{this moment}

…

…

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama 

Sofia’s Ideas
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Here are some of the movies in our Instant Queue that you may or may not already have in yours…

We loved Netflix before we even had access to the instant queue through the wii.  It was such an incredible value even then, but now I am just amazed at how much more we get for such a low monthly price.  We have not watched all of these, so this is not a recommendation list.  Rather, its an example of the types of films available for Instant viewing, if you didn’t already know.

A long while back, I shared a little bit about how we plan our meals, mentioning how the kids now make their own snack trays.  I did promise to share in more detail…

photo via mooraboolformothers.blogspot.com

One of the easiest ways to get more of the recommended 7 – 13 servings of (raw and fresh) fruits and vegetables into our children everyday is to prepare some Ice Cube Snack Trays. It’s not a novel idea, but the idea has stood the test of time because it works!  When my kids were in school, I would prepare these ahead of time so that they’d have a nice healthful tray waiting for them when they got home.  I would include raw fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds… with dippers such as applesauce, yogurt, and peanut butter in some of the compartments.

Here is Dr. William Sears, America’s foremost pediatrician…

This ended up being one of those weekends where everyone just sort of retreated to their own little corners.  Papa worked a lot, the kids had their own plans, and the baby seemed to grow abnormally independent overnight.  I ended up spending the weekend catching up with friends.  I talked on the phone and in person, I emailed and chatted back & forth, and I spent an abnormal (for me) amount of time on facebook.

I even changed my profile picture, which I've only done twice in three years.

Something I’ve always noticed, generally speaking of course, is that people tend to lead with the unfavorable.  (Not a judgement, just an observation.)  It’s almost like they have an automatic response system that is set to “negative”.  And while I sincerely doubt we are completely pessimistic, miserable people who dislike everything about our lives, it can certainly seem that way.  I assume this has become a cultural norm for us, for whatever reason, and that it’s become habitual, rather than conscious intention.  I listen to others as they describe, and complain, and characterize everything and everyone in their lives… as if nothing and no one is ever good enough, let alone good.

And it makes me wonder… do I come off that way?

I think it’s certainly good to have goals.  I mean, I’m an obsessive (no, really obsessive) goal setter, so it’s not a matter of being complacent about your dreams or desires.  But I think about this idea, that children learn what they live; I think about it quite often.  I want my children to live from a place of gratitude, of appreciating what they’ve been blessed with, of being thankful for the fortune they already possess.  I certainly don’t wish for them to grow into adults who never feel genuinely content or more-than-temporarily satisfied.  And there is a lot to be said about thoughts and words.

photo via thehoopoesodyssey.blogspot.com

The transparent truth is, I know I am guilty of this.  I know that when someone asks me how I’m doing, an automatic audible sigh of exasperation comes out, followed by something like the list of things that need repair or replacement.  So…

Before I lecture my children about “starving orphans who have to walk 10 miles for contaminated water”, I must ask myself if I’ve complained about my personal perception of lack.

Before I go off on a tangent about how they “sound like spoiled brats”, I must ask myself if I’ve recently shared more than my daily dinnertime gratitudes.

Before I encourage them not to care about what other people think, I must ask myself if I’ve openly judged, or criticized, or ridiculed another person within their earshot.

I must ask myself what message my hypocrisy sends.  I must ask myself if my own thoughts, words, and actions are congruent with what I preach.  I must ask myself if I speak my own truth…

Because even when I think about this one thing… setting the appreciation I feel for my husband and children aside… when I simply think about how lucky we are to live where we do … how fortunate we are to have a roof over our heads?  that we feel safe when we close our eyes at night?  to have so much stuff that our excess fills an entire garage?  the space for a Tower Garden so we may grow a little food for ourselves?

Someone once said (at a Juice Plus+ function) “Everywhere you have ever lived has been the best place to live in the world.  Why would you have it any other way?”

Really, why would we?

Perhaps we ought to apply that to every aspect of our lives and see what changes?

Regardless of how condescending other people consistently are about how and where we live, I sincerely LOVE it here.  How could I do anything but find the {Magic of the Mundane} when I am hugged by Such Surroundings?

Do you ever think about how you think, and how your thought process not only effects you, but those within your reach?

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

Sofia’s {Ideas}

A Sunday series.  A single idea.  One of way too many.

 Originally posted February 5, 2012

I know.  I’m a granola head.  But I’m a granola head that grew up with Nutella.  Yummy Delicious Goodness.  It’s World Nutella Mother’s Day.  How could I not share my recipe for Nutella Funnel Cake?  I mean, really.  That’d just be silly.

Chocolate Hazelnut Funnel Cake

Ingredients ::

• 3 organic eggs
• 1/4 cup sucanat (or sugar)
• 2 cups organic milk
• 3/4 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella)
• 3 1/2 cups organic all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons organic baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 teaspoons chocolate hazelnut powder (Ghirardelli)

for frying ::

• organic sunflower or canola oil

for topping ::

• 1/4 cup organic powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon chocolate hazelnut powder
• melted chocolate hazelnut spread (optional)

Directions ::

1.  In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs & sugar with a hand mixer.  Add milk & Nutella, continue beating until well blended.

2.  Add dry ingredients, beat until smooth.

3.  While oil heats in pan, pour batter into a squeezie bottle.

4.  Squeeze batter into oil in random swirls.  Brown on both sides for 20-30 seconds. Drain on paper towels.

(Note :: Mini funnel cakes are easier to flip over, are crispier, and just plain cuter.)

5.  Combine dry toppings.  Melt Nutella.  Bedazzle funnel cakes with one or both.

This batch of batter makes a ton of mini funnel cakes so I encourage you to take some over to your neighbors, meet new people, and spread the love on World Nutella Mother’s Day!

Happy Mother’s Day to all my readers who are celebrating or being celebrated today…

a {snippet}

Daily Doings

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

come join me on Google+ 

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We made the switch to eco-bulbs several years ago, but I always knew there was just something I could do with the ones being replaced.  The idea never did come to me, but I’m sure glad some creative crafters had a Lightbulb Moment.

 5 Upcycled Lightbulb Projects

(click on photos for link)

Hot Air Balloon

photo via rookno17.com

Terrarium

photo via thehipsterho.me

Vase or Planter

photo via blog.freepeople.com

original source unknown

Fish Tank

photo via fab.com

Ship in a Bulb

photo via instructables.com

Important note about lightbulbs :: Yes, we do have CFL (compact fluorescent light) lightbulbs in our home.  And yes, I do think the mercury inside them is a reason not to use them even though they are more “green”.  And absolutely, it is a constant source of worry for me.  The good news is that the mercury-free alternative ESL (Electron Stimulated Luminescence) bulbs will be more widely available soon.

Plug in your zip code to see if it is already available for you here.

I’m sure if you don’t still have some bulbs to work with, at least five of your neighbors do.  I am almost positive they’d be delighted if you offered to take some off their hands.  And why not make a few to give back as a thank you gift?  I’m thinking those vases would look wonderful in my kitchen, for holding all the lovely flowers my lovies collect for me during Green Hour!

Upcycling lightbulbs definitely fits into Sofia’s Ideas on Simplicity, Frugality, and Frivolity… all with an Eco-Mentality!

I decided to say “yes” when Shabby Apple contacted me about their company.  I, of course, only said yes because I was going to write an Epic Review.  It would be the review that would put all other reviews to shame.  Because I’m an extremist that way.  I have to jazz it all up, bedazzle it, with my typically grandiose plans.  (Hence, Sofia’s Ideas.)

I know!!!  I look freaking amazing, right?  ;0

I will spare you the details of what actually happened between then and now.  But, I will say that absolutely nothing went according to plan.  Not one thing.  It was one situation after another, including, but not limited to, a brand new hard drive (designated for iphoto only) crapping out after only using it twice.  Ugh. Argh. Grrr!

When my initial plans were foiled, the perfectionist in me perseverated on what could have & should have been this epic review.   Nautical dress, Palm Beach island, all the kids in coordinating navy and white Polo gear…  Epic.

But instead, you’ll have to play along and pretend like I didn’t just cut and paste my head onto a model’s body, like some kind of psychopath.

Twice.  ;0

{Admiral} Set Sail Collection

But time passed and I eventually settled for an alternative idea.

Which, also did not turn out the way I had anticipated.  So I threw my hands up in the air and said “I freaking give up!”.

Because, apparently, the universe doesn’t care if I gather clever props from around the house…

I mean, let’s face it, my feet are going to end up in my teal Okabashis anyway!

And even if I can manage to get some headshots in (which defeats the purpose of putting the dress on),

the reality of what’s happening is this…

And as I sat there with Mia, in our coordinating outfits, I just had to laugh.  Its funny, really, how perceptions are manipulated by what we intentionally portray.  I mean, I posted this for {this moment}…

which is actually quite deceptive because despite what everyone assumed, this is what they were actually doing…

I know.  Your mind is blown!   ;0

Listen, if I’m going to try to be anything, I’m going to try to be authentic.  I realized that the initial grandiose ideas I had simply didn’t represent the reality of my life as it is today.  I mean, I love this dress.  I love it more than any other dress I own.  But, I chose this dress for the life that I live in my head, the part of my life I experience maybe a few times a month, not the diapers and dishes that reflect my daily duty.

I realized how unglamorous my life actually is.  I mean, it always inevitably happens… I put a dress on, and the kids swarm me, wanting to know “Where are you going?” and “What are you doing?” which is followed by “Why can’t I come with you?”.  Does that sound like I spend my days strolling around Palm Beach island ?

So, the last idea I had for this review was to wear the dress for an entire day, to see how it would hold up on a typical day of cuddling and cleaning and chaos…

(and cuteness)…

But despite my best intentions to even do that, turns out nursing is not an option in that dress.  So, 10 minutes later, I was in my sweats, nursing, and editing photos for this post.  This, my friends, is as authentic as it gets…

Unless, I add a picture of what I look like when I read people’s facebook status updates…

How’s that for authentic?  Ha!  Not to mention, attractive!  ;0

This was the beginning of an exciting idea for me…

The idea of working with a company that uses recycled labels, and is known for being a “Couture with Conscience” company.  Little did I know that there would be lessons embedded in this experience; lessons on simplicity and authenticity.

I wanted to experience the company, the product, and the customer service for myself, before telling you how this company’s philosophies fit in with Sofia’s Ideas on Simplicity, Frugality, and Frivolity… all with an Eco-Mentality.  Now I can’t say that they’re in complete alignment with Sofia’s Ideas, but I can say that I support a company that partners with Unitus, and is moving towards being more socially responsible.  What about you?

Exclusively for you, my SuperStar Sofia’s Ideas readers…

10% off code :: sofiasideas10off  

 

The May/June edition of Whole Foods Market :: The Whole Deal is out!

Enjoy juicy summer savings!

Squeeze the most out every dollar with refreshing savings all summer long fromThe Whole Deal value guide. It’s packed with more than $55 in coupons, 18 Sure Deals, 10 new budget-friendly recipes, a daily meal planner and plenty of seasonalmoney-saving shopping tips.

Click on the image below.  You’ll be able to download your copy & print out extra coupons from there.

What I like to do is skim through the available coupons and just make a mental note.  I wait to see what’s on sale & what specials they run, which usually come in my “Whole Foods Market Local Store News and Sales” email (sign up below).  I cross-reference the two, match them up, see if I have additional manufacturer coupons I can stack, then print out only what I need for that week.  I used to print, cut, & file them all at once, but found that it creates paper & time waste.

Utilizing The Whole Deal’s coupons & money saving information is just another way we move towards making our Nutrition goals come to Fruition.  And as always, in a way that fits Sofia’s Ideas on Simplicity, Frugality, and Frivolity… all with an Eco-Mentality!

Sign up for your Whole Foods Market Local Store News and Sales here.

What’s your coupon “system”?  Any tips you’d like to share?

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

 Love You Forever – Robert Munsch

a {snippet}

cousins, comrades, companions

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

come join me on Google+ 

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

Even though I prefer print editions of magazines, this is one digital version I do enjoy!  I’m (kinda sorta) looking forward to curling up on the couch with this, cup of black tea in hand… Personally, I’m looking forward to reading “Create a Personal Manifesto” on page 47.

Click on the cover below to get your digital copy of Organic Spa magazine FREE!

Tip :: Once you get your copy, click on the text of any cover article, it will take you straight to the page!

In so many ways, this is in alignment with Sofia’s Ideas on Simplicity, Frugality, and Frivolity… all with an Eco-Mentality!

What about you?  Are you having a hard time transitioning to digital too? or do you actually prefer reading books & magazines on your gadgets?

 Originally posted June 10, 2010

photo via treehugger.com

The Plastiki’s Quest, and Questioning Plastic.

Remember how pensive I was after watching Fake Plastic Fish’s video?  And again after The Story of Stuff?   Well,  I’m not just pensive anymore, it goes beyond that.

When I allow myself to sit and think about it all, I feel mentally paralyzed by the daunting task ahead.  And its not because I don’t think its possible, its that I am discouraged by the apathy that I see all around me, even in my own home.  Yes, we carry reusable bags, we reuse & re-purpose, we shop in bulk and we support our local CSA.  But like David said in the video – its good, but its not enough to think on such a small scale anymore.  And definitely not in light of recent events.  It is overwhelmingly clear that indeed, a Sea of Change must occur.

But to be honest, I’ve been having a really hard time talking to the kids about the BP oil “spill”.  I don’t know how to approach them about it without scaring the living daylights out of them!  I haven’t figured out how to do it in alignment with my philosophies.  What I want is to inform and educate them in a way that makes them feel empowered to take action.  The problem is that as of right now, I don’t feel like there is anything I can do, so how can I make them feel that?

I want to encourage and nurture their natural tendency for optimism and activism.  I do want them to hold on to the idea that even the smallest, youngest, and quietest voices can be heard.  I want them to believe in the Butterfly Effect, that a small change can have a large impact on the whole.  And I want them to know that doing something is always better than doing nothing at all.  So I did what any mother would do – I made a big stink about them getting letters from the White House.  But all the while, I was secretly glad that they were naive enough to think that the President actually read their letters and wrote back to them!  Believe me, I recognize how pessimistic that sounds.  But the more I learn, the less empowered I actually feel!  And herein lies my dilemma.

I watch the news and my heart feels so heavy.  I feel useless and hopeless.  I don’t know what I can personally do to make a difference, but I do know that watching and waiting and doing nothing is not the answer.  Maybe this calls for ideas that are not in alignment with Sofia’s Ideas on simplicity or frugality?  Maybe having an eco-mentality in this situation means complex and costly convictions?  Maybe instead of simplicity, this is a situation that actually calls for me to embrace the extremist parts of my personality?

I’m spinning in circles.  I’m torn between my natural tendencies to jump in with all I’ve got, and my current journey and struggle towards a simpler life.  But how can any of us be at peace when we know that we each have a personal responsibility in this?  How can any of us be content knowing that this Sea of Change begins with us?

How have you discussed this with your family?  Do you believe that “if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem”?  What can we do?

Update ::  Gulf seafood deformities alarm scientists

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

Please leave a comment after submission! Thanks!

It was over a decade ago, but I remember that day still.  Although, it’s no longer a vivid memory.  I used to recall what I was wearing, what the kids were wearing, the sounds and smells surrounding us.  But, over the years, and with each recollection, those details have faded…

It was a beautiful Autumn afternoon, that I do remember.  The air was crisp, the colorful leaves were preparing to fall, and the sun was shining brightly through the canopy of trees.  I was sitting on the sunniest bench at the park in Lake Ronkonkoma.  I was supposed to be at work that morning, but had called in to use one of my personal days.  Potentially having to cater to superficial, self-centered strangers was not something I was prepared to do gracefully that day.  I had my own real issues to face.

We had just received the official diagnosis :: Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified, or PDD-NOS.

My eyes were aimed in the direction where the neighborhood children were playing, but my mind was elsewhere.  It was as if someone had temporarily pushed the mute button; all I could hear was my own thoughts.  Tears started welling up in my eyes and my attempt to retain my composure pulled me back to the park.  I focused in on the other moms, sitting and talking on the bench across the way.

I watched as this one woman’s toddler walked up to her and offered her a leaf from the ground.  It wasn’t just any leaf, for this little girl had walked around in circles looking for the perfect one.  She must have picked up 5 or 6 leaves before deciding one was good enough.  The little girl tugged on her mom’s sleeve, but the mom just held out her hand and continued to chat.  The little girl walked away, wandered around, looking down, searching again.  This time, she picked up a stone.  She had such excitement in her face (in her whole body, in fact) as she ran over to her mother, treasure in hand.  But again, the mom didn’t break her conversation to even acknowledge the gift, let alone show gratitude.

The child walked away, over and over again, each time bringing something back for her mama, each time hoping that this present would get her attention.  Again and again, the mom just held out her hand to receive the gift.  Each time, as the child walked away, the mom flipped her hand over and let it drop to the ground, without a single glance.  This one time, however, the child began to walk away, but turned around precisely when her mom dropped the twig.  She didnt see, for she was so deeply engrossed in her discussion, but I saw the look on her daughter’s face.  And it didn’t make me sad for her, but something else altogether.  This strong emotion started bubbling up inside of me and no matter what I did, I couldn’t push it back down.

It was rage.

Let me be clear – I am not judging this woman any more now than I was then.  I understand that I was unable to know what she was discussing, or the significance of that conversation.  I understand… circumstances.  I’m also aware that I was, and still am, guilty of doing the same thing.  But that day, in that moment, the remorse of that realization was compounding the confusion and guilt I was already feeling about the diagnosis.

I was already asking myself “how did this happen?  was it something I did?  was it something I failed to do?  why my baby?  why my daughter?  why me?”  Then watching this mom, not only oblivious to the gifts her daughter was presenting her with, but impervious to the fact that her daughter’s ability to do that was a gift in itself?!?!

I was angry at everyone, and everything, at the injustice of it all.  I was angry at that mother because I envied her.  I envied her ignorance, and I was jealous that she had the luxury of taking those gifts for granted.  I was angry at myself for not savoring all the “normal” things Aysia did, before autism stole her from me, like a thief in the night.

I gathered my children and our belongings as quickly as I could.  I tried to hide my face as we walked towards the car, passing those other moms with hot tears running down my face.  I strapped them into their car seats, and just sat there.  I lost it.  I banged my fists on the steering wheel.  I grabbed it by both hands and shook it violently.  I let out a cathartic scream.  I looked to the clouds and cursed at something, someone… or maybe nothing, no one.  (I still don’t know.)

Who knows how long I sat there, lost in my own thoughts, because I certainly don’t.  I just remember that both of my babies fell asleep.  The park was deserted now, the sun had begun its decent, the sky mimicked the colors of the leaves.  I rolled down the windows, took a deep breath of the chilly air, and drove up to the bench where the mothers were sitting.  I got out and sat in that mother’s spot.  I held my hand out the way she did, closed my eyes, and beckoned for a memory of Aysia placing something in my hand to come to me…  But, it never did.

I cried a little more before I crouched down to the ground, picked up the pile of leaves, stones, sticks, twigs, and pinecones.  I took one more deep breath… eyes closed, I allowed myself to hear every crinkly sound, feel every sensation as the cold air filled my lungs, and the breeze turned hot tears to cold.  With presence of mind, I vowed that Aysia would, one day, look me in the eyes and engage with me, connect with me.  I vowed that she would, again, acknowledge me, reach her hand out to me, and present me with a token of her love.  And I vowed that I would never again, take for granted, little gifts from little hands.

Remembering what these little offerings are indicative of, when one of my lovies picks something out, reaches out to me, and places it in my hand… remembering this day, this promise to myself, this vow to be present… helps.  It helps me remember why I continue striving to find the {Magic of the Mundane}.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

come join me on Google+ 

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

Thank you all for entering the

My Memories Suite {Giveaway}

… and the winner is …

Inez, Congratulations! I have contacted you via email regarding how to proceed.  You have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

Remember the other day? when I dropped a hint about a giveaway coming up on Sofia’s Ideas?  Ta-da!  I know, I don’t do reviews and giveaways, but I just couldn’t resist this one.

My Memories Suite is an award-winning digital scrapbook software that is extremely easy and fun to use.  It is rated #1 by Amazon and TopTen Reviews.  Using this software, anyone can create digital scrapbooks, photobooks, cards, calendars and gifts without having to buy expensive and complicated software programs.

I’ve been cleaning and organizing all week, but just fifteen minutes at a time.  I know this is all mundane stuff, but it’s what I need.  I need my home to hug me.  I need to look around and feel tranquil, instead of tense.  So, rather than ignoring that need, I’ve been embracing it.  And believe it or not, there is {magic} to that.  What I’m discovering is that I actually have more time to keep that promise to my lovies now.  I promised I would create {Magic of the Mundane}; I’d like to think I have been…

We started going on our weekly Mommy & Me outings again.  Aysia and I had crepes with lingonberries and lingonberry butter while out to breakfast… … and enjoyed each other’s company on a typical Tuesday afternoon, while at Crochet Club…   I simply can’t resist certain sections of the library and therefore can not be trusted to “browse” the aisles.  (I’ve been known to renew books a bajillion times and somehow still incur late charges.)  I brought home a stack of books and decided to spend an afternoon this way, without guilt… I called it the “home economics” (or, the “Mom has the urge to sew some cute adorable preciousnesses”) portion of our Loggerhead Sea Turtle unit.  When actually, this is supposed to be the bigger part of our current curriculum… … although I’m not quite sure what to make of this particular chapter.  How practical is taxidermy for boys anyway?   I began taking pictures again, thanks to Instagram finally being available for Android.  (Although, I thought it was going to be way cooler than it actually turned out to be.)

I took this one yesterday.  Who needs the Easter bunny when you have teeth like that, right? And here she is again, my little one year old.  Mia, ever the observer… We took an evening to just enjoy each other, in this gorgeous South Florida weather.  We walked around Palm Beach island, then went to Sloan’s for some ice cream concoctions.  I even had time to help Papa with one of his projects… while working on a project of my very own…

:: giveaway coming soon ::

I’ve had “scrapbooks” on my project list for (no joke, no exaggeration) the last thirteen years.  Can you believe that?  Thirteen years have passed and all my scrapbook supplies just continue to collect dust in multiple, disorganized bins.  So finally, I found some time to delve into this hobby that I used to enjoy so much.

I can’t remember the last time I felt simultaneously productive and peaceful this way.  Yes, I did stay up all night scrubbing grout, but I suppose that actually helped me feel “ready” enough to be “present”.  Does that make sense?  Staying up all night to get our family calendar “just so” actually resulted in having a “fuller” week… hosting a sleepover, facilitating a “Sweets & Treats” stand in our driveway, and a traditional wings & fries night with extended family.

And taking pictures of these magically mundane moments is indicative of a mind that hasn’t been wandering elsewhere.  The purely selfish joy that comes with crafting, sewing, and scrapbooking all make me a happier human being… but only when I can indulge without guilt.

I think finding the {Magic of the Mundane} with (and for) my family is contingent on being able to balance my ocd with my free spirit, somehow.  For me, this is, and has always been, quite the Conundrum.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.
 

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

The first week, my husband asked me why my contribution to {Magic of the Mundane} wasn’t the first entry.  I told him “I don’t want this to be about me, or my blog, or me trying to promote it.  No rules, no having to follow me, or place my button on their blog.  None of that.  They don’t even have to have a blog.  I want everyone to feel like they can contribute.”  No rules also meant that the entries would be as diverse as the amazing people behind them.  I didn’t want other people’s {magic} to conform to my ideas.  So, I made my entry the last one.  ”This isn’t about me.  I just host this thing.”

But in my mind, {Magic of the Mundane} was going to be huge right off the bat.  I thought it was going to grow by leaps and bounds, week after week.  But, as the weeks went on, and the entries grew less instead of more, I began to question… myself and my blog.  What am I doing here?  Is it even worth it?  Is this the best use of my time?  I have six kids to educate and nurture, a husband to cherish, and a home to manage… what am I thinking?  I’m obviously delusional.  I’m not good enough.  And the doubt took over until I went from “maybe just a few days a week” to “I’m done”.

Never mind the fact that I’m the host of this thing and I was finding it difficult to participate.  Is it a sign that my contribution only ever comes to me at the last minute?  

Because here I was, writing, but struggling to get the words out about how my brother came to visit last week, and how Mia started walking just as she turned a year old, and how those two things were the magic in an otherwise less than mundane week.  After feeling so ill that I thought I was going to end up in the ER, that was the magic that made me pull myself together.  So, that’s what I was going to write about.  But instead, at the last minute, I received an email from someone in my past.  And it not only completely changed my post, but it changed my entire outlook.

This email reminded me that you truly never know how your presence affects another human being.  You never know how your involvement in someone’s life, however short it may have been, may have inspired a difference.  And that email reminded me of the woman I once was, ages ago, and the woman I’ve secretly aspired to be once again.  And it reminded me that what I do today still matters.

It’s a thankless and unglamorous job I have today, being just Sofia, and the Sofia behind Sofia’s Ideas… but it matters to me, and it will matter to my family.  That email reminded me that it was never any one thing I did; it wasn’t about a brilliant idea or decision or moment.  Rather, it was the culmination of the little things I said and did over time.

The same goes for being a wife and mother.  When they look back, they may remember specific days and words with me, but mostly, I think they’ll remember how I made them feel… especially about themselves.  They’ll remember that I was always happy to see them; that I greeted them each morning, and each time they walked through the door, with a big smile on my face, and cheerful words, and open arms.  They’ll remember that regardless of the kind of day we had together, I made sure they went to bed knowing that my love for them was unconditional and unwavering.  They’ll remember how I felt about my roles and responsibilities, and that will also affect the reflection they see of themselves in my eyes.

The length of my involvement in my husband’s, and each of my children’s lives, isn’t something I want to take for granted.  Tomorrow with them is never guaranteed, so I will try my best to make today magical.  I will climb Mt. Washmore, and I will swim through the sea of clutter, and do it knowing that the day will soon come that they’ll be grown and I’ll miss being able to climb and swim with them.  I’ll do the mundane things knowing that the magic is in this journey I am fortunate enough to take with them.  There is magic inherent in the gift of just having another day.  So, this is a promise to my lovies… I will do my best to create {Magic of the Mundane}.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

I’ve been feeling increasingly guilty over the last few weeks.  As much as I intend to read and comment on your blogs every day, or at least every other day, I just can’t seem to fit it in.  No matter what I do, it just continually gets pushed to the next day, and then the next, and then the next again… until, before I know it, a week has passed, and then another, and then another again.  So I’ve been trying to figure out, “What happened to that time that I used to be able to visit your blogs?”

Maybe the answer is obvious to you, but I’ve been sincerely perplexed.  Seriously.  I kept going over my routines, and our daily schedule, trying to figure what is so dang different now.  I finally realized that I used to read your blogs when I was a pregnant insomniac who couldn’t physically use that time for anything else.  Doh! (palm to forehead!)

Life with children, especially new babies, is ever-changing and full of surprises.  I had hoped for the best, but prepared for what I thought was the worst, not expecting to feel so completely uncomfortably vulnerable.

So this guilt I feel at the moment comes from this sincere desire to nurture the friendships that developed during those times.  Sarah, of DizzyHappyMama, was someone who reached out to me when I said “I’m going to scream!“.  She listened without judgment, and offered to simply be an empathetic ear.  And now?  Well, I feel like an awful person for not doing a better job of keeping up that friendship.

As I was doing all this figuring, I remembered that I never would’ve started my own blog had it not been for the amazing people who already carved out a space for themselves in the blogosphere.  I was looking for something, searching for answers, some peace of mind.  And I found those things in the writings & words & photographs of bloggers like Amanda at the habit of being, Ana at i made it so, and Amanda at SouleMama, just to name few.  Taking the time to actually sit with a cup of tea, absorb and digest and comment and connect… that’s what put a little {magic} back into the days when it felt too difficult to create some of my own.

And I want that again.  I need that again, in lieu of this nonsensical and unnecessary guilt.

So after much very little thought, I’ve decided to let go of this idea (or obsessive compulsion, if I’m to be thoroughly honest) that I need to fill in the calendars on my sidebars.  Expecting to put up a post every day, as the author of (now) 2 blogs? I know 14 posts per week is logically ridiculous.  But, I am notoriously good at setting unrealistic, self-imposed deadlines.  With the time & mental freedom this decision creates, I should be able to return to being a regular participant of your blogs.  Because, being in your space, getting a glimpse, a snippet into your lives, it helps me find the {Magic of the Mundane}.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

Please leave a comment after your submission. Thanks!

I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has taken the time to support my blogs, Sofia’s Ideas and Nutrition Fruition.

Just so everyone knows, I don’t make any money from blogging.  I do not take on sponsors, I do not sell ad space, but I do put my heart into it because I really enjoy it.  AND the feedback & support I get from you, my amazing community of readers, is what makes the time I put into it worthwhile.

However, with that said, I do want to clarify that I am a Wellness Coordinator (and independent distributor) with Juice Plus+/NSA, and have been with this amazing company for almost a decade.  So, if you have learned about Juice Plus+ and/or the Tower Garden from me, or either of my blogs, I would really appreciate it if you would consider me as your contact person.

You can contact me at sofias (dot) ideas (at) gmail (dot) com OR you can place your order directly on my website…

(click on picture to be redirected to Juice Plus+ website)

It would be a small gesture of support that would make a big difference for my family.

I thank you in advance for your kind attention and look forward to hearing from you soon!

Sincerely,

Sofia

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

In our “share” this week ::

♥  Dandelion

♥  Baby Arugula

♥  Escarole

♥  Bibb Lettuce

♥  Broccoli Greens

♥  Japanese Eggplant

♥  Tiny Tomatoes

♥  Jalapeno Peppers

♥  Sweet Yummy Peppers

Read the rest and get the recipes on Nutrition Fruition… here.

We don’t often succumb to illness around here, but we do.  Despite our efforts to live a healthy lifestyle, we still have sick days here and there.  It was taking it’s toll, taking it’s turn with most of our lovies and then, eventually, me too.  Luckily for all of us, I’ve been manic and creative, and therefore energetic and patient.  Well, for the most part.

I was taking care of everyone else, trying my best to give them the tlc they craved.  Meanwhile, the ocd always flares up when vomit is involved, right?  Between the vomit, the extra laundry, the vomit, steam cleaning the mattress, the whining, and did I mention the vomit?  No?  Well… vomit, Vomit, VOMIT.  I felt it – that frustration and resentment at the universe conspiring against me!  I was on the verge of having an “I’m gonna lose it!” moment.

But just as quickly as that moment came, it passed…

and It started with crumbs.

From my little corner of the living room, I could see everything.  But my ocd just zeroed in on those crumbs.  ”How many times have I told them not to eat in the living room!?!”  I wanted to explode!  But instead, a calm came over me.  And rather than feeling overwhelmed, I felt overwhelmingly grateful.

The crumbs from those crackers were a reminder that we have kind and thoughtful children.   They volunteered to walk to the store for ginger ale and saltines, countless times, for their younger siblings.  They took the baby whenever I asked them to, without hesitation, and even put her to bed for me.  For that, I was grateful.

From my corner, I was reminded that we no longer need an arsenal of a medicine cabinet.  In fact, our get-well toolbox is quite small.  I was reminded of how fortunate we are that someone shared Juice Plus+ with us over a decade ago.  When our lovies are sick, I’m confident that their immune systems are strong enough to overcome it without medical interference.  For that, I was grateful.

From my corner, I was reminded that we have the best dog ever, in the history of all best dogs.  When what we need is calm and healing energy, Coltrane adds to that, instead of taking away from it (unlike the neighbor’s some).  He only barks when absolutely necessary.  For that, I was grateful.

From my corner, I was reminded that classic, sturdy toys never lose their novelty…

… the type of toys you inherit from the cousins that came before you.  When our children needed to entertain themselves because I just couldn’t, it was heart-warming to watch them indulge in some quiet, open-ended play.  Especially when there was sentiment attached to it.  For that, I was grateful.

From my corner, I was reminded that we have generous friends.  I was not feeling up to a trip, but the kids had already exhausted their library picks.  Luckily, they had some recent donations from a friend’s personal library.  Nothing beats boredom like a new book.  For that, I was grateful.

From my corner, I was reminded that even though my heart aches for my mother to be with me, I still have traces of her here.  When I can’t see her or speak to her, but need to feel her presence and borrow her strength, I can simply glance at the things I inherited from her, and smile.  For that, I was grateful.

From my corner, I was reminded of how lucky we are to have a Tower Garden.  When I can barely take care of us, it’s reassuring to know that our sprouts will continue to grow no matter how much I neglect them.  For that, I was grateful.

And then I was grateful to my sister for gifting us with her hand-held steam machine, because it made cleaning the mattress so much easier.  I was grateful to the person who wrote this post, because I was able to make organic cleaning solution with what I had on hand.

I was even grateful for the discovery of new (to me) Google Chrome Apps like Do It (Tomorrow) and Springpad.  And for new Google+ friends like Shay Shaked of Technically Writing who took the time to explain things to me, in detail, when no one else even bothered to answer!

And I just kept going on and on that way, in my head.  I continued to look around, from my little corner, and allowed all these little things to fill my heart up with gratitude.  And as always, I felt thankful for Papa, for being a great partner, for his patience, and simply his presence.

And this change from overwhelmed to overwhelmingly grateful all happened in one fleeting moment, in my mind.  That’s how I found the {Magic of the Mundane} during this time of illness… and It started with crumbs.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

There’s this feeling bubbling up inside me.  I recognize it.  It’s a familiar restlessness, a craving, an “itch”.

I need change.

Years ago, change meant getting something pierced, or packing up and moving.  But, because I’m a parent, I’m supposed to be responsible, and give them stability or whatever.  So, I need little bits of “fresh” and “new” wherever I can get it.

I usually just move things around.  I shift things.  Papa says he hates it, but I think he actually finds it endearing.  I clean, I organize, I decorate.  I write lists, I make charts, I print posters.  But after all of this, comes the realization that all I really needed was a change of perspective, a change of mind, a change of heart.

photo via arttherapyspot.com

{Magic} can be found in those miniscule moments that so often get buried.  They can be lost in that space between being mindful and having a mind that is full.

And that is what this series is about.

My friend Danielle sharing that cartoon on my facebook page.  Jodi Swank putting a little love on my CSA cooler.  Discovering new foods that I never knew existed.

Savoring a simple salad by a sunny open window.  Feeling the wind and warmth on my skin.  Tuning into all of those sensations that normally get tuned out.

Watching sisters interacting, teaching and learning about give and take.  Bracing myself for Mia’s inevitable transition from baby to toddler.  Feeling fortunate that no matter how far her curiosity takes her, for now, it’s still me she finds her way back to.

Some people wait for the “special”, but the magic doesn’t only happen on special occasions.  Its not about birthdays and holidays and vacations.  It’s not about the glitz, the glamour, the outrageous, or the ostentatious.  The magic is embedded in our dreams, in our day to day, and in our DNA.

It’s sharing your secrets.  It’s the inside jokes.  It’s being able to pick up right where you left off.

The right book at the right time.  A phone call at the precise moment you think of that person.  The song you were just singing suddenly playing on the radio.

It’s a slight touch as he passes me in the hallway.  It’s his hand on my shoulder that silently says everything I need to hear, right when I need to hear it.  It’s “that feeling that you get in your gut, when you know that it’s on cuz he gave you that look*”.

It’s about looking up from your laptop long enough to see that, across from you, sits the love of your life.  It’s realizing that your love exists because you’re crazy, not in spite of it.  It’s about anything, everything, and nothing at all.  It’s about the {Magic of the Mundane}.

*Olivier Moore

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

Please leave a comment after your submission. Thanks!

a {snippet}

 Aki and Eyang’s House

{this moment}

…

…
If you’re inspired to do the same,

leave a link to your ‘moment’ over at SouleMama for all to find and see.

Sofia’s Ideas
on Google+

Even though I prefer print editions of magazines, this is one digital version I do enjoy!  I’m (kinda sorta) looking forward to curling up on the couch with this, cup of black tea in hand… It’s the Eco Travel Issue but I’m actually interested in reading about that cleanse!

Click on the cover below to get your digital copy of Organic Spa magazine FREE!

Tip :: Once you get your copy, click on the text of any cover article, it will take you straight to the page!

In so many ways, this is in alignment with Sofia’s Ideas on Simplicity, Frugality, and Frivolity… all with an Eco-Mentality!

What about you?  Are you having a hard time transitioning to digital too? or do you actually prefer reading books & magazines on your gadgets?

I started a Google+ group on we teach for those who love collaborating with others in order to elevate our educations, encourage our passions, and support our endeavors.

(There it is, in the ’we teach’: newsletter 3.04.12.  Awesomeness, especially since I wasn’t expecting it!)

The goal of we teach is ”to share the tools and resources we need so that we can all learn, share, and grow as parents–and teachers–for our children”.

If you decide to join us on we teach,

don’t forget to download your free e-book

full of great ideas to use with your lovies.

It has over 30 ideas for holiday learning from we teach members!

Are you already a member of we teach?  Are you interested in becoming one?

Here I am asking you to find the {Magic of the Mundane} moments in your lives, and I’m struggling to find my own!  I have some freaking nerve!  ;0

Actually, I’ve been ocd-ing around here, which is the opposite of anything that could be described as extraordinary.  The grout, the calendar entries looking symmetrical from a distance, the lesson plans being color-coded, publishing the perfect post with perfect pictures… its all inconsequential, I know.  But it takes up real estate in my mind nevertheless.

But I will tell you something.  Although I’ve been struggling with these obsessive and compulsive urges these past couple of weeks, something extraordinary did occur… I was somehow able to intentionally infuse some conscious connection throughout this ordinarily disconnected phase.

We shared moments of pure joy.

We had conversations that resulted in compromise, compassion, and kindness.

We even nurtured our creativity, spontaneously, somehow, even though I craved sequence and symmetry and structure.

For me, this is no small feat.  In fact, I feel really proud of myself.  And that feeling?  the feeling of being proud of myself as a mom?  Well, you know as much as I do, that will never lose its magic.

Sofia’s Ideas {Magic of the Mundane}

:: every ordinary moment has the potential to be extraordinary ::

Every person has something of value to share, something to teach… and each of us has something to learn.  My hope is that as we Share The Magic with each other, we will inspire each other to create, or savor, the {Magic of the Mundane} in ways we might not be able to on our own.

Please leave a comment after your submission. Thanks!

Sofia’s {Ideas}

A Sunday series.  A single idea.  One of way too many.

Whenever we go out, people compliment us on how well-behaved our children are and want to know what our secret is.  They will even ask “Do you bribe them?  Do you threaten them?  Do you have a good behavior incentive?”  No, No, and No to all of the above.  I am not bragging (ok, maybe a little) and I am not an expert by any means, just so we are clear.

Our secret is… our kids know exactly what we expect of them when we are out.  And I keep it simple.  Upon arrival, or when we are about to walk into our destination, I pause with them and make eye contact.

Remember “The Rules”…  Inside Voices.  Listening Ears.  Walking Feet…  

What kind of voices?

Inside Voices!

What kind of ears?

Listening Ears!

What kind of feet?

Walking Feet!

They all answer in unison and they know there will be a consequence if they don’t abide by The Rules.  It rarely happens, but it happens.  When it does happen, I tell them to knock it off or they’ll get a knuckle sandwich.  The end.

Just kidding.  I mean, I do say that, but I don’t actually give them a knuckle sandwich.  It’s been years since I’ve actually had to go beyond giving them “the look”.   Actually, its quite a pleasure to be out with my lovies!  Honestly.

There is psychology behind how I state The Rules.  At some point, I learned about how our brains convert words into pictures and that there aren’t any images for negatives.  So, when you tell a child “no running” the picture that pops into their mind is of running.  Thats why I tell them what I expect, as in “walking feet”, instead of what I don’t want in “no running”.  I hope that makes sense?

Just so you know, I was young when I became a mom so I felt like I was under a microscope.  I thought people were expecting me to be a crappy parent.  And this made me very conscious of how I “looked” when we were in public.  (I got over that pretty quickly! ha!)  Once I became more concerned with how my child would turn out rather than how people (who I would most likely never see again) would judge me, it became really easy.

Reminding, and reciting “The Rules” is one way I parent with Sofia’s Ideas on Simplicity!