A Letter to Lena

 

Dear Lena,
You are so full of magic these days. You love being outside more than anything else. I watch you explore and see the world. So careful with plants and animals, so independent. These is so little you are afraid of and even less that cant be fixed by a hold from me or Dada. I hope you always keep your spirit and your fire, because that is what you are full of. We have now had a few incidence with other children where I thought you were treated unfairly or unkindly. My heart breaks when it happens because I see you as such a kind and sweet being. Always ready to smile and have fun, why would someone push that away? But I know that's what happens to a Mama's heart, and it will again and again. I have reprimanded a couple of children, but for the most part I sit back and see how the situation works out, how you react and handle yourself. You always carry on, you never waste time on something, or someone who is not pleasant and happy in return. I admire this in you. I see you get startled and frustrated for a moment, but you always get up and find something else that makes you smile again. I am so proud of you. I know we have so much more to learn from each other and so many more obstacles to over come, but I couldn't wish for a better learning partner, a better daughter, a better human being to spend my time with. Thank you for all that you are teaching me.
I love you with all of my being, forever and always,
Mama

Adventures in Good Eating: Easy Cheesy Crackers

These bright sunny days have put me in a domestic goddess type of mood. The days spent in our little town, working on our home, being together, using our hands and being creative.

I have been sewing, weeding and planting in our tiny little garden, cleaning the house (always!), keeping the day busy with fun and stimulating experiences for Lena, and cooking away.

 

 Today we made crackers. I have been wanting to try my hand at crackers lately because Lena loves them and they can be so expensive at the store. And it always feels good to make your loves their favorite foods. I read a few different recipes online and came up with these:

 

Easy Cheesy Crackers

 

1 c. flour

3/4 c. shredded cheese (I used cheddar)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. lemon pepper

1/2 tsp. thyme

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. onion powder

(You could substitute any of your favorite spices for these above four.)

4 tbsp. cold butter

1/3 c. whole milk (may need a splash more if too dry)

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine in a food processor everything but the milk. Once everything in mixed together add the milk and combine until dough forms. Roll the dough out thin and then cut. Use small cookie cutters or use a knife to cut squares. Place onto parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 mins. or until they look crispy golden. The thinner the dough is rolled the quicker the crackers will cook.

 

I used both methods of cutting the crackers. Obviously the shapes and animals are much cuter, but take a bit of time. The squares are easy, fast, and can be pretty cute if you add a little touch like a fork mark or a mini straw hole in the center.

 

Lena loved them!! And Skyler did too...which means they are not going to last long in our house.

Good thing they are so easy! I have a feeling I will be making them again very soon.

Unexpected Sunday

Today our little family of three traveled West to the coast to help a friend.

It became such a sweet Sunday, an unexpected adventure.

On the way to the waves we had the opportunity to visit friends at their farm. Being the season of babies and sunshine it was a chance we could not pass up.

We are so grateful for our friends inviting us to spend these moments at the farm with them.

It was so bright and beautiful. The bustle of birth and life on the farm made me excited for Spring time and Easter. 

After the farm visit we went on our way. Taking in as many sights and quiet moments together as possible while Lena slept in the back seat. 

For lunch we ate the picnic we packed while looking out over the ocean. We watched whales move past and were kept company by ladybugs,

We could hear nothing but birds and waves and see nothing but nature, sunshine and each other.

Thankful for these moments in the sun with them.

Thankful for how my heart feels and how my world looks with their love around me.