Angela Strand

Goodbye and Hello NW Healthy Mama

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Sat, 07 Nov 2015 14:26:00 +0000

Well, this news is way overdue, but it's time to let you all in on a little project I've been working on since my last post here. I've been in the process of creating a new website called NW Healthy Mama and I'm excited about where this will go!

Basically this all came together when my love for the beautiful Pacific Northwest was paired with a passion for all things healthy and active. On NW Healthy Mama, you'll find tons of amazing recipes, adventure ideas, gardening tips and inspiration to Mother well.

The best part is this website is not written by myself alone. There are far too many amazing women in this world for me to not share this space! The girls who are contributing play such a vital part in this and I can't tell you enough how thankful I am for them!

This personal blog has been such a great outlet for me and a perfect place to record special memories, but as life changes, we move onto new adventures. A big thank you to every person who's shared an encouraging word with me here. Your comments and love over the years have been such a blessing to me. I have huge amounts of love and gratitude for you! And now... please join me on the new site, NW Healthy Mama.

Lots and lots of love,

Angela

Picking vs. Packing

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Thu, 21 May 2015 04:39:00 +0000

That moment when you're supposed to be packing 'cuz your house closes in 10 days, but you're out gathering dinner from the garden instead.

Today the sunshine and the garden won. Tomorrow, I'll try that packing thing again. Gosh, I'm going to miss this little outdoor space.

On the Sea and Above the Clouds

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Wed, 20 May 2015 05:31:00 +0000

We adventured a lot last weekend, before starting to pack like crazy people this week. That's right, we're packing up our entire house to move in just about a week. I'm apologizing in advance for silence on the blog. Packing, kids, life... they all take a lot of time these days.

As I uploaded the photos for the post, I realized that to the person on the other side of this screen, I might look like I'm all adventure and no fear. Then I thought about a women's retreat I went on about a year ago and the breakdown I had where I told a couple good friends about the anxiety I sometimes experience. After sharing, one gal looked at me and couldn't hardly believe it. She said "but you're always out doing all those fun things and going all over the place!" Yes, it's true, but I think when we tell our story, we give the world a gift when we tell the whole thing.

By nature, I tend to feel fear very easily and that's why I decided about a year ago to intentionally try to live brave, in a smart way. I try to bravely tell people how awesome they are, when I see strengths in them, because loving big is something you'll never regret. I climb mountains with girlfriends because when my girls are older, I want them to be adventurous, too.

My husband and I kayak alone, because when our kids are out and married, I want them to date their spouse as well. And I write these words because I never want you to think that only "brave" girls do "brave" things. Girls with anxiety do brave things too and I'm guessing that you, whoever you are....are also much braver than you know. I bet you're really fun, too. Yep, that's another reason why us Moms need to go out and do things....we need to have fun and be strong and healthy and be the women that God created us to be. We owe it to ourselves, our families and the One who created us with muscles, brains and a craving for relationships.

On the Sea//

Jeremiah and I had talked about getting kayaks for the last 10 years or so. Finally, we gave in and I'm so glad we did. First we kayaked around Pass Lake (near Deception Pass) and then we kayaked around Cranberry Lake in Deception Pass Park. What a perfect date this was.

I turned 31 last week and so, after our date, we had a Birthday party over at Sally's house. She always makes the best ice cream cake. I swear she could have a highly successful ice cream cake shop, if she wanted to.

There's so much to love about your 30's. Right now, 31 is where it's at.

Above the Clouds//
Later in the weekend, 7 of us girls climbed Mt. Pilchuck together. I've never experienced a hike this beautiful. It was hard for sure, but the view from the top was out of this world. Truly, we were above the clouds.

Clouds below us and mountains in the distance.

These girls are amazing. They were so fun to hike with and super positive, even when it was hard. I'm so thankful for them!

Almost to the top!

Yoga on a mountain....just because.

Mt. Pilchuck look out!

On the way up, something kind of funny happened. After climbing for about 2 miles, we came to this clearing and someone mentioned how the lookout tower was way up there. We thought the hike was 5 miles roundtrip and so surely, after all the climbing we'd just done, we must be just about there! I laughed, totally thinking they were joking! But, nope they weren't. It WAS way up there. And so, we kept on going and eventually we made it.

Gratitude Lately

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Mon, 11 May 2015 21:25:00 +0000

Lately I've been thankful for delicious and healthy new food combinations. A new favorite is a couple eggs cooked up with about 1/3 of a can diced Italian tomatoes, topped with mozzarella cheese and pepper.

For car washing parties that turn into epic water fights.

For this big kid, sitting on the counter in his jammies, helping me cook.

For little moth friends, who look like they have hearts on their wings.

For chickens and chalk art.

For Young Living happy mail and my good friend Sarah, who's teaching me how to use these!

For the first strawberry of the year.

For cookouts with cousins.

For a beautiful Mother's Day hike.

And for the look this girl gave me when I told her that skunk cabbage bouquet couldn't come home with us.

Here's to gratitude and how it turns everything into enough.

What have you been thankful for lately?

Friday Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Fri, 08 May 2015 22:11:00 +0000

Happy Friday!
Heading into the weekend with a few things that caught my eye this week.

FAVORITE LIST:
Not only do I agree 100% with this article by Food Babe, talking about how BAD the chemicals in sunscreen are for us. What I love is that she doesn't just stop there, leaving us feeling discouraged and not knowing what to do.....She gives us a list of Sunscreens that are SAFE for us. I'm pinning this one for sure!

FAVORITE LOW-CARB COOKIE RECIPE:
The kids and I made these this week and added dark chocolate chips. I haven't been eating real flour or sugar so to me, these were great! The kids liked them, too. Jeremiah said they're definitely healthy because he can only eat just one. Hahaha!

FAVORITE VIDEO:
The Wiegand's first episode with The Design Network came out this week. It's super cute and I love what they created as a family. Hint, it involves re-claimed wood and chickens. No wonder I love it.

To watch the show CLICK HERE.

FAVORITE PARENTING ARTICLE:

Instead of using the rubber bands to remind myself to build up my kids, I put them on my wrist one day to remind myself to laugh more with my kids. For every belly laugh we had together, I moved a rubber band to the other wrist.

If you're looking for something to help you remember to build up your children, laugh with them, tell them "I love you", or smile at them more, this might be a fun thing for you to read.

The Rubber Band Method

FAVORITE POST I WROTE THIS WEEK:

When you get to write about your friends, a beautiful family farm and life-giving food, you just can't help but smile.

Read my Klesick Family Farm post here.

A Little Video

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Wed, 06 May 2015 22:27:00 +0000

So, you know when you watch a video and you love it so much that you start making kissy faces at the computer screen?
Hmm...maybe that's just me.

Well, this video does that to me because yep, my 3 are on here, talking about why they love their Mama. I'm so flawed....we ALL are and yet, our kids think the world of us.

Happy early Mother's Day to all my beautiful inside and out Mama friends.

Mother's Day Tea

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Tue, 05 May 2015 04:53:00 +0000

I went to my first Mother's Day Tea today. I think my cheeks are literally sore from smiling. That sweet boy of mine was waiting for me when I got there and like a gentlemen, he escorted me to my seat and then served me cookies and water. For the next hour, he sat on my lap, sang me songs, recited poems and showed me the projects he's been working so hard on.

Besides the fact that he unashamedly still snuggles me in public, what blessed me the most was how we got to have another little guy sit with us today----a boy that doesn't have a Mom.

This boy's story is his and not mine, so I won't go into details. All I can say is he lost his Mom last year and Judah has become one of his good buddies. So today, I sat with one boy on my leg, my Judah who continues to steal my heart more each day, and this other little guy, right next to my leg, who didn't have his Mama at the Mother's Day Tea.

I gave him my cookies and gosh, I just wanted to bring him home and do all the things that Mamas do, if we're being real here. But, it doesn't work like that and it's not really necessary. He has a Daddy who loves him and he has a school full of teachers who are cheering for his success.

See, the thing I've learned about "public school" this year is it isn't all bad, like the media and the viral Facebook posts make it sound. Actually, there are lots of teachers who care so much and work their tails off for the good of our kids. These teachers are sometimes the most stable people in these kid's lives and when everyone is ranting about how awful school is and yanking their kids out left and right....I just wonder about the teachers who might need to know that we've still got their backs.

So, back to cookies and tea.....
As I sat between my boy and his buddy, my eyes drifted to the lockers. Each locker was decorated with a picture each child drew of his/her Mama, that is, except for this little guy. And that's when I just about lost it. One locker without a hand-drawn Mama picture.

Parenting can be so hard. Sometimes it can feel like it just might break you, but when you sit by a kid who's missing his Mom? Well, it makes life seem pretty darn good and it makes you want to quite making little annoyances seem so big. It makes you want to raise your voice less and maybe lower your sky-high expectations a notch or two.

A boy without a Mom at a Mother's Day Tea, kind of makes you want to go out and be the best dang person you can be because hey, your kids still have you and that's HUGE, if you ask me.

Happy Links for the Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Sun, 03 May 2015 05:02:00 +0000

Happy May!
Yesterday was crazy full and since I didn't get around to writing my Friday Favorites post, I thought I'd share just a few things tonight that I'm loving right now....

Even though we're in the process of packing, without know where we'll be moving yet (what an adventure!), I've been loving springtime so much. Yesterday I took a break from my list and stood super still in our yard with Judah. Together we watched a Mama Robin stuff her face with worms. She speedily stuffed in as much as she could, before heading back to her nest to feed her babies. And then the day before yesterday, I saw a Mama duck stop traffic to cross the largest highway in our town with her babies following in a line behind. This time of year, I find myself completely astonished with all the new flowers, the growth in the garden.....all the new and beautiful things.

So, in an ode to the wonderful newness spring brings, here are a few NEW favorites from the week.

Favorite New CD

Christy Nockles led worship at the IF:Gathering and this girl has a gift. I'm sure her new CD will be one I'll want to have stuck on repeat.

Favorite New Blog Design

Kelle Hampton has been one of my favorite bloggers for awhile. Her new site design is bright and clean. I love it.

Favorite New "Me Time"

So, I did something new recently...... I dropped my kids off in a very safe and fun childcare area and I went to yoga. This Mama wants to be strong and healthy and ya know what? It's good to let your kids stretch their wings a bit, while you do something healthy for yourself. The funny thing is Paisley said the best part of her day is going to the gym. I guess it's a win/win for all of us.

Favorite First Dandelion

These two. Smile.

Favorite New Brave Moment

Until now, he was happiest with his training wheels on. Last night however, something clicked with him and he suddenly decided it's time to take them off.

Hope you're having a wonderful weekend.

3 Kids, My Thoughts After Two Years In

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Fri, 01 May 2015 04:32:00 +0000

Judah said something to me on the way home from school the other day, that I just haven't been able to let go. From the back seat, he randomly piped up "Hey Mom! You know what? I'm glad we have Eliza in our family. Having a baby has taught me so much."

Those words of his...I needed them so much.

Since adding Eliza to our family 2 years ago, I've felt spread too thin, more often than not. Someone always needs me and someone else is always having to wait for something. Some days I go to bed with terrible guilt, convinced that I am not enough. When you have 3 young kids, you can't go and do all of the things as easily as someone who has 2 or 1, or kids much older. For me, having the 3rd has been the breaking point, where I no longer have it all together. However, my JOY has truly tripled.

I've been watching how Judah and Paisley are with Eliza and while it might not as easy for me to take them all to certain places, for example, a pool to go swimming (nope- I wouldn't do that alone), the experience of having a baby in our home has been such a rich and irreplaceable experience for them.

The other day, Judah and Paisley were building all sorts of neat creations with blocks in the living room. Well, you can only imagine what happened when Eliza decided to join in. Two year old's don't build, they destroy. To solve the problem, I overheard Paisley ask Eliza to take her hand and come with her. To prevent Eliza from destroying what they'd just built, she gently led her off to another room and then played with her for awhile.

That baby sister of their's throws fits and she gets into their stuff. When she naps, they need to be quiet and sometimes we can't go as many places because it's too hard for me with all 3 of them.

However.....they know how to care for her and they are so much better from it. They love her and I can honestly say they haven't complained, not even once.

Right now, in my journey with 3 littles, I'm especially thankful for what a beautiful experience this is for my older ones. No, it's not easy for them, but I've never wished for my kids to have an easy life. I wish for them to have a life filled with opportunities to give and receive love. For opportunities to be taught and to teach. For patience, kindness, problem solving abilities and for a sensitivity towards the needs of others. And mostly, for the BIG joy that comes when you pour out the love God's given us on someone else.

A real friend helps you roll up your pants, before encouraging you to go all in.

Pine and Cedar Lakes

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 05:55:00 +0000

Our monthly ladies hikes continue to be one of my favorite days of the month. This last week, we had 9 ladies and together we did the Pine and Cedar Lakes trail.

Here are a few photos from our little adventure:
Thinking of our good friend who lost her brother and his family recently. She speaks the message "Love Well" so bravely, even during this most difficult time. We're so proud of her.

Books I've Read in the First Third of 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Tue, 28 Apr 2015 20:52:00 +0000

Seeing as we're almost a third of the way through the year, I thought I'd take a moment to go back over my "12 Books I'd Like to Read in 2015" list and give a little update with where I'm at.

Here are the books that were on my list:

Here are a few of the books I've read.......

1. Hands Free Mama- I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book. I can't recommend it highly enough and if you think it's only about putting your phone down more, think again. This book encouraged me to play with my kids and look for the special moments, which she calls "sunset moments". This book was excellent.

2. Love Does- This book was a quick easy read. It inspired me to show my love for the people in my life with action. I love how Bob Goff writes and I think he seems like an amazing man. I hope he writes another book!

3. Day Hike, North Cascades- Well, this book isn't so much a book to sit and read cover to cover, but I'm happy to own it and I love having it as a reference. I love how it lists hikes by location, skill level and it gives a lot of information for each hike. Definitely a good book to own.

4. Passionate Nutrition- This book started out a bit heavy for me, but I think it's coming around. I'm about 1/3 of the way through it and I'm starting to like it better than when I started it. What I'm enjoying about her perspective is how she encourages her reader to heal their body with food, not medicine. She views food as fuel. When we eat in a positive way, we can give our body health, energy and make ourselves better people. Her message is not "dieting", but life long habits of choosing health for our bodies. I like that.

5. So this book, "Nobody's Cuter Than You" wasn't on my list for this year, but I just couldn't help but buy it. The mail man delivered it yesterday and I can't wait to dive in. Doesn't it look wonderful?

6. Doula Books- These books weren't on my list either, but after a very inspiring coffee date with a dear friend, I decided to start doing the required reading, just in case I ever do pursue becoming a doula. The only thing that holds me back is the darn childcare piece. Having to plan around when I lady could go into labor, is like the most complicated thing.
So, who knows when or if I'll ever pursue this....In the meantime, I've been enjoying these books.

If you haven't entered the giveaway yet for these wonderful children's books, head over and enter right now. It ends in less than two days!
Click here for the giveaway.

So, which books have you read so far this year? Any good ones you'd recommend?

Faithful in the Small

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Tue, 28 Apr 2015 05:03:00 +0000

We started seeds in egg cartons during one of my favorite MOPS meetings this year. Planting seeds is sort of like planting hope to me. You plant something small, believing if it receives what it needs to thrive, it'll turn into something great. Sometimes you can't see the growth and you wonder if your tiny seed is growing. Rain comes and then sunshine. One day, you step out and see how that tiny seed has sprouted into something beautiful. Even if it didn't look like it was thriving, it was. You just couldn't see it.

Over the last few weeks, those little seeds from our MOPS meeting have thrived and their roots have been stretching out beyond the small egg cartons they called home. As the cartons sagged with moisture and roots begged for more space, I wondered where I should plant these little seedlings. We have just about a month left here. My garden will soon no longer be mine. We laugh because we don't know where we'll live. We know we won't be homeless and we know that God has a big awesome plan, but we're still waiting on the plan to be revealed.

What I do know is we wanted this and when you pray for something and it starts happening, you don't complain. You pull out your sense of humor and look at the big, crazy situation as a wild adventure. Right now, as I begin to pack boxes, call on rentals and even look into the rates at a RV park, I just can't help but crack up. This is truly a crazy adventure.

Paisley and I ended up transplanting those tiny pumpkins, zucchinis, cucumbers and squash plants on Sunday afternoon. Since we won't be here much longer, we planted just a little less than half in pots and planted the rest for the family who's buying our home.

A tiny portable garden doesn't feel ideal right now, but I'm reminding myself this is only temporary and it can actually be really special to plant a garden for another family.

If I ever want a larger garden, I think I need to be okay with planting a garden for someone else first. It all goes back to being faithful in the small things. Planting for someone else, living in a small house or even an RV for a short time, changing a diaper with a smile, reading the same books over and over. Learning how to do the daily things with great joy, before ever expecting something better.

I think God looks for the people who have mastered the small things, before giving them more.

Small things we've been enjoying....

Fresh herbs outside the coop.

Kids rolling down the hill. Judah, in jammies with the feet caught off, because they're too small, but he can't let them go just yet.

Freckle season, as my sis Kelsey calls it.

This baby, singing to her chickies.

Evenings that feel like summer.

Eggs, washed by Paisley (hence the cracked one). I'd say 1/12 isn't too bad.

Saturday morning breakfast from the tiny garden and the happy hens.

Do not think that love in order to be genuine has to be extraordinary. What we need is to love without getting tired. Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.

-Mother Teresa

Friday Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Sat, 25 Apr 2015 04:28:00 +0000

Wrapping the week up with a few things that caught my eye this week.

Favorite Photograph.

"This is the definition of strength, love, and pure raw beauty. Mom was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer halfway through pregnancy with her surprise gender baby. She had one breast removed and underwent chemo while carrying her miracle baby. She was induced at 36 weeks in order to receive more treatment. Baby BOY was born ready to prove to the world his strength he inherited from his strong mommy."

Kate Murray, you captured one of the most powerful photographs I've ever seen.

Favorite Blog Post.

What To Do, When You Want Light To Overcome Dark. By Ann Voskamp.

“While others run fast, you can just shuffle with perseverance.While others impress, you can simply press on. While others stop for the dark, you can run through the dark."

Favorite New Item on My Mother's Day "Wish-List"

Ya'll know I love Joanna Gaine's and so duh, of course I'd love this candle! Her signature candle features her favorite linen scent and a long-lasting woodwick. Oh hey Joanna???? You listening? Let's do a giveaway?! Ha! I wish.....

Favorite DIY

3 Ingredient Natural Sunscreen, from Our Joyful Home

I've always tried to avoid sunscreen, due to all the harsh chemicals it contains. I absolutely can't wait to give this a try!

Favorite New Website

Discover the NW, was founded just about a month ago, by two adventurous and darling people, James and Nicky. This NW blog is packed full of all the wonderful things the amazing Northwest has to offer. Make sure to go "like" their page here on Facebook to keep up with all the latest posts.

Have a happy weekend. Have any fun plans?

Turning Your Child's Art Into Notecards

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 20:54:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I got a wild idea. I wanted to turn some of my favorite pieces of kid art into note cards. These kids of mine are constantly coloring, drawing and designing, with their imaginations running wild. It's one of my absolute favorite things to watch them do. But, do I save it all? Ha! No way! Our home would be filled to the roof with paper.

So, I started stashing away a few of my favorites and yesterday we took their art into our Copy/Print store, just to see if this idea was even possible. Guess what? It totally worked and it wasn't even hard.

Within a few minutes, that nice guy right there had scanned in the kids pictures, shrunk them down to fit two per page, and printed them onto cardstock.

When we came home, I used my paper cutter to cut each page in half and then I folded them to make cards.

I did the math and these cards came out to be just about 50 cents a piece.

I filled up a plastic box with the notecards and I hope my Mom isn't reading this, because I'm pretty sure I know what her Mother's Day gift is going to be.

If you'd love to turn your child's art into notecards, simply take your favorite pieces (they need to be on white paper) into a Copy/Print store. Ask them to scan it, shrink it down to fit two per page and then have them print your child's design onto nice cardstock.

Package the note cards up in a cute box for a grandparent or teacher gift or save them for yourself.

5 Things I Learned From My First 5K

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 03:55:00 +0000

Back in January, I did sort of a wacky thing. I signed up for my first 5K run. Since it was a Color Run and hey----color is awesome and fun, it didn't take much for my sister to pull me on board. After I signed up, I was totally pumped about the generous amount of time I had to train.
In my mind, this was going to be perfect. This would be the ideal reason to use the treadmill we own, that I don't use often enough. Woohoo! I was excited.

So, I started training. For a few weeks, I stayed on schedule (with this program) and then, since I had an ample amount of time to train, I fell off track. I mean, why run if you don't really have to? How about waiting until I actually really need to train? And so, I didn't train like I should have- that is, until the Color Run 5K was right around the corner and I realized that oh darn, I'm really signed up to run and I'm NOT A RUNNER....like at all.

Running is something that's always been hard for me, but I started doing it anyway. I made peace with the fact that it sometimes sort of feels awful. I get side aches. I breath loud. However, on a positive note- it's super-duper rewarding. Although I'm still such a beginner, I've got to say I think I'm actually starting to like it. The burn tells me I'm getting stronger and you know what? I want to be a strong Mama. I want to do crazy runs and hikes and all sorts of things when I'm an old lady. It just sounds fun to me.

When I'm running, I think about the fact that I CAN run. Some people are stuck in bed with a debilitating illness and they'd only wish to be out pounding pavement with sweat dripping from them. When I run, I thank God that although it's hard, I can and so.....I do.

The Color Run 5K was an absolute blast. If you've never ran a 5K and you think you need to be an all out "real runner" to do such a thing, please squish that idea right now.

Here are 5 Things I Learned From My First 5K

1. Not everyone runs the entire thing!
What a relief, right? You can do run/walk intervals and you'll still totally fit in. We walked quite a bit and we still made great time. You do NOT need to run every moment of it!

2. It's way more fun to do it with FUN friends.
The two friends I did the run with were absolutely wonderful. We were all there to simply have a great time and when one of us needed to slow down, we all slowed down. These girls were the perfect running partners. I seriously love them.

3. If you're into coffee, have some about an hour before and then pee right before the run.
We arrived early and walked to Starbucks. My americano kicked in right as the run started and Yeehaw! I had a spring in my step!

4. Expect to see ALL levels of runners there.
Like I mentioned above, I didn't stick to my training perfectly. It was a relief to see all levels at the Color Run. Some gals had strong runners legs. Others looked like they'd never run before. All different levels and body types will be there and for me, a beginner, I found this kind of nice!

5. I can do it, you can too, and it's a total BLAST.
Before the run, I looked for reasons to bow out. I hadn't trained like I'd planned, I thought everyone would run the entire thing, I thought I'd look like an absolute fool. Oh my word....I'm so glad I didn't cancel! If I would have let my insecurities win, I would have missed one of the BEST Saturday mornings I've enjoyed in a long time.

Pending!

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 22:06:00 +0000

When we moved in, there wasn't a single tree, flower or bush. 4 years later, it hardly looks like the same place around here! The grass is green, there are more trees than you can count, the garden beds that Jeremiah built me have brought me more joy than I ever knew was possible and oh yeah...we did that BIG kitchen remodel. That was crazy.....and so worth it.

Today I got a call from the sweetest lady, a real estate agent looking to purchase a home for herself and her 2 kids. She said she wouldn't mind if we were here while she looked around and since I've been rushing our kids out for showings all week, I opted to stay.

While I gave her the tour, we clicked. She shared some of her story with me and while we stood in the driveway, talking about life, kids and homes, we both got tears in our eyes.

Right before she left, she told me she was heading back to her office to submit her offer. This afternoon, I signed next to her name and I feel like I couldn't have picked a better person to hand our keys over to.

It's NOT all said-and-done with a SOLD sign in the driveway and this may sound wonky, but I've been praying over the family that buys this place. I've prayed for God to help them make special memories here, like we have. Today I saw God's hands all over this crazy adventure we're on.

So, I guess we're pending! Whoop!

Elliott the Otter and Arrow to Alaska Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 21:06:00 +0000

When Judah was only 2 years old, a gal came and spoke to our MOPS group about preparing our kids for school. She gave lots of different suggestions, but what she drilled into us more than anything was "Read, read, read to your kids." That's about it.
Read.

Reading with my kids has become one of my absolute favorite things. It's our sweet spot, I guess you could say. It's when we're on the couch, reading together, that right then, I know I'm doing exactly what I should be doing, nothing more, nothing less. Just reading.

Today I'm combining my love for the Pacific Northwest, with my absolute obsession with beautiful books and bringing you all a really fun giveaway: Arrow to Alaska, A Pacific Northwest Adventure and Elliott the Otter, The Totally Untrue Store of Elliott, Boss of the Bay.

These books perfectly combine Pacific Northwest living, with fun illustrations and a story line kids can easily relate to. I absolute love them.

Arrow to Alaska

A Pacific Northwest Adventure

"New from Hannah Viano, the author/illustrator of S is for Salmon, a PNBA best seller, comes the story of Arrow, a six-year-old boy who goes on an adventure to visit his grandfather in Alaska. Arrow starts off from the Ballard Locks in Seattle, aboard Aunt Kelly’s salmon tender boat. After arriving at Grampy’s quirky houseboat, Arrow and Grampy revel in each other’s company in the great outdoors. The tale wraps up with a floatplane ride retracing Arrow’s journey. Hannah Viano’s striking papercut images capture whimsy and wonder, while her language sparkles."

Elliott the Otter

The Totally Untrue Story of Elliott, Boss of the Bay

John Skewes and Eric Ode

"Elliott the Otter lives in Elliott Bay and claims that it’s named after him. And why wouldn’t it be, since he’s in charge of its daily activity? From the freighters bringing in cargo from around the world to the salmon passing through on their way upstream, Elliott is the boss of it all. Young readers will delight in Elliott’s antics as they learn about the bustling bay in Seattle’s Puget Sound.

John Skewes is a professional illustrator living in Seattle. He began work as a product designer and character artist for Disney Consumer Products before leaving to start his own company, Retrodyne Industries, in 2001. As the creator and illustrator of the award-winning Larry Gets Lost children’s book series, John has followed Larry from the southern tip of Texas to tiny Nome, Alaska, and has been lost several times himself. He has illustrated over twenty children’s books.

Eric Ode is a national award-winning children’s singer, songwriter, and the author of Sea Star Wishes. He lives in Bonney Lake, WA."

Enter the giveaway by using the Raffelcopter below, or just leave a comment telling me who'd you love to read these books with. The winner will be notified by email.

Happy Reading!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

10 Mother's Day Gifts that Can Help Change the World

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 21:13:00 +0000

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can all do small things with great love.”

― Mother Teresa

It was a life long dream, this whole Mama thing, but my story started a little bit differently than I'd pictured. I was engaged. Not married. I was 24 and my test showed positive in a Target bathroom on my lunch break.

There were tears in our Pastor's office, letters sent to family I was afraid to tell in person. There was sickness, lots of eating and then a bigger wedding dress ordered. It was hard, awesome and healing all at the same time.

I knew I'd love being Mama to a little person. I knew I'd experience a love for my children that was incomparable to anything I'd ever experienced before. What I didn't know is how valuable it would be to surround myself with other Moms.....inspiring, strong, incredible women. Moms that would set the bar high, so when I was having a bad day, I'd think of them and I'd want to pull myself up and do life a little better.

See, the people who really influence others are usually the ones who aren't even trying. These women who are loving, fun and brave, aren't this way because they want to be an "influencer". They're shining in who God created them to be and that kind of bright light just rubs off on those around.

Some of my dearest friends are walking through BIG, ROUGH stuff right now and yet, they're just rocking this Motherhood thing. The funny thing is...... I don't think they even know it. They're too busy Mothering well and taking care of their families to even know how amazing they are.

With Mother's Day around the corner, I've been thinking........

What if we did Mother's Day a bit different this year? What if right now, in April, we start hand-writing notes to our girlfriends, telling them what we love about them. What if we started calling out their best qualities and building up the ones who might not get an encouraging word often?

What if we gave meaningful gifts.....Gifts that one by one can make a difference in the world?
What if we celebrated each other, instead of focusing on the ideal way we think WE should be celebrated?

Here are a few gift ideas for your favorite Moms, that one by one, can help change the world:

The Giving Keys

"Wanting to add a charitable dimension to the business model, it wasn't long before Caitlin’s vision became clear. She found the missing link on a rainy day when she saw Rob and Cera on Hollywood Blvd, sitting under an umbrella, and holding a sign that read Ugly, Broke, & Hungry. They went to dinner and Caitlin discovered that Cera made jewelry – this was the a-ha moment. Rob and Cera joined the team and started making Giving Keys the next day."

Sevenly

"Each purchase of Sevenly merchandise, whether a campaign-specific shirt or print or an item from our curated collection, results in a $7 donation to the featured charity.

With nearly $4 million raised and counting, Sevenly is helping to inspire a generation of generosity."

Camano Island Coffee Roasters

“In 2000, we founded Camano Island Coffee Roasters with the simple philosophy that a business can change the world for good. Our vision was to combine our passion for ethical coffee with generational change in coffee growing regions. We believe that our company’s value is not solely in the quality of the ethical coffee that we roast, or in the people who grow it, but in the coffee lover (YOU) who drinks the best coffee for home.”

Jeff Ericson – Founder

Theo Chocolate

"Proud to be the first Organic and Fair Trade fair for Life Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Factory in North America.

We’re passionate about chocolate. And changing the world.

We’re committed to creating amazing flavors. And a lasting legacy.

We’re here to make people happy. And make a difference."

Better Life Bags

"We hire women, who otherwise cannot get jobs, to work for BLB. We rent them a sewing machine and tools while teaching them a skill set that allows them to become a primary or secondary provider in their families. Most of these women are first generation immigrants from countries such as Yemen and Bangladesh, so we are also able to provide them with much needed fellowship and friendship as we visit their homes to deliver fabric and pick up orders."

The Body Shop

"Our passionate commitment to human rights has always shaped how we trade with our suppliers around the world. We build close relationships with those suppliers and work together to ensure ethical trading is at the heart of our, and their, business. We believe this is the way business should be done."

Yoobi

"Yoobi, pronounced “you-be,” means “one for you, one for me.” For every Yoobi item you purchase, a Yoobi item will be donated to a classroom in need, right here in the U.S. It’s that simple!"

Noonday Collection

"We travel the world to find artisan entrepreneurs who are passionate about creating opportunity in their communities. Artisan businesses in the developing world struggle to gain access to a global market where they can sell their handmade jewelry and accessories. When you shop our collection, host a Trunk Show, or become an Ambassador, you join us in creating a growing marketplace for artisan businesses, enabling them to make a difference in their communities."

To Write Love on Her Arms

"To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and invest directly into treatment and recovery."

Farmers Markets for Fresh Flowers

For fresh flowers, there's nothing better than supporting our local farmers. Instead of hitting up the grocery store, try supporting your local farmers by purchasing your flowers and produce at Farmer's Markets or roadside stands.

Here is a great tool for finding a Farmer's Market in your area: Local Harvest Search

Friday Favorites, with a Link Up

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 21:15:00 +0000

Happy Friday!
Here are a few favorites from the week. Feel free to link up your favorites down below.

FAVORITE SALAD
I'm totally obsessed with this right now. All you do is roughly chop a green bell pepper, an avocado, and a tomato. Then add in some black olives, chopped cilantro, salsa and some salt and pepper. SO YUM. I'm eating this daily right now.

FAVORITE GARDEN IDEA
This morning, Ashley from Under the Sycamore wrote the sweetest little blog post about her son painting this sign. I'm so in love with everything about her post. Read it here.

FAVORITE MAMA POST
11 Empowering Portraits Of Women On Their First Day As Mothers
Go take a look and remember how beautiful Mothering is.

FAVORITE VIDEO #1
While this might be about the MOPS theme for next year, it's really about SO much more than that. This video is for young moms, old moms and everyone in between. I love it.

FAVORITE VIDEO #2
Just one more reason why I love this lady!

Being their Cheerleader and a Fun Science Experiment

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 13:43:00 +0000

One of the things I love most about being a Mom is that God entrusts us with the opportunity to take an interest in what interests our kids. As Mamas, we get to be that little wind that comes along and fans their flame just a little, to hopefully not blow it out, but hopefully launch it into a bigger fire.
For me, this is definitely not all easy, as there's so much I feel like I don't know. When I see my kids spark an interest in something, I'm not naturally one of those parents who knows everything about that subject.

So many of my friends are smart, smart, smarty pants with all sorts of big degrees and most people know more history, geography and science than I do. For me, I'd say while I'm possibly not as book smart, which bothers me, I'm darn resourceful and I'm choosing to remind myself that being resourceful is a great characteristic to teach my kids.

Just the other day, Paisley wanted to know how a horse gives birth and so naturally, we watched a YouTube video of a horse giving birth. As she sat on my lap, we watched the full deal. She thought it was great and now she knows!

The blessing of being able to come alongside our kids and take an interest in their interests is something that I look forward to for the rest of their lives. I've found that people need cheerleaders to shine and if you think about it, cheerleaders aren't the ones that usually have all the answers. Heck, they might not even know how to play the game, although I bet they could learn if they tried. Cheerleaders are the ones that jump, scream, and keep on chanting for you, even when things aren't going well. Cheerleaders are steady, they don't get all up in the games business, but they keep the players going with consistent encouragement.

And that's how we have to be with our kids. Not all up in their business, but steady on the sidelines, creating an atmosphere where their interests can develop.

Last night I found myself with a couple of crazy kids that wanted to do science experiments, right when I should have been starting dinner. I pulled up one of my Pinterest boards. Who says Pinterest makes you feel bad? I do not get this at all. Pinterest saves my rear! In just a few moments, they were going crazy squirting colored vinegar into pie plates of baking soda.

I'm sure you've probably done this before, but just in case you haven't....all you do is put some baking soda in a pie plate.

Next, pour vinegar into a few small bowls and color it with food coloring.

Have your kids suck up the vinegar with a small dropper and squirt it into the baking soda.

When the baking soda and vinegar touch, a big, bubbly and fizzy reaction happens. My kids absolutely loved this!

Do you have a favorite science experiment you love doing with your kids? I'd love to hear!

Chapter Books for the Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 21:10:00 +0000

Lately one of my greatest blessings has been watching my husband read through chapter books with the older two kids at bedtime. Some of my most vivid memories are the times when my Dad sat on the couch with my sister and I, each of us snuggled in next to to his arms. Together we read through the Anne of Green Gables series, Little House on the Prairie and a few other classics.

Judah and Paisley are just 4 and 6, but Jeremiah has read them Swiss Family Robinson and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. It's really fun to peek in on them while they're reading. The kids just lay there and since there aren't many pictures, they've learned how to let their imaginations show them the story. After they complete the book, they celebrate by watching the movie that goes with it. I absolutely love this tradition they're starting.

Today we went thrifting to find Judah a skateboard (that's a whole different post) and while we were out, we stumbled upon this huge lot of chapter books. Since they just finished their current book, I was thrilled to find these!

What chapter books have you enjoyed reading with your kids?

Spring Break Storytelling

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 21:10:00 +0000

This morning we warmly welcomed our first ever spring break. After the kids finished breakfast, we all sat down together and I told them I wanted to have a little meeting about spring break. I asked them to tell me all about what they'd like to do. Their responses were so precious and so doable, which kind of shocked me! They said everything from "go to the playground and take hikes", to "eat some of our Easter candy". It didn't take long for us to come up with a plan for the week and I can honestly say that I'm looking forward to each day.

Since this is my first year with a child in school, I feel like we're experiencing a real spring break for the first time. I hope this week will be special and memorable for them, with the perfect combination of playing with friends, doing fun things and also just enjoying family time together.

After we had our little "spring break" meeting, I explained to them that I won't be having them do any school work this week, BUT Judah still needs to do his nightly reading and I'd like for each of them to create a little book all about the fun things we do this week.

See what I did there? No school work, but we're making books......Haha! I love sneaking in little things like this.

Our books aren't fancy, but I think they'll be a fun way for the kids to practice their writing and drawing and at the end of the week, it'll be fun to look back and read about what we've done.

For each of the kids, I stapled a few pieces of paper together. Then they wrote on the front and drew pictures of some of the things they'd like to do over the next week.....

......For Paisley, I just had her write her name.

........Next, we labeled a page for each day. Judah wrote out his days and Paisley traced.

........I think this will be a great alternative to not doing any "school" all week.

What kinds of plans do you have for your week?

Friday Favorites with a Link Up

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 22:30:00 +0000

These Friday Favorites posts are always my favorite to write so, I've decided to create a link-up here, in case you'd like to join in! Please add your post up down at the bottom of my post and invite others to join in as well.

My Favorites from the Week:

Something healthy.

These Honey Peanut Butter and Coconut cookies from The Weigand's blog look absolutely amazing.

Something creative.

"Creativity takes courage". This sign--- heck, the whole room is making me really happy.

To buy it on Etsy, click here.

Something hospitable.

"In 2012, Sarah set a goal to serve 500 people around her table. Her father built her a table big enough for 20 people and she began inviting others. In the last three years, she has welcomed nearly 1,600 people around her table!"

Read the rest of the post here and then get brave and start inviting people over.

Something clean.

So, my mind was kind of blown this week when I discovered these black rubber floor mats on Amazon. Goodness, I just wish someone would've told me about these like 6 years ago, when I became a Mom and my car transformed from clean and nicely smelling, to stained with smoothies and drops of milk. We had light gray floor mats, ok? We all know that those sippy cups claim to not leak, but when your child throws it down with pure force that only a child can get away with, oh yeah, it leaks. Who checks those anyway? I swear the sippy cup companies should hire my kids to see how leak-proof they really are.

Anyway-rubber floor mats.

Not expensive.

Life changing.

If you have a friend who's having her first baby, tell her about these. Not about sleepless nights. She'll sleep again, but her car might be trashed forever.

Something springy.

Isn't this free spring printable from Shabby Fufu darling?

Something funny.

So I mowed the grass this week, which isn't something I normally do with my 3 kids outside with me. I thought I was all big-time, hot-stuff, super-mom, putting the kids in the backyard and mowing our entire lawn while they ate granola bars and played independently so nicely. Well that is, until I found these "extra" photos on my phone. Apparently they had fun doing a little photo shoot while I mowed. No wonder they were so quiet!

I know, I know. You're totally wishing your kids were this charming.

A Morning in the Tulips

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 04:53:00 +0000

A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it.

It just blooms.

Celebrating Right Now.....

Eliza's last day being one.

Being able to be out with my sister and only our little ones.

Drinking Woods Coffee in the tulip fields.

Baby cousin friends.

Spring Break is here.

What's making you happy today?

4 Things I'm Looking Forward to After Our House Sells

noreply@blogger.com (Angela) — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 21:01:00 +0000

Remember in November, after our offer on The Country House was accepted and we suddenly listed ours, with only a day to get it ready? Yeah, that was a crazy time. We loved that property so much. 5 acres in the perfect location and the house was priced low enough that we would've been able to pay someone to help it shine again.

Unfortunately, our house didn't sell and as our closing date for The Country House approached, we knew that we wouldn't be able to afford owning two places so we had to pull out. The next day, someone else bought The Country House. I drove by it recently and they've obviously been working hard. It still has a long way to go, but they're loving on it and it's starting to shine, just like we knew it could.

After it sold, we pulled ours off the market and took a few months to reevaluate. Do we want to sell? Yes. Do we want more land? Absolutely. Do we feel like this would be good for our family? Heck yes.

And so, a month ago, we re-listed our place. It's been crazy having our house for sale. The best part is that it always has to be clean and ready to show....which is of course super hilarious when you have 3 kids and watch another 2 year old four days a week. The good news is that we're doing it, we're laughing and we're keeping our eye on the reasons why we're on this crazy adventure!

A few weeks ago, a friend who's house is also for sale, sent me a text message. I almost fell over laughing when she said that she can't wait to move so she doesn't have to pull up her pants so much when she's out weeding her flower beds. It's like she read my mind, since I've thought that exact same thing probably at least a hundred times since we've lived here. Gardener crack is just one of the many small reasons I can't wait to move.

So, as we wait for our house to sell and load kids up and drive around during showings, we remember some of the things we're looking forward to:

1. A BIG Garden.
It's no secret that gardening is one of my main loves. Truly, I am addicted. Under the Sycamore recently posted a little tour of her garden and I was all sorts of melted. Here's a little garden inspiration....
I'm loving all of the raised beds, the way it's fenced in, the picnic table INSIDE the garden and the spaces she's created for her kids to have their own gardening areas.

2. A Greenhouse
Have you seen the greenhouse that Chip restored for JoAnna? Alrighty well, it's stunning. I most likely will never have one that nice. However, I can't wait to have a greenhouse someday.

3. Goats.
Yep, you read that right. My sister told me today that I have baby animal fever. All I could say is that at least I don't have real baby fever, which I certainly do NOT have right now. Ha! Goats however are too cute and I think they'd be a great experience for the kids. I mean, come on....don't you want to kiss it's face?

4. A Space for the Kids to Create
Lately I'm super drawn to lighter (or white) walls, with lots of colorful accents. I've also noticed that very few things make her happier than seeing my kids paint, draw and use their imaginations. I love this space, the way the artwork is displayed and the way it basically just begs you to sit down and create something unique.

Happy Wednesday, friends. What's inspiring you lately?