Cultivating Childhood

I've seen this book on some book lists for a while, and we finally got it from the library.  I'm in love with How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman.  It is a delightful book that takes you all over the world finding the freshest ingredients for making an apple pie.  It is quite witty, and all four of us are really enjoying it (adults and kids alike!). Of course, you can't read about making an apple pie without making one yourself.  And thankfully, the author kindly provides you with the recipe on the last page. Buddy was my eager helper. Daddy and Button prepped the apples while mommy and Buddy made the crust. We love our apple peeler/corer! The piling on of apples. And of course, there was licking of the cinnamon sugar off the spoon! It was so rich!  What a fun activity for these cold, winter days.

We have finally gotten some snow here in Seattle.  The boys are loving it.  We haven't had a ton so far, but we are expecting about 9 inches tonight, so I'm sure there will be a follow-up post in the near future! Button loves making snowballs Buddy wants to eat all of it Papa staying warm in his new buff We made a little snowman in the backyard We even made it out to one of the local parks yesterday for a snow walk.  We were blessed by another family to try out their sleds which was a big highlight. Someone was pretty tired though after our big morning out! Today, we made a quick trip out to Target to see if we could get our own sled.  We came out of there with a snowtube which the boys are enjoying especially on our neighbor's big hill. We also borrowed their sleds.  =) Happy Snow Day!

I'm excited that there is a new free e-book by Simply Charlotte Mason !  Sonya Shafer's newest book is called The Way of the Will .   Here is her blog post about it and a brief synopsis from her site: Is your child strong-willed or weak-willed? Charlotte Mason’s thoughts on the matter may surprise you, but they will most certainly help you. As Charlotte said, “Children should be taught to distinguish between ‘I want’ and ‘I will.’ ”  Join Sonya as she explores Charlotte’s helpful ideas and practical tips on the Way of the Will.  Personal —From one mommy’s heart (Sonya’s) to yours. This book is not for your children; it is written for you, to keep you growing and flourishing in your role as a mother.  Encouraging —Practical chapters will both challenge and equip you in your role as a mother.  Christian —As was common in her writings, Charlotte’s comments grew from a strong love for her Savior and respect for God’s Word. Inspiring —More than fifty Charlotte Mason quotes on t

I've recently had a few friends asking to pick my brain about homeschooling.  As I still haven't actually officially homeschooled my children at ages 4 and 2, I sometimes think it's funny that I get asked about it.  The following sites are where I get most of my information.  I've also read quite a few books, but that will have to be in a follow-up post.  I just love these blogs and websites! Charlotte Mason Websites: Ambleside Online  (and their yahoo groups )* Simply Charlotte Mason * Charlotte Mason Education  (must login) Charlotte Mason Home Education Charlotte Mason Blogs: Fisher Academy International (usually hosts the CM Blog Carnival as well!)* The Passionate Homeschooler Sage Parnassus * Practical Pages Jimmie's Collage Living Charlotte Mason in California Piney Woods Wildflowers and Marbles Nature Study: Handbook of Nature Study Arts/Crafts: Housing a Forest Harmony Art Mom Preschool/Early Elementary Blogs (may or may not

My Nightstand Can you guess what I've been interested in lately?

It's fun to watch your kids grow into their personalities.  It's been a while since I've written anything about the boys.  I can't believe that they are 4 and 2 already! Buddy Buddy is my busy four-year old.  He is constantly moving his body in all sorts of contortions.  Because of this, we put him in gymnastics this last fall, and he loved it!  He thought the balance beam and bar were really great. He is also very protective of his little brother.  He calls himself his brother's "savior" since he wants to save Button from "getting hit by pillows from other people."  He is also very concerned for Button's well-being and always wants to make sure that we have Button with us when we go places. Buddy is also becoming very interested in Theology and tries to figure things out.  Recently, he told me that Jesus wasn't God.  Surprised, I asked him why he said that.  He replied that God made the world, but Jesus came later as a baby

Matthews Beach Park has got to be one of my favorite parks in Seattle.  It's got a little bit of everything: a beach, a beautiful playground, a places to wander or be alone, and gorgeous views of Lake Washington.  It's a bit of a drive from my home, but it's always worth it.  Once we even saw a bald eagle here. One view of the lake The beach is fantastic.  In the summer, it has a lifeguard and is extremely popular for swimming.  We, however, usually find ourselves here on weekday mornings in the fall when it is less crowded. I'm noticing a trend in my park pictures that somehow Buddy is wearing one of his dress-up costumes.  It's not usually a normal occurrence! Lots of ducks can be found! Lifeguard chair and the beach I love it when the boys can find ways to entertain themselves with just nature.  This trip they just enjoyed throwing rocks into the water and playing in the wet sand.  As an added bonus, Buddy found a shovel left behind by another