And a little Random Act of Kindness.

These video by OhJoy! make me smile every time.  And I'm thinking of doing a little kindness mission in the new year.  Pondering some ideas.  Just for fun.  Because let's just be honest, doing good, feels good.

Enjoy the video.  And could Joy Cho be any cuter?

Oh my heart these days, somewhere in between sheer devastation for the families in Newtown, CT and overwhelming gratitude for my little one at my feet.  I'm not sure if it's being a mama or if everyone feels this deep ache for the families of those beautiful children.  I've hid from the news the last few days, my heart can't take anymore.  But daily, I'm saying a prayer, lighting a candle and hoping they all find the hope, faith, strength and love to carry on day by day.  I'm certain your hearts are feeling the same.

Only a week ago, I was thinking about how busy these days have been.  The holidays send all of us into a tailspin of lovely parties, playdates, gift buying, tree trimming and how I really enjoy all of it.  But this year, I want to let some of it slide and be present and not too overwhelmed to sit and read 100 Christmas books a day with my little bloom.  So that is exactly what we've been doing.  Sitting tree-side and reading together.  (Between, parties and playdates, and park trips and errands.)  The house has fallen to pieces and I'm certain my sweet husband walks through the door wondering if we've been ransacked by wolves while he's been at work, by the magnitude of toys filling the living room floor.  But I'm letting it go, if only for another few hours so that we can simply sit and be present and focus on, what truly, deeply matters most.

On a gifting note:  I saw these prints for sale in benefit of the Sandy Hook families, I knew I could be of support from a far by sending some funds and writing a letter of love to those who need it most.  I thought I'd share, just in case you, my lovely, faithful, 11 readers, were interested, too.  They would be perfect for children's rooms, play rooms or any place that needs a dose of color and encouragement in your home or office.

Also, the post office has set up a PO box for condolences, drawings and love to be showered upon the Sandy Hook families:

Messages of Condolence for Newtown
PO Box 3700
Newtown, CT 06470

I'm not sure what I'll say yet, but I'll be sending some love via snail mail for certain.  
Operation Sandy Hook on Brickyard Buffalo.  Here.  There are several more prints to pick from.  All for $5 a piece and you print them from home.  Add a frame and instant art.  Only 6 more days left for the deal and giving.

Print by Caravan Shoppe.

Print by Maypole Handlettered.

Print by Kelli Murray.

In heels.

Our bloom gets a kick out of wearing my shoes.  She can walk better in them than me.  I was glad we had the camera close by to catch her in action.  Two years old is a crack up.

Grateful.

As we begin this new season I'm reminded, "Have a grateful heart. Be conscious of your treasures.". I'm certain, I can't remind myself enough how richly blessed my life is.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. It has nothing to do with the food. (I prefer light fare.). But it has everything to do with heart. Why not take more time to remind ourselves and each other of all we have to be thankful for.

This month I'm making it a point to complain less and direct my attitude toward the sunshine. And show more gratitude.

Today, I am thankful for library. We can't wait to dive into the dozen beautiful picture books we brought home. It's the simple things, really.

Truer words were never said.

Lately.

Life lately is mixed with the relief of cooling fall weather and the longing for days past.  Days when my mama was a phone call away and her comfort was something I innately knew.  The funny thing about the year anniversary of her passing, right around the corner is that, some days it feels like yesterday.  Other days I feel like I'm forgetting bits and pieces of her that I don't want to leave my mind and heart ever.  I'm praying and trusting that I'll remember what is important and that I'll also be reminded of lovely times I had forgotten.  I'll be honest there is a lot about her time ill that I'd be glad to forget.  The pain of it all is too much sometimes.     Though it never makes me miss her less, knowing she no longer suffers gives my heart ease.

I've made few plans for the next week because I'd like to have some space to give my feelings the time they need to work through this week ahead.  Finding my way through the past and looking forward to a new future.  That I know is bright.  I am cherishing the days at home with my little bloom, playing, crafting, looking for adventures.  One thing I know so well now, is how much I was loved by my mama.  I feel it when my heart aches like it will burst with love for my sweet daughter.  That's the thing about becoming a parent, you learn so much about the love (and frustration) of your own parents.  What a revelation it is.

So, here we are.  Soaking up the fresh fall air, looking for ways to have fun and spending time just being together, us three.  And I'm so happy to have my little bloom and her Dada beside me.

Trip to MacDonald's Ranch.

Her special horse, Felina.

Bird lover.

Cheesy family shot in the pumpkin patch, we had to.  Check out those cactus. 

It was hot and dusty but we made it out with some perfectly festive pumpkins.  And Chloe rode her first horse.  I could hardly reach her to hold her on to the horse as we walked a long, and she was totally silent until it was time to get off.  Then naturally, she wanted more.  I see more horse riding in our future.  The chickens were her favorite part of the petting zoo. This girl really is a bird lover.

And then we splashed!

Kevin with his darling Aunt Sheryl.

It was a simple party with a couple of our local friends.  Summer in Arizona is too hot to be anywhere but in the water.  And a splash party is so much more relaxing for parents of non-swimmers.  We had so much fun playing at the Scottsdale Quarter and had a light lunch and cupcake before every one was ready for a long afternoon nap.  What a great way to spend the day.

We are so happy to have met a few great friends.  I'm certain we'll be friends for many years to come.