A Mindful Life

Claire turned two-and-a-half on Monday. Tonight Claire wanted to tell a story. She dictated, and I wrote it down word-for-word. Are you ready?
Once upon a time there was a girl named Stacy the Firefighter. She had a dog named Sparky. He was a Dalmatian. They liked to ride the fire engine and make the siren [...]

Today is the last day for the To Haiti With Love auction. While I’m pleased that my items have had some bids, I’d like to point out some other products for auction in case hand-knits aren’t your wish.
There is a wide array of books — inspirational books, children’s books, poetry — offered.
Are you looking for [...]

On this rainy Saturday, with a feverish, coughing child, I stumbled across this peppy little video. For more of Kristin Andreassen’s music, lookie here! I learned about Kristen from a blog that’s new to me — One Person. Everyday — which, of course, I found via Patti Digh, of the blog called 37 Days.

If the [...]

To Haiti with Love is an online auction of art, photography, papercrafts, clothing, and creative goods. All proceeds will go direct to the St. Joseph’s Family of homes for children in Haiti. There are some gorgeous works and delectable items offered.
The auction opens at 8 AM EST on Monday, February 1, 2010.
The auction closes at [...]

I introduced the dyed rice to Claire. Was it a hit? Let’s see.

While Claire napped, I started a new endeavor. Last week we dyed pasta for making projects, and she helped. But the rice was going to be much messier, so I waited until she napped. I wanted to make her a surprise (which I will give her Friday morning).
I did some research and found helpful instructions. [...]

We play with our hands and experiment with color: play-doh and dying noodles (for use in later crafts).

You’ll need to be sure your volume is turned up!
Daisy, Daisy, give me your answer true.
I’m half crazy, all for the love of you.
It won’t be a stylish marriage,
I can’t afford a carriage,
But you’ll look sweet
Upon the seat
Of a bicycle built for two!
Then she sang her version of My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean.

I feel jazzed at the moment. Out of the blue, yesterday I received a lovely, gracious email from a blog reader — someone who has lurked around here for three years — and it made my day. I haven’t been feeling inspired much to write lately. Hearing from someone that she has appreciated this little [...]

Each year, in the last days of Art Every Day Month, my thoughts turn toward Christmas. If I had time and was inclined to make Christmas cards, I think this would make a sweet design. Alas, this one will have to do. I’ve had great fun this month with the process, and I really like [...]