the rhode island dels

re...

2012-01-21T08:21:00.000-08:00

I am in the process of re-thinking, re-vamping, and altogether reflecting on the blog process.
Will post something soon...

read. listen.

2011-11-17T06:03:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Annie's recent post, I thought I'd list a few bedside favs of ours these days (pics, not links).
The Relax Kids (guided mediation) series came highly recommended and from the first time Desi listened to it, we knew why. There is something transformative about the sounds and voice they chose that enables her to get to her 'safe place' easier than ever before. I highly recommend it.

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

I found Ben quietly studying this stump.
"Mushrooms?" I asked.
"Fairy steps," he stated.

"Brilliant." I replied.

2010-11-08T06:06:00.000-08:00

Showing Grandma a favorite tree the kids call "Mother Nature's Monkey Bars"...

"olden-days"

2010-10-19T05:49:00.000-07:00

Ben wanted to share these "olden days" (sorry guys) pictures of Grandpa (on the left with Aunt MaryAnn, Uncle Dick) and Grandma (with that adorable stuffed puppy). Look at those sweet, sweet faces!

And so it begins...

2010-09-08T06:37:00.000-07:00

OK, admittedly I've stalled posting this picture. 4th grade and KINDERGARTEN started a week ago but we still have one foot firmly planted in summer around here. Beach weekends, eating outside, bare feet... we are not letting go until mother nature drags us (me) kicking and screaming into colder months, shorter days. Paul and the kids remain excited for fall and all that it brings - this California girl needs to squeeze every drop of summer out of 2010 before I can dive in the rest of the year. That being said, the first days of school were very exciting and I am readily embracing the time I have to spend at the studio, grocery shop... shower. The kids love the structure a school day offers and get up early each morning to hang out together in Ben's room and talk about the day ahead. They are ready...

Morning yoga.

2010-09-01T05:51:00.000-07:00

Desi wouldn't miss her daily asanas for anything. In NY she was able to practice on this peaceful hilltop. What you can't see is the placid lake behind her...bliss.
Downward Dog.
Upward Dog.
Rolling Dog? (a.k.a. Dizzy Dog or Giggling Dog)

Quite a 5-year-old.

2010-08-16T18:25:00.000-07:00

A just-picked carrot in one hand, new fishing lures in the other, and still dripping wet from a swim at the pool. This has been a summer of discovery for this amazing girl (and us). She loves fishing (Daddy's thrilled), is obsessed with yoga (Mama says yeah!), is a very strong swimmer/body-surfer, cares for her chickens and garden, loves making pots at the studio (helped me glaze almost 200 clay camp pots), and finds time to make daily portraits of whoever she's thinking of at the moment... very full days indeed.

... and yes, sometimes we get tired trying to keep up... but she's worth it.

Grandma and Grandpa's Visit

2010-08-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

As always, my parents come with LOTS of energy for playing, swimming, yoga, artwork, reading, biking, hiking, trampolining(?), home repairs, even building secret forts ... get the picture??

How DO they do it?!?

Amazing.

Ben's Summer Highlights.

2010-07-21T10:42:00.001-07:00

This summer kept us home for the 4th (Ben's #1 wish for 2010) with manageable fireworks. It's been all about jellyfish for Ben this year - a new exhibit at Mystic dedicated to jellies was well-timed as we had checked out every library book available on the subject.
Occasional naps (look like anyone you know?) and playing in the rain keep things cool.

Desi's Summer Highlights.

2010-07-21T10:28:00.001-07:00

We are as busy as ever going wherever the wind takes us this summer. Our stay-cationing has offered daily ocean/pond/pool swims, a few visits to Mystic Aquarium, and (thanks to Desi's driving force) daily yoga/ bike rides/ scootering/ walks/ gardening fill in the gaps and keep us all in motion (our own personal trainer... Jillian Michaels has nothing on Des).
Life around here is pretty full, I guess, and that's how we like it.

family fun.

2010-07-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

I've been neglectful of the blog this summer as we have been pretty busy here at 'Hotel Del' - so many special guests (9 people and 2 dogs so far)! Thanks to all the family that has made our house part of your summer vacations - we love you all! Here are a few pictures of cousin David's visit (Natalie was here too but just out of camera shot in these pictures).

Ben teaches David the art of Wii airplane flying.

Desi teaches David the superb art of the home-made slip & slide!

Summer hits the 'Gansett.

2010-06-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

What's so funny??

2010-06-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

You grab a line, I'll grab a pole, honey.

2010-05-14T05:47:00.001-07:00

Is that how the song goes? That's pretty much how life goes around here lately.

The funny thing is, it looks so quiet, doesn't it? ha.

inked.

2010-05-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

Leg: Paul's
Artwork: Tate's
Consensus: Wicked awesome.

Mama's Day.

2010-05-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

I had a truly special Mother's Day - I hope all you mamas did too!!!
Hilarious handmade cards, strawberry rhubarb pie on a plate from my childhood* (yes, Ben, from the 1900s), chai (of course), old fav childrens books*, and a super tag sale outing - I found a serger (!!!) and a box of 70s craft magazines, yeah! We are having fun looking through the old magazines - the pottery hasn't changed much but so much else has!
I hope you all enjoyed a special, gentle, loving day with your family.

*my parents are unearthing these treasures as they pack up the house and get ready to move east... wahoo!!!

old friends, and new.

2010-05-04T16:28:00.001-07:00

(this is a trademark 'Del photo' from college days... had to duplicate for old-times-sake :)

Paul's (Del's) friends from college came to visit this weekend. He hasn't seen them in 20 years! We had a great time listening to old college stories (ahem) and all that everyone has been up to. Shari works as a one-on-one TA for special needs students and Andy is a hobby potter from way back... good fit around here! Thanks for a great weekend, Andy and Shari!

lifeguards on duty.

2010-04-28T11:39:00.001-07:00

Mother Nature's infinity pool: ocean view, natural landscape, no chlorine.

benNY

2010-04-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Here's a peek into our Mama-Son adventure day in NYC. It was great having a day together, just the two of us.
Meanwhile Paul and Desi had a special day of their own... breakfast at Phil's, movie date, hide-and-seek, take-out dinner, and not a picture one (they were just too busy having a great day).
Easter Island Peek-a-Boo at the Natural History Museum.

The gems and minerals were his favorite part of the museum visit.

Sabretto hot dog (yikes.) at Teddy's feet.

Subway scorpion.

One of many emergency box photos.

Attempting to take flight over subway grate (loud noise and hot air seemed perfect conditions for take off).

Mr. Softee while hangin' on 5th.

Surveying the dam.

2010-04-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

The whole neighborhood (the under 11 residents, that is) has been maintaining this waterway that travels along our street.
They organize it, monitor water levels, make signs/stories about its origins, wade in it, change it around, generally enjoy time in their creek, their woods.

childhood. priceless.

Bed Head.

2010-04-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

Easter morning brought an early egg hunt, a hoola hoop contest, and some wicked-cool bed head.
Desi strongly believes in wearing your baby (despite the latest news uproar). As you can see Michigan Bear is permanently tucked safely in her shirt... wear that baby well!

A Lovely Year

2010-03-20T10:47:00.000-07:00

Whoop There It Is!

2010-03-09T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a glimpse into the daily, invitation-only, raise-the-roof event that is Desi's Dance Party. I have been fortunate enough to gain access to several of these lately, usually with cup of tea in hand and still wearing my bathrobe (the dress code is extreme-casual). Grandma was granted access and allowed to take a few photos. She captured one of Desi's latest moves on the trampoline (an impressive shot), executed to dance tunes from the 90s.

Also featured are some current dance fashions...

Piper enjoyed 'Dance Party' so much during her visit she has started her own version at home... hopefully we'll see the latest Wyoming moves on their blog soon.
Rock on.

Grandma and Grandpa's Visit

2010-03-09T17:15:00.001-08:00

There are more than 300 pics of my parents visit for me to choose from... no exaggeration. I am slightly overwhelmed and will be sending some of the favs as I look through them all and the kids make their blog-worthy selections. They are glimpses into the fabulous week we had together - we can't thank them enough for their immense help, picture-taking, laundry-services, dish-washing, fix-it projects, and most especially lovin' on the grandkids! What a week!

I think it's about time for my parents to start their own venture into the blogosphere... don't you? They arrived in RI with laptop, i phone and digital cameras at the ready... how hip is that?!?

Desi is 5!

2010-02-23T10:21:00.001-08:00

Desi is 5 and had a great birthday with Grandma, Grandpa, Jim and Callan (pictures to be posted soon). Desi is living large this year... very excited to be reading, dancing and generally taking life by storm. She is so enthusiastic, energetic and funny... we love you Des-a-roo!

Ben is 9!

2010-02-23T10:13:00.001-08:00

Ben is 9 and this year is all about 'treasures.' Ben's treasures are small rocks and gems he can looks at on his light box and compare to rocks in books. He is so curious and has such an appreciation for natural beauty. What an amazing boy. We love you Ben-Ben!

Cousins.

2010-02-23T09:49:00.001-08:00

Karen and Piper came for a visit... the cousins had a great time getting to know each other. We love spending time with the adorable, funny, mellow, HUNGRY Piper (a.k.a. 'Pipes'). We had daily 'dance party' in Desi's room, went to the Mystic Aquarium, and celebrated Ben's 9th birthday by panning for gold and gems at a local science store!
We miss you guys and can't wait to see you again!

superstar

2010-01-20T05:43:00.000-08:00

Desi is always rockin' her own style. This girl fills up a room like no one I've ever met! I think she was hoping to hit the waves today - it's going to reach a balmy 40 degrees but I don't think a rash guard will do it, Des!

By the way, for this morning's photo shoot she's kickin' it old-school to the Kinks, Elvis and Gloria Gaynor (the Daddy-for-Desi Dance CD... who needs coffee?!?) - it's just not Des without a soundtrack!!

What the...???

2010-01-02T17:46:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

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...

2010-01-02T17:14:00.001-08:00

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?).

2010-01-02T17:09:00.000-08:00

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?

2010-01-02T17:07:00.000-08:00

happy new year...

2009-12-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

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.

2009-12-21T17:53:00.001-08:00

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....

gifting.

2009-12-21T17:44:00.000-08:00

The kids and I 'forced' (unfortunate gardening term, I think) paperwhites in a sunny window for teacher/neighbor gifts this year. They were grown in things Jay and "D'Stephanie" :) helped rescue from our recycling bin. Not a great picture, but very well-received gifts that required a little time but very little investment.

Let It Snow...

2009-12-21T17:35:00.000-08:00

Well, we finally got our first snow of the year, and boy did it snow!!! This is more than we've seen since moving here and it is such a beautiful, fluffy snow clinging to trees and piling outside windows. The kids are just waiting for it to settle enough so it is 'sled-able' as now you just sink (still a fun pasttime). Well, see for yourself...

check it out...

2009-12-14T12:20:00.000-08:00

funny ad here.

thankful.

2009-12-04T06:11:00.000-08:00

cousins.
mango lassi.
hand crafts.
the sea.
family time.
starfish.

a few things to do as winter approaches...

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

Print and color these adorable flower fairy coloring pages. They print covering about 2/3 of the page - perfect for Des who writes her 'stories' in the margin of EVERYTHING (including grocery lists, my Sudoku puzzles, and any piece of mail she can get her hands on).

Make garland for the tree (idea from Handmade Home). I used old wool sweaters I found at a thrift shop that were over-washed, misshapen, and perfect for me as they were already 'felted!' We added pine cones, tiny shells the kids found this summer, and 'apple tree buttons' we all made from the half of the apple tree we lost in a storm this year!

Make applesauce.

(Gigantic leaf pile jumping goes without saying)

Nap, although this is sadly only a weekend activity lately.

Hope you are all getting your quiet time any way you like it!

Late Camping Trip 2009

2009-11-09T11:45:00.000-08:00

It's all about the fishing... actually it's all about casting - very few fish are involved.

Halloween...

2009-11-09T11:39:00.001-08:00

(A little late on the next few posts but they were in the other camera)
the Whittier's are always in the spirit!
Incredible Hulk and Super Mario!
Syd is such a good sport!

Just pretty.

2009-11-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

-red maple along side our bamboo 'forest' in the front yard-

Smashing Pumpkins.

2009-11-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

I remember when that was just the name of a band.

Now it's a complex post-halloween composting game.

Why they call it fall...

2009-11-06T11:27:00.001-08:00

Last week the leaves were up here...

And now they're here...

Sailing...

2009-10-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

This charming little boat Benny constructed recently set sail down the 'river.' It's actually a creek behind our home that, after the recent heavy rain, does resemble a small river.

This picture, and a wonderful memory are what we are left with... perfect.

2009-10-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Aunt Doris, I've been spending my spare (ha!) time at the sewing machine. Desi wants to wear a little orange every day - she still can't tell me exactly why. I made her this peasant blouse modified from a pattern in Anna Maria Horner's book, "Seams to Me."

She can't take her eyes off the chipmunks running around the yard to look at the camera, and that's just fine with me.

Lovely Music...

2009-10-21T06:20:00.000-07:00

If you don't know Gregory Alan Isakov's music, check him out (great studio music!).
A fav of mine: Dandelion Wine

Fall at the Farmer's Daughter

2009-10-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

We went to a wonderful fall festival at the Farmer's Daughter - a local farm/farmstand/nursery. These are a few highlights of a great afternoon:
This pumpkin slingshot was a blast (please don't let go Daddy!)! Paul is already designing one for the back yard so we can kick 'apple ball' up a notch... is anyone surprised?
Pumpkin bowling soon became bowling for siblings :)
Safari Desi loving the petting zoo... at one point she had a guinea pig in her lap, a bunny nuzzled behind her, a cockateel on her arm and a boa next to her wrapped around MY waist! Add a few dozen turtles, a couple of tarantulas and a pug - she was in heaven!!!
Ben picking just the right one... a blue pumpkin!
Anyone else think that looks like Annie (SD/Plum Pottery) in the background?

Ladybug Swarm

2009-10-16T11:58:00.000-07:00

click on this...

New Soup for you!

2009-10-09T15:24:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and soups are on my mind. This is a new one I tried that both kids liked (miracle) and is super easy! It is a significantly modified and 'vegetarianized' version of a Rachel Ray soup (sorry).
Heat a tbsp olive oil in soup pot, saute 3 carrots cut into chunks; add 3/4-ish c long grain rice and can of black-eyed peas (unless you have the time to prep dried, in which case...ggrrrrr) and stir about 1 min; add carton of veg stock + 1 1/2 - 2 c water; simmer about 20 min; add a carton of frozen creamed spinach (thawed) and simmer 5 min; add salt and pepper to taste.
Yummy with crusty bread - a very mild soup (Desi is calling it 'all better soup') so the grown-ups may want to jazz it up w/ additional spice.

What Desi will miss most about summer...

2009-09-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

Gourd-eous!

2009-09-22T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well our gourd teepee was a success this year, despite a very rainy start and a short growing season. We've harvested many gourds and a few more are still on the vine. These photos were taken before it peaked, at a whopping 9 feet! I am already making plans for next year's addition of a pole-bean tent and a return of the sunflower house...

(I think the chickens and I enjoyed our time in the teepee more than anyone this year)

COLOR!

2009-08-30T11:06:00.000-07:00

BIG color around me lately.

A few of the pots from Clay Camp #2 - I decided to have them use underglazes this year so their pieces would be a little more exciting - usually the one week camp only allows for unglazed pots. This was a huge success and the kids were so excited with the finished product!

Mom and Dad brought me so many treasures from my great-Aunt Doris who passed away this year. A home-ec teacher and life-long crafter, she passed along so many great fabrics and notions to inspire me. This is the fabric stack that I love to look at, dream about, smell, and lately begin many projects from. What a wonderful legacy... thank you Aunt Doris (and Mom and Dad for bringing me such wonderful momentos)!

Hurricane Watch

2009-08-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

As the bigger surf rolled in from the way-off-shore storms, we headed to our favorite rocky spot to scream into the waves, throw stones, and search for tiny treasures.

Desi Takes the Stage

2009-08-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

Desi loves her music and here we are singing some of her favs (be thankful these are stills and not video as for my part) - Joan Baez, Jonie Mitchell, Sheryl Crow...go girls!!!

Benny on the Bus

2009-08-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

Each morning Grandma was here she walked Ben to the bus (at the end of our driveway). As you can see, warm weather for Rhodies isn't exactly warm for Texans.

Who, me?

2009-08-26T18:17:00.001-07:00

What? Me in a blog picture?! Rare, I know. Favorite spot, favorite kids, favorite kind of day.

the greatest visit ever...

2009-08-26T17:53:00.000-07:00

OK, I now have over 170 pics to choose from and so many great ones that I can't decide. I'll post today's favorites and throw some more on here in the near future. Thank you again Mom and Dad, for everything!

summery.

2009-08-26T17:27:00.000-07:00

A few summer sights from our little neck of the woods. Our gourd teepee finally reaching upward after a long, rainy start to the summer; weeds that I love; the 'step of death' is no more (thanks Dad!); our neighborhood emus and sheep.

Goodnight Ocean.

2009-08-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

After a particularly warm day, we decided to go for a quick walk on the beach before bed. Of course we had spent most of the day swimming, were showered, fed and ready for bed, just not ready to say goodnight to such a beautiful summer day. You can probably guess where this is going...

True Love.

2009-08-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa's Visit

2009-08-18T17:57:00.000-07:00

Soon we will be flooded with pics from the awesome week with my parents. Presently I hang my head in shame at the one measly picture on my camera that wasn't even post-worthy. Somehow the week got away from me but I assure you pictures were taken (of all of us this time, MaryAnn) and will appear soon.
It was FABULOUS having them here! I was teaching a camp that week and it was Ben's last week of school so Des had mornings bonding with her grandparents - their first solo time together and they made the most of it! Swimming, swinging, painting, reading, writing, speaking Spanish, roaming, games... you get the idea. And then there were the afternoons when Ben and I joined the party - beach trips, karate, home projects, my head is spinning! Actually my whole body was spinning as I was recovering from a bout of vertigo that made their visit all the more timely. Thank you so much Mom and Dad for helping with EVERYTHING (laundry, dishes, home projects, kids, errands, and so much more!)! I couldn't have done it without you especially since Paul was traveling that week.
And so, I will soon share photos of all the fun, as soon as my poor parents recover from entering the madness that is our life, and driving halfway across the country for the privilege. So much love and thanks and miss you's from us - we can't wait until you are here for good!!!

Life is Good.

2009-08-01T05:16:00.002-07:00

I was worried that as I taught my clay camp last week, Desi would have to spend all morning with sitters. When I went to pick her up this is what I saw...

And that was only one day! I know you can't see the smile (a mile wide) or hear her shouts of joy (I'm actually surprised you couldn't hear that), but trust me, they'e there. Thank you Jens for making sure her summer is full of amazing memories of swimming on the pond, stalking kitties, make-believe and skateboarding!!!

Some catching up...

2009-08-01T04:56:00.000-07:00

OK, I realize it has been a while since my last post. A busy family, the annual trip to Mike's camp (waiting for pics, will post later), summer clay camp at the studio and life-in-general has kept me away from the computer lately. Here is a glimpse of our July... hope yours was fabulous!
1 & 2. 4th of July madness w/ Jared and Ellie
3. our fish
4. tarzan and friend swinging form a vine in our backyard creek after (another) bug rainstorm
5. moo-moo's ice cream after the beach..yum!

gone fishin'

2009-06-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

I've always said nobody does hobbies quite like Paul. Well, true to form, his re-discovered fishing hobby has become a full-blown obsession. He now designs and creates these truly beautiful hand-made, lathe-turned, air-brushed lures, complete with names like 'crazy crawler', 'bassoreno' or 'miopic minnow'.

Ben still catches more fish with his plastic worms.
Sorry honey, but it's true.

June is...

2009-06-30T18:06:00.001-07:00

... baby bunnies getting bolder
... apple blossoms turning into tiny apples (every year the kids insist on tasting them at this stage)
... mama snapping turtles looking for a safe nest for all those eggs (the chickens tried to get involved with the decision-making process this year, don't ask.)
... canoe rides to our 'secret island'
... clamming (followed by Paul's awesome clam sauce!)
... my favorite blooms

more solstice sculpture...

2009-06-27T11:03:00.001-07:00

There have been many requests for more pictures from our solstice firing so here are a few...

kiln early on, about 300F (we took turns babysitting it all night to 'candle' the moisture out of the piece)

one of two fire boxes that we switched from gas to wood as we starting to really heat things up!

Jens, Rory and the drumming group setting the mood for a very primal evening.

the flame as Tom blew salt, ash and copper (not enough or you'd see green flames) into the kiln.

the piece half revealed.

the piece cooled... we will be filling soil around it to cover the kiln bricks and allow the natives (hopefully not the poison ivy that was there when we prepped the site) to grow around/through it.

summer-ish.

2009-06-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

Relatively cool temps and cold ocean water don't keep my kids from diving into summer! Whenever the rain lets up we are 'down the pond' looking for horseshoe and hermit crabs, fish, shells, rocks, starfish, and the list goes on...
I love summer.

Solstice Fire Sculpture!

2009-06-22T10:41:00.002-07:00

This weekend was the culmination of many hours of hand-rolling cones, scratching & slipping (a clay term, for the non-potters), and trying to do clay work under lots and LOTS of rain! This sculpture was the dream-child of potter Tom Ladd and became PeaceDale's own 'burning man' festival. Positioned on the bike path, we had daily visitors checking our progress and on the firing date locals gathered for food, music (drumming, didgeredoo, guitar) and a crazy on-site firing to 2300F. When it was red-hot we unwrapped the kiln and the glowing sculpture was revealed to a cheering, teary, ecstatic crowd of nearly 300! It was such a privilege to be part of this project and work with so many friends and fellow artists.
I can't wait to see this piece under the first snowfall...

moms' day with our girl.

2009-06-08T17:04:00.001-07:00

We had our annual visit with Desi's birth mother. Desi and I met her at the zoo and shared a loving afternoon walking, talking, eating, laughing. It has been a remarkable journey getting to this point but we all seem to enjoy these visits and this year Desi had some questions about her story. She looked at her birth mom's belly and then at me..."So, I came out of your belly but Mama takes care of me, right?" We both reassured her that she was right and so lucky to be loved by 2 moms. After a few attempts to play us against each other (the girl's gotta try), Des realized that wasn't getting anywhere and we spent the rest of the day in a surprisingly comfortable rhythm of hugs, reassurances, a mutual appreciation. While this crazy path to parenthood isn't for everyone, it sure works for us.
We are so very blessed.

Angus got a haircut!

2009-06-08T16:59:00.000-07:00

Little Angus got a clipping along with the sheep. Desi had to visit and give him a good rub-down. Beware Grandpa, I know you thought your horse show days were over but who knows...

what came first...

2009-06-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

Our friend, Gwynne got her dozen chicks and the kids are following their development (as they are now experts in chicken rearing). We had a bountiful weekend harvest from our not-so-tiny ladies. They are really enjoying warmer weather and their natural diet of grass, shoots, bugs, and the occasional carb I use to bribe them back into the yard.

Springtime on Wandsworth Street

2009-04-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

Here a some glimpses of spring here on our street. We were away for the weekend and came back to blooms, buds and birdsong! Sorry for the mass of pix... just so excited to see color again!!! Included below are the garden, our backyard creek, one of doc's emus, and the neighborhood 'pond' (the boats are coming back!)... we are so lucky to look at these every day!

A Day at the Farm

2009-04-29T10:03:00.000-07:00

We went to visit my friend Gwynne's sheep before their shearing this weekend so the kids could feel the wool before it became blankets and scarves! They also spend time with Aggie, the mini-horse (who could also use a shearing) and were able to feed him carrots.
Desi decided she'd like to spend the night in the barn, sharing a stall with Aggie (since "his poop doesn't smell so bad")... we are considering it...

A-Z Wedding!

2009-04-29T09:38:00.000-07:00

Z and Andrew got married last weekend and Ben and Desi were part of the grand affair! What a beautiful Bride, Groom, Coin Bearer and Flower Girl...along with some very proud (and a little biased) parents. What a great time we had in the city - Rockefeller Center rehearsal party, summery day in Central Park, pre-wedding tennis match, and a beautiful wedding on the Tribecca Rooftop... dancing the night away! Thanks Z & A for including us on your amazing, special day - congratulations!

a little corner of our home:

2009-04-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd post a little nook of our home where I spend a bit of time lately. My makeshift sewing space is complete with thrifted/recycled fabrics, projects in various stages, bowls of button/pins/threads that Ben LOVES to sort and re-sort, mug of hot water (yes, I AM my mother), laptop for moments like these, current books and a marvelous view of trees in front, Erin's artwork on the wall, and all manner of wildlife (mostly chickens and children) running-digging-screaming in the backyard/woods off to the right.
Just a little piece of what I love so much about our life here. Hoping to add more glimpses into our home later...

I really need to paint that little strip of white wall. Better get out the paint samples...here we go again!

Working?

2009-04-14T18:35:00.000-07:00

Paul is in Puerto Rico this week for 'work' - ha! This is the view from his room... he was nice enough to e-mail this upon his arrival. Have a great time Daddy - Desi says she has a chocolate egg for you on Friday if you make good choices in your meetings!

And Nelson & Jim: I expect you to have a drink by the pool for me!!!

Springtime.

2009-04-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

...Ben's 'this is spring' table...

It includes seeds, shells and his favorite 'throwing into the wetlands' rocks.

Happy Spring!

2009-04-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

Well folks, the Easter Bunny was feeling very creative this year and planned an elaborate treasure hunt that involved 18 clues hidden all over the property and a long hunt for eggs and treasure! It was quite cold and very early (as Erin and Evan will attest) but Ben and Desi, prompted by picture clues, explored every nook and cranny and, finally, armed with their metal detectors, were able to unearth their little treasure boxes!

gone fishin'

2009-04-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

Ben's first catch (and release) of the year!
Paul was testing some new lures he made, using all his fancy fishing techniques, and Ben was standing on the dock with a pole in the water. Guess who caught the only fish? A bass-related fish called a crappie (?). The boys are so excited the weather is warming and they can get back out on the water! And Joel, I am still waiting with my filet knife for them to bring home supper!
Hooray, spring!

love child...

2009-04-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

Desi's love of body art is starting early, and expanding...

Who needs paper?!?

Ben's Idea!

2009-04-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

Benny saw a window display at the co-op with sun-catchers hanging from it and decided he'd make the same for his and Desi's bedrooms. He picked the perfect branches and is slowly choosing items worthy of hanging in the window. It proved VERY difficult to photograph and the pictures don't represent them very well but I thought we'd share anyway...

Art.

2009-03-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

grab your watercolors and check this out...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpunQZ4cUyI

favorite snack...

2009-03-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

The kids latest: they love to eat popcorn with chopsticks... battling for the best pieces.
Fav recipe: stovetop w/ coconut oil (thanks Annie) with a dash of salt and at the last minute add a tablespoon of brown sugar & toss - salty and sweet!

2009-03-25T06:39:00.001-07:00

Paul and Evan styling Desi's hair (with Erin in the background in stitches).
You never know what you'll encounter around here... never boring.

she's baaack!

2009-03-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

After a long and painful creative slump, I am getting back into the swing of things! The kids and I made these self-portrait book marks - they drew a picture of themselves on fabric and I embroidered over it (Ben's is a work-in-progress, much more detailed self-portrait). [idea from Amanda Blake Soule] Old scraps and some time in a sunny window well spent! I love that Desi is a potato with red shoes and she wrote 'be desi' on hers! Ben, of course has a small fire on his.

Spring Fever!

2009-03-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

Just remembering what spring looks like, waiting, hoping... My favorite season is upon us and we can't wait to get outside sans parkas, scarves, boots, etc. The daffodils are peeking up and pretty soon our garden will look like this again!
Magical.

Happy Birthday Desi!

2009-02-20T09:11:00.000-08:00

The amazing Desi turns 4 today (or is it 14?!). She has decided she now can cross the street without holding my hand, drive a car, and pick up babies... wow, she IS growing up! She is rockin' the tunes more than ever - the current favs are The Kinks (Superman), The Ramones, Beatles, Jack Johnson (he's baacck), and all things deemed 'danceable.' What a fun, smart, beautiful, loving, outgoing, outspoken girl you are Desa-rooster - we love you so much!!!

For those of you who've asked, the new fish are named Harley Davidson, Luigi, Nemo (ugh), Otto and Hoover (the catfish).

Happy Birthday Benny!

2009-02-05T09:31:00.000-08:00

Big Ben turns 8 today! I can't believe how much he's grown, especially this year. Ben is such an amazing boy - compassionate, funny, loving, nature-tracker, practical-joker, aspiring animal-rescuer (like Aunt Karen). Ben and Desi got their first fish tank for their birthdays. Today we are going to pick out Ben's fish (Des has to wait a few weeks!). All week he has been trying to come up with the perfect names. So far the list includes Harley Davidson, Hot Dog, 134 (??..my fav), United Kingdom and China.
We love you so much Banoosh! Happy Birthday!

Where Were You?

2009-01-20T07:44:00.001-08:00

Where were you on this most historic day? I will be watching the inauguration with Desi (and a box of tissues) from our living room. Ben is sharing the moment with his friends and teachers at school, and Paul is in Atlanta, checking in periodically by phone. I would love to hear where you all were... what a glorious day for this country!

Just watching the 43rd and 44th hop into the limo together... oh, to be a fly on that windshield!

Snow antics!

2009-01-12T08:59:00.000-08:00

Here are the kids having a blast in the front yard... they found a track to sled on that starts just off the front porch and can end anywhere from the bottom of the driveway, to the woods. You gotta love gravity and snow!

"Old-fashioned style"

2009-01-11T13:54:00.000-08:00

Ben is drawn to anything he deems "old-fashioned style" like, dinner by candelight, clothes on the line, and lunch cooked on the woodstove! He is also amazed that his parents were born in the 1900s (a gauge by which all things 'old-fashioned' are determined). Today we made lunch over our already roaring fire - perfect after a morning of sledding. We are actually getting into this winter thing!

Book Blog

2009-01-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

I'm not good with book clubs (any clubs for that matter)... I can't be counted on to have a night free and on the rare occasion I do, I have little patience for being told what to read and how to feel about it. So, I've read a couple of interesting books in the last few weeks and wanted to throw it out there in case anyone wants add their 2 cents.
Siddhartha (important reread here and again)
Last Child in the Woods (parenting) Richard Louv - still reading this - an 'atta-girl' read w/ lots of research making me feel good about sending my kids out into the woods to track deer, built forts, reroute creeks and hunt for buried treasure/deer ticks (ha-ha).
The Reader (just starting this one)

Let me know if you've read anything worth suggesting! I know, I'm asking you to tell me what to read. What can I say?
I'm an enigma.

P.S. The photo is 3 years old but a cute 'reading' picture nonetheless.

Dirty Dozen

2009-01-09T14:30:00.001-08:00

One of my students and I were chatting about the ingredients we avoid in personal care products (you never know what topic will creep up at the studio...never boring). I had my list - she carries hers in her wallet, titled the "Dirty Dozen"...I love it. My plastic-phobia required I switch to bars of shampoo and deodorant and the ingredient list tolerated in this house is ever-shrinking. So I thought I'd post the list in case anyone wanted to add a list to their wallet.
-- Antibacterials (I've found details on each of the following, if interested)
-- Coal tar: Dyes with a coal tar base are used in toothpaste (FD&C Blue 1) and mouthwash (FD&C Green 3).
-- DEA: (diethanolamine)
-- 1,4-Dioxane: in products that contain sodium laureth sulfate; and ingredients expressed as "PEG," "-xynol," "ceteareth," and "oleth."
-- Formaldehyde
-- Fragrance and phthalates
-- Lead and mercury (Lead can show up in products that have hydrated silica, such as in toothpaste)
-- Nanoparticles
-- Parabens
-- Petroleum distillates
-- PPD: P-Phenylenediamine
-- Hydroquinone

Go forth, be well, get dirty...

ho!ho!ho!

2008-12-28T16:57:00.001-08:00

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah (it's been 8 crazy nights around here), and a Festive Kwanzaa! We wish you all the best in 2009... it's gonna be a great year!

ombama.

2008-12-27T18:25:00.001-08:00

This was on the back of the latest Yoga Journal. A Lululemon ad, but it is pretty cool... and they make great yoga pants.

Do you think he can really sit in full lotus?
Yes, he can.

winter antics.

2008-12-27T18:13:00.000-08:00

Testing the pond to see what bits are frozen.

A few days of snow, a few snowball fights.

Classic.

2008-12-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

2 more pics I couldn't leave out... the annual belly-warming/no-soup-for-you moment that Evan and Ben share (get some sun, Ev!) & Jay's beautiful dog stocking (you are quite remarkable, cuz!).
Thanks for being such good sports, guys!