I thought owls, playing, and spit up worked well together when I designed this.

I think the girls would agree.

When I sew during the day...

I look like I'm very intent and focused.


But then I have to remind Johanna that only her sister can use the scissors,

then I leave my table and confiscate scissors,

And then I have to pick one of these Munchkins up and bounce them around the room until contentment,

And maybe, just maybe, I finish my project, usually completely different then planned, and satisfyingly reap the rewards of big smiles.

Our friends' glorious acres of gardens, raspberry bushes, chickens, and 19th century structures: definitely some awe inspired expressions on our children's' faces.

Loading the bucket with what remains from summer's prime crop: finders- keepers. A scrumptious chicken chili using our gathered produce was enjoyed the following night.

Raspberry bushes as far as the eye can see.

And eager fingers to pick and eat as long as the night may be.

Eventually the sun set, babies tummies were fed to the sounds of the night, and everyone rode home in silence, with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads.

The girls enjoying a new picnic/reading/rolling-on/throw-in-the-car blanket
that I finished. The best part is that it is sewn with all of my Granny's fabric. How special now that she's passed away.

We made trips to visit family to eat, make merry...

swim... (in dresses, that is, since mommy didn't bring suits)

and indulge...

until bedtime.

Shouldn't they rename Labor Day to something more fitting like, oh... Play Day?

Christina tagged me, and an exciting tag, at that.

Instructions:"Just write a post of your own 5 things that you love about being a mom and find someone to link to and tag - someone from your own country, if you like, but definitely someone from another country."

1. I love giving them tools, space, and an idea, and watching them expand, flourish and discover something new.

2. I love seeing their eyes light up when they see me; kicking and flailing of arms is a bonus.

3. I love watching them find joy in each other.

4. I love passing on my passions to them, introducing them to the things that make me happy.

5. I love watching them fall asleep, as their active little bodies slowly calm, quiet down, and are still. The peace in the room of those dear ones sleeping is priceless.

I'm tagging Crystal, Ann and Christine: three excellent mommies.

We used oil pastels in the grass...

Played grocery store and stocked the fridge...

And another day of baby doll in arm with the ever present plastic high heels.

Everything about my girls is an attempt to play "grown-up." Well now, I'm grown up, have babies and high heels.

Ironically, I'm backtracking, trying to regain some sort of youthful bliss, seeking play, innocence, and wonder, like I observe daily from them.


Lesson learned? If you're going to have babies, wear the heels and still run in the grass.