{this moment}

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{this moment} ~ Following along with Amanda's Friday ritual.  A single photo - capturing a simple, extraordinary moment.  If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments. 

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Warmth

The nights are getting much cooler around here these days.  As I was piling on the blankets one evening I realized that each one had a story behind it.  A story of love and nurturing.  A king size quilt made by Robert's grandma.  A smaller blanket sewn and hand tied by his mother when he was a growing boy.  Anyone who knew her has very likely been the recipient of either a quillow or quilt lovingly made for those she cared for.  It was one of her love languages to ensure that all who entered into her sphere where well fed and warmed with a lasting fabric hug from her.  

On top I always like to have the quilt my mother made for me several years ago when we still lived in Alaska.  She had recently begun learning to quilt at the time, and because I was so far away from family she sent me one first so that I would be able to wrap it around me and get a hug from her whenever I was feeling lonely and longing for family.  It has since been my favorite.  Each of the fabrics used holds dear memories from my childhood.  Memories of shorts, dresses and skirts worn by each of my sisters, doll clothes and a sweet little fabric doll house, all sewn with love by my mother as she raised her own children.  

No doubt, as the nights turn from cool to cold, I will soon be adding more blankets to the pile on my side of the bed.  And there are many more to choose from that were stitched with love by those dear in my life.  Even an extra snuggly one that Robert sewed for me while we were dating!  He certainly is a man of many talents that one.  Wishing you all love and warmth in the cold winter months ahead.

weekend

This weekend I . . .

:: completed a bit of sewing that was long overdue, on a project I started over three years ago!  Lydia has been anxiously waiting for me to be done.

:: knit quite a bit on a funny little sweater that I am eager to see on a certain funny little girl.  Just a few more rows and some finishing touches left to go.

:: enjoyed some increasingly rare post nap snuggles.  Well worth the delayed bedtime.  I hope she'll never be too big to snuggle with her mama. 

:: almost got completely caught up on laundry.  There are times when *almost* is just enough, and Oh it feels good!

:: enjoyed spending the entire weekend together as a family.  These moments are so precious and dear to me.  I dream of some day having Robert home with us *every* day of the week.  Who knows what dreams may come?

and best of all . . .

:: listened to the words of a living prophet of God in a world wide General Conference.  

A wonderful weekend indeed!

{ this moment }

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{this moment} ~ A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.  (inspired by SouleMama)

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::braving::

Several years ago I read an article that talked about how critical a father's involvement is in the development of his daughter's confidence and sense of self worth.  As our daughters grow and begin to push the boundaries of their own comfort zone, I am filled with gratitude for the man they are blessed to call their Papa.  On our recent trip into the woods he helped Lydia begin to overcome fears and gain confidence in her ability for tree climbing.  My heart swelled as she began shouting "Mama, look, I'm braving!"  Evangeline's adventurous spirit carried her over every obstacle in sight, with a knowing that her Papa will always be there to catch her.  Such fun they'll all have together with a new baby brother!


For those who are interested, Evangeline's snuggly hat is from this delightful little pattern.  I'm hoping to knit one for Lydia as well this winter. 

{into the woods}

I think we've found our family's favorite local outdoor space.  The magnificent spruce trees and fresh mountain air remind us of home in Alaska.   I look forward to many return visits in the future for further exploration and adventure. 

~ Does your family have a special outdoor place you love to explore time after time?  If so leave a link in the comments for all to find and see. ~

{ this moment }

. . . . . . . . .

{this moment} ~ A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.  (inspired by SouleMama)

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