Maria and Pedro

Recently we took a family vacation to Cancun Mexico. It was exactly what we needed as a family -time away from the every day of life, just the four of us. We had amazing weather, we spent all day swimming, went to bed early, allowed ourselves to completely surrender to the kids and their schedule. Derek and I rediscovered our alter-egos 'Pedro and Maria' (the more relaxed, fun and carefree versions of ourselves).

We promised not to let so much time lapse between real holidays and take time out, just our family to reconnect and rediscover ourselves.

Merry Christmas

I wanted to share the story of a little girl named Stella Joy with you. Her life and story touched my heart in a profound way (probably in part because my little Avery is only 3 months older than Stella was when she was diagnosed) but also because it is a sad, heart wrenching, and yet incredibly beautiful story of a gorgeous and spirited (and awesomely mischevious) little girl who lost her life way too young but who touched the lives of so many in the short time she was here. I have been incredibly inspired by the way both her mommies supported her the time leading up to her death, truly the ultimate act of parental love. How they and their family had the courage to share their story and how they have stayed strong through every parent's (and grand-parent's, aunt's, uncle's, cousin's, friend's) worst nightmare and how they continue to keep going despite the enormous grief and loss they carry with them every day since Stella's diagnosis and death.

Stella has inspired me to try even harder at being a good mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend and person.

Stella is joy.
xoxo

Part 1
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1298845--given-3-months-to-live-stella-delights-in-the-moment

Part 2
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1299137--as-stella-steadily-declines-her-parents-are-following-her-lead

Part 3
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1299214--at-3-stella-keeps-coming-back-from-the-brink-rallying-each-time-doctors-warn-the-end-is-near

A letter from Stella's parents:
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1305992--stella-s-moms-urge-readers-to-help-each-other

Her mommies' blog:
http://stellabrunermethven.com/

A Fitting Home for our Vintage Fisher Price Little People

I thrifted this cute little shelf a while ago. As soon as I saw it, I knew what purpose it would serve. There is something about a shelf with little compartments that beckons the little kid in me. I don't much enjoy painting projects but I took my time with this one. Forcing myself to go slowly and enjoy the process. In fact, all told, this project took several months to finish (stolen moments after work, mothering and the hustle and bustle of the summer months). After it was painted, I cut and hot glued some cardstock to cover up the 'furry red stuff' that was there before.

Before:

 

After:

I'm happy with this one. It was a fun project. I miss crafting! Will be starting a quilt soon for a friend's baby boy's impending arrival. I need a reminder about how good I feel when I've got something creative going on in my life! xo

They are multiplying...

I heart vintage pyrex!

feels so good!

Random Pictures

$1 at a garage sale!

 A newly organized spice cupboard.... amazing how good I feel when I open these doors now.

 Thrifted salt and pepper shaker... for the someday cottage.

Celebrating Ian's 5th birthday!