What the...???

OK, I found this picture from Thanksgiving (seems ages ago) and I had to post for Jay and "D'Stephanie" (yes, Steph, Desi still thinks that's your name!). I brought home brussel sprouts from farmer's market and they had no idea what they were - never having seen them on the stalk. Although not Jay's fav, he promised to follow house rules: give it a try, and say "I'm just not used to it yet" when he couldn't eat anymore. We also ate mushrooms that Nancy cut down from a tree and eggs just out of the chickens... meals are adventurous around here for city-folk!

Mystic Aquarium

We made our first visit to Mystic Aquarium (we didn't realize how close it is). The kids loved all the sea life - Ben's fav: the upside-down jellyfish (his jellyfish obsession is what prompted this trip and this is a species we haven't seen before); Desi's fav: the hands-on tank where we pet several stingrays and some kind of small shark... it was a challenge to keep her from diving in with them!

Winter gardening...

The arborists tend to their bamboo... Desi with a 15+ foot bamboo pole and Ben propping up a recently harvest bamboo stalk (will it grow?).

When the snow is working against your bonfire attempts, bring out the power tools. Nothing like an air compressor to get 'r done, Del-style!

get the message?

happy new year...

To those we see every day,
To those we don't see often enough,
To those who are well and happy and fulfilled,
To those who are struggling to navigate each day,
To those we love with all our hearts,
To those who challenge us to open our hearts,
To those we know well and hold dear,
To those we may never meet,
To the new arrivals that bring such love,
To those we have lost this year but will always have with us...

We wish you a joyous, healthy, compassionate, peace-filled new year.

the tree.

This year's tree was choreographed(?) by Ben. A dream-catcher topper and Daddy's lures are major features. Desi was given her area and, under strict direction, was able to make her mark. This is important business for Ben and requires daily adjustments and admirations.
I'm sure he'd love to hear what you think....