Eyes of Wonder

As the flu has not yet flown....

A Simply Lovely Life

I'm still here.

We had lots of rain here, but as always, everyone kept busy with various projects. Whewww! It sure is difficult to get photos with the lack of sunlight that presents itself on a rainy day, but I did my best to gather a few again, so I could share just a bit of the day, and say, hello.

A new bag. This is yet another bag made from a favorite pattern. Very simple to put together and we've made lots of them. They're sturdy, roomy, and useful for so many different things; carrying groceries, books to and from the library, as a diaper bag, etc....




A few from the collection.



A rainy day tea party.





Busy little artists





It rained and rained....



My mom asked me to send a loving hello to each one of you. She was still sick today, but felt considerably better, and is hoping to be poking her head back in, soon. Thanks so much for all your nice notes and kind words, to me, and to her. I've passed all your loving hellos along. My dad went for a job interview, today, and everything went very well. Our whole family thanks you so much for thinking of us and for praying for us. I hope you have a really nice weekend.

Warmly, Rosie

Just a little bit of linen

A Simply Lovely Life

The Five-Minute Linen Peasant Cap. Fashioned by the nimble fingers of Julia, for the lovely wee maiden, Aimaija. Just a little bit of linen, lots and lots and lots of fun!











And, this simple blouse fashioned by Rosie from just a little bit of embroidered-linen, using an out of print pattern--Style 2886 (which you would be able to watch for, and most likely find if you're interested, on ebay or somewhere else online), with fitting adjustments made to the neckline, shoulders, and sleeves, and button holes in place of the button loop closures, that the pattern calls for.





Well, yesterday's trip was pretty much topsy-turvy from what we had anticipated. It was a nice time together as a family, but there wasn't much action in the house hunting department. And, the impromptu addition of a second house to look at bumped the job interview ahead to next week--which worked out just fine, but wasn't what we had initially planned.

Though the property was pretty both places we visited, the houses themselves were not especially beautiful. And, though the scenery all along the way was very lovely, and there were countless architectural delights here and there calling to be photographed, we were following our very dear realtor, Jean, at a very good clip, so, (scrunched up nose and tongue clucking) I kinda felt just a little bit awkward asking Jean if we could set up some kind of arrangement, where we would have honked (well, make that *I* would have honked-- as I'm sure Big Papa would have had no part in it :o) to signal for her to slow up, or 2 honks--pull over, or 3 honks--pull over and back up--so that I could get some really good shots!

So, well.........here's what I got. Nothing great, but it's somethin' :o) I was surely thinkin' of you guys and determined to bring *something* back, even if it wasn't beautiful photos of a house. So, as a result of me hanging out the window of the speeding van..........

We have one photo of two horses grazing.



One ancient silo.



An old farm, nestled at the bottom of a hill.



And, another farm that Big Papa and Jean flew by, before I could get the window rolled down, focus, and press the button.



And lastly, the winding country road that went on and on and on and on and on..............we were *way* out in the country!



The trip was profitable in many ways, just not in the exact ways that we had thought that perhaps it might be. So, we're continuing to pray, and move ahead, as we wait and watch for God to lead us, just when and where He desires for us to go.

James has finished painting the entire house--first coat, minus just two small areas. What a tremendous blessing this has been. He's gearing up to finish what remains and then begin on that second coat. Saturday we'll work on packing up lots of books and various other things and moving them into storage, as well as starting to paint the trim on the house. We are **busy, busy, bees** :o)

Thank-you more than words can say, for your prayers and kind and caring encouragement--we're so grateful. And also, thanks for sharing with us about God's loving leading and faithfulness in your own lives--what a blessing it has been. I hope each of you and your sweet families had a beautiful day.

Lovingly, Jewels for all

While tending to the hearth and home

A Simply Lovely Life

A lovely article written by dear Nancy Campbell for Above Rubies Magazine.

I Love Aprons
WHERE’S MY APRON?

What would I do without my aprons? They are an indispensable part of my homemaking equipment and I have a pile sitting in my pantry.

I use them to protect my clothes.

Without aprons my clothes would be ruined. I have never been very good at working in good clothes. I have a dear friend who can paint in her high heels and Sunday clothes and not get a drop of paint on her. I am sure she is just as good in her kitchen. Not me. When I paint, I have paint all over me. When I work, I get stuck in, and invariably get dirty marks on my clothes. I don’t like to go around like a rag bag and therefore need an apron to cover me when working in the kitchen.

I have working aprons and pretty frilly aprons for special occasions. However, I rarely used my pretty aprons. When it is time for the meal, I take my apron off to sit at the table. If we have visitors coming, I throw it off as I hear their car coming in the drive. Now all my guests know my secret!

I use them to wipe my hands.

I keep a towel hanging in my kitchen to wipe my hands. However, I find it much easier to wipe them on my apron. It is right on me and I don’t have to walk a step to do it. Consequently, my aprons become stained and dirty, but isn’t that what they are for!

For awhile I got into the habit of throwing my tea-towel over my shoulder on which I could wipe my hands as necessary while preparing food etc. One time I had to urgently pop down to Office Max to do some photocopying. I wondered why so many people looked very interestingly at me. I thought I must have looked very special that day - until I got home and looked in the mirror. There was my dirty tea-towel draping across my shoulder! Help! Back to aprons!

I use them as a basket.

It is so convenient to go out to the garden and gather my harvest for supper - zucchini, cucumbers, squash, basil, tomatoes, lettuce etc. All I have to do is lift up the bottom of my apron and I have a perfect basket to carry them inside. When gathering “things” that have accumulated upstairs
and need to be taken down, once again, all I have to do is lift my apron to carry them all down. And if your apron has a pocket or two, they are even more versatile.

It is my symbol as Manager of my home.

I do not put on my apron to sit around the house. I put on my apron to work. Although all our children have grown and have now established their own homes, we still currently have nine of us living in the home - and usually extras beside that for the evening meal. I have great work to do. It is not insignificant. And when I put on my apron I am aware I am accomplishing good things.

There are young wives today who do not even own an apron. They are missing an important part of the baton that should have been passed on to them. Of course, you don’t need an apron when you don’t work in the home. You don’t need an apron to pop a microwave dinner in the microwave, get pre-packaged food out of the freezer or open some tins of something for supper. However, when you prepare food from scratch as I do, you need an apron.

Aprons are symbolic of hearth and home. Sandy Driver writes, (1)”The symbol of homemaking most vividly emblazoned in my memory is bright yellow with four large black and white polka dot pockets lining the front. Mother made it from scraps early in her domestic career to hold lots of wooden clothespins. She called it her “hanging out clothes apron” and never dared cook a meal with it on.

“It’s too ragged,” she said with a discerning look. I would have gladly worn it all day long because it smelled like sunshine and felt like home. When I wrapped those strings around my waist, I was a Mommy, which was every little girl’s dream in that long ago era. I loved to fill the empty pockets with
crayons, rubber balls and little metal jacks while our sheets and socks blew in the afternoon breeze.

“When my aunt Mamie died a few years back, I added one of her green flowered aprons to my nostalgic collection. It was my daughter’s favorite when she was a toddler and she insisted on wearing it whenever she played with her assortment of dolls, even though the big wide strings wrapped around her
tiny body three times. “I have to wear an apron to be the Mommy,” she proclaimed. I have taught her well.”

A lady named Maggie writes, “I wear my aprons every day now I have come to believe they are like lacy bits of lingerie, only worn on the outside, and a quite a bit more respectable. When I put on my aprons the children mind mebetter, wandering visitors immediately know my role as a stay at home mom.
Fred thinks I look cute as a button, and neighbor children hug me more often.

I like my aprons. They have changed my life, raising my standards, inspiring me to greater feats of home making skills, and making me more effective as a parent. Whoever thought that a dollars worth of fabric and lace could effect so many changes on one woman and one family?”

A friend of mine, Terry Leib writes, (2) “Woven into the cloth of an apron are unseen threads of a sweet feminine spirit, a spirit of meekness, humility and contentment. That little flap of frilly, feminine fabric tied around a woman’s waist symbolized her acceptance of her role and duties. It was her badge of honor, and represented submission to God, and to her husband. Without saying one word, or one syllable, it said, “I am a woman, made from a man. My place is at home, guiding the house, loving my husband, loving my children, teaching my children to love, honor and obey God by my example in obeying God’s Word and my own husband.” Its strings gently tug at us, tenderly, softly calling us to turn back to the old ways, the Biblical ways of order in the home.”

At the turn of the century, children could identify the days of the weeks by the different apron their mother wore each day. I have aprons that tie at the waist and barbecue style aprons, but my favorite is one that was given to me by a lady who attended an Above Rubies Retreat. It is one that completely covers my clothes. I think she made it from Simplicity Pattern #3064 B.

Apart from putting on my material apron, I am challenged to put on the attitude apron. 1 Peter 5:5 Williams says, “You must all put on the servant’s apron of humility to one another, because God opposes the haughty but bestows His unmerited favor on the humble.” The apron is an emblem of
servanthood. It’s good to not only put on our apron, ready to work hard in the home, but to have the same attitude in our hearts. When we wear the servant’s apron of humility, no task will seem too menial or too difficult to accomplish.

NANCY CAMPBELL Above Rubies

(1) From A Cherished Apron by Sandy Williams Driver

(2) From Joyful Help Meet at Home by Terry Leib.







Above Rubies is a wonderfully encouraging magazines for wives, mamas and grandmothers, whose heart is to make their home a haven of love, peace, celebration and joy, for those they care for dearest and best.

The magazine is written by the readers, with Nancy serving as editress these past 28 years. She likewise shares her loving thoughts in a letter and an article or two, each issue as well.

It's available simply by requesting, here. As God provides the funds, the magazine goes to print and is sent out--which is often. Nancy Campbell, herself, is one of the most gentle, loving, encouraging woman that I've ever known. She and her husband Colin--who are both in their mid sixties were just recently blessed with 4 precious children, through adoption, from Liberia--a son 16, 2 daughters who are both 16, and another dear daughter who is 15. She shares the very beautiful story of their recent arrival into their hearts and lives, in the latest issue of Above Rubies, which I believe you could still email and request--perhaps requesting a bunch of back issues, too. If you would like to write her, rather thann just requesting the magazine through the form that's provided on the site, you might want to put **request for most recent above rubies and back issues**, in the subject line in nice big letters :o), and then just be sure and include your name and address in the note. I have found so much encouragement over the years, to just be me, and celebrate my own precious family, day-by-day, through this labor of love of dear Nancy's, and her huge heart for women and the priceless, irreplaceable role they play, as nurturers and keepers of their warm, inviting, lovely homes.



The real estate agent came today and all went very well. It was a really busy day, with a picnic at the park for supper (so the house would be all nice and tidy when the real estate agent came just after the supper hour) and lots of fun at the playground for the little ones, with Mama, Julia and Chubb, while the older children and Big Papa met with the realtor and got down to business--my business was keeping the little ones happily occupied and the home front quiet for business :o) It's nice to know all the children are tucked in and peacefully sleeping. Everyone was bushed.

Thanks again for your loving thoughts and prayers, and kind caring notes. What an encouragement you are to me. I hope you had lovely day, today.
Warmly, Jewels

P.S. Above are the aprons that we made for Jenny and Stacy (we didn't use a pattern of this, so I don't have a pattern to share). I thought you might enjoy seeing them as inspiration and encouragement, to try out a new apron pattern that you especially like, or as we have done here, just make up a simple pattern of your own, in a fabric that you especially like.

A bit more pleasant peasantry

A Simply Lovely Life

The sewing machines have been happily humming away, here, as we've continued make up some new skirts and blouses in a few favorite patterns with a new one thrown into the mix, here and there.

We seem to really share a common fancy for this particular peasant blouse pattern, which has been not only lovely for summer , but for me, has worked out wonderfully well for nursing, too. I particularly like this one, made up in a black on white cotton floral print. The great part is all for one and one for all, between Rosie, Julia and me. So, as we share and share alike, there's all the more for each one of us!

The six-gored skirt in black linen, has a thin waistband, and zipper and button closure, and was made using this pattern, another favorite, with a few small changes.



And, we whipped up another of the same lovely peasant tops, this one in a berry colored cotton.



It pairs up just-right-nicely with this cute double-flounced skirt , in a floral cotton print.





I hope that each one of you and your families enjoyed this lovely day. The sun was back again, shining brightly over yet another full-to-overflowing day, here at the homestead, that even held a nice long while for curling up for stories and relaxing afternoon nap. Again, thanks so much for taking the time to share your lives, and the day-to-day life with those you love. I also appreciate it so much when you take the time to share with me anything special that you've posted on your own blogs so I won't miss it, as my computer time is so limited. You're very dear ladies. What a sweet blessing it is to have such thoughtful, kind and caring neighbors. Thanks again for coming by to visit.

Warmly, Jewels

P.S. Things have been going a bit haywire here at typepad all through the afternoon, so I'm going to try and pop this post on and hope that it makes it through and doesn't disappear, as some things have, today--very interesting :o) Does give a nice little nudge to get a back-up and have the blog printed out, though!

A bit of thoughtful rambling

A Simply Lovely Life

How quickly the weekend passed by. Seems every direction I turn, the winds of change are blowing. Big Papa and I spent a lovely short while in the car on Saturday, rambling down old familiar roads, along the sea's shore. The air was pleasantly sun-warmed, salt. I breathed deeply, face towards the opened window, eyes closed, deliberately
drinking in every delicious bit of summer and the sea; companionably friendly, peacefully familiar. The air I've been privileged to take in, these past twenty-some years

Beach roses blooming, Cottages, closely situated along the so softly waving, blue water's edge.



Farmers in fields of freshly cut and baled hay. Gulls singing summer songs high above, flying in over the fields and back out to the sea.




At home we spent most of the afternoon preparing for a day away, on Sunday. We were looking forward to a time of sweet fellowship with dear brothers and sisters; good food, conversation, laughter, sharing of hearts, singing, reading the Bible and praying, together. We meet in a house fellowship with a number of precious families, for a lovely time that lasts throughout the afternoon.

This weekend's gathering found us saying a seeming farewell to one of those families that we've grown to dearly love, as they pack and prepare to journey along into a new season of their lives and life as a family a good ways away, in another state . One interesting aspect of their particular situation is the timing of the their change alongside our own. We're prayerfully making our way ahead, exploring possibilties, considering just what God might have in store, as doors of opportunities open before us.

All this to say, thank-you for continuing to pray for us. We are actually going this weekend to look at a home only about one mile away from the the very place where this dear family of friends is moving.We are so at peace with whatever it is that God has, be it here or far, realizing that He is working simultaneously in our lives as individuals as well as a family, for the present as well as the future. My own heart is reaching out to rest, in childlike trust, desiring God's very best, for my children and grandchildren, as I realize I am once again, drifting out into the vast greatness, of the sea, of life in God. What a joyous adventure; this life of knowing and loving, Him.

Some tidbits from the week past:

I got this pretty April Cornell dress, for Julia, at the thrift store for a song.



Which combined with this nicely-bodiced petticoat that Rosie fashioned from a lovely old cotton-laced sheet, for her to wear under it, looked just right. The colors were perfect for her.





And, I recently acquired this interesting carved and painted folk art plate. We were at a stop light in the middle of a fairly busy section of town and someone had a table set up at the side of the road, with some things from their yard sale--now over, that they (and apparently no one else. Yes, I seem to have odd taste :o), wanted. What had caught my eye as we passed, was an old wooden jewelry box that reminded me of one that my uncle had given to me as a young girl.

The little ones here at my house, recently had oodles of cute little bracelets, necklaces and pins given to them that they've been using for dress-up play and I thought the jewelry box might be a nice little spot for them to keep it all safely tucked away--since it was just sitting right there, staring at me from this free table *just off the side of the road*. So, thrifty gal that I am, who is especially fond of freebies, I hopped out and hot-footed it on over to grab it, before the light changed and I set off a chain of horn honking. Well, in my haste, I nearly forgot to grab the jewelry box, when I spotted thisother *gem* beside it (translated *junk* to everyone else that had passed it's woefully forsaken way, right? :o). But I managed to gather my wits and make off with them both, just in the nick of time! I'm really thankful that no one else liked it, because I *really* do!





Today was so nice. I was dragging by early afternoon, good and tired out from the weekend, but thankfully I was able to spend the littlest wonderful while curled up on my big cosy bed, reading and snoozing, which set me right, again. I love rising early, and I love succumbing to the peace-filled sweetness of an afternoon nap.

We had a delicious roast that cooked away in the crock pot all day, for supper; mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, and applesauce, while Big Papa filled everyone in on the day's exciting events, away from home. After all was said and done, I rounded out the day with a dip in the pool with the girls and the little ones. I'm going to sleep like a baby, tonight--as long as the baby (who's teething) sleeps like a baby, that is.

I hope each of you, and your families, had a lovely weekend and a beautiful new week's beginning. Thanks for all your notes Saturday, yesterday, and today--I've enjoyed each one of them, so much--and have popped in to visit your wonderful blogs as time has allowed. The weekend was busy and I am a bit behind on my own letter writing. So, thanks for extending grace to me, once again, while I'm a bit slow in getting back to those of you that have written to me, privately and are awaiting a response.

Warmly, Jewels, the rambling one, who I do believe is finally, now, about all rambled out. You are free to go ;o)

Thanks so much for taking the time to come by.

P.S. If you have the time to take a peek, Rebecca has a beautiful blog, and in today's post, she shared photos of the cutest clothesline her husband made, for their sweet little daughter--*with her sweet daughter at the clothesline*. Rebecca, I just loved the clothesline. It's adorable! Thanks so much for sharing.   

Sewing and sadness

A Simply Lovely Life

Hello, sweet friends. I took the above photo of Rosie, late yesterday afternoon. She had been working away on this lovely pellise in the prettiest cornflower blue, cotton gauze fabric, using the Regency Spencer/Pelisse pattern on this page for the back, and her own design for the front. I was able to get a couple photos, of it nearly completed last night. It was just before night fell and I thought the colors and light were so pretty in the photos.



The fabric is very light and fluid, and gracefully, softly billows in the slightest breeze of movement.



The bodice is fully lined. The sleeves and skirt are unlined.



The sad news, is that Rosie's beloved black lab of many years, Midnight, died in the middle of the night, last night. He has been ill, and thankfully James was the one to discover that he had quietly passed away in the night, and not Rosie. I was so grateful for that. Midnight's story is unique in that he wasn't an easy dog. Actually taking him into our home and keeping him, was one of the most difficult things we've ever done, in many ways for our entire family, but mainly for Rose, who willingly took on full resposibility of his care, when just a young slip of a girl.

We adopted him from a dear friend's, precious sister when she was no longer able to keep him, due to a bad situation. He was an incredibly high needs special dog that had separation anxiety, and myriad other troubles to a degree that I never would have thought possible in an animal. He was about 3 years old when we he came to make his home with us, and has been lovingly and patiently cared for and sacrificed for, by Rosie, for over 10 years.

There is no pain like watching one of your children suffer physically and I say this knowing that many of you have endured far more pain in this way than I ever have--and how my heart most deeply, sincerely goes out to you. And, there is very great pain, as well, in walking alongside our children when they suffering deeply within their hearts, emotionally. It has been one of the most difficult aspects of mothering for me. We have experienced the loss of several of the children's beloved animals over the years, and I don't think it ever gets any easier for me, to watch them make their way through death and loss of a dear friend that they deeply loved.

There were many, many tears this morning, coming with a bit less frequency now, as the day draws to a quiet close. What remains is the heavy sense of sadness and loss--amidst the many memories, that only diminishes with time. Rosie loved him so devotedly. God truly blessed Midnight by entrusing him to Rosie's care, as all along, the fact that he was so very difficult and challenging merely endeared her tender heart to him all the more, despite the fact that it meant ongoing sacrifice in countless ways to love and care for him, all through the years. How I love and respect her for it. I'm so thankful to be the one to hold her close and love her, tenderly, carrying her in my heart, feeling with her, hurting for her, while she carries her pain of having loved and cared deeply, and saying farewell.

Warmly, Jewels

Whiling away the afternoon

A Simply Lovely Life

One of the things I especially love about getting up early in the morning, is the fairly inevitable nap that follows in the early hours of the afternoon. I enjoyed the sweetest rest, sound asleep and far away in dreamland, curled up beside Celeisa, air conditioner on full swing, not a care in the world. I'm finishing up an incredible book by Bruce Olson, called "Bruchko, The Motilone Miracle". We've been huge fans of "Bruchko"--it's one of our family favorites, and I've been totally absorbed in this sequel the past few nights and nap times. I can't wait to crawl into bed, later tonight, and force my eyes to stay open just long enough to finish it up. Oh the scramble that's going to ensue, for who gets it next! Maybe we'll have to draw names.

The sewing machine, set up in it's sunny outdoor sewing room , was working overtime, today. Between Rosie making a new clothespin frock bag, me finishing up my vintage dishtowels from the lovely vintage feed sack fabric from 1930's and the vintage swiss cotton eyelet lace that were both found at Lin's treasure trove, and Julia finishing up yet another little top and reversible smock, for Celeisa, it was humming non-stop throughout the long lazy afternoon.









The sun was shining on and off throughout the day, each time poking it's head out for shorter and shorter intervals 'til finally disappearing completely, overtaken by storm clouds, thunder and lightning, which are presently putting on a really big show! We haven't had a storm in a good long while. The air has that wonderfully misty-balmy feel, like we're in a tropical rain forest--I love it.

I'm looking forward to some putsing around and weeding in the gardens, weather permitting, tomorrow. The earth nice and soft and everything lush and green. I think I'll hang my new apron aside on a hook and grab an old friend, before I make my way out there--all in the name of keeping it fresh, crisp and fairly new looking just a wee tad longer.

I've so enjoyed hearing about your full and busy days and precious families, and just loved all your beautiful birding experiences and adventures. Thanks so much for taking the time to share. What a blessing it is for me, and my family, and for everyone else that visits, too, when you do.

Enjoy the rest of this lovely day, and have a wonderful week's end.

Warmly, your friend, Jewels

Grandma's Apron

A Simply Lovely Life

Grandma's Apron

The principle use of Grandma's apron was to protect
the dress underneath, but along with that, it served
as a holder for removing hot pans from the oven;
it was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on
occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.

From the chicken-coop the apron was used for carrying
eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to
be finished in the warming oven. When company came
those old aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids
and when the weather was cold,
grandma wrapped it around her arms.

Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow,
bent over the hot wood stove.
Chips and kindling-wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.
From the garden it carried all sorts of vegetables.
After the peas had been shelled it carried out the hulls.
In the fall it was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.

When unexpected company drove up the road,
it was surprising how much furniture that old apron
could dust in a matter of seconds.
When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out on the porch
and waved her apron, and the men knew it was time to come in
from the fields for dinner.
It will be a long time before anyone invents something
that will replace that old-time apron.

Author unknown--to me

The gals and I typically wear a very simple full apron that we just make up without a pattern, that has straps that crossover in the back. A dear friend of ours had a lovely Japanese apron, that was given to her by family, living in Japan. It was nearly identical to ours, but for the slight variation in the straps, and a button closure at the waist. So, this is the latest style we've been making; just a simple, basic apron for popping on in the mornings and wearing throughout the day. This one is made out of a burgundy, cotton homespun. 

As you may have noticed, we're big fans of aprons. I don't think a single one of us feel completely dressed in the morning (at least not ready to dive in and do anything of real significance) 'til we've put one on! We enjoy making all different types, but this is one of our particular favorites. Although I don't have a pattern for this, it wouldn't be at all difficult for you to figure out something similar, on your own, just by looking at mine.

Back when I had the drawing for the makings of a journal, Big Papa suggested that I perhaps do something every month or so that would be an encouragement to the dear ones that visit, in their priceless, indispensable role as wives, mamas, grammies and the ones that make home the especially cozy, warm and inviting place of love and beauty that it is.

So, I've thought about it, and have decided that it might be nice to have a drawing this month, for some lovely homemaking supplies. Some basic and simple, but special things that take doing many of the essential things of keeping a family and home to the next level--making them a true joy and delight.

So, I've gathered a few things for this gift:

Some Mrs. Meyers Clean Day supplies
dish soap
scouring powder
a nice big bar of her soap
and the very best, I have to say (are you listening Suzanne? :o)
some of her ironing spray.

And, I thought that after we do the drawing I could find out the favorite color of the dear one whose name is drawn, and we could sew up an apron for her to slip into before she sets to work with all of her delightful smelling Mrs. Meyers goodness. I'm not sure yet, just what style, but a full apron--something nice.

And, I have a couple of very pretty hand knitted dishcloths, too.
I know this would be inspiration for me, to roll up my sleeves and set to work, even if it wasn't springtime.

Please do know that everyone is most welcome to join in, it makes no difference at all where you live. I'd be happy to send it out to you (do you hear that Jenny, Maud, Yvonne, Fiona........... :o)

Anyone that's interested just let me know. I guess the easiest way would be to just let me know here in the comments, then I won't lose anyone. It worked out well last time.

How about I'll draw the name in 10 days, and that will give those that are only able to visit occasionally a chance to see this post and take part if they'd like. I also know there are many that visit, but don't have the time or inclination to leave a comment. Please feel entirely free to pop in, and join in for the drawing. I'd love to *see* you, too :o)

You guys are *so* very sweet. Truly, thank-you for your kind and loving words of encouragement and care. And thank-you for thinking of us and praying for us. Big Papa, too, was very touched by your all the lovely notes and warm thoughts, and even a special visit (thank-you dearest Paul). We were all so blessed. Thank-you.

We had a great weekend, and today was a wonderfully full and busy Monday, with lots of sunshine and a nice cool breeze. I got some nice photos on Sunday, many of them of--of all things--clouds, which were captivatingly beautiful! They really were so gorgeous and awe inspiring, and the sky was the most amazing blue. "*And*", I said to myself, "well, there must be some other cloud lovers among us. It couldn't possibly be just me! I mean, look at all the flower lovers! So, for you fellow cloud lovers I am *really* sorry to get you all excited, only to let you down, and have you have to wait until tomorrow to see them, but that cosy nest of mine is sweetly singing my name, and I am headed it's way.





Sleep well tonight and have a lovely, lovely, day, tomorrow. Thanks again, for being so sincerely caring and kind.

Warmly, Jewels

P.S. If I take the time to go over this I'll be too tired to get in my two pages of my book. So, I know you'll entirely understand that I'm counting on you, to kindly overlook the gazillion typos if you happen upon this before I get up, and nurse the baby, bathe, eat my breakfast, brush my teeth, change a diaper, dress a few littles, do some dishes, etc...etc...etc..... and get back here to "fix" it :o)

Long ago and here and now

A Simply Lovely Life

The day passed quickly, far more quickly than I would have liked. After a nice breakfast together everyone scurried to pick up the house and wrap up morning chores, so they could move along to their projects; many and varied, that had been laid aside since late yesterday afternoon.

Rosie, very kindly sewed another lovely dress for me, using the same foundational Elizabeth Lee nursing dress pattern, that she made for me, here, with changes again made to the neckline, sleeves and skirt. I love the simplicity of this particular one, made with a perfect summer weight, navy blue hemp fabric. It's very nice.



It was hot, today. So hot, that I just kind of drifted off in a daydream for a bit rather than taking a real nap, and spent a deliciously long lazy window of time looking back over years and years past in my childhood. I was remembering, it seemed, every little aspect of our summer visits to Arkansas to visit my wonderful relatives on my dad's side of the family; namely, Aunt Virginia, Uncle Ott, and though there were several dear cousins, Janet was always the brightest star in my dreamy, week long, summer universe.

They lived up on a mountain, the very same place my dad had spent his boyhood. Words can't describe the thrill that was mine, ears popping as we made our way up the mountain, 'til finally, we turned off and began to wind down the long, long, beautiful dirt country roads. Houses were very few and far between, and I had the way memorized, in my mind and in my heart.

The large brick house, 2 big porches--one on the front and one on the side, each with a loud, creaking, slamming, wooden screen door. The dogs barking, and the inexpressible delight of hearing my dad being called by both his first and middle name in that lovely sing-song southern way. Arriving in the middle of the night and soon enough being thoughtfully ushered off to bed. Flopping down on feather-ticked beds high off the floor, open windows, the darkest night and crickets chirping a rhythmic tune that worked it's wonder against my excitement, and carried me off to the morning, when and where I would wake up beside my beloved cousin, Janet--older, feistier and as she would repeatedly assure me far wiser and braver than me. Smiling deep inside, that no, it was not a dream.

Out of bed bright and early, laughter and merry chatter. Plates piled high with fried eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, and gravy. The gentle love and sweet hospitality of Aunt Virginia and Uncle Ott wrapping it's arms around me, drawing me in, and bringing me home, which is just what it always seemed to be.

Soaking in big metal washtubs filled with ice cold well water, outside beneath the warm southern sun, riding horses, doing dishes, playing restaurant, going to school, swinging on the porch swing, walking through the woods, talking and talking and talking about life and what we loved--all with Janet. I loved her so.

Days, like today, passing all too quickly, one blending into the next, drinking in every sweet hour, until all too soon, we were packing up the car and preparing to head 12 hours north, to home, faster pace and city ways. How very much, it seemed, we left behind.

But, my heart holds treasured memories--too numerous to number, from those summerly visits to that cozy spot hidden in the woods and hills of Arkansas. I always thought for surely that I would live in Arkansas when I grew up, it seemed so much part of me, like an arm or a leg, an eye, a heart--the friendly people that I didn't know, smiling and waving as they rocked in their chairs on their front porches while we passed by, okra, and hound dogs, and biscuits and gravy and sweet iced tea. I just knew I would, but somehow, I never did, and it seems, perhaps, I never will. But, oh the deep--seeded gladness that was sown in my heart and has been carried with me, living and growing ever since--wherever I've gone and is a part of me, wherever I am.

My beloved sister, Sherry; my deep-heart-near-twin, of childhood, (though I was older by 2 and 1/2 years) paid me one of the highest compliments of my adult life, while visiting with me in my home one summer. She smiled her warm kindred smile and knowing just what it would mean to me, said, "being here is just like being at Aunt Virginia's house". For my children's sake, how I would so like to believe, that in part, it might be so.

I'm nursing the baby to sleep while typing with one finger. Rosie is on the big king-sized bed, that's beside me, reading aloud from "Little Town on The Prairie", while the little ones quiet their hearts after a full and busy day, spent mostly eating and playing outdoors, in the fresh air and sunshine.

Aimaija completed this, her first real clothing sewing project with Julia's help. She's extremely proud of it. It's a little gathered skirt, like Sophia's horse skirt she recently made for *her*self, with a ruffle on the bottom.





Some of my favorite photos from throughout the day.

Little lady, in her little house.



And her little friend comes to call.



Summer hair.

Twisted up.



Braided.



Pig-tailed.



Ponied.



Swirled and curled.



Flowers from the garden.



A simple treasure.

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Our lovely outdoor situated sewing room.



A sisterly chat.



And, a sweet kiss from a littlest sis, that's just picking up speed in knowing how.



Dressed up, and playing house.



And James' and Joseph's new truck that they're so very proud of. They had saved up, and went right over and gave the man cash, the day after they made the deal. I'm so happy for them and so very proud of them, too.



Another day, with innumerable small things that matter to me in such a large way-- like lovely flowers gathered along a walk down a quiet country lane, pressed into my memory--for always.

I hope your day held the makings of many treasured memories, too.

Thanks very much for taking the time to come by, and truly, thanks so much for all your kind and loving notes and letters, and for taking the time to share your lives with me. It's been the sweetest kind of gift.

Your friend, Jewels.

Pleasant Peasantry

A Simply Lovely Life

While Rosette, Chubb, and I headed out to go shopping with the little ones, today, Julia stayed behind--with James and Joseph, who were busy with projects of their own, and settled in to do some more sewing--this time for herself.

Using this pattern she made a cute peasant top, and using this pattern, she made a simply sweet, linen skirt with a flounce. Having traced off her pattern and washed all of her fabric last night, she had everything prepared and ready to go, this morning.

After we had gone, she pinned the pattern pieces to her fabric, got the pieces cut out, and had everything completely sewn by the time we arrived back home in the late afternoon. These were the trial runs/or muslins, which are firstly sewn to make sure that everything is just the right size and way she'd like it to be. She'll make just a couple of changes to the blouse, as the skirt, for the others to follow that she plans to make.



I've been asked where we purchase most of our fabrics. When we do purchase them (as a great deal of our lovely fabric has often been gifted to us by kind friends) we have a wonderful fabric shop that has nice fabrics at heavily discounted prices, as well as our regular local fabric stores which is where I will most times go, to get what I need if it's in our "personal fabric store", upstairs :o) It is nice to be able to actually see the colors and patterns of the fabrics in real life, as well as feel the weight and drape, to gauge the quality and what it would best be suited for. Most times, we're matching fabrics, as well, so it's helpful to be able to have, let's say, a skirt fabric in hand, and then quickly scan for the possible options among the myriad choices that it might be nice partnered with it. We have many times purchased fabric online as well , and there are some incredible sources.

Thankfully, since Julia needed new skirts and some new blouses to go with them, JoAnne's Fabrics had one of their great sales going on (which is still presently running, for anyone that's interested). Linen, our particular favorite for skirts, was/and is, 40% off, and all the quilting cottons that we chose for her blouses, were/and are, 30% off. So, that worked out wonderfully well. Also, for those that are looking for patterns, all of the Butterick Patterns are, as I type, 99 cents each.

Though you can't tell very well, due to the lighting in the photos, the linens for the skirts are black, blue, natural, and chocolate brown. Though the blues do have a hint of purplish to them, they are not nearly as purple as they came out looking in the photos. Then she has an assortment of pretty cotton prints that she'll be sewing up her new blouses from.



Kelly asked about  a sturdy, full coverage apron pattern, so for Kelly and anyone that's interested, here are a couple of patterns that we found for aprons, just recently, that were Butterick patterns and are on sale right now for 99 cents each. Both can be made of nice sturdy fabric, and have good coverage; this one, a Butterick See and Sew pattern, is a basic cobbler apron and more on the utilitarian side, while this one, is a bit more feminine and soft, and can be somewhat frilly. Both would be easy to make. There are *many* apron patterns to choose from, and we particularly like vintage apron patterns. Nice sturdy practical aprons are super easy to make without a pattern, both full and half, but it might be best for someone beginning to just find a nice pattern that you like and go from there. And remember, most of the main brands of patterns go on sale for 99 cents each, on occasion. So, you can wait until the pattern you like does go on sale, if it isn't presently. It's really worthwhile to get the store's sale fliers. JoAnne's gives you a coupon in their monthly flier that is good for 40%, or is it 50% off of one item, which can be a piece of fabric--any length.

Many of you have asked me a good number of sewing questions, and I'll try and share any helpful information that I can think of along the way, as I share our completed projects. For us, it seems the best way to go has been to get a couple of simple patterns, some fabric and do our very best at any given point, and wear our unique creations, proudly, even if/or when, they didn't come out as well perhaps as we would have liked. You'll for surely get better and better with each garment that you sew, and those imperfections, will only serve to add character and visual interest!

Skirts and peasant blouses are very easy to make, as are the little jumpers, pinafores and bloomers that Julia made and I shared about in a recent post. For those that have asked how I have taught the girls to sew---you are watching Julia, who is 15 continuing on in the process of learning to sew--by sewing for her little sisters and Josie, and for herself. By the time she's finished with her summer wardrobe from the fabrics above, she will have gained so much proficiency in her skill level as well as her confidence, and found much pleasure in doing so. This is the same way that Rosie learned to sew--simple projects, nice fabrics, practical, everyday things that they can actually wear and/or see someone else wearing and be proud of. Any of you dear mamas can do it, and teach your sweet daughters soon after you have just a bit of experience under your belt. The children and I have truly enjoyed learning things together, over the years. And, now they are far better at many of the things I initially sparked their interest in, than I am!

And for the flower lovin' gals..... a couple of photos of the latest blossoms in the garden.

Big Papa's lily garden--planted as a gift for him for Father's Day some years ago, is just beginning to bloom.



And the white phlox





I hope everyone's day was wonderful. Ours was so nice--the sun was shining in all it's glory, here, this first lovely day of Summer.

Warmly, your friend, Jewels.

Little Lovelies in my day

A Simply Lovely Life

Bright, sunny, daisies in profusion.

Sally Pickle gets new duds.

Sally (aka Sophia) sewed her own simple little horse skirt, today, and Julia made her a cute green and white checked peasant top to go with it.



New bedroom curtains--kindly made by Rose.





Ever more priceless love from the Littles; Peonies, Lupines, and yet to open--Phlox.



Honeysuckle, Lance-Leafed Coreopsis, Phlox, Primrose and Yarrow.



Flowers, flowers, and more flowers, welcoming summer--warm, beautiful summer.



Garden girls.





And, garden baby.



Nepeta Catmint.



New shoes

Picnicking; baby greens, gorgonzola, mushrooms, and red onions.



Dear daughters playing a duet.



Watermelon gobbling.





And duck chasing.






I hope your day was beautiful.

Warmly, Jewels

The makings of a Monday morn

A Simply Lovely Life

Chores done, fresh flower bouquets from little ones scattered about the house, opened windows, fresh air and sunshine.











Leftover clam chowder with fresh cream for lunch.



And catnaps for the hardworking earliest risers.



Project fixings laid out for the afternoon.

New curtains for my bedroom windows.



More peasant tops and bloomers for the littlest lassies.



More skirts and peasant tops for the young ladies and their mama.



The makings of a special gift for my dear dad--his belated Father's Day present (it's comin' Dad :o). Anyone care to guess what it will be? Dad, can you guess?? C'mon I know all you ladies just l-o-v-e duct tape and WD-40, and could think of a million things to do with it! Well I'll share soon as we're done.



And, some serious studying :o)



The weekend was so nice. We worked hard in the gardens, picnicked outside for nearly every meal, and spent precious time on the phone and face-to-face with loved ones. The children had hours of fun in the in the pool with Big Papa, yesterday afternoon, and crawled into bed exhausted at the end of the day. Today, is bright sunshine and truly couldn't be more beautiful. I have been so blessed by your sweet notes and words of encouragement, and truly thank-you for them. I hope you're enjoying these last few days of springtime as summer comes peeking, just around the corner.

Warmly, Jewels

Sunshine and lemon lollipops

A Simply Lovely Life

The sun appeared again today at long last, shining warm and bright in all it's undisputed glory. How good it felt to stretch our wings and make our way outside, after being tucked away in the house for days. A busy morning of the usual things, after a nice lunch of re-heated and enjoyed all over again enchiladas, James (nearly 19) and Joseph (17) had work to do and some errands to run, Rosie settled in to pick up where Julia left off with the sewing, whilst Julia and Chubb indulged in a nice long dip in the pool with all the Littles, minus Celeisa.

Celeisa chose rather to curl up long and lazy beside her mama, fill her belly with sweet warm mama's milk and drift away for two hours or more. Nestled in beside her it wasn't long before my breathing slowed, falling in line with hers, pulling me away to a deep peace of sleep. Another window of loveliness, too deep and wide for words. For such times I am so grateful. I love being a mother.

The afternoon, beyond the naptime, seemed to stretch out for hours beyond "real time", slowly meandering--time on the swing doing some hand-sewing with the little ones alternately curled up by my side and hopping off to run and play, and the older ones gathered around in chairs as we talked and laughed in the blissful perfect brightness of the day---which by and by made it's way into the welcoming hour of Papa's coming home.

Tables set outside, cloths spread over them, china and glass, dijon chicken breasts, brown rice, steamed broccoli and cauliflower, corn, iced lemonade and watermelon.

After the leisurely gathering and catching up over supper, Papa took the little ones just down the road to the playground while the older children and I chatted away with more laughter--clearing the tables, washing the dishes, and putting away the food. My days with them have passed by more quickly than I ever could have imagined they would. How I love being their mother and friend.

Another day--another gift from God, of life and love; of shared food and sunshine, music, lemon lollipops, conversation, kissing, hugging, holding, singing, napping and dreaming, joy and laughter, tears, comfort, hope and understanding. In the midst of the darkness and difficulties, pain, sorrow and sufferring that this life inevitably holds, let us take the joy that is held out to us, when and as it is, throughout the many moments of each day--in it's most simple, basic, and too often overlooked shapes and forms. And let it make it's happy home in our hearts, welling up and overflowing to those He's entrusted to our care, as well as those He places in our way.





One of four little matching peasant blouses from the first freshly-dyed-fuschia sheet--with plenty of fabric to spare for more. Pockets for holding treasures made from the four corners of a vintage table runner and applied with a simple backstitch. A running stitch arcross the top gathers it in, just right.





More simple summer fare:

~~Dijon Chicken Breasts~~

Juice from 2 lemons
1/3 cup of brown sugar
2-3 Tbsp of dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper

Family pack of chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise

~~Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Mix first 5 ingredients
Pour over chicken and bake for 10-15 minutes or until no pink remains inside.

These are very quick and simple to make and so good!



Very delicious and lovely served with brown rice or brown rice pilaf. You might even want to double the mustard mixture, because it's very nice spooned over the rice at serving time.



And as this lovely day draws to a close, we bid you sweet adieu as we drive off into the sunset, in our lovely new (to us) $5.00 automobile ......



Yes, we're shifing into gear and going, now--off to bed. Sleep well, sweet dreams, and a lovely new day to greet you, with the breaking of the dawn.

Toad, of "The Wind in the Willows"?



Warmly, Jewels

It seams we're still in stitches

A Simply Lovely Life.

I was, today, the happy recipient of a lovely new linen frock--a gift from my dear pal, Rosie. The fabric is a very nice floral-printed linen that has a graceful drape--not as soft and fluid as a tencel or rayon, but just perfect for a cool and airy, feminine, but sturdy, everyday dress.



The dress is nursing accessible, and is foundationally based on this Elizabeth Lee pattern, with changes made to the bodice, sleeves, and skirt.

She placed two darts on the back bodice for shaping, and positioned an inverted pleat directly under each dart on the skirt back. She also made two inverted pleats on the skirt front, situating them right in line with the princess lines (the outside edges of the nursing overlay) on the front bodice. The inverted pleats add enough fullness to the skirt that the dress can be worn during pregnancy, as well as for nursing.

Rosie kindly agreed to model the dress for me, so that I could photograph it.







A number of you have written with questions in regards to learning to sew; for yourselves, as well as teaching your precious children to sew. I do have a few thoughts that I hope might be somewhat helpful.

I pretty much taught myself to sew when I was about 25, though I was blessed to spend a late evening under the tuteledge of a dear friend, who was, and is, a gifted seamstress that also spoke my (sewing) language. It was her gentle encouragement and free spirit that launched me into sewing without fear of failure, and gave me the confidence to just jump in and try new things, considering them all (successes and disappointments) part of my education.

I began my journey of learning to sew, with very simple patterns (following just what the pattern said, with little, or no, variation) and basically made the same garment (in different fabrics), numerous times. Once I had done this with several patterns, it all made sense to me, and I was able to move on to more difficult things.

I've taken the very same laid back approach to teaching my girls to sew (and my sons can sew a little bit, too); kind of the same approach I used to teach them to read, and just as they all love to read, and do so every spare moment, they likewise love to sew.

I had them begin with the simplest projects, which were easy enough for them to accomplish successfully and brought immediate gratification. How very exciting for a five year old, to sew up their very own skirt, put it on and wear it straightaway. How inspiring to go to the fabric store and pick out kitten, chicken, butterfly or polka dotted fabric and matching thread, knowing that it's for something they're actually going to sew---for themselves (with the tiniest bit of help--barely noticeable to them in them in their excitement, from their closest pals).

Little gathered skirts with two side seams, an elastic casing and a hem are all straight sewing on the machine and are just adorable on little gals. This is how it all began for my daughters; first Rosie, then Julia, and now Sophia.

It's all happened so naturally that I had to sit down with Rosie, today and ask---"How did I teach you girls to sew? When did it all begin?". And, we immediately looked at Julia and Sophia each at a different stage of learning and proficiency, and realized that they're just modeling what they're seeing from day-to-day around them, and jumping in as they're gently included; no pressure, no urgency, just relaxed, enjoyable and fun.

For myself, I initially used really basic patterns (with little, to no, variations from the pattern) to create very simple garments. The opportunities for time to sew, in those early days, usually presented themselves in the evenings after the children were in bed for the night, or during their naps (if I didn't nap with them). As I developed some proficiency, I was able to pull things out during the day and do it alongside my children, including them. As I made clothing, dolls, and doll's clothes, they also made clothing, dolls and doll's clothes--with my help, encouragement and praise. I think children tend to love just about anything that means good times, love and laughter, with their mama and/or daddy.

I do want to say in regards to sewing or anything really, what mattered most to me primarily and overall, was that the foundational things be flowing smoothly and my home be orderly and filled with peace, joy, sweet attitudes, and loving relationships, which as you know require so much time. With sewing or any beyond-the-basics activity, programs, lessons, if my home and the relationships within our family began (or presently begin) to show signs of not running smoothly and'or suffering in any way, I'd immediately put whatever it might be that was upsetting the applecart (of essentials) on hold, or even completely set it aside for a season--whatever was (and is) required to get back to the point of smooth sailing, peace and harmony.

God has been so faithful to show me, if, and when, to let go of anything (for now, or for a while) and has always been likewise faithful as I've listened and followed, to give rich fruit in countless areas--in His way, in His time, without sacrificing the things that are foundationally, and in the long run, most important. This said, don't get discouraged if learning to sew is a bit slower process than you might expect, or, if you give it a try and timewise just don't seem to be able to fit it in, for now, especially if you have little ones. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of you heart, far beyond what you could ever hope or imagine. When the time is right it will be a joy to learn, for you and for your children.

Thanks very much for coming by to visit, and thank-you for your kind words of encouragement, I've so appreciated and been blessed by them. If you've emailed me, I'll get back to you soon as time allows.

Have a great evening and a beautiful day, tomorrow.
Warmly, Jewels

Sewing seeds of kindness

A Simply Lovely Life

Julia, has been busy sewing away, once again. She's 15 and like her older sister, Rosie, loves to sew. Though she's always got something in the planning or the works, every so often around here, we do a run-on sewing blitz, to stock up and/or freshen up the wardrobes with whatever it is that whomever might be needing. Presently, that would be warm weather dresses, smocks and bloomers for the little gals.

Using this pattern, she made matching smocks for Sophia, Aimaija, and Celeisa. And, using the bloomer/pantaloon pattern on this page, she made two pairs of matching bloomers, apiece, to go with them. She started yesterday, and finished everything up, this afternoon. Rosie lent a bit of a hand doing some of the serging on the bloomers, and I spent a leisurely couple hours of the afternoon, out on the swing watching over and chatting with the little ones, and my older sons, James (soon to be 19) and Joseph (17) while attaching all the buttons. Each little smock is reversible which is especially nice.

She is also nearly done with another cute set--identical to these, for her little niece (my first little grandbaby girl), Josie, and will finish that up, hopefully, tomorrow afternoon, along with the next set(s) of matching smocks and bloomers for all the gals, that are nearly completed--again, from the same patterns, which are both favorites of ours. We still have to sew up the quickly made little peasant tops to go under them, but had these little pink knit shirts to pop on, for now, to give the smocks and bloomers a trial run.

Lori asked me about my journal/scrapbook/to do list. Hello Lori :o) Yes, it is my near daily "to do list", and is very helpful and inspiring to me at the beginning of the day, as well as serving as somewhat of a journal for all of us to look back on in the days ahead. It's very simple, nothing fancy at all, decorated with favorite inspiring and beautiful photos, cut from magazines (most of them very kindly given to me, by my lovely friend and next-door neighbor, Judy) and pasted in. The cutting out is something that I can do while watching little ones play, and though I might like to go through the lovely pictures in the magazines numerous times, it seems they just tend to accumulate, and I never do. So, this way, I also get to enjoy the pictures again and again as I refer to the present day's entries, or go back over my past day-to-day thinkings and doings. I keep a black hard cover 8x10 sketch book (you can get them at Walmart inexpensively), a stack of magazines, folder with all of the previously cut out photos in it, glue sticks, scissors, tape and pens, in a basket, so that everything is already at the ready for me to pull out, or gather up and take out-side. It's very relaxing for me, and once you have some photos clipped out, the pages are all decked out and ready to write on, in no time. The little ones like to cut and glue and paste from nature and zoo magazines in their little journals right alongside me, too. So, it's something simple that we can enjoy, together, while the older ones are tending to other things.

I do hope that each one of you, had an especially lovely day. Thanks so much for taking the time to come by.

Warmly, Jewels

On the sewing table

A Simply Lovely Life

Happpy first day of June. I hope it's an especially lovely one for each of you and your precious families. The sun is shining brightly, and things are in full swing here, this morning.

Yesterday, the girls and I began our warm weather sewing preparations in earnest. Fabrics washed and ready to be cut out, we now need to decide on exactly which patterns we'll use for whom/for what, and the correct size (as everyone's grown--again :o) We'll get the pieces for any new sizes needed, traced-off on Swedish Tracing Paper, cut out, labeled, ironed neat and tidy and ready for us to begin. Once everthing is cut out I like to keep the pieces and the pattern envelope, for each pattern, together in a gallon-sized ziplock bag. This seems to be the best way for me to keep everything orderly and easily accessible, for my next opportunity to sew.

We've decided upon a couple of different styles of smocks, a simple little underdress (same pattern for Sophia, Aimaija, and Celeisa, and hopefully Josie, too), and bubbl-ish under-knee length bloomers to go underneath.

Yesterday we finished up this simple, sweet reversible smock for Aimaija. She's been so cute about it, following me around all morning hugging me in her delightedness, saying things like......

"Thank-you Mama, for this dress", "I really like this dress, Mama" and "Don't forget this is my dress, Mama", "this is *my* dress"......more hugging, kissing, etc..... :o) All this and we don't even have the bottonholes made and the buttons sewn on, yet :o) But, I'm sure she'll see to it that we do get them on, in record time.

I used a pink cotton gingham fabric for the underside and for my favorite side, I used an ancient Hanna Andersson summer dress of mine. The fabric is really lovely (kind of looks like a watercolored-woodcut-printing in the prettiest shades of pink, rose, gold, teal, wheat and purple) and I'll be so happy to spend another Summer enjoying it--this time around, on Aimaija in it's new life as a little pinafore. I plan to use the same gingham for her bloomers and maybe a solid linen for the underdress. I've been gathering (and very thankfully have been given) some nice fabrics and will also be re-purposing quite a few more--no longer worn in their present form garments--that are quite pretty with alot of life left in them, for the big Warm Weather Sew Fest, which has officially begun. And, according to the weatherman---just in the nick of time.







I'm off to quickly finish up lunch, get a couple more loads of laundry out on the line, and water the outside potted plants. Then, I'll be hanging up my apron for the afternoon, loading up the little ones and heading to the city to shop for food, with Rosie. We plan to swing by our couple of favorite thrift shops along the way and do a quick bit of treasure hunting, which is always fun. I do hope your day is beautiful, filled to overflowing with life and love.

Jewels

Simple Day Dress

A Simply Lovely Life

I was delighted to find a simple, old dress with set-in sleeves, a nicely collared, v-necked button down bodice, and a-line skirt that I really liked, at a local thrift shop--for very cheap. Though I didn't especailly care for the fabric (fiber content or design) that it was made of, nor for the fact that it buttoned all the way down the front, I really liked the foundational design and knew it would be just perfect to use to draw my own pattern from, easily making a few changes and adjustments. This way the girls and I would have the pattern, and could use it to sew up as many of the dresses as our hearts desired, in our choice of fabric, with numerous options for sleeve, collar, and skirt variations--all very simply.

So, soon as time allowed I traced off the pattern from the original dress onto Swedish Tracing Paper, adding in seam allowances and sewed up this muslin out of a discontinued, and therefore inexpensive, cotton print from a line of fabric called, the William Morris Collection, which I really liked.

I added a couple of pleats in the front as well as a couple of inverted pleats to the back and button tabs on the sides, to give it a bit more shape and definition, and was really pleased with how well it came out for a first run.

Though it fits both Rosie and me (albeit each distinctly differently) it seems to have fallen mainly to Rosie's possession for the present, because I haven't taken the time to work up pattern pieces that would allow for the front to be nursing accessible. Perhaps I will. I've told myself I'm going to every time she's had it on, I like it so much. But, so far, all talk (-ing to myself) and no action. Perhaps Rosie will do it, one day down the road, if and when the need arises in her own life, and she still has an especial fondness for the style.

Learning to stitch, alongside Mama

A Simply Lovely Life.

A kitty, that will become a patch or a pocket on a smock, a little bag, or perhaps a small framed wall hanging, in time, when it's at long last completed--we'll see. In the meantime, we're enjoying the times together, sharing and learning--Mama and her precious little woman.

Old Fashioned Bleeding Heart, in the garden

uploaded by A Simply Lovely Life.

It was pleasant quiet day, today. It's been especially nice opening the doors and windows, wide, to the brisk morning air and bright Spring sunshine. And, even nicer to have the brisk mornings give way to the mellow breeze's enveloping warmth, of the afternoons. Winter, which seemed it would never end, is beginning to seem far off and distant, and it's hard to imagine that the intensely warm days of Summer will so soon be upon us. What a joy to move freely within and without the house, having much to do in either place, now that Spring is here.

Rosie and Julia spent a few hours of the afternoon sewing; making a couple pairs of bedskirt bloomers, each, for themselves. They're very cute, made from a re-purposed sprightly looking old yellow and white checked sheet, as well as some more of the lovely fabric given to us by our beloved friend, Heather, which is also a nice old fashioned looking, cheery yellow--a striped print. Just a bit of finishing up, remaining, and they'll be ready to wear; 'round about the house, in the garden, on the trampoline....

I enjoyed the sweet indulgence of one of those too-good-to-be-true naps, that doesn't come around every day. You know, the type, where you're not only out for a couple of hours, but so deeply asleep that you awaken, slowly, pulling yourself from slumber by degrees; cloudy, drifting in and out, not knowing for those few brief moments, who you are, where you are, or just what day it is. Still more than a bit tired from the weekend, I curled up snuggly beside my littlest nursling, and only managed to make it through half a dozen pages or so of the book I'm presently reading; inspiring stories of contemporary women farmers. I fought to keep my eyes open, for just one more page, as I invariably do, but the pull was too strong, to surrender to the sweet sleep that was calling me far and away. It felt so good.

The rest of the afternoon flew by, spent for the most part, outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine.

Supper was hot out of the oven and delicious; shepherds pie and a baked pumpkin custard. After hearing all the news of Big Papa's day, and sharing ours, supper was over, the table cleared and dishes done, while the little ones were bundled in sweaters and readied for a quick sunset hike at a nearby nature trail, that runs through the woods and along the water.

We slowly meandered along the trail. So nice to all be together at the close of the day. There was good conversation, merriment and laughter along the way. All was peaceful, quietly still--beneath the light of the moon, the last leg of the journey, headed back towards the van.

















I hope that you had a nice day, too, and have a fine lovely, Wednesday.

Lovingly, Jewels

A hazy, lazy, day in May

Yesterday. Rain in the morning, hazy throughout the day. Candles lit, music playing, and plenty of time for kicking back, resting up, creating or dreamin', throughout the long lazy day.







Plenty of time for making, baking, and eating cookies,



for projects, and putsing around.

By and by the rain subsided, then stopped. And eventually, the sun, bright and warm, poked it's lovely head out, here and there, streaming through the clouds.

The quiet morning spent in-side, squeals of delight ensued, at the prospect of running about playing, out-side, late in the afternoon. Wet and muddy, jumping early into the tub, and out-to, pajamas, though by now the sun was brightly shining. Big Papa home, everyone's projects laid aside for the day, we gathered together over a simple, delicious meal of Reuben sandwiches and salad.





The littlest mouse, once again at work. This time, in her brand-spankin'-new apron, rigged up by her wonderful big sis, Sally Pickle Brown--from an old pair of jeans.

You've gotta love the lazy days, hidden away--in the house, at home--and all the good stuff that flows from them.

Love makes the world go 'round

A Simply Lovely Life.

Violets. Carefully lifted from the backyard and placed in their new home--a lovely large blue pot, on the back porch--by Nicholai, who likewise, watches over and waters them, each and every day, as an ongoing gift of love. They're beautiful. Especially beautiful, to me.

A fanciful new apron, lovingly made by Rosie. Spritzed with Mrs. Meyers Geranium Ironing Spray, pressed nice and tidy--it smells delicious. I can't wait to get up bright and early tomorrow morning, and put it on, before I begin my chores.



Sisters, and best of friends. Growing up, together. Making memories. Living in love.







My May Day was lovely. I hope yours was lovely, too.

Jewels

Happy Birthday, Beloved Josie WonderNose

A Simply Lovely Life.

Today is our precious Josie's birthday. Yes, she's one year old. How we love this beautiful, sweet, gentle, curious, amazing little girl. What would we have ever done without her? She's so incredibly, wonderful and special. I am really, really, truly lookin' forward to watching this little love bug grow and develop as the days, months, and years go by. What joy she has brought us all--immeasurably so, during this first year that we have been privileged to know and love her, and share in her little life. I'm so thankful (total understatement--where are the words??), to be her grammy, and her friend. How I love my beautiful, blue-eyed, Josie WonderNose. Thank-you God for the loving gift, of her.

Later this afternoon, Claire, Wesley, and Josie will be heading on over, and we'll be celebrating with a birthday dinner. Claire made her birthday cake, and we have a huge turkey in the oven. Soon as I finish typing, I'm off to eat my lunch, then curl up for a nap with the Littles. I was awake quite a bit last night, it was a busy morning this morning, and I'm looking forward to closing my eyes and drifting off for a bit, after storytime.

In-between-times, yesterday, I worked on what I had left to do of the dolls, and the bedding for the doll's basket. Thankfully, I was able to get everything done.

Here are few photos of it all, finished up--the mama and her little one, and the cozy spot, for them to get snugged away in. I'd wanted to make a little jumper for each, but I don't have any more time left, today. Maybe I'll get round to to that in a bit. But, for now, I'm just thankful to have gotten done what I did, in time for Josie's birthday.









And now, I'm off to eat my lunch salad, with peppered, smoked salmon, shitake mushroom dressing, and grated raw parmessan, sheep's milk cheese. I know. I know. You're wishin' you were me, right now :o)



And then rest up a bit, before our precious gal gets here, for her little celebration. I'll try and get some photos, tonight, to share, tomorrow.

Lovingly, Jewels

Here at the Homestead

uploaded by A Simply Lovely Life.

Things have been especially quiet this past week, as we've had a stomach bug making it's way through the family. Thankfully, only one or two people at a time have had it and everyone else has been able to pitch in and care for them and take over doing the extra things that have needed being done. On the downside, it takes a good long while for something to make it's way through the family when just about everyone's getting it, one or two at a time. Hopefully by this weekend, or the beginning of next week, we'll all be good as new, again.

Though quieter than usual, due to the sickness, the days are still full and busy. Seems everyone has a project going on, of some sort or another.

Yesterday, James and Joseph spent a good part of the afternoon working on the roof of the cottage, for Big Papa. They're hoping that they got everything squared away, there. Big Papa is, too. I'm so proud of the boys. They're such hard workers, and so self-motivated and ambitious. Both of them are up bright and early every morning, and out delivering papers, together. They're back by breakfast time, and then after chores and devotions are busy with schoolwork, reading, etc... pretty much the rest of the morning. Their afternoons are always a flurry of activity, this time of year, it's seems. It always makes me happy to see them get a nap in, at some point during the day, when they're able, or just zonk out while reading a book, because they're good and tired out. It's funny how your sons can be nearly six feet tall, or more (able to kiss you on the top of your head) and you can still see the image of them newly-born, or as a toddler, or a ten year old, in their precious faces. It's really special having three adult sons. But I do have to say, it's wonderful still having two young, men in the making here, too. It kind of slows things down and softens the transition, for me, as a mother. Where does the time go?? It seems I've blinked my eyes five times, and four of my children have made their way to adulthood, and I have another beautiful daughter, in Claire. You can never imagine time could pass by so quickly, til you've passed through it and are standing looking a-way back behind you, yet it still seems like yesterday. Curious thing.



Rosie and Julia have been busy sewing. They've made a few skirts, a couple of aprons, a jumper. We have been so incredibly blessed in the fabric department, lately. Our dear friend, Heather, gave us some wonderful stuff---and lots of it! So, we've been delightedly diving into that--Thanks Heath :o)

And, a fabric store fairly near to us had a fire, and closed down. We drove by on our way to get milk one day, and were disappointed when we realized that they were gone! A couple of weeks ago, we were out grocery shopping and happened to stumble upon the place that they've relocated to--hurray! So, Rosie and I took a quick peek inside at what they had, but didn't find anything that particularly suited our fancy.

On our way out, I was having a nice chat with the lovely woman that works there and does upholstering out of the shop, and she began to tell us all the details about the fire (which thankfully was in the ceiling and merely amounted to smoke damage to their shop and fabric). It began in the very early morning, while she, a real early bird, happened to be there --and thus able to catch it (as in, call the fire dept. to come put it out), and save all of their inventory. She also mentioned that they had a sale loft--upstairs, with all the fabric from the old shop, and that it was on sale for $1.25 a yard. She said they were selling it all at that price, because had been in the building that the fire was in, and might have the slightest hint of a smoke smell to it. Well, Rosie and I were able to quickly go through everything (which was all laid out neatly on table after table-full) and get lots of great fabric, for dresses for the Littles and aprons, etc.....and none of it smells at all like smoke. I'm just so grateful to the Lord for watching out for us and providing in that way.

This said, we're gearing up for a big up and coming, sewing spritz--warm weather frocks, smocks, and bloomers for Sophia and Aimaija, some pants for Nicholai, and some more skirts and aprons for Julia, Rosie and Mama.



I'm listening to a Robin sing outside my window, while I type. One of the very most special gifts of the morning, yes?--birdsong. It's beautiful. It was nice and warm, yesterday, we were able to get some sheets hung out on the line, in the fresh air and sunshine. And, those that were feeling well, enjoyed the afternoon, outside, mainly putsing around in the gardens and getting things all comfy-cozy-like, in the little ones playhouse--Little House, for them. Have I ever mentioned that sometimes I feel like we've read the Little House on the Prairie series so many times in this family, that we have somehow, by close association, *become* The Little House on the Prairie. I think it may have all began, away back with Caroline and Charles. Whatdayathink?? Hmm... (starry-eyed), maybe that means I *will* eventually get that woodcookstove, one day, and that treadle sewing machine......

The latest and greatest delight of the little ones is typing on the electric typewriter, that one of the boys brought in from the cottage. I guess typewriters have always been a hot item around here, over the years. Well, the latest crop of typists have been really busy, laboriously hunting and pecking out, "story" after "story"! We've got some seriously *creative/unusual/interesting* writing, going on, here. I had to smile when one of them simply, typed out the entire alphabet, and then typed the word elfubit, beneath it. Oh, I do love watching the children blossom and grow. They learn at such an incredibly fast rate when they're young, and have such an insatiable love for learning and creating, don't they. It's amazing.



Yes, children are so much fun. Yesterday, Nicholai took a stick about a foot long and carved it and sanded it, and made me a knife. It's so nice, a real beauty! I said, "hey!, I can tuck that right over here (as in on my desk) and use it as a letter opener!" and he got a real solemn look on his face, kind of scrunched up his nose, acted like he hadn't really heard me, and said........"this knife would be really good for chopping up vegetables in the kitchen", I smiled to let him know we were now on the same page, and said, "yes, I'll be chopping up vegetables with it, tomorrow, in the kitchen. I can't wait to try it out".

Well, I hope that each one of you have an especially lovely day. It's such a magical time of year--Spring. I can't wait to see what's poking it's head out of the ground, today.

Lovingly, Jewels

Quiet days and quiet ways

A Simply Lovely Life

Hand sewing, especially embroidery, is one of my favorite ways to spend the quiet moments in my days. I so enjoy sewing on the machine, but time and energy don't always allow for it. During those times when I'm not able to get out my bigger projects and and take over the entire big dining room table, it's nice to be able to grab one of my labor-of-love, work-in-progress, projects, and sit on the couch with the little ones gathered around me, learning by my side, or enjoy a lazy day rock in my rocking chair, in my little corner of the world.

This is one of my most recently completed--a small embroidery embellishment on the pair of bloomers that Rosie made for Celeisa, a ways back (remember, the matching frock, shirt, and bloomer outfits that Rosie and I made for Celeisa and Josie? Rosie made Celeisa's and I made Josie's.). Well, here's Celeisa's pair, completed using a stitching pattern by Hillary at Wee Wonderfuls--who has so many cute designs to choose from. I hope to do a little something on Josie's, too, if Claire will let me steal them away for awhile. 

the front....



And, the back....





Some projects require time spent on the machine, and a bit of hand sewing as well. So, I'm able to work on the machine sewing while the younger children are asleep, or busy playing outside with their older pals. Then, for the hand sewing that remains, I can tuck it in a basket to be pulled out during the quiet moments, of any given day, savored an enjoyed.

I've been busy working on a birthday gift for my beautiful little grandbaby girl, Josie WonderNose. It's a little mama doll, and her baby. I've gathered some pretty floral fabric and a checked print, both cotton, and hope to make a sling or wrap for the mama--just her size, some bedding, and look around town, for a small basket bed to snug them both in. Her birthday is April 19th, and she'll be one year old. I could not for one moment imagine my life, or our family, without her. Claire and Wesley are so blessed. To think that she'll continue to bring them and all of us, ongoing joy, in the many days that lie ahead. God is good. How we thank Him for the gift of her. May we hope for many days, yet live each one as though it may be the last.

I'll share some photos with you when I get them finished, and the icing on the cake--perhaps some photos of sweet Josie with her babies.

So, here's a little peek at what I have done so far....



I still have to snatch a few more of those quiet moments to finish it up, and I'm so looking foward to it. The quiet moments of love, thinkin' about and sewing for, my precious little grandbaby gal. I'm so very thankful to be, her Grammy.

I hope that your weekend was a time of rest and relaxation, recharging from the busy week gone by, and for the busy week, ahead. Peaceful rest, for you, and those you love.

Thanks so much for taking the time to visit, and for the loving, friendly notes, you take the time to send. I do so enjoy hearing all that's happening in each of your lives, and families. We all do.

Much love, from our family to yours.
Jewels

As tough as they come, and as soft as they get...

A Simply Lovely Life.

As everyone knows, 'tis the season for capes and crowns, kings and queens, knights and fair maidens, swords, shields and battles.

When you're three years old, in the preparation for, as well as in the midst of, the battle, valuable life lessons are being learned and shared...

Your big sister makes your crown
Another big sister makes your cape
While yet another big sister and big brother
make your sword and your shield

All the while, you're looking on with wide-eyed expectancy and anticipation, as everyone's bein' readied for the battle, ahead--drinking in the stuff o' life that makes your world go happily-round; kindness, caring, friendship, and the immeasurable gifts, of imagination and time, being bestowed...

By and by, the battle's on and raging. It's fun and it's fierce, but no one gets hurt. No one's left out. And, though you be the shortest in the crowd, no matter--you're just as important as the next guy or gal, and equally feared (or so it seems), as you charge, wielding your big hulking branch sword, pushing up your crown that's once again fallen, down over your eyes.

In the warm sunshine, wind and the m-u-d, you run, jump, hoot and holler, expending all that wiggly energy you'd been storing up from the time you got into bed last night (dog-tired from yesterday's carefree, merry, fun and play) til now. Tooth and nail, sword and shield, fancy footwork, fighting hard. You give it your all, and in your heart, in the end, you're sure you won.

Pleasantly spent, at the close of the day, battle-weary, peace-filled, content, as is always the case-- what goes around comes around--and more priceless life lessons are learned and shared,

Love grows, in the tender and warm, small and precious acts of home, and the life lived, therein; the day-to-day, simple, joyous beings and doings with those that know you best, and love you most, and vice-versa.



I hope each of you and your very own kings, queens, knights and fair ladies have a beautiful day--in the livin' and lovin',  the bein' and doin'-- together. Today is special--it's never going to come round again. Grab hold of it and make it matter for now and forever.
Lovingly, Jewels

Our lovely ladies in red....

A Simply Lovely Life.

Well, it's certainly taken a little while longer than one might have expected for me to share the photos that I promised, seein's how (truth be told--just when I thought it never really would) that old friend (and more often than not--enemy) Della the laptop, did indeed sing her last swan song, whilst slowly and peacefully closing her eyes, to forever rest.

Though 'tis absolutely true, she did give me a far more than average amount of grief during the many years we were together--I shall remember her fondly, nonetheless. In fact, I've decided , in an effort to harbor no ill will against her, to now employ her as a doorstop--what do you think--pretty clever--awfully good of me (especially seein's as how I'm into wood and seashells, and everything au naturel and all, right??! :o) Yeah, ole bomber computer that I'd become more than a little bit attached to, poured my heart out to, in the good times and the bad--truth is, I'll miss her.

Wel, enough about Della--It's the lovely ladies in the red frocks that you're here to hear about, right?

So without further adieu......

the
very lovely
feminine
gentle
sweet-spirited
little mama,
and her priceless
treasures
the beloved
bambinos
one within
and one without.

After I went on and on, makin' it sound like *I* would be the one making the dress (and in my very wild and vivid imagination, perhaps really thinking and having myself believing that I would be :o)

(in the beginning and) in the end, I hereby confess, it was Rosie that made it.

Okay I said it.....

It's actually the second that she's made from this pattern--Catherine's Choice (and our dear Katherine's choice, as well :o)

The first, as you sewers will know, was a muslin--a trial run of the pattern and fitting--and was more than a bit of a flop-er-oo :o)

It evolved into a tunic, of sorts, in the end, and as some muslins are wearable and some are not.......well, this one was/and is, kinda-sorta wearable, but not really......

If (and only if, mind you) Claire wears it with a sweater over the top, and vows not to take it off, no matter how hot and uncomfortable she might get; how red and flushed her face gets, or how much she might be sweating.

Which, of course, could be pretty risky affair when all that must be taken into consideration, indeed is:

the unpredictablity of fickle New England weather,

might it be a gathering with friends and loved ones--house full of people chattering away--heat rising, rising, rising some more?

perhaps in a building, be it a home or public establishment where she may well have absolutley no power or sway over what others are wearing, which will undoubtedly determine the setting (and intensity) of the heat?

Not to mention the stress factor involved in knowing (causing one to feel more than a little warm and uncomfortable to begin with) that the dress that you're wearing isn't actually a dress at all--but an unwearable muslin--that you've artfully concealed beneath the covering of your sweater.

Have we had a few laughs and alot of fun with this funky tunic?? You betcha. Some of you may well have been having lots of fun *with* us, entirely unbeknownst to you, due to Claire's bright eyes, lovely smile, and of course, clever concealment!

Okay, so now that you've had a good laugh at Rosie and Claire's expense (they have the gift of broad shoulders :o)

I know you're dying to see this er-uhmm, how 'bout we call it--creation?? art??....

So, as a peace offering for being so late with the photos
Here ya' go!



And, amazing isn't it, that if I wouldn't have spilled the beans, you never would have known! For Rosie's sake, I'll spare you all the close-up, detail shots of the too short this, and the inside-out that, and a different sized front than the back, and on and on, etc......

Please note the sweater was forgone, and we have Josie WonderNose standing in it's stead :o)
How's that for successful distraction?!

And, amazing, isn't it, that Claire could look so composed and beautiful, in it---that you'd never have a clue, if you weren't being provided the inside scoop.

And now, back to the new (and vastly improved, I hasten to add) red dress(es) verses the old, odd--unwearable, under all but the most perfect circumstances, and even then (let's be honest) with a little discomfort--tunic.



Isn't the little matching pinafore, that Claire made for Josie, cute!







This would be a coconut shell button on the back--pretty nifty, hunh?



The good news is, that we (as in Rosie, remember?) have now moved beyond the muslin stage, with this specific pattern for Claire, so Claire is free to move into the fabric of her choice--for the for sure, real thing. No more wondering if the dress will just be a trial run, learning experience, furthering the said Rose's education :o)

Rosie's looking forward to making more dresses for Claire, and Claire is looking forward to doing some serious fabric hunting for some linen, hemp, tencel.....who knows. Whatever catches her eye and suits her fancy....looks like the sky's the limit, now!

The dress is so beautiful--and looks perfectly lovely on Claire. And, the design is wonderful for pregancy, nursing, and right on through to nursing the newest little one after it's born, as well as his or her precious big sister--who is still nursing like a champ--though I've no doubt (big-hearted sweetie that she is) will be more than willing to share :o) The pattern also has options for a non-nursing version, and a gored skirt, non-maternity version, without the gathering to accomodate a growing little one.

Count on me to keep you updated! It was worth the wait for the photos, wasn't it? :o)

It's nice to be back. I've missed saying hello. I hope you have a great day.

Lovingly, Jewels

Thanks again, Kel, for the encouragement to get back goin' again. I love you.

Busy Bees, right up 'til bedtime....

A Simply Lovely Life.

Well, I have so much to do, today, I thought about just skipping a day and not posting, 'til tomorrow.

But, since I'm in the groove of takin' lots of photos of all the day's happenings, everyday, now, I thought I'd just grab a few to share, and say a quick hello--though we all know that my "quick hellos" are often *anything but*!

Here goes.....

Well, despite the fact that I've gotten precious little sleep this past week or more, life as usual,  marches on, here at the homestead!

I guess I can't complain, though. A gal should be awfully glad, I suppose (especially an especially tired one), to have so much energy continually buzzing around her, attaching itself to her , infusing itself into her (with Paddington stares, hugs and kisses), cheering her on (pleaasse mama, you said....), holding her to commitments she unwittingly made in her dream-like, ongoing state of sleep deficiency, to keep her movin' along, when she can hardly keep her eyes propped open!

Such is the state of things, as of late. Between Sophia's foot, Celeisa's bug and latest turn of teething, and (whispering, here--though let me tell ya, the actual thing is the antithesis of any whispering I've ever heard!) Big Papa's snoring, sleep seems to only be comin' my way, in little tiny installments, with broad expanses in between. Despite which fact, I, still (creature of habit--glutton for punishment) continue to rise far before sunrise to greet the day.  Yes, this seems to somehow be the case, do or die.

Actually, the past week or more, I think I've *risen* (if we can call it that) about 10-15 times, l-o-n-g before sunrise, for this that and the other thing, by the time it's actually legal to get up, and call it a new day.

I even kind of have a new ritual going, where I have my light wedge (fancy book light) tucked into my latest and greatest read (which for all intents and purposes means the biggest, fattest, most b-o-r-i-n-g, book on my shelves)  and stuffed along the edge of the bed, down by my knees. Just right about where it's kinda-sorta, out of the way, but close enough so I can stretch to reach it without waking the (super hyper-sensitive, teething) nursling--that I've just coaxed back to sleep-- for the umpteenth time, and now focus on rising above the relentless, rythmic roar of the afforementioned snoring (non-verbal argument that b.p. has me engaged in during *his* sleep), to get myself back to sleep (though I've been asking myself--do I *really* go to sleep, at all??, or am I just dreaming that I do??)--before it's time to *rise* again.

Anyways, back to the intended quick hello and the photos......

The good thing about little children (especially your own little ones--one of the real perks of motherhood, actually)  is that  you look *good* to them, no matter how *bad*, you might actually look, in real life (exempli gratia-- to everybody else that's not crazy about you, and whose thinking and reasoning abitlities have fully matured). Not only good, but G-O-O-D........

(And here comes the downside).....

and ready, for any and everything, their great big creative imaginations can dream up. And hey, once "the cat is out of the bag", and you've done something with them, or for them, even once, they *KNOW* you can (and assume you will--are actually dyin' to) do it with them, again.... whenever the mood sweeps over them, to have a repeat performance!

But, like I said, better to be carried along on the wings of someone else's enthusiasm, than to sit, and sit, and sit, going on *molding* in your own lack of, right?!

Okay, so in the name of remaining accountable, and holding out hope to the lovely Katherine Claire--in the multi-purpose suit department, I leave you with.......yesterday's doings, despite the fact that I was more than a bit, undone.  It's Tuesday, but don't we know it---*Fry*day's comin' :o)

Claire's pattern went back to the drawing board. New pieces have been traced-off, the fabric is washed and at the ready--AND--big-hearted Kel, has even volunteered to bring out the big guns and make *pizza* for Friday's dinner, for us, if neccesary, to free me up. What a good egg, hunh! (true blue, all the way, I'll tell ya) Kel, don't worry though, just the thought of you rallying with me (and holding me accountable--thanks Rabbit :o) will, I'm sure, do the trick!

The littles, who do always seem to have boundless energy--with, like I said--enough to share, were as usual, busy right up 'til bedtime (weren't we all :o)....

Baking bread and pretzels, which we had for lunch, with a great chowder that  Rosie made (no, though you would be led to believe otherwise by the way I'm droning on and on, here--I *definitely don't* do *every*thing :o).

Were they proud of their goodies?? Hmmm, well, I **guess SO**!  All I can tell you is, I was treated like royalty, one doll-sized-slathered-in-butter-delicious bite after another. I'm obviously not too tired to eat---so I might not be quite as bad off as I've led you all to believe......for the sake of honesty, just thought I'd mention that :o)

I've been *promising*( is that what you call saying things like):

"yes, I know"
"yes, I will"
" I *know* I said I would"
"I said I would, and I will"
"I'm going to".............

in response to their begging to do something you mentioned a week ago, back when you were a normal and sane, sleeping human being??

Anyways, I've been teaching the little ones hand-sewing/embroidery, which has proven to be a highly desirable, one-to-be-oft-repeated experience--that seems to give almost as much joy in the end result(ing product) as it does in the process! Inspired by dear Amanda (sweet, crafty mama that she is) that made one just like it for her little ones (very cute, isn't it :o), I cut out this little felt bunny for Aimaija to work on.

So, with the inspiration gathered, yesterday, we continued on with our hand-sewing adventure, and *Bunny*, was born. A little felt,  a little needle, a bit of embroidery thread in various colors, a couple of buttons, a ceremonious stuffing with "fluff", and voila', Aimaija has a new "best buddy"--Bunny, that she's mighty proud of! Thanks Amanda--from both of us.

And baking and stories, and drawing, and painting.....

A brief (though welcomed, however short it may have been, or seemed) bit of unwinding and recharging, at naptime........

Then........ get up, and do it all some more....

reading stories, drawing, painting, playing outside havin' lots of fun, gettin' good and dirty, which brings us to big-bubbly bath time, at the end of the long, full day...........

Bedtime does come, just when you think it never will. And now, I know, I know. The big question is, did I sleep, *last* night?? Well, let's put it this way, about twice as long as I have any other night for the past week or so. Things are definitely lookin' up.

I'm not complaining mind you. But I ask ya... A little bit of sympathy never hurt anybody, did it??

Okay, like I said, I've got alot to do, so I can just be hangin' around here chewin' the fat with you guys all day.

Since the *helper mice* only come out at night, to lend a hand, in, "The Tailor of Gloucester" .......I've *gotta* go... :o)

All righty. I (very) quickly type the posts out (straight out of my little bean, onto the page), over at Flickr, and then send them on over to the blog. Not sure when I'll have a chance to edit this one (busy gal I am, today, and all :o). but, when I do, it may metamorphosize into something entirely different, than what it's here begun as--usually does.  For those that stumble upon it, before I get a chance to give it the going over--my apologies and best wishes--at deciphering it. Remember, be kind. I'm the woman who isn't sure if she's actually slept, or just dreamt that she did :o)

I hope your day's a wonderful one.

So thankful for this life of mine, and sendin' love your way, Jewels

Little Mama. And a little confessin'...

A Simply Lovely Life.

For the sake of .....

beauty
art
motherhood
the gift and blessing of children
a jewel in our family history...

Claire, Josie in her womb.
About one month left in the secret place, alone with her mama.

April 19th, 2006

Claire gives birth, for the first time
beautifully, naturally
hour-after-hour, into days
breathing, labor, breathing, labor
water, music, water, music
Wesley beside her
midwife assisted
yet alone, in endless time
wave upon wave
seemingly, without end
everything foreign
everything new
set apart, surreal
the very first time...

Josie enters the world, her mama's arms, nurses at her mama's breast.
head full of dark hair
eight pounds of living, breathing
incredible magnificence
Josie WonderNose

she enters our lives, our hearts
tears of joy and thanksgiving
the circle  grows
a grandbaby girl
each one of us, in love
each one of us, forever changed.



Wesley gave me the great idea of printing out the pages of the blog and keeping them as a record of the life of our family--thank-you, Wesley! Yes, I do believe, I will :o)........

Claire is now entering her second trimester, carrying her littlest love, safely tucked away--growing, changing, everyday.

Therefore, for the sake of:

necessity (this little mama could use some new duds)
inspiration
encouragement
confession
accountability
and deadlines required by procrastinators



Our latest (and longest, outstanding) project:

A nursing/maternity dress, for Claire, Josie, and the littlest babe (in his/her, mama's belly).

This dress, was (in the very far-off, long ago), initially intended to be, merely a nursing dress, for Claire and Josie. Or, was it a maternity dress, for Claire, *before* Josie was born? (if  you are following where I'm going, here :o). But, since *so* incredibly much time has elapsed without it actually getting *made*.......

Plans are being revised and this creation will now be re-designed--new pattern pieces traced off, created, and make it's big debut, as a *multi-pupose* suit--Maternity, nursing, post-partum!

(A private aside)-- I know you're getting good and excited at the thought of **a multi-purpose** SUIT, right Claire??! This means we're probably going to throw in a pair of bedskirt b-l-o-o-m-e-r-o-o-n-i-s (Get it?? Suit?!). Admit it, Claire, despite your rumblings of baby sickness, you *are* getting good and excited---all wrongs forgiven and forgotten, right? I know you are! ;o)

Yes! Yes, it will *be* (as in come into existence--pounding my fist on the computer in accentuated determination!).

Made-to-order (for 3 people....hey, how 'bout that?!)

On the double (with *both* Rosie, and me, working on it! day *and* night, if neccesary!)

This dress will be made this week, because I am sticking my neck out and doing the very thing that time has proven neccesary (very pathetic I know--Claire, thanks you for suffering through the embarrassment of it all on your end, for her sake. I will too, no doubt, when all's said,  *and* (key word here)......  *done*  :o)

making a public:
confession
announcement
and commitment!

This dress *will* be done by Friday.
Even if it means that Friday will be,
*Fry*day!  :o)

And, I will have a photo of Claire in this lovely gown, "in your hands", by next Sunday--barring the death of either camera or computer (or, g-u-l-p... seamstress ;o)

How's that??

So, here you have it
Katherine Claire's Choice:



S-o-o-n.....
To be modeled by, the lovely Katherine Claire, herself.
And, I mean it!

And, as a bonus and to assuage my guilt (despite the fact that it's  makin' me feel even *guiltier, at present*, to say so :o)

Claire is teaching herself to sew (she's super gifted at following written instructions) and her first project was a little dress/pinafore, that she made for Josie, out of this very same fabric. Really, cute!  So, maybe I'll even get a couple of photos of them, together, in their matching outfits--Hey, how's that for a bonus?? Your heart is beginning to soften towards my situation, isn't it? That's good. I'd hoped it would.

I now, leave you
truly penitent, a burden lifted from my shoulders.
A humble tigger.
An "oh, I love you, Rabbit" (that would be you guys--for saving the day :o), Tigger.
(for any of you Winnie the Pooh fans out there).

There's a pot of chowder cooking on the stove, for lunch. The little ones just finished making bread and pretzels with Rosie and now they're curled up on the couch, with Chubb in the middle, reading a few stories aloud to them. The house smells really good, and my stomach is beginning to rumble a bit, at the thought of lunch. The tiniest flurrying of snow is falling softly from the sky. Another lovely day.

I hope you, too, have a great day. Thanks for taking the time to stop in for a visit.

Lovingly, Jewels

Did it happen? Yes, it did :o)

 A Simply Lovely Life

Well, I'm thankful to be able to say, that all did go well,
and we had a really nice time, together,
celebrating Valentine's Day, and the birthdays.  Rosie
and Julia made a delicious dinner, and Julia and Chubb
made one big cake and several little cakes--especially
for the little ones.

I think the loveliest part of the whole evening, by
far, for me, was seeing Josie and Auntie Celeisa in
their matching outfits! Rosie and I, made little felt
crowns for them, too, and they really did look like little
princesses--very cute :o)

Though they do look different from each other, they
definitely do look alike, too, don't you think?
I did get some photos, but they were especially
busy bees, and I was one tired gal. Meaning, they
were *way* too fast for me, and by the time my brain
registered "there  it is, there it is....take the picture!!",
and by time I (finally) pushed the button, and my
fuddly camera came through with it's delayed response
to me having pushed the button!.........

oooops, too late! The moment had passed, and I was left
with......more than a few, bombers and bloopers :o)

For anyone that might be wondering ;o) The caffeine
from the Ben and Jerry's *did* finally wear off, about
8pm--just as the party got rolling, and I went into
turtle-mode.

Once good and tired, I kind of cruised along in that
dreamy, deep-in-thought state, for the rest of the
night, quietly drinking in each dear one around me.

When the evening drew to a close, Wesley, Claire
and Josie gone to their home and everyone here
tucked into bed, it felt *so*  good, to get snugged
in, myself, let my eyes close, in contented peace,
and drift away....to sleep :o)

So thankful, for each one of you.
So thankful, to be able to spend time with you, here.
Have a beautiful day.
Lovingly, Jewels

A Busy Day, Today....

uploaded by A Simply Lovely Life.

Just a quick hello before launching into my busy day; writing a couple letters, makin' another card or two, a bit of shopping, cooking, baking, and getting ready for the the celebration, that was suppose to be last night, but was bumped ahead to, today, due to the weather and not being able to get out and about with the little ones, for some last minute stuff, yesterday  :o)

The little ones did have fun baking some Valentine tortes for friends, yesterday, with Chubb and Julia, and making some more Valentine cards. I was able to get a few letters written and some cards done, and then, James and Rosie kindly made a couple of deliveries for me, and will make a couple more, today.

Big Papa was very sweet to me, and surprised me with the gift(s) of a  lovely orchid (how Rosie, Julia, and I all love orchids :o), some scallops and some smoked salmon!  Julia cooked the scallops straightaway, and the little ones (who are also really fond of scallops) were gathered right around me and on my lap---I enjoyed sharing them with everyone, and then gave the rest to Big Papa. We all enjoyed a nice appetizer before dinner :o)

I also received one of the sweetest Valentine (or otherwise) gifts, ever!  Nicholai and Sophia got to thinking about flowers (in the yard, no less :o) and started looking all over for flowers to make a bouquet.

Well, Nicholai's eyes landed on the Andromeda bush in the yard, and he was out there, quick as a wink (in the cold, sleeting rain), child's scissors in hand, cutting/sawing/wrestling off branches, for not one, but 5 great big huge bushy bouquets, with Sophia! Honestly words can't describe how proud of themselves they were! They asked for Julia to please light the candles to go next the bouquet that was taking up the entire middle of the dining room table---making it impossible to *see* anyone across the way from you, regardless of where you were seated!  They put them on the every table, the piano.........It was, and still is, like a jungle in here--as the Andromeda has taken over the house!  Whew....the things we do for love--both the giving and the receiving!

Then they were so inspired and spurred on by the beauty all around them, that they swept the floor, set the table, filled glasses with water. Sophia went in and single-handedly washed, dried, and put away all the dishes that had accumulated in the afternoon. They were singing and chattering away between themselves.

I was totally amazed  that they had any energy left at all, after all the hacking and sawing and pulling and tugging out in the drizzly cold--poor andromeda bush.... I don't think it will ever be quite the same! 

Thankfully, Big Papa called me on his way home, so that I could give him a head's up and he could be sure and take special note of **all** they'd done (how they'd *transformed* the house!) and lavish the praise on them when he walked in the door---which he did. They were  *beamin'*!  It was really cute.

In the end, it's kinda like havin' 4 Christmas trees in our snug little house!  You know how it is with the Christmas tree, lovely and festive as it is, you can only take it being up for so long after Christmas?  Well, I don't forsee these Valentine "trees" going anywhere, anytime too soon!  :o)

It was a nice quiet evening. We usually have movie night on Friday nights, but due to schedules and everyone needing to get up so early, we haven't in a while. So, last night, Big Papa and the some of the children stayed up and watched  a film called, "Facing the Giants".  I, on the other hand, wise ole mama and granny that I am, got the little ones tucked in, crawled into bed myself--curled up next to the little nursling, Celeisa (no doubt exhausted from all of us going on and on... makin' an even bigger than usual deal about her, for her first birthday--bein' number 10 has it's own unique challenges! :o) and fell sound asleep, pretty early! I was so tired I didn't read a single page of anything, just closed my eyes and drifted off. 

Mom and Dad, I'm thinking you've safely made your way down to Arkansas by this morning.  I hope Aunt Neva's wedding is beautiful!

Heather, I'm so thankful everything went so incredibly well!! How I thank God, my dear friend.

It's cold outside and though the wind was really blowing, it seems to have calmed a bit-- (Meteorologist that I'm not, Pete.....I'm judging by the sound of the chimes being blown about outside. They were clanging away all night and early this morning, and have slowed to a mere tinkling the past half hour or so :o) Atmospheric  Scientist or no, I do know I'll be gettin' good and bundled up, today!

I hope each of you enjoy your day.
Lovingly, Jewels

A couple of little felt crowns, for a couple of little princesses......



Helpin' out the littler sister.....



Who had gotten stuck.......

Twenty years ago, today, this lovely maiden came our way.....

uploaded by A Simply Lovely Life.

Twenty years ago, today, God blessed us with our first baby girl---a delicate Rosebud.  What a delight she has been to us, bringing us nothing but joy, every single day of her precious life, since.

How thankful I am to have such a loving, gentle, kind, caring, thoughtful, patient, understanding, fun, truly--beyond words w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l---now a woman, friend, in my dear daughter.

She loves life; reading, writing (stories, poetry, letters, and has been dreamin' up and telling sweet stories to all her younger brothers and sisters for years :o), cooking, baking, drawing, hiking, biking, knitting, painting, sewing, singing, playing the guitar, playing the piano, gardening....

She's always had a huge mother's heart for animals and has had *quite* a menagerie of them over the years.

She reminds me of Tasha Tudor in so many ways--ever barefoot, donning an apron, feeding the chickens, the ducks, the geese, the goats, out in the garden gathering the ingredients for the next meal, stirring whatever's in the pot on the stove whilst reading her latest book.... Rosie! :o)

She loves babies and children, and has a sweet, soft, mother's heart, that would be so thankful to receive the blessing them, one day, if God sees fit to give them--in His perfect time.













Oh Rosie, how I do cherish all the memories;

carrying you in my womb--hidden away while you grew

wondering who you were, and what you would be like

seeing you and holding you in my arms and kissing your soft pink cheeks--for the very fist time

tears of joy falling, as you contentedly nursed at my breast

watching you take your first steps at 10 months old

teaching you to read

to sing

to knit

to sew

working alongside you

in the kitchen

in the gardens

folding laundry

beside a tub filled with bubbles and little ones

moment-by-moment

day-after-day

year-after-year

talking with you

laughing with you

crying with you

reading with you

singing with you

be--ing with you

simply *be-ing* with you

the immeasurable blessing of daily sharing my life with you

and you, yours

with me,

being the closest and best of friends,

from that very first magical moment,

'til now,

and for forever....

Happy Birthday, my precious Annie Rose. I love you so.

***************************************************************************

P.S. For those of you that are interested in such things as what we're sewing and knitting, Rosette does love to sew, it's probably her favorite thing to do, next to gardening and cooking, and well..... I guess knitting, too.  She made all of the outfits that she's wearing in these photos; overdresses, underdresses, the button-back vest....and the heathered-blue wool  shawl is one of several that she's made. We use the wool shawls as wrap-around sweaters for the little ones, too--they're really cute this way--maybe I'll try and get a photo of the baby swaddled in one, to share :o)

A Few of My Favorite Things

 A Simply Lovely Life.

This lovely mobile was my Christmas gift from the children. It's made of driftwood and seashells. I just love mobiles, and this one is such an interesting beauty. I enjoy it everyday! 

Of course you can see one of my VERY MOST favorite "things" there in the background, reading her book---She too, is a REAL interesting beauty!!  And do I ever enjoy HER, everyday!  :o)

Another favorite thing is watching a little one learn to sew. Sophia's learning.  She's been sewing her own skirts and wears them so proudly. She's sewing little things she calls "pockets", which are (sorta) square pieces of layers of fabric sewn together and  decorated with big interesting buttons and swirls of machine sewing. They're really creative.  I want her to make some as wall hangings. 



Here's a photo of Sophia in one of her sweet skirts, that she made last summer.  Her little buddy--Aimaija, is waiting patiently for Sophia to get to the point where she's makin' her some skirts, too. Til then, she'll just have to be content to hang around in her big bloomers, I guess. Go, Sophie, go!   :o)



Another of my favorite things is watching a child learn to knit. I guess it's more than just watching them learn to knit, though. I love to see that God-given wonderment within every child, and how it serves as wings, enabling them to f-l-y!

I marvel at how they automatically love to learn, learn, learn, and endlessly create, and in their hearts believe they can do anything, which with time and materials, a little modeling and instruction, and lots of loving encouragement, they can!  I love the fact that it's all about the process with children. They get lost in the magic of the process.  They forget about any and everything else 'round about them--yesterday, tomorrow--every fiber of their being is engaged in their all important, all encompassing project of the moment, be it 5 minutes, 5 hours, or 5 days of engagement.... eyes  transfixed, their breathing slows, they bite their tongue as their concentration peaks--It really is so beautiful--every single time. 

Each of the children have learned to finger knit at around 4 to 5 years old, and then have moved on to knitting on large wooden needles they've  made with me, from dowels sharpened with a pencil sharpener and sanded smooth, at about age 6. 

Aimaija, is a beginning finger knitter, but as she and Sophia are the best of buds, together continuously, and Sophia is knitting away on 2 needles and even circulars, now. Aimaija is **dyin'** to jump ahead and **really knit**!  Sophia knits, and knits, and knits "(she's been bitten by the bug and is now smitten!) . Relaxed on the couch-- with her legs propped up on the big wooden table in front of it, in the car, she gets herself quite happily situated, and knits away.

This said, Aimaija has now taken to "knitting" each day, with 2 pencils, and to her, she is doing something of incredible significance--to me, too! She's been doing it for a couple of months and hasn't tired of it yet, though it's *all* about process, and all of her hours of effort haven't produced a single *product*!  How beautiful, to hear her little voice cry out each morning----Where's my "knitting"?!  Meaning of course, where are my 2 pencils and my string! 

Let me tell you, this wise mama clamours to look under the couches and chairs, in the block baskets,  here, there, and everywhere, 'til her knitting is found.  I know the projects will most likely be freely flowing, one day, and I want to insure my  fair share of toasty warm sweaters, hats, shawls and socks...... when I'm an old(er) granny, shivering with cold from poor circulation :o) :o)  You go, Aimaija, go!!



This pottery candlabra is one of my very favorite thrifting treasures.......which leads me to another favorite thing--candlelight. 

I so enjoy candlelight, in the dark of morning, during breakfast, on rainy days--throughout the day, at the evening meal--with the table set-- while the food is still cooking. The house smells delightful and everyone is excitedly awaiting Big Papa's arrival home and the cacophony of smiles, conversation, hugs, good food and drink, stories, and the evening, together, that will follow...........



And yet another favorite thrifing treasure--actually discovered on 2 different occasions, is this family of elephants; the mama, the papa, and baby.  Especially lovely to me is art in various mediums and forms of expression --- drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, poetry, music-- depicting God's inconceivably wondrous concept of the family, and the relationships within one, however large or small, at whatever stage and/or season of life and growth it may be.





Seashells......I'm really fond of seashells, I always have been, even long before I was privileged to live by the sea. Some of my most treasured gifts have been the simple, thoughtful gift of a seashell/s. 



And lastly, is one of my especially treasured and appreciated favorite things. This was a gift, made for, and given to our family, by perhaps the dearest, most loving, kind, and thoughtful friend anyone could ever dream of, or hope for--this amazing puzzle clock!  It's beautiful and it keeps perfect time! 

This beloved friend is one of those fast movin', fast thinkin', folks that takes on challenges that most of us would shudder at the thought of, while fleeing post-haste!  We treasure having it, to remind us of him each day, and the immeasurable gift--of all the love--the time, the care, the listening ear/s, the laughter, kindnesses, encouragement, the chinese food, the pizzas, oranges, ice cream, he even *single-handedly* (yes, single-handeldly in about 2 days!) put a roof on our house!! (which I do have a photo of that I almost put up here, too, but I didn't want ot risk the possibility of jeopardizing this good thing that's been goin' on for so long! :o) ...... that he's so faithfully, unconditionally, graciously and freely shared with all of us, for the *entire life* of our family.



I hope you have a wonderful day.
Lovingly, Jewels

Matchin' Duds For the Lovely Wee Buds--Josie and Auntie Celeisa

A simply lovely life

Here's the little outfit that I made--We made two of the same outfit. I made one for Josie, and Rose made one for Celeisa.  A little peasant blouse and bloomers in a soft butter linen, and the little overdress in a pretty cotton leafy-vine print. 

The little peasant blouse ties in the back--very sweet. I just love it!  The overdress buttons down the back.

We stayed home today, because some of the children have been sick, with a virus.  Wesley, Claire and Josie haven't been feeling well, either, so Big Papa, the little ones, and I made a quick trip to their house in the afternoon and just I ran up to bring them some clam chowder that Rosie had made for dinner, which was d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s.

While there, Claire popped Josie's little outfit on her, and with a dear friend's camera, I was able to get  a few photos of her *in* it, which I'll share. She was of course adorable--which of course she always is :o) My how I love that precious baby girl. It seems too good to be true that she's here and she's ours, and equally too good to be true that she has a little brother or sister on the way!

I'm hoping to get some photos of the two Little Darlin's- Josie and Celeisa, together in their matching duds--for us, and for them to have for the memories, when they're older.

I hope each one of you are having a lovely day.  The snow's all melted, here, but it's still cold, cold, cold. I'm so thankful to be snugged in a cozy warm house, wearin' my winter woolies, eatin' Rosie's good cooking, talking and laughing. Pleasantly whiling the hours away, with those I love dearest and best.
Lovingly, Jewels

Suze Seamstress Settles in to Sew

Suze...er-uhhmm... Julia, was happily busy sewing,  yesterday.

In my earlier days of motherhood I had so very little time for making clothes; mine, the girl's, and the doll's (of course you *just have to make* time to make the dolls, and then the dolls of course need clothes :o) but found so much pleasure, relaxation, and satisfaction in doing it.

One of the things that enabled me to keep doing so through the years (besides staying up late and getting up really early! :o) as well as teach the girls to do likewise, was sewing the same pattern in many different fabrics. This way they'd have a cute foundational wardrobe, and any other creative above and beyonds I was able to do were a bonus--and, the more proficient I became at sewing the more time allowed for the more creative artistic endeavors, the one-of-a-kind, that required more thought as well as time.

I'd choose a favorite pattern,  find about a weeks worth of  favorite fabrics, wash, dry, cut, and sew, in blocks of time, and with this simple method would make the girl's clothes--cute chicken, horse, kitten, linen, cotton, flannel, etc... jumpers, frocks, smocks, bloomers...

Now that the girls are older, they're lovingly sewing in the very same way, for their little sisters.

I just love swing style clothing, always have, I'm supposing always will--dresses, tunics, smocks, coats, sweaters...I love their simplicity, fullness, and serendipitous quality--swing with big buttons---ahhh, a delight to my eyes and my childlike heart. Now children, in big-buttoned swing, is to me truly a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e!  :o)

Well, all this said, yesterday one of the apples that hasn't fallen very far from the tree (and truth be told, probably the one that sits nearest to it,  poor thing :o) set up her workshop and in the name of continuity, efficiency, necessity, following in the steps of her foremothers......
made 7 little reversible swing frocks for her baby sister :o) 

Though all the same from a favorite old pattern, they're all different, too and each one cute as the next, all made from small remnants of---linen, hemp, cotton, fine wale corduroy. One of the wonderful things about sewing for the  very Littles, is that you can gather all your fabrics from your leftover jewels and treasures from projects past.



And then, as they're made reversible, the 7 are magically 14 little frocks, as in the blink of an eye they go from chocolate linen-to-terracotta hemp, from butterflies-to-polka-dots, from plum linen-to-sage green cotton with diminutive sprays of wild roses....

Here and there, throughout yesteday I was blessed by listening to Julia practice Vivaldi's Four Seasons--Spring, over and over and over on the piano. I seem to never tire of it. How I do so love this beautiful piece--it's always been one of my favorites. Everytime she sat down to practice yesterday--in between sewing and eating--I'd find myself saying, "Can you just play it one more time...just one more time...just one more time"... :o)



Today, the little frocks will be jeweled with their lovely big buttons wooden, abalone shell, coconut shell, *horn*, and yes, plastic/ made in Holland, France, Spain, Portugal, and the Philippines :o)

Then on we go to some little button-cuffed (a  nifty to-grow feature) bloomeroonies for modesty's sake--for the tucking in of little swing smocks whilst crawling, rolling, and swinging your legs up over your head (we were all able to do it at one point in our lives :o)-- for Celeisa.  And after that? Well, Lord willing, we'll roll right along into Aimaija!

I got lots of photos of all the happenings here, yesterday.  It's hard to think to get photos of everything while you're so busy doing it--but I'm hoping to get better at it, with the children's help.  Yesterday was a big pizza party with Rosie and Chubb's homemade gourmet pizzas for dinner, haircuts, sewing, math, piano practice,  phonics, playing outside, some knitting......hard to believe that such simple days can be so full and busy!  It's actually been so much fun for Big Papa and the children and I to see bits and pieces of life, so simply recorded on the pages, here---How I do love the makings and the living of things to be remembered. How thankful I am for photographs.

I hope you and yours are very, very, well. Have a beautiful day.
Sending love your way, Jewels

The Girl's Kittens

Rosie and Julia's kittens. Sisters, that had been abandoned by their mother and needed to be bottle-fed 'round the clock for several weeks. The girls are so grateful to have them.

In the photo of the kittens on the piano--the grey kitten on the left is Rosie's, and her name is Cosette.  The Calico on the right is Julia's, and her name is Mischa-Mina :o)

And, for those that are interested in what we're sewing:





Rosette made her dress, and another seamstress made the one that Julia is wearing (she made it for Rosette a couple of years ago! Is Julia growing?!  Wheww! :o). Rose is  really fond of  the Regency period and it's long, feminine empire waist gowns--she's made many of them. This one's made in  a small blue-checked linen/cotton blend fabric that 's nice and substantial yet has a really lovely drape. Another thing that she enjoys making is the Chemisettes to fill in the necklines of the Regency gowns--making them more of an everyday dress. Here are a couple of those that she's sewn up. It's been fun experimenting and dreaming up different types to make, and getting decked out in them!

I hope this note finds each of you and those dearest to you, well. The Lord bless you and keep you, throughout this lovely day.

'Tis especially pleasant, the life of a peasant

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Here is an outfit that Rosie made for herself; a natural-colored linen skirt and a peasant blouse of a lighter colored embroidered linen fabric.

This is also Sophia's first machine sewing project; her long, full skirt. She was mighty proud of this skirt, and rightfully so.  It's a cutie!  She's made a few more since then.  Sophia's green peasant blouse is actually one I made for Julia many years ago, now passed along to her little sister. I wonder how many more little sisters will get to wear it!

And.....then there is little Aimaija, poor little Aimaija, standing around in her baggy green bloomers that Rosie made for her,  waitin' for Mama, Sophie, Rosie, somebody.....to sew her a skirt, too--which Rosie at long last did!

The Red Dress

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

I thought some of you might enjoy seeing some of the children's sewing creations.  This is  the red dress that Rosette made for herself, for Christmas--by combining the elements of several patterns that she has. The skirt and border on the sleeves are a medium weight red linen and the bodice and sleeves are a lovely light red on dark red, vine printed cotton. Can you tell how wondrously warm it was the end of December?! 

My, how swiftly the pendulum swings, from one extreme to the other!  We are indeed all snugged in our winter woolies, today--I'm afraid  there'll be no walking the road for me. The sun is shining in all it's glory, but not quite enough to lure me (translated--drag me :o) out there to walk, today! Brrr....it is COLD.

I've already decided that I'm going to try not to think about my mom and dad (who are no doubt far thicker-skinnned than I, and have no doubt already  gone and returned from *their* walk-- hhmmmph---freezing temperatures or no :o)  or my lovely neighbor lady (that lives a couple of blocks over, in "bird land" --where all the streets are named for birds :o) that I always admiringly refer to as, *Little Faithful* (who is especially slim and little--since she does walk SO *faithfully*! :o),  and who will likewise be out despite the strong, cold north winds blowing (on *my* road--ughhh, right under my nose--not quite so easily  blocked out by the **guilt-o-meter**, as the merely mental imaginings of my *faithful*  mom and dad, some 1,000 miles away :o)

Well anyways, (tongue clucking ;o) I've no doubt, being one of those "apples that didn't fall very far from the tree", that I'll be just as faithful and  committed as my mom and dad, (cough--cough....when I'm old :o) :o) :o)  Hmmmm, I guess I won't think about how faithful *they* somehow managed to be, way back when they were "young" like me :o)

The identities of the Hopefuls revealed :o)

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Good morning :o)

I tucked an extra photo of Sophia in at the end, so that you could see her adorable first big knitting project, close-up. She made her hat with some help from mama and Rosette along the way--with Rosette finishing up the decreasing at the top. Let me tell you, she is p-r-o-u-d of this little hat!  You can see her artistry on the front--she knit it on circular needles, and occasionally picked it up and knitted in the wrong direction. We left it, and it ended up being it's *crowning glory*!

And again, for those interested in what we're sewing:

Julia sewed up the little polka dotted smock that Aimaija is wearing in the top photo. Also, Rosette whipped up the feathered Robin Hood cap for Nicholai and one for his faithful companion, Chubb. They've had many adventures beneath them, since the giving of them :o)

I was so tired by the end of the day, yesterday that I could hardly keep my eyes open during supper! I hit the hay early and slept like the dead all night, with just a few dreamily remembered awakenings to nurse Celeisa! It sure felt good to sleep :o) I'm up, fresh as a daisy (well, nearly fresh as a daisy!) and ready to go.

We're finishing up chores, the boys just returned home from their early morning paper route, and the girls made them a big hearty breakfast.

Rosette is practicing the piano--the girls have piano lessons late in the afternoon, today.

Sophia and Aimaija are busily playing *sisters* as the older children scurry about finishing up their morning jobs.

Little Celeisa has just these past couple of weeks begun playing things like *sisters* and *little house on the prairie* (and is of course baby carrie when she does get in on the action!) with them, which is very cute.

My, it is so hard to believe she's nearly 1 year old already! Seems such a short time ago that I was in the hospital in the midst of *the grand adventure* with the placenta previa complications and then the c-section. Where did the year go??? I've been thinking so much about my birth, lately, as Valentine's Day--and Celeisa's birthday (which will now always be such a special day for me) draw close. Seems I not only gave birth to a treasured little baby girl, on that day, but that a whole new part of me was born as well.  Ahhh, life truly is a marvel is it not..... so many experiences, so many precious  people, always changing, in perpetual forward motion--never standing still......

I read the Bible with the children first thing in the morning (my favorite time of the day with them, which usually results in a loud and lively hoo-rah-rah over something :o), after chores are finished--beds made, laundry is going, things situated for lunch and supper preparations, and all the animals are taken care of. After that everyone gets busy with their schoolwork--which goes on til about a half hour before lunch time--fast and feriously for the older ones and slow and turtle-like for the littlest ones and mama, curled up on the couch for a good while reading together--then some phonics and math and memorizing all the good stuff they'll one day be so glad to have stored away.

I'm going to head out in a bit to get Aimaija's first few photos printed out for her Alphabet Book and get that underway. Sophia will be beginning *her* book--The Ones I Love, and Nicholai will be making a Number Book, for the littler ones, so........stay tuned for some photos of those :o) Our photo books have been some of the children's greatest treasures over the years. I marvel at how quickly the time passes by and their little books become jewels of precious memories. I'm so thankful for the gift of photographs, to remember all the things I am so busy doing that I would be sure to forget--the things that will be dearest to me when all is said and done.

All righty, I hope you have a wonderful day.
A loving hello from us all :o)

Cc is for Cookies--Aimaija's Alphabet Book

Cc is for Cookies

Aimaija is making cookies
Aimaija is making cookies with Sophia

Cc is for Cookies

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And, for those of you interested in what we're sewing.....

I made the little jumper for Aimaija
and Julia made the little butterfly smock for Sophia

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Notice that Julia is busy serenading (the cookie bakers) away behind the scene :o)

Lots of computer troubles, today, so I'm thankful to have been able to squeek a post in!
I'll be back when the computer is once again happy--which will hopefully be s-o-o-n.

The sun is shining for all it's worth here, today and it's just beautiful! A little dusting of snow, too. Not quite enough for everyone's liking, but more than yesterday--very pretty.

Well, Rosette and I are off to go shopping and run some errands with all the little ones.
I hope you have a wonderful day :o)

Alphabet Book---B is for Bible

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Aimaija is reading her Bible.
The Bible is the Word of God.
The Bible is God's love letter to us.

Bb---Bible

Aimaija is reading her Bible, and hiding it's words in her heart.

Bb--Bible
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And, what we're sewing...

Julia made this little reversible smock and the matching reversible
pants for her sweet buddy, Aimaija  :o)

A is for Apple

Aimaija eating her apple, wearing a little reversible smock that Julia made for her.

And a Side Shot of Her Little Wooly Bonnet

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

How about that sweet little ducky profile??!! I know, too cute! :o)

A Hat I Just Finished Knitting For Celeisa

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

A wee, cozy wool cap that I made for my tiniest flower.
She's wearing her cute little flowered smock that Julia made for her.
I'll try and get some photos up of those other recent creations--from Christmas etc... I've been talking about, now that I have the photos a-streamin' right on in! :o) :o)