The other day, I overheard Vivienne say, "Hey Hugh, did you know there's a time for everything in life?" It was somehow both whimsical and instructional, and Hugh, with an appropriately serious nod, played along like he totally got it. Little ears are clearly picking up on the underlying vibe around here... There is, indeed, a … Continue reading A Time for Everything
The last few weeks feel a bit like a blur of work. We're in the midst of selling our house, so all the projects, paperwork, and anxiety that go along with that have been piled right onto our already full plates. It's nose to the grind time, that's for sure! Ryan returned from a trip … Continue reading A Morning Off
Eight years ago today, on a similarly sweltering 4th of July, Ryan tricked me into going on a picnic and popped the question.He made a first attempt at lunchtime, but I protested, given the heat, so he endured an air conditioned lunch with a diamond ring burning a hole in his pocket. We went to … Continue reading Engaged on the 4th of July
Ryan had to be in Kenya for work in January, and when he realized he was connecting through Heathrow Airport, he wondered if I'd like to meet him there with the kids for a week in London. He didn't need to ask twice! London has been on our list for a long time -- we'd … Continue reading London Itinerary
Last year, my only resolution was to reclaim a sliver of my pre-motherhood literary life and read more... or, at all. And I actually did! I gave myself permission to stick to page-turners -- books begging to be picked up even for just 20 minutes during nap time and compelling enough to keep me up … Continue reading Top 2017 Reads
At bedtime the other night, Vivi solemnly prayed, "Dear God, thank you for Christmas and that you sent an angel to warn Mary about baby Jesus before he just esploded out of her tummy!" It's often hard to keep a straight face during bedtime prayers. Honestly, though, it is pretty great that God gave Mary … Continue reading Christmas Meditation
Since we've finished all the big projects in this house, I've been able to reclaim some more time for small ones. Carving out a couple hours here and there to be creative has brought me more joy this season than I anticipated! Here are two of my favorites, touches of blue for our Christmas tree … Continue reading Two Blue Christmas Projects
I was tasked with pies (apple and pecan!) for our big Thanksgiving gathering, which reminded me I keep planning to post this you-can-make-pie-crust-too pep talk. You really can! It's all in the timing. I decided to attempt making pie crust on my own as a teenager, armed with The Joy of Cooking and not much … Continue reading Pie Crust 101
Happy Thanksgiving, friends! We're in full holiday-prep mode over here, with pie dough chilling, multiple cranberry sauces simmering, and decorating projects underway. Vivienne just came home from school with a paper turkey adorned with words of thanks, among them: comfy bed and "Hugh Bear." The simplicity of her gratitude is always a good dose of … Continue reading Vivi Update
I'm resurfacing after a few tough weeks! Teething (sleepless) toddler, first colds of the season, work travel, and some more serious medical issues for Vivienne... it's all been a little too much. Lately, whatever the particular day requires of me has used up all available energy, not leaving much for elaborate cooking or creative projects. … Continue reading Easier Pumpkin Pot Pies
The Key to the House 