Stripes and Velour

2012-01-01T22:23:00.000-08:00

D cut a huge chunk out of her hair on Christmas day. I laughed so much when it happened and thought of my mom and my sisters and the stories they've told me. It was sort of this right of passage that I had just passed through. Then, the next day I panicked. It was really bad. So, I cut a good 4 inches off to see if that would help. . .it sort of did. But in the back, right in the middle there is is this huge short spot (pixie length) that I'm still not sure what to do with.

S entered his school art contest with the theme being: Diversity Means. . . I knew he had to enter it and kept encouraging him. He did two 3-D projects the first was really cool and he used leaves from outside but after a few days they started to wilt so we didn't submit that one and he made another one. He called the second one Nest of Diversity. Friends, it is so lovely. It's beautiful to see him creating things-- forming the pipe cleaner, strings, elastic. . .he likes to work quickly. Then he found this huge nut outside and various beans to put in the nest. I knew he would get an award, not because I'm his mom, but because it was deep and his concept was strong. We had little discussions about what diversity means and why it is so wonderful and important. And, yes, he got the award of Outstanding Mention and got a ribbon and some fantastic art supplies!

I'm really happy with his school. Arts education is so fundamental in my educational philosophy and I have this wonderful sense of peace when I walk down the hallway and see so many colorful works of art by all of the students and fantastic quotes by famous artists. For the art contest above there were many categories to enter--there was even a dance section for original choreography! How's that for progressive and just plain awesome! I love it.

My kids really love each other and as my mom puts it "incite each other to riot" often as they feed off each other's energy. I make dramatic babies-- fuchsia, turquoise, --not for the faint of heart. I love them so much. My heart feels so big as I think of them.

It's getting late and I have this new insomnia thing that makes me stay up way too late so I'll post some photos domani.

PS. Happy New Year!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

Sand Dunes with my beautiful Mum

2011-10-23T22:37:00.000-07:00

Little D and Daddy

2011-10-20T22:49:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Warren

2011-09-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

Here is one of her awesome quotes:
"There is nobody in this country who got rich on his own — nobody."

“You built a factory out there? Good for you. But I want to be clear. You moved your goods to market on the roads the rest of us paid for. You hired workers the rest of us paid to educate. You were safe in your factory because of police-forces and fire-forces that the rest of us paid for. You didn’t have to worry that marauding bands would come and seize everything at your factory — and hire someone to protect against this — because of the work the rest of us did.
“Now look, you built a factory and it turned into something terrific, or a great idea. God bless — keep a big hunk of it. But part of the underlying social contract is, you take a hunk of that and pay forward for the next kid who comes along.”

A good one. . .

2011-08-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

Mom: S do you want to finish these pancakes?

S: Yes, with haste!!

Someone got his ears lowered. . .

2011-08-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

It's been so hot and little S was ready for a change. Good bye beautiful hair. Isn't he adorable!

Little D is getting so big. I think she is 2 going on 6 and keeps right up with her brother.

She looks so much like her Grandma DD. Below is a shot of D with her pal O at the park.

Enjoy

2011-08-01T21:37:00.000-07:00

2011-07-27T19:12:00.000-07:00

The Maryhill Integration Network, the organization that I use to work for, was just featured in a documentary on the BBC. Unfortunately, I can't view it in US right now. . .but I did come across this short clip of some of their work on you tube. I can't wait to go back to Glasgow.

I just needed to post this again. . .

2011-07-03T19:35:00.000-07:00

"THIS IS WHAT YOU SHALL DO: LOVE THE EARTH AND SUN AND ANIMALS, DESPISE RICHES, GIVE ALMS TO EVERYONE THAT ASKS, STAND UP FOR THE STUPID AND CRAZY, DEVOTE YOUR INCOME AND LABOR TO OTHERS, HATE TYRANTS, ARGUE NOT CONCERNING GOD, HAVE PATIENCE AND INDULGENCE TOWARD THE PEOPLE, TAKE OFF YOUR HAT TO NOTHING KNOWN OR UNKNOWN OR TO ANY MAN OR NUMBER OF MEN, GO FREELY WITH POWERFUL UNEDUCATED PERSONS AND WITH THE YOUNG AND WITH THE MOTHERS OF FAMILIES. READ THESE LEAVES IN THE OPEN AIR EVERY SEASON OF EVERY YEAR OF YOUR LIFE, RE-EXAMINE ALL YOU HAVE BEEN TOLD AT SCHOOL OR CHURCH OR IN ANY BOOK, DISMISS WHATEVER INSULTS YOUR OWN SOUL, AND YOUR VERY FLESH SHALL BE A GREAT POEM.” WALT WHITMAN

Joanna Brooks on Mormon Identity in the 21st Century

2011-06-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

On June 11, 2011, members of the Mormon Stories community held their 2nd regional conference in Salt Lake City. In this keynote address entitled "Mormon Identity in the 21st Century: Claiming and Belonging", professor and author Joanna Brooks explores a more expansive vision for Mormon identity. Joanna's vision is an inspiring one that will hopefully catch on:

“If you identify as a Mormon, I hear you. I recognize you. I claim you. I claim you gay or straight, liberal or conservative; white, black, brown. Perfect, imperfect, active, less-active, post-, present, literal, non-literal, agnostic, atheistic; your story matters. You belong. We are Mormons. We may be uncorrelated, but we are still Mormons. We are open. We are open to each other; we are open to difference. We are open to the beautiful and the difficult facts of our Mormon history, and we are open to the potential of Mormonism in the 21st century. Let’s see what beauty we can make of our Mormon identity together.”

2011-06-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Jason posted his comments and video link on his FB page and I think it is worth posting here too. It's very difficult for me to understand why the GOP is so ready to quote her "philosophies" and give such high esteem to her lack of humanity. Isn't the GOP the party with "morals"?. . .Interesting:

It is hard to imagine a more socially and morally destructive way of thinking than that altruism is evil; that the poor, disabled and weak are not worthy of love and should be left to die to make society stronger; and, that there is no higher virtue than selfishness.

Quotes by S

2011-06-12T16:25:00.000-07:00

Scene: S and D playing with play dough before church. Soren made a pig and yelled, "Get your pig! Your baby beef pig!"

Scene: A loud Sunday afternoon, the kids are playing and D poured water on the carpet. S comes in and says, "D literally dumped it on the floor." (keep in mind he has just finish kindergarten).

Scene: We are in the car on our way to a barbeque in Alpine. The mountains are so close and lovely and S says, "next year for my Birthday when I'm sixty six I want to have my Birthday in the mountains".

Scene: S and his dad were on a walk and S began to whistle. Then he said, "look! I'm communicating with the birds!"

Scene: S and I have a little chat. I ask "when you're all grown up if have little boy of your own what do you think you'll name him?" Soren reply's "Thunder". What do you think you'll name a little girl?" I ask. He quickly said "Rose".

...He's awesome.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to Cammie and to all mothers around the world.

Love,

Soren, Dahlia, and Jason

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2011-05-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

Love,

Dahlia

Petals for Baby Petal

2011-05-01T20:10:00.001-07:00

The blossoms outside our window

Spring has arrived (though Winter still lingers and has been covering our blossoms and cars with snow!!!). I think I need to watch Rite of Spring by Vaslav Nijinsky and coax the Spring gods and pixies into full force. I love it when the petals cover the ground like a warm snow and I love my niece and her name. These petals are for her.

Easter in Park City

2011-04-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

We spent Easter in Park City with Grandma Pat and Grandpa Jim and it was so lovely. The weather was still cold which made the jacuzzi's all the more enjoyable. The kids had an indoor hunt inside our rooms and received extra large baskets from the Easter Bunny.

They sure are lucky to have such giving and festive grandparents.

Pina

2011-04-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

I am so very excited about this film. This is why I dance.

2011-03-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

S tied his own shoes today!!!!!!

the festival of colors

2011-03-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

Is a huge event now (to say the least). Eight years ago we took Emilia and Leif and had a lovely time despite Emilia getting colors in her eyes. I think there were a couple hundred other guest who also came to celebrate the coming of Spring near a bonfire and a man singing and chanting as we all threw colors at each other. On Saturday there must have been thousands who came to the Holi Festival and I think a better name for it might be Holi Palooza or Holi Woodstock (slightly different feel this time). My photos don't really give an idea as to how crazy it was with so many people but that's because we tried to stay away from the masses and have our own little haven for the kids.

We met up with Michelle and Ryan and their beautiful children and that was definitely what made it most enjoyable for us. Llamas and peacocks and little Ocean having so much fun going up to random people and throwing colors at them were the highlights and I can't leave out little Scarlette with a tiny bit of pink dye in her ear. She was mostly protected by her daddy and her babybjorn and she was such a trooper. Dahlia wasn't so enthusiastic about the event but soon warmed up and Soren was loving his little battles with Ocean.

The Red Tent

2011-03-24T12:27:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I love Siddharta by Hermann Hesse and the Alchemist by Paolo Coelho, both novels with a story of a young man's journey to find the self. I had been longing to read a story with similar themes but with a female voice. As we unpacked our boxes that had been in storage for 4+ years I came across a book of mine that I'd never read and forgot I had. While we were in Glasgow my friend recommended The Red Tent by Anita Diamant (and at that point I had no memory of owning it and made a mental note to buy it). Since unpacking it and being so happy that I actually owned it I've read it. I absolutely love it. As the book was coming to an end I was moved to tears. It's so fun to finish a book but so sad that it has to end.

It's so lovely, and tragic, and inspiring and deep with femininity.

Have you read it? Did you love it too?

PS. Thanks, Carol, for the perfect gift!

Le foto and Tangerine Art

2011-03-18T18:23:00.000-07:00

My little Soren turned 6 last week! He also received the Character Award in a school assembly this week for tolerance and acceptance. I love being his mom. Watching my little kindergartner go up to get his award was seriously the best.

Here is my little French darling.

She loves butter. I think she's inherited this from her aunt Francie. . . and sometimes I find these little bites out of it.

When she lets me do her hair I'm so happy. Sometimes she's more willing to let her DAD do her hair than she is with letting me!

I was pretty excited to catch S in this pose because he LOVED seeing what he looked like in a handstand.

Food Art: Lesson Plan by S. I was eating a tangerine a while back and it sparked great enthusiasm in my son. I had to go with it and these are our creations. Only the paper isn't eatable and we used honey for glue. Our work didn't last very long but I loved the concept. I always play it safe and do what I know I can when it comes to visual arts (hence, the flower). Soren, on the other hand, can really reach for the stars. He told me what he wanted to make and I was a little sceptical. . . .Boy was I wrong! Check out his Eagle Going After a Rabbit Behind a Rock!!!

In Honor of Women's Day

2011-03-08T12:46:00.000-08:00

We have much to celebrate and remember today but we also have much to do as women to help other women around the world.

Here is a link to an article in the Huffington Post that brings me to tears. It's written by Ashley Judd who is now serving on the board of directors for the Global Health Organization.

2011-03-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

My friend Michelle hosted the most darling Little Man Party for her little man who just turned 2. We had a lovely time even if you can't recognize us in the photo above!

2011-03-01T17:23:00.000-08:00

Today I was needing to reacquaint myself with myself and my female power. Lately I've been struggling to balance mothering with work and with time I need to be alone and feel calm. As I was looking for some feminist quotes I found this site: http://www.quotegarden.com/feminism.html

Men are taught to apologize for their weaknesses, women for their strengths. ~Lois Wyse

I do not wish them to have power over men, but over themselves. ~Mary Wollstonecraft

There is a special place in hell for women who do not help other women. ~Madeleine K. Albright

To tell a woman everything she may not do is to tell her what she can do. ~Spanish Proverb

I would have girls regard themselves not as adjectives but as nouns. ~Elizabeth Cady Stanton, "Our Girls"

I can't be a rose in any man's lapel. ~Margaret Trudeau

Nobody objects to a woman being a good writer or sculptor or geneticist if at the same time she manages to be a good wife, a good mother, good-looking, good-tempered, well-dressed, well-groomed, and unaggressive. ~Marya Mannes

Young wives are the leading asset of corporate power. They want the suburbs, a house, a settled life, and respectability. They want society to see that they have exchanged themselves for something of value. ~Ralph Nader

I didn't want to be a boy, ever, but I was outraged that his height and intelligence were graces for him and gaucheries for me. ~Jane Rule

Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but backwards and in high heels. ~Faith Whittlesey

Never let the hand you hold, hold you down. ~Author Unknown

I first read this last one while I was in Scotland. My friend had it hanging on her fridge and we would laugh about it. . . Scary. Ignorance. So much. . .where do I even start.

[Feminism is] a socialist, anti-family, political movement that encourages women to leave their husbands, kill their children, practice witchcraft, destroy capitalism and become lesbians. ~Pat Robertson

2011-02-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Scene: Soren and Dahlia are in the family room and I'm in the kitchen.
Soren: Does anyone have any spears?

Scene: Just after dinner Soren starts a conversation.

Soren: Mom, do you like to sit up in bed sometimes?

Me: Yeah.

Soren: They have these beds that fold up. . .

We didn't have TV for 3 and a half years and now it is so funny to see the power of advertisements and commercials through the mind of my son who hasn't been exposed to it before (and, let's face it, it's also alarming). He gets so excited to tell me what new thing he sees that I might like. He's so sincere about it.

2011-01-22T18:30:00.000-08:00

My friend Claire's little girl is amazing. Here's a post to explain my sentiments. She is so gorgeous and this post just makes me happiness and joy and smiles.

I heart her hair with all my heart! I just had to share the joy.

Chocolate Cheesecake and more. . .

2010-12-23T22:54:00.000-08:00

La Torta

Toffee Time

Le mie Bambine

. . .and the most wonderfully scented cinnamon ornaments that Soren made with his Grandma Pat.

Adesso devo dormire. Buona notte. Zzzzzzz.

The Snow Came Early

2010-12-01T09:38:00.000-08:00

No-Knead Bread

2010-11-13T15:45:00.001-08:00

My sister, Charla, sent me this video from the New York Times and I have to say that it is fantastic and easy to make! Like I've said in a previous post (many moons ago), I was always intimidated by the thought of making bread because of the yeast factor. Well, not anymore. In this recipe the loaves come out looking so lovely and round. I could say more but you can just watch the video and see. . .xo

M. Ward

2010-11-12T09:54:00.000-08:00

I love this song and video and so do my little ones. Their daddy finds good things for them to enjoy.

Dahlia

2010-11-11T19:26:00.000-08:00

Ode to My little Dahlia at Two Years Old

I love her, I love her, I love her I do. One look at her perfect face, her bright eyes and her perfect everything makes my worries subside. She is my hope, my fountain of youth. She is determination, wild and free. Strength and laughter,

climbing, jumping, dancing without fear.

. . .And she has this new joke. If she wants to make anything funny she adds "toots" to the end. To her credit it is pretty funny. She and Soren laugh heartily during their joke time.

Halloween

2010-11-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

Save Sakineh

2010-11-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

I have just visited GoPetition and found the following page extremely important in saving her life.

Please sign the petition by going here.

You can also go here to sign a petition for the release of her son, her lawyer, and two German journalist who are being held because they spoke out against her sentence and the human rights violations committed against her.

Existing

2010-11-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

I took Soren and Dahlia to the park last night and while we were there I was encouraging Soren to jump off one of the levels of the play set without my help. He was reluctant and then said, "if you exist" and did it! Can he please stay five forever???

I think I kind of like "if you exist" better than "if you insist" just because it's awesome.

Gardner Village

2010-10-31T21:54:00.001-07:00

Mere and I had an impromptu trip to Gardner Village this past weekend. What a fun time is was--Pot Bellied Pigs and all! Above are photos of the darlings shortly after getting their faces painted (pics compliments of Mere).

I heart twins

2010-10-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

While visiting my mom I had the opportunity to see my cousin Ashley and her gorgeous family. She has twin girls that are just older than Soren and I love them! I just love twins. (When I was younger my sister Bridget and I use to say we were twins. Funny thing is I think we look more alike now then when we were little). My mom brought the kids up the canyon today and took the photos above.... I was home with my little one who was still not well and Ashley got a break (sort of;) and stayed home with her baby Isabella who is a totally darling little pixie baby.

PS. Tonight before going to bed Soren asked for a glass of Rice Dream. After he took a big gulp he declared, "that was refreshingly good."

We're a rice milk drinking family 95% of the time (oat milk and almond milk are also family favorites and the occasional fresh cows milk is a treat). One time when Soren was a baby Jason made oat milk that was quite nice. He spiced it up with cinnamon and it seemed to do well with the normal milk going foods. We need to try that again...I'll let you know when we do.

Thirty

2010-10-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

I was holding Dahlia today and thinking outload as I said "what time is it?". She then answered, "thirty". I love my little D.

She's had a rough couple of days and I think her molars are coming in. . .we shall see.

small town happenings while visiting la mia mama

2010-10-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

Awesome Things Number 1 & 2

My mom

My mom having fresh milk from the dairy with cream on top. Seriously amazing. Yummy. No more vegan.

Conversation Number 1

Scene: Soren and I sitting in the car on Main St. while Jason, my mom and Dahlia go into the store to by a TV.

Soren: Mom you look like a bunny. . . because your teeth are big.

Me: (laughing) You're right I do have long front teeth.

A lady once asked me if I ate a lot of carrots when I was younger. I know what you're thinking. I can't believe she asked that either! And you're probably wondering why I'm sharing these embarrassing stories. I guess I'm at peace with my long (lovely ;) teeth and it's cathartic to share my oneness with them. I like them anyway.

Strange Happenings Number 1

Jason and I went to the above store earlier that same day to buy a cord to hook the computer up to the TV (they didn't have the right one). While we were walking back to the car we past Curly's Lounge. There were three people outside and as we walked by I don't think I've felt that "looked up and down" since high school. It was right out of a movie and we could have been wearing Lady Ga Ga's meat dress to merit the stares we got (totally gross and lame dress IMHO). It made me really appreciate city life and miss it. All the happenings, fast pace, uniqueness. . . I felt right at home.

. . .and don't get me on the topic of Dragging Main. I couldn't believe it when my mom told me that's what kids did and still did when I was 16 and we were visiting my grandma in the same small town. We took a drive one time and she showed me how the teenagers drove down Main Street and then when they got to a certain point would turn around and drive back again and again. I guess I shouldn't laugh too hard (or maybe I should laugh even harder) because while I was in Riccione, Italy (when I was 19) the kids did the same thing down the board walk. . .walking back and forth. I was with a friend and felt so ridiculous. I remember asking her what we were doing. . .totally funny memory for me. Not my cuppa tea, thank you.

Hiking to Alta. . .

2010-10-12T13:50:00.001-07:00

. . .was a bit more strenuous than we had planned for but we did it and it was breathtaking! We met up with Mere and Cory and their darling kids Dotty and Townes, hiked to a gorgeous lake, and had delicious picnic. Below are some photos of the trip.

MissDahlia

Miss Dotty

Soren, Dotty, Dahlia and Townes

Parks and Pumpkins with Grandma and Grandpa

2010-10-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

2010-10-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

My mama came to town for my Birthday and it was so fun. I love how much she and Dahlia look alike and it just warms my heart to see them together. They are both November babies and full of personality. My mom calls Dahlia Miss Personality and Dahlia can repeat it perfectly. It's pretty remarkable.

A wonderful children's book

2010-10-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

The other day Jason brought home a book for Soren from the library. It is The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth and it's lovely. It's based on a story by Leo Tolstoy and I hope you enjoy it too.

desert dwellings

2010-10-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

I love this story

2010-10-05T12:48:00.000-07:00

This story illustrates many things but one in particular is the beauty of movement and the joy it brings. I can imagine what a joyful and inspiring moment it was to see little Ashley turn on her side and back again.

"One evening near the end of the month, I was preparing to leave town and still hadn’t visited one of my sisters. It was later in the evening. I had no appointment. I didn’t call. I had no partner. But I decided it was important to visit my friend Julie. Julie’s daughter Ashley was born with a brittle-bone disease. Although Ashley was almost six years old, she was very small and unable to do much of anything besides move her arms and speak. She lay on a sheepskin rug all day, every day. Ashley was a happy, cheerful child, and I loved being around her.

On this particular night when I got to the home, Julie invited me in and Ashley called out that she wanted to show me something. I went in and knelt down on the floor on one side of Ashley, and her mother was on the other side. Ashley said, “Look what I can do!” Then with a little assistance from her mother, Ashley was able to turn on her side and back again. It had taken her almost six years to accomplish this wonderful goal. As we clapped and cheered and laughed and cried together on this special occasion, I thanked Heavenly Father that I had gone visiting teaching and had not missed this great event. Even though that visit was many years ago and sweet Ashley has since passed away, I will be forever grateful that I had that special experience with her."

Barbara Thompson
Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency

Nikki

2010-09-04T13:22:00.001-07:00

One of my most favorite people, the Miss Nikki Arrington, had a very cool art show last night! Here are some photos of her work. It will be a display for maybe another week, if you are in the area, at: 39 West 200 North, Provo

My favorite is the fourth piece shown, titled Rome.

We went to the show with lovely friends and ran into other friends we haven't seen for a quite while--it was a fantastic time. Thanks Nikki for sharing your work!

Art, friends, Indian food. . . a recipe for una notte favolosa!

2010-09-01T19:55:00.001-07:00

Today while Jason was at the library and I couldn't get in touch with him I thought of a question that I would ask him when he got home.

Me: Babe, I thought of a question that I wanted to ask you while you were away and I couldn't get a hold of you because you weren't online.

J: really, what is it?

Me: Who do you think you are? (with a cheeky smile)

J: I really don't know. ... I mean, am I only a genuine self in relating to God, as Kierkegaard said, ... or is there no independent and permanent self but only a flow of processes that I mistake for my self, as the Buddha taught?

I got served.

Prof. Stephen Prothero on Disinformation in Media on Religion

2010-08-22T15:39:00.001-07:00

I thought this interview was really good, and worth seeing:

Miramar Sunset

2010-08-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

SD

2010-08-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

Cousins at the Harbor

Watering Grandpa Frank's garden

La mia Dahlietta

anche' di pui'

Francie's pool

Mission Beach

Fishing with Grandpa Frank

e di pui'

Almost all of the cousins. . .

Blood Red Oranges from my Grandma's grove

SLC

2010-08-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

My photos are in random order because I'm having problems with getting them organized. . . . Anyway, we are in SLC right now and the kids are being totally spoiled by their grandparents (and it's definitely in a good way). The blow up slide (above) belongs to Grandma Pat and Grandpa Jim and they take it out whenever Soren asks. Grandpa takes Dahlia on endless walks to see the horses, kitties and dogs and she has really bonded with him. Their garden is in bloom and black berries and tomatoes are gathered almost daily (along with ample zucchini). I was going to make zucchini bread last night and I'm not sure how that slipped from my mind. . . . today is another day.

The pictures of the kids with their Grandparents were taken at picnic we had in the mountains where the kids got to hold a garden snake! Both of them! Yes, little Dahlia was not going to let that opportunity pass. What am I going to do with this fearless wee darling? She loves holding bugs and petting animals. . . We also went to the Hogle Zoo and that was a fun adventure. Cats! Our family loves cats and it was so fun to see the leopard in the photo above. Soren was a fan. And speaking of cats Grandma and Grandpa Monson have a neighbor with a funny cat who sneaks into their back yard (and other backyards nearby) and gathers things to take home to her human. Sometime yesterday or this morning she found Soren's swimming shorts and brought the booty back to her queen. We got them back this morning. That was our delightful story for the morning. I just love that cat for it's quirkiness and Soren thought it was too funny.

The photos I promised

2010-08-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

Happy 91st Birthday Grandma! We had a wonderful time celebrating with you at your lovely home.

One of my favorite parts of the house is this darling fountain and the tiles with her name and our family name.

Uncle Wally and Dahlia

My sister Francie, my Grandma, and my sister-in-law Natalia

Little Dahlia giving cuddles to Great Grandma--A perfect way to end the evening.

2010-07-28T21:45:00.001-07:00

My Grandma turned 91 today and we had a wonderful time with her tonight. I can't wait to share some of the lovely photos we took with her. As we were leaving and saying our goodbyes Dahlia gave her wonderful hugs and kisses and patted and stroked her beautiful hair. My sister Francie captured it with her camera so I'll post it soon. It was such a special moment.

And like always the whole evening was magical with beautiful flowers, greenery, fruits and vegetables growing all around us in abundance. The kids came home with raspberries and blackberries and some of her homemade jam. This year I'm going to make it with her and Soren is tickled that he gets to help too! Photos are coming! I promise you'll love them. Her home is like an Italian or Spanish villa. Part of my heart is always there and this became very clear to me while we were in Scotland. My heart grows as I age and I have pieces of diverse places in it or maybe I should say I take pieces and put them in my heart so that they are always with me. Maybe it's a bit of both.

I was sitting next to Soren in the car and he was sleepy and getting ready for our drive home. He asked if he could use my sweatshirt to cover his legs and I said, "sure". Then he said, "you look better spotted anyway"--I was wearing a polka dot dress! I thought that was an adorable way of putting it and also getting what he wanted.

2010-06-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Georgia and Peaches

I heart both.

So many people I know have just had little babies (peaches). It makes me feel goodness in the world.

Here are my peaches. xo

2010-06-26T17:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight as I was tucking Soren into bed I asked him to tell me about a superhero movie that he liked. He's was really excited and I could tell the wheels were turning in his mind. Then he said, "OK, I'm going to start from the very middle." He's awesome.

2010-06-23T04:58:00.000-07:00

Jason and Dahlia found a mama bird and babies in nest last week. We go and say "hi" from time to time. Yesterday after visiting the babies Soren said, "I wish I could jump up there and hug them all." At night the fireflies come out. I'd never seen them before and they are so magical and fleeting. You see them and then they're gone.

2010-06-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

Hello, I'm still here. . .somewhere. I'm not in Glasgow anymore. I'll have to post more on that later. Moving was very hard on me emotionally. I grew to love that rainy city with so many kind people, my children's friends and the wonderful dance connections I made and the work I did. I cried often about leaving while we were packing and saying good byes. So, I'll save "the move" for another day. BUT, if anything can cheer me up it's my sister Charla and I'm with her right now in Georgia.

I'm not on facebook anymore. Maybe I'll do it again one day but not now.

I dyed my hair blonde but it's kind of gold. . .it's interesting.

I haven't taken many photos but my sister Charla has some cute pics of the kids and posted them here.

and a peacock

2010-04-29T04:37:00.000-07:00

Need I say anything? Seriously. She's 1 going on 5. I love my chidren more than I can say.
I was telling Soren that I was proud of him the other day and he said ". . .and I love Dahlia. Dahlia is my jewel."
. . .and just to keep it real. They have some good arguments too. I think I captured this one about a month ago.

Soren made this Peacock today while I was at the computer. I love it and thought it needed to be seen. . . xo

2010-03-14T12:59:00.000-07:00

My little Soren turned 5 yesterday. Here are five awesomely awesome things he's said lately:

1-Let's call Dahlia "Little Rico".

2-Monkey is actually bad in Kung Fu Panda. He's fantastically bad.

3-I'm being an artist right now. I can create beautiful things. Things from the earth. I'm being so create-able.

4-Dahlia, I think you're missing the point.

5-(This one is funny if you've seen the movie "All Dogs go to Heaven") You can't keep a good dog down. . .(shakes his head) You can't keep a good dog down.

I love my little boy!

On to Baking............

I think I've actually gone a bit crazy and you'd believe me if you knew how many times I've made Pear Polenta cake not to mention the Dutch Apple and Chocolate cakes (and Jason doesn't mind). . .It's been my therapy through the stress and cold.

Le Torte:

Pear Polenta dream

Dutch Apple Muffins and more Polenta Cake

Cake's I made on Valentines Day for my true love

Soren's Chocolate Fudge cake

Tea for one is so much fun. . .

I took this photo today.

I found this in the kitchen one day.

I'm happy.

. . .I almost forgot to post that Jason and I went out on a date last night! Don't we look happy?. .

PS. I did a guest post for Dance Advantage and you can check it out here.

2010-02-07T13:39:00.000-08:00

I have a lot to catch up on. . . I'm not sure where to begin so I'm going to just start and see where I end up with this post.

We took a wonderful trip to the States and I've missed family so much that it was hard to come back (more about our trip later). Soren has sprouted up and grown out of many of his clothes and when I weighed him at his Grandma's house he was 43 pounds. Dahlia was 21.5 pounds and I thought that it was so cute that she was exactly half of his weight (it also helped me remember for blogging purposes). Dahlia has 11 teeth now and I hope she's taking a break because I sure need some restful sleep and I know her Daddy wouldn't mind either. The two year bottom molars were beastly (not to mention her double ear infections and eye infection). She's all better now. Now I just need to make sure Jason is well for his big week!! He's flying to California to present a lecture on Globalization, Buddhism and Ethics.

I am enjoying so much my 4 year old's company. He is such a delight and so creative. His fifth birthday is around the corner and he has started some annoying games that come with the territory. Do you know the game where someone copies EVERYTHING you say? Well Soren's pretty good at it. I decided to beat him at his own game a while back. I know, I'm really mature. So, anyway, while he was copying me I said, "Hi, I'm Soren and I don't like chocolate." After he repeated it he waited a few seconds and said in a commanding voice, "You made a fool of me." It was so funny.

My sister got Soren this really cool book called The Usborne Book of Art Projects. It's fantastic. Yesterday we were looking through it and picked out this extra cool fish design with fish made from kitchen foil. When we went to start it I realized we didn't have any foil. . .but I did have a gold foil from a dark chocolate bar. We made gold fish. We also had to improvise with the ocean so I cut out blue squares of magazine paper to make a collage ocean for our regal fish. . .in the end it was pretty different from the original instructions but it was so much fun and the original was our inspiration. I love doing projects using bits and bobs from around the house. Soren was thoroughly excited for his Dad to see it and said he would like it so much he'd "rip his eyes out." Things that make me go hmmm.

Sofia, Zoe and Soren at his friend Sofia's Brithday Party

La mama della festa with beautiful Giulia

Dahlia and her cousin Emilia

2009-11-13T06:21:00.000-08:00

My princess turned 1 on Wednesday and I can't believe it! She's wearing the Birthday outfit I bought her (that I've been wanting for a while). I'm kind of obsessed with it for the moment because I love Russian dolls and Dahlia looks so cute in it. When she put the beaded necklace on her head yesterday I just had to get a photo of her as my little hippie baby.

She's such a joy and as active as they come. She's a very smiley baby and gives other people reason to smile as they pass us. Little tantrums have begun and it can be very frustrating when she needs my help but does NOT want it. But, I love it at the same time. I love her fiery and very communicative personality and I'm glad she can hold her own. Here's to strong girls!

She loves climbing up on to things and one of her latest favorites is a tin can (photo below). She is joy to my heart. I love my little Dahlia.

2009-11-08T04:13:00.000-08:00

If you want to build a ship, don't drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea. -Antoine de Saint Exupery

I'm good at jumping over walls

2009-11-02T06:17:00.000-08:00

A few months ago we were leaving my sister's house and Soren accidentally dropped one of his precious toys over a wall. The other side was a terrace garden and the ground was lower. Jason attempted to climb the wall/fence but didn't quite make it. I think he might have ripped his jeans (don't worry babe--it's obvious you're much strong than me ;). . .anyway, I gave it a shot and got over pretty easily and rescued the straggler.

I forgot about doing this and then oneday whilst at the park with Soren, Dahlia and some friends I was reminded of it. My friend Niki's son had done pretty much the same thing that Soren did while they were playing so Soren told them that I would be able to get it since I was good at climbing over walls. . .I think this one was much higher though. . .

That made me feel pretty tough. There are some perks to being a dancer. I'm good at fake fighting too. When Soren has just watched Power Rangers LOOK OUT cuz here we come!!!

Paris and my little dumplings. . .and a raspberry

2009-10-22T12:55:00.000-07:00

eight things

2009-10-21T03:25:00.000-07:00

I was tagged oh so long ago and I've tried to do the first question a couple of times and I just realized that I need to changed it a bit. Every time I tried to remember 8 things I did yesterday I just couldn't. I know that is so sad but here are 8 things I did today:

laundry
took my pink coat to the dry cleaners
went for a walk with the kids to the new children's clothing store Peace & Jam (very cute stuff)
ran into a friend on the way to the gardens with the kids (we didn't make it to the gardens)
brought her little boy home to play with Soren
went to rehearsal
danced
put Dahlia to bed. . .

8 things I'm looking forward to:

Christmas
Jason's graduation
Dahlia's Birthday
tomorrow
living in a ground floor flat or a one story house
living near family again
teaching a fun Halloween dance class on Halloween
spending more time with Jason

8 favorite shows:

The office
SNL
Parks and Recreation
David Letterman
. . . and that's it. I don't have TV so I watch shows that Jason brings home :)

8 Favorite Restaurants:

Wagamamas
Little Italy
Bombay House
La Cucina
La Buca Di Beppo
my sisters' houses :)--better than eating out
authentic Mexican restaurants
. . .and I can't think of another one. We don't eat out much.

Now I'm tagging:

Michelle
Megan
Bridget
Meagan
Stephanie
Charla
Angie
Paige

2009-10-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I ran into my friend Fanus. I was on my way to Lupe Pintos, a cool shop where I like to buy good Mexican and American food, and she was on her way to a shop that specializes in African products and produce. I was with Soren and she was with her daughter as well, who is the same age. Our kids have grown so much since we first met. She told me that she had been given refugee status and can now remain in Glasgow without fear of deportation. This was exciting news and it also means that now she can leave the UK and go to see her mother. While waiting for refugee status she wasn't allowed to leave.

Fanus is a member of the Maryhill Integration Network where I teach and one of the groups that they sponsor is the Writers Group. She was also a part of this and published her story in their book called "Second Home". Her writings left a deep impression in my heart and mind and brought me to tears.

She has given me permission to share some of her story with you:

I wish I could say this to my mother

when my father passed away and left you with four kids, you worked hard and brought them up well.
One day one of them despaired of her life at home. So for her own sake, and the sake of the people she loved and cared for, she decided to get away. Do you remember that day when she came to you? She was crying. She said she had to escape from her army work. She could take no more. You were crying too, but because you're a mother, you wanted her to have life. You helped your daughter get away. You came with her through the jungle to the border. Since that day you haven't heard from her.
You must be asking so many questions: Is she alive? dead? You blame yourself for letting her go, for you think, 'I'd rather have her die in front of me that die alone.'
Mother, Aday, I know I've broken your heart. I let you down. I am desperate to be with you. I want to see your face, to kiss you-but how can I? They'd catch me. Aday, God gave me to you. You are the most generous, beautiful, special person in the world. I promise I'll see you soon. Not in my dreams, but SOMEWHERE in reality. Good bye, my dearest Aday - for now.

She also has, in the book, the story of her escape through the jungle. I'm so impressed and taken back by her courage to do what most will never have to confront. While in the jungle she was threatened by the man that was to help her to safety. He tried to force himself on her. She resisted courageously and screamed as loud as she could. This allowed the enemy to hear them but it also made the man realized his awful stupidity and terrible error. She made it to safety and eventually to Scotland. . .

Now she is in contact with her mother. This brings me great happiness. What an amazing woman she is.

some ramblings

2009-10-16T02:48:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in my pj's and have a bit of that tight chest feeling (the one that makes me think "how am I going to make it through the day). I haven't showered, the white noise is going while Dahlia rests and I look out the window. Autumn is here. I love her. She brings fire to the trees that then falls off and is carried through the wind. The sky is blue. Thank you, sky, for being blue. I needed you to be blue today. The house is pretty cozy but my feet are still cold. Why are my feet always cold? A bath will warm them. I feel heavy today and a bit alone with people all around me and the sound of someone coming up the stairs and shutting the door to the neighboring flat.

Yesterday, Jason and I went to Edinburgh with Dahlia to get her passport. The grasslands in view outside the train window were lovely and lonely to me too. It must be my mood. I don't mind it. We'll go to the park. I'll see friends there. West end Glasgow is amazing like that. I can be thinking that I need to go and see someone in particular and most likely in the coming weeks I will without any effort on my part. We'll see each other at the park, shopping--the normal comings and goings. . .

I love windows today. I love the trees outside my window and the sweet little birds who move their heads just so. It makes me smile. Dahlia is very aware of the birds now and gets excited when they fly overhead.

Two New Videos

2009-10-10T03:13:00.000-07:00

This is our little darling Dahlia. After months of determined attempts to stand, she started walking at 9 months. It has been a while since our last post. . .and now dahlia is 11 months. She's a real cruiser and a bruiser.

And, this is a video of Soren dancing to the music at the end of one of his movies (You may have to turn up the volume all the way to hear the music though).

2009-08-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

NEWS FLASH

My little Dahlia has taken her first steps (and yes, she's only 9 months)!! My mom and I saw her take three today and Jason saw her take four before that. . . Charla and family are on their way to China for 5 months. . .and Dahlia has her seventh tooth.

xo

2009-08-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

My Grandma turned 90 at the end of July! I've been putting together a photo album for her and the photos that all of the family has sent me are just wonderful and I feel so honored that she is my Grandma. I wanted to post a few of my favorites. She grew up in San Francisco and then moved to New York with my Grandpa to raise her family. The photo below is of my Grandma and Grandpa with my Dad on the "stoop" in front of their home.

Below is a photo of my Grandma in Cairo. She was a fulbright Scholar in Beirut and this was a side trip she took. I just love this photo. She looks so glamorous.

The last photo is of my Grandma in Vista, California where she lives now. Her home is so lovely and surrounded by orange trees, flowers and other wonderful fruits. I'm so glad I was raised in southern California. I loved taking Soren to her house to frolic through all of the trees and colorful scenery before we moved to Scotland. I remember him wanting her to lead him around and we could tell he knew she was the lady of the house. It was so sweet.

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2009-08-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

here are all of the Ausman side of the family cousins together (we were only missing Codey and Isabella). Yes, my daughter is screaming. She was a bit overwhelmed by all the newcomers but it was a wonderful time. And yes, Dries is wearing skinny jeans. . . he's awesome.

2009-08-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

I love Italian culture and here are a few reasons why. I was just reading my sister's post about their trip to Sardinia. I've never been to Sardinia but Italy is pretty much gorgeous wherever you go and the people are so friendly. . .anyway, she posted about trying to find a good camping site for their trip. I called for her and it wasn't the number we had expected but I asked the guy on the phone if he new any good camping places and so he said, "hold on" and asked his friend. They gave us a number to call and in the end it was just what Bridget was looking for and they ended up staying there. They're just cool like that :O). This experience took me back about 10 years to when I lived in a town called Foggia. I was with a friend in bad traffic--bumper to bumper--and someone ahead of us decides he wants to get out of it and go the opposite way. So, there is some signaling and talking and honking (friendly) and cars start to back up in this bumper to bumper traffic!! There's no way would that happen in many other places. I loved it and was completely surprised. It was like a living Mentos commercial.

My friend Laura from Italy is back in Pescara with her family for the Summer and I miss her. We don't get to see each other as much now that we both have two kids but I just love her. Our friendship isn't based on how alike we are but on appreciating each others opinions and enjoying each others company.

I have all of these posts going through my mind that I'd like to write about but I feel like there is never enough time. . .I will get caught up though. My wonderful Grandma turned 90 and my sisters came to town! We were all together for a week of fun and craziness with 9 cousins all together for the first time since Dahlia and Dries were born.

Stay tuned. . .

punk rock madness

2009-07-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

Dahlia's hair is starting to change and calm down so I thought I'd better document it. It's awesome. It's out of control and it sticks straight up. She was born with dark brown hair but now it's totally blonde leaving us bewildered. . . genetics. . .youuuu. She looks more like my sister Bridget's kids or Jason's brother Doug's. . .but she is ours. Her hair and easy-come smile make others smile as we walk by.

She's 8 months now and is pulling herself up to standing constantly. She crawls and says da da and ma ma and it's so darn cute.

ciao ciao

gifts

2009-06-22T08:01:00.001-07:00

My sister, Bridget, and her family went to Ireland recently and they brought us back this adorable jam--traffic Jam. It's three flavors!

I have a new friend. She's the sweetest woman and I met her at church. We talked about organic food and gardens and other things we love. The next Sunday she brought me this gorgeous potted gourmet lettuce! It's all eaten up now and she told me to just bring back the pot and she'll fill it again. I'm already thinking of what I can fill it with for her when I send it back. She also loaned me a book called The Art of Tibetan Living that I'm eager to start. When I was younger and out with my dad we use to sing the song "make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and the other is gold". We would sing it in a round and my dad would start. As soon as I came in he would start to sing his lines to my tune. I remember saying "no dad, now you're singing my part" and we would laugh and have so much fun. That's such a great memory for me. My friends are so precious to me. Thanks Dad, for teaching me that song and for being my dad and also my friend.

We love Mexican food and my mom was always good at cooking her own black and aduki beans. I love making them now as well and think they are so lovely to look at while they're soaking. I just added onion, garlic, salt and some olive oil and they were so yummy . . .and so simple.

When the sun comes out in Glasgow sun hats are all the rave. So, naturally, Dahlia had to have one too. We can't have her little head getting too much sun (in a place where the sun never shines. . .it can be shocking to the skin when it does come out though).

Soren has many great pairs of socks. Today I was looking at the bottom of the socks he was wearing and saw that the heels were so thin! I thought "how can this be?" then I quickly realized that it's because many, if not most, go to other uses such as the dog above. His name is Duhdo.

The flowers are leaving us . . .but the green will never leave! xo

2009-06-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

When I started my dance degree at University I began wanting my life to be outside the norm. When I was younger I took loads of dance and gymnastics classes. Two of my sister's did as well. I know it was a pretty penny for my mom but she wanted us to be of part of good things. As I began a serious study of dance in college I noticed that I had been very blessed and that this wasn't the case for many.

Before Jason and I were dating he came over to my house one day and we had our first conversation. It was kind of a "get to know you" one and we expressed what we wanted to do with our studies. I remember telling him my dream of teaching dance to kids that wouldn't normally have the chance. . . he told me about a non profit group that he had started with his friend. We remained friends and that was that. Little did we know that one day we would be married and that each of us would be able to realize our dreams of non profit work in our fields of study.

My life is very real, normal and annoying at times but it's mine and I love it. I put my dreams out there and the stars were listing. I change diapers and get mad (Jason and Bridget can tell you that as well). I stress about things that don't matter. I cry easily. I'm totally scared of worms. I love. I love getting hugs from my babies. I love to dance with women from all over the world. They are just like me. They are me. We are one. There is something about art and the art of dancing together that fills my soul. Tonight I performed with the Maryhill Integration Network and the piece was a mix of contemporary dance and cultural dances that move me.

I think about when we will be leaving and I know that the hardest part will be saying good bye to the women, my sisters, at the MiN.

I wanted my life to be fulfilling and it is.

New Music & More Conversations with Soren

2009-06-03T01:39:00.000-07:00

Current obsession: Swedish pop rock band Hello Saferide

Anna is my new favorite song. It's one of the most beautifully written sad love songs and I almost cried. Do you love it too? The Quiz is awesomeness as well. Jason likes to find new songs that he thinks I'll like and put them on our play list.

Go to folder - FileFactory.com

Thanks, Jason, for finding these songs for me. I love you.

My little Sorentino has been giving me a good laugh with all the funny things he says so I'm going to share the joy of having a 4 year old.

More conversations of a mom and her boy:

Mom: Do you want to get your hair cut like Isaac?
Soren: I want it all done so it's just my brain.

Mom: Did you get your lunch?
Soren: We nearly forgot it! (nearly is one of the words used more in the UK that he's picked up--I love it. Bridget kids are saying it too)

Soren: I was meanting you to see how small the ice cube is.

Soren: When I grow up can I be a show and you'll come and lots of people will come to see what I'm doing?
Mom: You want to be a movie star?
Soren: Yeah!

Soren: Do you know when I grow up I'll have a muffin face. . .it will be shaped like a muffin.

Soren: Guess what! I've got a brilliant idea.

Soren: I suppose we shouldn't bring this. The wind is properly strong to brake this.

Soren: Can I have some sarsaparilla?
Mom: What's that?
Soren: It's nuts. It's a drink.

Soren loves to say it's my Birthday and make me "cakes". One was a banana with candles on it and the other was a slice of bread with candles and grapes on top. He sings "Happy Birthday" and then we blow out the candles. It's good fun. The last time we did this he said, "no, first you gotta say Master of the Cakes". I guess he still loves the word master.

And. . .Jason was away for 8 days to a conference to present a paper and then to visit his mom who has not been well. I knew he needed to go and kept encouraging him to do it but when the time drew close I started to panic! But, I have to say that the few days leading up to it were actually harder than the 8 days alone. My survival instinct kicked in and although I got little sleep, I just kept going and didn't feel tired. The first few nights when the kids were both asleep I had the hardest time winding down to sleep and it was totally frustrating but . . . that is all behind me now and I did it!!

Baby Love

2009-05-19T04:34:00.000-07:00

My babies love each other. Soren has loved Dahlia since she was born. He wants to go see if she is awake as soon as he wakes up every morning and to kiss her good night before going to bed each night. And, Dahlia loves Soren just as much. Cammie and I can make Dahlia laugh (she is such a happy little girl), but Soren has single-handedly made her laugh more than everyone else put together. They are really sweet to each other, and I often walk past a room and see Soren laying on the floor in front of her so they can look at each other and laugh.

This is Soren making Dahlia laugh in her swing:

And, this one is Dahlia and I shooting Soren with his foam rocket gun:

2009-05-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

This little dreamboat had the Pox too . . . the Chicken Pox! Oatmeal baths saved us again. She's all better now and here's a photo of the dress I bought her just after we moved and just before the outbreak. It makes me smile seeing this picture. I love her little hand.

We've started a bit of solid food as well--steamed pears, apples, plums, sweet potatoes, butternut squash and fresh avocados, bananas, and oat porridge. I thoroughly enjoy cooking and preparing all of her new foods as I did with Soren.

2009-04-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

In the last 2 weeks we have made it through a move to our new flat and the Chicken Pox. I'm so glad that both are finished. Soren had Chicken Pox in his mouth and one in the middle of his tongue! When he first got them it wasn't bad at all and we thought it was going to be easy. . .little did we know they come in batches and more kept coming. Two or three of the days were rough (especially at night). Oatmeal baths were a real help with the itching and by the end of the week we had cabin fever and were dying to get out of the house.

The windows in my kitchen makes me happy. A few days ago I made a vegan Coconut Lemon Cake that my sister Charla recommended. It's amazing. I think it's my new favorite cake and I'm anxious to make it again. I can hear the birds churping outside my window right now and although it's grey again I can't help but feel peaceful with all the green leaves layering the trees. The birds are probably building their nests that we usually only get to see in the winter when all the leaves are gone. Nest spotting is one Soren's favorite pasttimes. Strawberries are abundant in town again too. Two days ago Soren was convinced that we needed to make strawberry muffins. I've never done that and I just prefer fresh strawberries but with some serious persuading on Soren's behalf we made strawberry bannana muffins (I used a chocolate bannana muffin recipe and substituted the chocolate with strawberries). They were actually quite nice.

Dahlia having a zen moment

The modern day hand cart--Soren's got it rough

The front of our new flat

Soren under the weather a few weeks ago--my beautiful boy.

The Coconut Lemon Cake

Me and my Honey

2009-04-16T01:04:00.000-07:00

We're in the process of moving and moving with a 5 month old and a 4 year old makes things take A LOT longer that you think. But, we are getting it done and I'm SO happy with our new flat!! Did someone say botanic gardens, transport links, university, nursery school, shops galore. . .Oh yes, it was me and we're next to all of those things that are a part of our life.

Fact of the day: my husband has the strength of an ox. This is very handy when moving to a new flat.

Moving stinks (and sometimes literally when you find icky stuff in a cupboard that you didn't know was there).

I love my little darling baby Dahlia. Her smile makes me smile all the time. Love, hearts, hearts, love.

Where is my mind?

2009-04-07T02:03:00.000-07:00

So I've been wanting skinny jeans FOREVER and was just thinking about it. Then, I remembered that I DO have some! Here's the story: right when I got pregnant with Dahlia I took some jeans to the tailor to be made into skinny jeans and it took forever for her to finish them (and the other stuff I brought for that matter) and by the time I got them back I was a big lady. Anyway, they went in a dresser and I forgot about them. I thought about them right before Dahlia was born but then forgot again. Well, yesterday I remembered I had them and it was like Christmas. I tried them on and they were perfect. I felt like a new woman!. . .but, umm, how do you forget you already have jeans that you've always wanted?

Moving on. . .

At night Jason and I take turns putting Dahlia to bed and singing to her. Jason sings Tom Waits and the Avette Brothers and she's a happy clam. Some of my songs and noises include Twinkle Twinkle Little Star (it was her favorite for about a month), Italian hymns, train sounds and saying mama and random things in a sweet high voice. Yesterday . . .the song that came out was even a shocker to me. And no, it wasn't "where is my mind" by the Pixies. The title was referring to the first half of the post but I'll give you a hint: "Shot through the heart and you're to blame. . . " Yep, Il John Francis Bongiovi, the Jovster, The Great Bon Jovi! He's Rad with a Capital R. So, stay cool. Have an awesome summer. It was fun talking with you in Science class. K.I.T.

Love,

Cammie

PS. I love your senior picture!

PPS. Words of Wisdom by Soren: "Mom, when I eat a sweetie it makes me feel like eating another sweetie. . .Mom, can I have another sweetie?"--I love the honesty.

Flowers, Family, Feet and Food

2009-03-31T02:10:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we went to the Botanic Gardens and then took a short walk to our new flat! It's so close to everything and I think my life as a walking everywhere mom has just improved. When I go to the gardens I feel so happy. All the colors, petals and lush green give me serenity and the warmth in the greenhouses is mmmmm, yummy. And just to keep it real, we had a couple of kinks at the start of the day. I stopped to look in my favorite charity shop and got separated from Jason and the kiddos. I thought he was walking ahead to the gardens and he was waiting nearby on a side road. We eventually found each other. . .

Red Angel Trumpets

Little Dahlias-- (I had bright red dahlias in my wedding bouquet which became the inspiration for our sweet Dahlia's name). There are so many beautiful kinds of Dahlias and I love how the petals are overflowing and bursting with life. Below are some other Dahlias I found online. The first one has an amazing design.

Camellias --The flowers that I was named after

We also spent some time in the children's garden where they grow fruits and vegetables that the kids can pick at. Soren is always drawn to the fresh chives that are growing. He's love to eat them and come home with chive breath!

Soren took this of me while I as standing on my head. He's getting pretty good with his photo skills.

One time Jason and I were at a whole foods market and they were selling roasted vegetables so we tried them. Jason decided he could make them and make them better. Well, he did and his recipe is AMAZING! If you'd like it just let me know. I've since learned how to make them and they're actually easy!

I made this cake for Soren's nursery school. It's a vanilla cake and instead of using regular milk I used vanilla rice dream. I think it made it even tastier. I have this obsession with bunt cakes and was lost without mine when we moved here. Last October Bridget got me this one for my Birthday!

Finally, here is Soren doing his iceskating move on his buggy board. Such a great invention. He can hop on and off whenever he wants to.

Love

2009-03-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

Dahlia DAW-ling

2009-03-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

She has her Daddy's blue eyes and weighs 14 lbs and 14 ounces.

2009-03-19T05:50:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of this month I had a 3 month old and a 3 year old. Now I have a 4 month old and a 4 year old!!!

To see the inspiration for my mushroom cake and cupcakes go here . . .Soren thought it was pretty neat.

We had a great time with family and Soren's aunt Bridget taught him how to play "Froggy's in the Milk Pan and Can't Get Out". . . and we ate way too much cake! Note to self: Don't plan a Birthday party for a 4 year old in the evening. By the end of the party it was HIS party and he could cry if he wanted to. A little too much sugar goes a long way!

He got a superman pajama outfit from his Grandma Pat and when he put it on he asked "now can I save the day?" I told him "yes" and he said, "for real?"--it was so funny.

Peace, love and happiness. . . peace out.

2009-02-26T05:47:00.000-08:00

This morning I taught a children's creative dance class. Before leaving I fed Dahlia and then was back again in about two and a half hours to feed her. (Breath a sigh of relief). . . All was smooth and it was a good feeling to come home and see dad and the kids all happy and doing their thing: enjoying life. I was able to get payed for my taxi to and from work which is a must when I'm on a tight schedule feeding my princess. Which brings me to my reason for this post titled "Ode to Women". I had just finished class and was standing in the grey with bits of rain falling on my head and coat. A mother with two children came out the door and because of the rain the mother was trying to put her youngest in the stroller with the rain cover while her other daughter walked ahead. The little one was not having it. She slid herself out of the stroller onto the pavement. The mother, obviously stressed, said something and then picked her daughter up in one arm and pushed the stroller with the other arm and off they went. I've so been there. I felt I knew her in that moment. I was, at that particular time, without my children and free from the extra worry and stress yet I felt her battle of gathering her chicks and getting where she needed to go. She was a warrior woman in that moment and an example to me that I can do this and women all over the world do. Regardless of diverse cultures and anything that may separate us we are bound as women. Women. This is a powerful word to me. And human. we are bound as humans. I was brought back to the book I read recently-- Siddhartha by Herman Hess. I love this book. The message is so powerful and beautiful and I wont say anymore because I hope you read it. At the Maryhill Integration Network the women wrote a song that was performed in their last piece "Songs of Home, Songs of Hope" that contained a similar message. The chorus, written by Rema (an amazing woman) sings "no matter race, no matter faith, we're all human, we are the same" and it touches me each time the women sing it. For me, the purpose in life is to become one, to feel together and to gain such an awareness and understanding for all people in the world with all the rich uniqueness surrounding us that it becomes my nature to love each person and thing around me. I realize how unhappy I am when I become consumed with myself and things that don't bring true happiness. I'm at peace with my life and the world when I remember we are all humans and we can be one. I feel so blessed and connected when I am aware of this truth. . . connection--that's a whole other topic that I'll explore later . . .

On a funny note. . .the other day Soren told me I couldn't do something by saying "No humans, just kids". . .

Little bits and pieces of my life from the past two weeks

2009-02-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

Beautiful things we see outside our windows every once in a while. . .

Last weeks obsession: Portuguese Custard Tarts

Conversations of a mom and her boy:

Soren: Little sweet girl's up.
Mom: How do you know she's up?
Soren: Because I'm a great learner?
Mom: Did you go back in my room (where she is sleeping)?
Soren: yes, I had to wash my hands.

He went through the master bedroom where dahlia is sleeping to the master bathroom instead of using his own bathroom. . . but he sure is cute. I really don't know if he really woke her up or if she woke up on her own . . . and I love my little dude.

They have story time at his nursery where they not only tell the wee ones stories but the wee ones can tell their own stories as well. Soren apparently loves this part of the day (according to one of his teachers, he thrives). She told Jason when he was picking Soren up about his story. He told the class that he went to the Ayrshire Farm Park (majorly fun park by the way) and saw camels and monkeys and ate french fries and drank hot chocolate and then came home and threw up in the bathtub. All of this is true. Great story, eh?

I'm dreaming of everything Anthropologie.com today. . .I mean EVERYTHING. . .shabby-chic, bright accents, little birds! I want skirts and hats and drapes with ruffles and no ruffles . . . and I'm still dreaming of Hawaii.

Dahlia is my angel.

Today we went out to the lovely green fields behind our flat and got to breath the cool brisk air. Dahlia likes to sit up while in her buggy which is rather hard for her because it is a laying down buggy (refer to photos below and you can see her sitting up). She's got a tough tummy and doesn't want to miss a thing lying down, thank you.

My trusty clogs that I shall never part with. I'm going to have them resoled sometime soon:

Last weeks snowman. He's gone. Only a carrot is left on the grass.

La foto di growling:

The work of my new little photographer Sorentino (aka soren):

And finally, my favorite pumpkin and strawberry heads together.

2009-02-14T11:04:00.000-08:00

I feel deep reverence for the great Doctor Ronald Chevalier and can't fathom the thought of anyone being deprived of his wisdom and knowledge. I hope you will view this video and feel your knowledge expand as you see the wisdom he shares with himself and the world. This video has helped Jason overcome creative blocks in his own writing.

For further fountains of knowledge you may visit his website.

Tell us your story and amaze the world.

Another Art Show

2009-02-05T03:14:00.000-08:00

I'm really proud of these elephants that Soren made as representations of our family, especially because I'm the cool looking one with the three spindly legs facing to the left.

The other day I found these art kits for kids that Soren went to town with. Seriously, he was occupied for probably more than an hour creating people and designs. And the glue. . .oh, how he loves to work with glue. The last of these next three photos is my favorite because of the long puff ball arms and little puff ball legs. It makes me happy to see his forms and how his mind works and translates what he's thinking to paper (or whatever he's using).

He had some help with this one ;)

. . . And while we're talking about art I want to post a photo of the lovely blankets Grandma Pat sent for Dahlia. She knitted the ends and they are so cozy and double sided--a real must in this cold weather. There is one more that Dahlia was using at the time I took the photo.

. . .And since I haven't been a good blogger lately, here are some photos of our recent excursion to Jason's school. Sometimes I have great fun owning the whole girlie pink thing with Dahlia--Jacket: compliments of my sister Bridget, Umbrella: compliments of my mom, and lovely Dahlia: compliments of me of course!

Here's one more good one for the road. . .

Baby Dahlia's Blessing Day

2009-02-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

Dahlia is a joy!

*Thanks Grandma Pat for the lovely dress.

2009-01-30T23:01:00.000-08:00

I've decide I love gray. I love my life. I'm grateful. I just read something that made me embrace what is around me and be thankful for what I have.

Gray Times and Go Bridget!

2009-01-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

Gray is all around us having the potential to make me feel gray. A few days ago I embraced it's beauty and their was a mistiness that was even warming. Dahlia was fussy and hadn't taken a decent nap all day so just before 4pm I got the kids ready (Dahlia in the snugly pack) and we walked to the park. I was determined to have her sleep and she did. Soren and I played like old times searching for the Grufalo home and exploring the gardens. We needed that time together and it's a sweet memory. Darkness comes early and sometimes with clearer skies we can see the moon all day. I often marvel at the fact that I'm here and sometimes I get frustrated and angry and dream of sunshine and living in Hawaii (like a 13 year old). But there's really no way of getting around the fact that I live in a gorgeously green country where moms have to bundle their babes up and be ready for rain. I'm going inward and see the beauty in a land that is opposite from the climate where I was raised. Kids aren't free to play outside in the sun all year. So. . . colorful scarves make me happy. Coffee shops are a refuge and good friends and family keep me sane. . . and looking out the window on the train at all the pastures and lochs-- stunning.

My sister Bridget just called to tell me she passed her first exam in law school at the university of Glasgow. She's been stressed to say the least and I'm so incredibly happy for her. In December she had a get-together at her house for her son Atlas' Birthday and invited a fellow student from her program. The girl was a truly nice person and told me how hard the program is. She said if she new how hard it was going to be she didn't think she would have gone into law school! . . which brings me to my sister, who is in this program, with 4 kids!! She's HARDCORE. She always has been. I love her. Go Bridget!!

2009-01-03T23:25:00.001-08:00

I haven't posted in a while and I have so much to bloggy blog about. First things first: Charla, Peter and Dries came to town for Christmas! Charla's family is so beautiful. Her little boy Dries is a dream and loves to cuddle. He's a friendly little chap and Soren loved being followed around by him. It made me happy to see them playing together because Dahlia will be crawling around in no time and now I know that Soren will play with her as well.

Unfortunately, we all got sick for the holidays. Jason started it out with bronchitis and then Soren got a cough and a fever for a few days. I held out until after Christmas and then came down with the flu and it was a bad one. These past two weeks were such a rough time for our family as we all tried to get rest but never really felt like we were getting enough. Luckily, Dahlia didn't get sick and stayed happy and healthy. We are all on the mend and I'm so grateful for health! Oh how I love to be healthy.

Here's my little dancing darling. (Matisse, if you see this, don't you just love that arm?)

I asked soren to put his shoes on so he could come with me to take out the trash and he took me literally and only put his shoes on. Then he started break dancing and it was pretty awesome.

This next photos are of Atlas with Dahlia. They are the oldest and youngest of the Ausman family grandchildren. Atlas is so handsome and he's such a good boy--so helpful and kind with all the kids.

And. . .drum roll please. . . Soren went to primary for the first time today! It hit me last week and I started to cry. Soren saw that I was crying and asked "sometimes moms cry when they're happy?" He's starting to understand his mum.

PS. I just finished Siddhartha by Herman Hesse and it was wonderful. It's going on my favorite books list and I was sad it ended. Since there is no way to read these days I listened to it as an audiobook. Friends and fellow countrywomen, it is an awesome book. It made me cry and learn and love. There were many themes and places introduced and then revisited with a fresh and enlightened clarity that I loved. It moved me and made appreciate our interconnectedness. Read it!! If you have already-- did you love it too?

I know. . .

2008-12-18T07:55:00.000-08:00

I just did a "Deep Thoughts" but this is really funny. . .

Soren and I were making a banana peanut butter smoothie and Soren took a big bite of peanut butter. Then he said, "now I'll have to brush my teeth this year." He hasn't quite grasped the time frame thingy with yesterdays, last weeks and time in general.

Deep Thoughts by Soren

2008-12-14T07:18:00.000-08:00

"Where is the heck of Dad?"

2008-12-10T08:11:00.000-08:00

There's a fantastic new dance blog that was started by dancer and dance advocate Nichelle Strzepek. To check out her articles and discussions go here.

There are interesting and informative reads on all dance related topics-- boys in dance, refugee dance performers, politics, studio issues, professional performers and performances and much much more. Her latest post is titled Pregnancy and Parenthood in Dance. So, all you dancers and dancer moms out there check it out!

2008-12-10T02:01:00.000-08:00

Dahlia is our little darling who loves to nurse--I forgot how much work it is. She sleeps well at night for which I am very grateful and smiles randomly. I can tell her eyes are starting to focus more and more.

2 kids are a lot more work than one. Who would have thought? Soren is adjusting well most of the time but we've had some hard moments. . . I've had mommy guilt that I can't be there for him like I was able to before. Moms with more than one child--Did you feel guilty as well? And, let me just say that I have ample respect for you moms with 3 plus kids! I think my blogging is going to slow down drastically until I get into a routine.

Our sleeping flower

Dad this morning

Family photo shoot

This is the vacuum decorated by Soren for Christmas. He told me we had a new vacuum and showed me his lovely creation.

Dahlia Ann with Grandma DD (Darla Ann)

Emilia and Soren in the rain and hail

Dahlia smiles

My mom has been here helping out and it's been so wonderful. She adores Dahlia and all her grandchildren. She has recently returned from Rotterdam where she stayed and helped out with Charla and she's been helping Bridget with her kids as well. She made it home just in time for Dahlia's birth (the day before)! It's been a vacation of sorts for her but not a luxurious, relaxing, kick your heals up in the sun vacation. . . I think she misses the the sun too much to settle down here. I think I do too! Thanks mom for all your help!

I've got some cute videos coming. . .

My due date was today. . .

2008-11-18T03:59:00.000-08:00

. . . but I decided to come a week early (11-11 at 11pm)! My mom was so excited she lost 7 pounds 13 ounces. We're all doing well and Soren loves me dearly. He calls me "Baby Sweet Cakes" and gives me kisses galore. Dad's so happy to have a little girl but I think he's more tired than my mom!

I was born at home and welcomed into my new surroundings by my mom, my dad, my Grandma DD, my aunt Bridget and some wonderful midwives. The midwives gave me to my mom right away and she was so happy she cried. There were times when my mom thought she couldn't go on but I was determined and finally entered this world beautiful and healthy. My first cry was welcomed by all in the room--my first song in this life.

Lots of love,

Dahlia

2008-11-03T02:55:00.000-08:00

Soren's in the other room playing with play dough and having little conversations with the characters he makes. I heard him say "you created me and now you're scared of me." I love it when he gets in the zone and is completely in his own world.

We've gone pumpkin crazy here in Scotland with pumpkin boy (for the 3rd year), pumpkin muffins, pumpkin painting, roasted pumpkin seeds and more! Canned pumpkin isn't that easy to come by (and doing it yourself is more my style) so we baked our pumpkin and pureed it and made muffins yesterday. Jason roasted the seeds and they were good and salty. I have some more puree in the fridge for pumpkin pancakes tomorrow. Our friends who has us over for Halloween made pumpkin pie that was delicious so that will the next thing we're including in our pumpkin extravaganza!

My friend Sarra posted a great recipe as well. I just didn't have all of the ingredients in the house to try it out. . . but I will soon. And you're right Sarra, pumpkins are underrated!

Here are some photos of our recent happenings-- Halloween piñata and all! Oh, and the yellow ribbon around his neck is another Sorenism. He got the ribbon from a package we received and really enjoyed wearing it. I think it adds to the costume for sure. What do you think?

Oxford

2008-10-22T02:24:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos Jason with his friend Jens while in Oxford. They were able to take some time during their intensive Pali course to see some sites.