Yarns to Tell

Creativity Infused

Chris gave me a birthday gift that was so perfect for all that excites me in life at the moment: a collection of CD's, including a variety of music and podcasts all new to me. He gave it almost with an apology, like it was some high school mixed tape. As I looked through all the CD's, I couldn't believe how right on this gift was...my husband knows me well. 

I no longer know what's going on in the world because my news  radio has been taken over by my CD's. As I drive from school to school each morning, I'm hearing about food tips (Earth Eats, How to Eat Supper), wonderful creations from all the amazing artists out there (Craft Cast, Material Mama), and much more. 

One that has really affected me is Elizabeth Ellis' interview on The Art of Storytelling, and how ethics are taught through story and imagination. (More on that in another post.)

I am so appreciative of this gift, which continues to inspire me creatively. Hearing all that people do and how important creativity is in our lives is affirming. The need for a creative outlet cannot be considered extra, or when the kids have gone to bed. It should be infused into all of our daily lives, as we are all creative beings. Tapping into one's creative passion and making sure to express it is crucial, whether it's creativity in the kitchen, writing, or other art forms. Through creative expression, we find happiness.

Alas, off the computer to put to action my words! How are you infusing creativity into your life?

Happy Valentine's Day

One of my favorite holidays...simply a nice day to celebrate those we love. Although I'm not doing much this year, to continue my baking streak, I made my first batch of shortbread which, I think is now my favorite cookie. I was also inspired to make a few Valentine cards after having received one in the mail early in the week. I cut out hearts from some of Julian's finger paint creations and wrote a little rhyme.

Hope your day is filled with love!

Birthday Wishes

  

A wonderful birthday weekend was had to ring in this new thirty-something age. The day began with a toast with our favorite Swiss friends (wine with their dinner and coffee with our just having woken up!) I wrapped up that conversation to race out the door for a shiatsu at The Claremont (why is it that I'm always rushing to massages?) Well, three hours of spa experience slowed me down. It was wonderful.

Although, I was inspired to bake a cake when I got home, so I didn't stay slow for long. A simple chocolate cake with maple cocoa glaze...yum. Five candles on top got a very special wish. Julian was so thrilled about the cake and putting candles on top, I almost forgot that it way my birthday!

A nice dinner out to one of our most loved restaurants and a hike the next morning with friends...lovely weekend. Thanks for the many warm wishes!

Baking Away Thirty Four

My last week of thirty four, which ends on this very evening was spent baking more than I think I have in ten years. I'm a cook, not a baker, but I certainly have enjoyed it. Perhaps, this is my new thing for my next age group category.

I started with multi-grain scones last Sunday from The Petit Appetite Cookbook, by Lisa Barnes. Delicious. Loved the lemon flavor. Then, made peanut butter cookies which are comprised of four ingredients...well, okay five if you add the optional chocolate chips, which of course, I did. Supposed to be kinda healthy, so I didn't have to feel as much guilt about Julian devouring them.

Today, to go out with a bang, I made bread. Yes, bread. So excited about this new feat. A whole wheat, honey bread which I followed almost exactly as the recipe was written. I don't follow recipes. Always trying to throw a creative twist in. Well, my creative twist this time was using one bread pan and a dutch oven to make a larger, rounded loaf. Oh, and a mini loaf pan for Julian's bread. So, since everything is about mommy, daddy, and baby in Juju's world, we had a mommy loaf, daddy loaf, and a baby loaf. The butter poured over them made it hard to wait, so the baby loaf is already almost gone.

The best part? Sharing it all with my little helper over a cup of chamomile tea. I think thirty five will be good.

Faithful to the Hippocratic Oath?

Chris and I agreed to not vaccinate Julian until at least two years of age, although we didn't make the decision at birth. At his two month check up, we informed the doctor that we were still undecided about any vaccinations (in reality, we had done little research.) Our pediatrician informed us that we could not stay with her practice without agreeing to all the 'recommended' vaccinations. I felt judged as an uninformed parent making an extreme and dangerous choice for my child. We left the practice that day to find a new doctor.

Besides what little more research I did, this subject has really been on the back burner for me, as I had plenty of time until any decisions had to be made. Well, that birthday party back in December? The two candles on that gingerbread cake? Yep, time to make some decisions.

Fortunately, I have a friend who happens to be in the same boat as me. And, she's super resourceful. Here's an article she sent me that not only has some good thoughts on alternative vaccination schedules, but offers reassurance and peace of mind to someone like me. The doctor who wrote the article makes one correction here that is important to note.

So, where am I in this decision making process? Just starting my more in depth research. I feel confident that Julian is healthy based on his diet and how well his body recovers from colds. I'm happy that I've given his immune system time to develop and gain strength working through illness. I do not feel a rush to give him any vaccines just because he turned two. And, that's pretty much where I am.

Although I wouldn't have done anything differently, I have been nervous at times, scheduling a doctor's visit because, "That cough could be whooping cough...it's so hard to tell." Fear is a powerful emotion, and I certainly understand why most parents vaccinate.

Photo above is of Julian with his vaccine-free buddy, Joslyn.