, but I am an all or nothing kind of gal.
When I am online I only half listen to my children talking to me and rarely make eye contact. I ask them to wait for this or that while I "finish what I am doing" (reading updates). I check fb on my phone when we are at the park, zoo or swim lessons. I am constantly sending the signal what I am doing on my computer is more important than my family. I have burned dinner, been late, let the children stay up too late, skipped their baths etc... all because I am on fb. (hard to admit)
I know that when my first daughter was born 14 years ago, and I was battling post-partum, something like facebook would have been a godsend. The truth for now is I need to prioritize. It is going to be hard- I love fb, the escapism, showing off my children and sharing our latest adventures. I hope I can do it!
I will keep blogging but will no longer have the Coedith fb page.

You can reach me at Coedith@gmail.com

I'm Home!

2011-08-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

We are back home! 15 days and 5,350 miles later. It was a wonderful trip and you can look forward to seeing more photos in blogs to come. For now enjoy this one of our Epic Road Trip crew. It was taken at this amazing little motel in Custer, South Dakota. (You know how people try to create a retro atmosphere but instead cheese it up and it looks more like 'Happy Days'? This isn't what happened here!)

Bon Voyage!

2011-07-17T20:28:00.000-07:00

Here we are the road trip gals! On our way to 4,000+ miles of good times.

The best way to follow our trip is going to be joining me over on facebook-link on side bar.

Epic Road Trip: Food

2011-07-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

We are almost there! 3 more days until we kick off our summer vacation. Along with the last minute things I am also getting our meals sorted out. To avoid fast food we aim to picnic all along the way. Here is a visual list of picnic meals.

After a stay in Europe we adopted this as our standard picnic fare. We honestly could eat this every day.

We are getting an early start and these bacon cheddar muffins will be the perfect breakfast.

Lots of fruit!

Another family favorite. Hummus, cucumbers and pita. We'll also toss in a few tomatoes and feta cheese.

Elaborating on the yogurt cup.

Good ol' peanut butter & honey. Great because the ingredients don't need refrigerating.

This along with the usual goldfish crackers, animal cookies, raisins, nuts, and fruit snacks should get us across 5 states. I need to remind myself there are grocery stores along the way to keep from worrying too much about having it all ready to go.

Benefits Of Being A Tattooers Wife

2011-07-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

We finally finished my arm. 3 years! I had a baby during that time which significantly slowed the process. I don't get tattooed while pregnant and with a new baby there just isn't time.

All totalled it took 21 hours split between about 10 sessions. Mav did all the black first and I had to wait patiently for the piece de resistance, the pink.

Although I like tattoos purely for the eye candy this one does have some meaning. My daughters Ruth "Magnolia" and "Pearl" are both represented. (I have Graces' name on my wrist under the pink bow and Dorothy Violet will be coming soon.)

My Love Of Colonial Revival

2011-07-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one who loves Colonial Revival? Maybe it is because I grew up with it that it makes me feel at home. I also appreciate that it never went completely out of style from the turn of the century through the 70's. This means it is easier to find, I can mix decades, and keep the look fluid.

If you watch Mad Men you will recognize the Draper's home as Colonial Revival. Here is a quote that I liked from their set designer.

"Some viewers might be surprised that the Drapers "don't live in Eames-ville and wear Pucci clothes," Wells says. "But we are portraying a very realistic view of a time when we were not such a throwaway society, and buying furniture was a lifetime investment."

I love the contrast between the modern sleek office and comfy colonial home.

P.S. I tried so hard to get pics from sources other than blogs and then I just noticed I used the same ones as Atomic Ranch House! So even though I didn't get them there I feel I should give her credit for using them first.

4th of July Hodgepodge

2011-07-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from the 4th of July. Some are mine, some I took from friends on facebook.

Papa and Pearl went for a biplane ride, circa 1929

Dot gives Twila Jean's son August the eye.

I drink from mason jars- big ones! It's cucumber water.

Dot gets on her helmet for our bike ride home. You see Twila Jean's sweet Margaux in the foreground.

Our lovely hostess Amy, Solanah and me.

My daughter Ruth (stripes) and her friends reveal their talents.

Dot and Solanah

Papa, Mama and Dotty. Notice she wore three outfits during the bbq.