Nature

I have a new favorite place on earth. We have been frequenting a lovely nature center here. There are ponds and paths cabins and birdwatching nooks and acres of trees. We've seen turtles, geese, lots of birds, frogs, tadpoles and fish. I love it so much. It is rejuvenating and good for the soul.
I remember when I was little playing forever outside in the mud and water, spending time in the woods exploring and discovering. I feel that those experiences have been the foundation of the creativity and quest for knowledge in my life. I believe that this is one of the greatest gifts (along with a healthy diet, loving family and faith in God) that I can give my children. Where we live I have found that I have to actively find ways to get them into nature. They play in the backyard of course, but I think they need wild places, wild quiet places that speak to the soul.

Easter 2012

We had a nice and peaceful Easter Sunday. The weather was perfect, the kids were in good moods and Jonathan cooked the entire meal. The easter bunny came and brought the kids some bubbles, chalk, a mini kite and a pear. He also left eggs all around for the kids to find. They were all empty except for a few that had a dollar bill in them. The Easter bunny thought we have had WAY to much candy around here lately. :) And I made them a stuffed Easter bunny. They loved it. 

I also decided to quickly make a dress for Annika and a bow tie for Ezra on Saturday afternoon. Amazingly enough, they both turned out well enough to be wearable. It was an(other) Easter miracle!

Look how much they have grown! This picture was taken three years ago! E was 3 and A was 1 1/2. Time flies!!