Love those moments ...

... when a nice thought turns into something lovely. I had one of those thoughts this morning when I woke to pure sunshine, no humidity, and birds singing ... and I thought - - what a great day to have breakfast outside.

Of course, this is my usual routine -- enjoying a cup of coffee, some fruit & yogurt, my current read and my favorite spot in the world - my Amish glider :) Note - the kids are typically still asleep ... so this is complete solitude - - just me & the birds. (*sigh*)

However, this morning, I decided to whip up some muffins - and I do mean "whip up" as in Krusteaz Orange & Cranberry Muffin Mix. I know ... I know. I cheated. But guess what? They were pretty darn good and they only called for one cup of water!! I added frozen blueberries (found at Sam's for an incredible buy!) and sprinkled the tops with sugar before baking. Not too bad in a pinch!

Threw together baggies of cereal, a thermos of milk, and - no summer breakfast is complete without - fresh fruit ...

What is it about eating outdoors on a lovely day that seems to make everything that much better?

Not only had I loaded up our car with our munchies, but I also packed up my paint tote :) filled with watercolors & canvases ...

While I set up our art supplies, my little guy filled up our old pickle jar with water from the river to clean our brushes ... and we were off!

My girl already had in mind a design ....

and decided to create a sunset over the ocean water, adding a mystical treat of a mermaid's tail peaking up from the water ...

Across the table, my son decided to play with colors to see what might come of them ...

Through his brushstrokes and variations of color ... a grizzly was discovered! This certain bear enjoys keeping his eyes on the twinkling stars of evening and munching on favorite berries in the wood. Can you see him?

I decided to try and capture our morning ...

I am still working on my painting ... as my daughter pointed out to me, "you could stay here all day painting! aren't you done yet??" I was simply taking my time, savoring the moment and adding some detail ... and a little more detail. :)

My son finished quickly and spent most of his time along the banks of the river shouting the arrival of passing boats and building sandy mud forts -

Even though piles of laundry and other household chores greeted me at home ... I was still able to carry that peaceful serenity with me from our shared morning. Spontaneity can really boost one's soul ... I highly recommend it!

Only in spontaneity can we be who we truly are.

- John McLaughlin

Just checking in ...

I can hardly believe how many months have passed since my last post!! The best news is that the annoying white stuff has finally left us, and sprouting up through the withered, foilaged-covered ground are signs of God's beautiful artwork ...
... a sure indication that "life is good." By the way - this photo is courtesy of my creatively-talented daughter :)

My son is enamoured with the signs of spring throughout our yard, as well - - known to most as weeds, but I consider them no-fuss gifts - especially when presented with a tiny bouquet, fringed with fresh, green grass. To a mother's eye ... Teleflora couldn't have done better!


With spring in full bloom ... I often reflect on motherhood. I find such magic in this season - a rebirth of nature surrounds my senses ... and captures my soul. Remembrance envelopes me with times of family, moments of childhood, bits of simplicity. My children have given me such a whimsical outlook on life and it is that which I seek in my every day. It is more challenging when my days are spent alone ... much more than I ever thought. I find myself anxious for school to be over so that time can be spent sharing these simplistic, whimsical moments that will be passing us by all too quickly.


My latest painting captures a little of that bittersweet feeling that a mother reflects upon as her child grows and blossoms ... for they are always the sunshine in our lives.
I am so happy to report that this painting was purchased when displayed at the Art All Night Exhibition a few weeks ago. It's always heartwarming when someone finds such meaning in your work that they wish to claim it for their home.





Recently, I've been spending the past few days with thoughts of summer vacation on my mind ... jotting down and creating a list of summertime wishes to capture with my kiddos. Some are "musts", some are "would likes", and some are "maybes" - - but one thing for sure is that we want to have fun! So, here's our ...

Summertime Wishes ...

1. Ride bikes.


2. Swim in a lake.


3. Make homemade ice cream. (Just unearthed two makers in the basement!!)


4. Run through sprinklers.


5. Water balloon battles with friends.


6. Campout in backyard.


7. Go tenting.


8. Play cards/boardgames on porch.


9. Go fishing.


10. Make homemade donuts.


11. Fly a kite.


12. Build a fort.


13. Grow an herb garden.


14. Go berry picking.


15. Play badminton.


16. Make playdough on a rainy day.


17. Picnic at outdoor concert.


18. Watch movies at drive-in.


19. Catch fireflies.


20. Take local historical tours.


21. Visit zoo & museums.

Our book club/creative workshop is on again this summer ... the girls will be choosing their summer reads on the last day of school. Then, our first meeting will be kicking off our only project this summer ... the girls will be trying their handiwork at writing and illustrating their very own children's book! I am currently working with a printer to see if these can be published so that donations can be made to local libraries. If it is too costly ... we may consider fundraising - perhaps a cupcake sale? :) We'll see ...

Whew! All I can say is - - I am so glad to have finally created a post and sent that winter scene down the page!! :)

So ... how about sharing your Summertime Wishes? Add to the list!! :)

Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.

- John Lubbock