Keeping Calm in the Midst of a Storm

Our Friday can be described with the following words: Maile needed a nap.

Those close to us know that we plan appointments and outings around Maile's nap and bedtime schedules. Sure, there are times it isn't possible, but we do our darndest to make sure Baby Girl is getting the sleep she needs, when she needs it. Why? Because it makes all of our lives easier (and in this case, easier absolutely = happier). 

Except for we didn't have time for her to take a nap. You see, we returned home from Arizona late Tuesday night, a day later than we originally intended (family is fun ... and so is 75+ degree weather). And life has been one big delayed, rushed, trying-to-catch-up blur since then. So getting ready to go out for groceries, which should have taken us an hour, took three. There was a meltdown over thinking she wouldn't get to go. There were nearly inconsolable sobs over wanting me to snuggle, when all I really needed to do was find some pants. There was a sit-a-spell-on-Mama's-lap-even-though-I-still-wasn't-wearing-pants. There was an offer of snuggles with Dada. There were deep breaths, and a few rounds of Daniel Tiger songs. There were a few escaped harsh tones, which morphed into consoling words. 

Snacks help everyone. Not just little ones. A few slices of cheese and salami, and an apple and a pluot later, and we were all feeling a bit better. Hangry is definitely a legitimate mood.

We're hoping to get back to our regular schedule soon, and get Maile back to her usual, bright self. She was nothing but cuddles this weekend, and a new Elsa dress + doll, that she worked incredibly hard to get, helped a whole lot! I'm sure I'm crazy, but I've always liked Mondays because they provide a fresh start, so here's to today! 

10/52

"A portrait of my daughter, once a week, every week, in 2014."

Maile: "Playing science," and utilizing the glass from her and Tim's rainbow-making experiment for a cool drink of water in the morning light.

Maile is fully into doing experiments with her dada; it's a new, special aspect of their relationship, and I love watching the excitement it fosters. 

Last week, I particularly enjoyed Jane Mabel, and Emma's photos. Please, pay their lovely portraits a visit.

If you haven't hopped over and said hello already, please extend a warm welcome to our newest sponsor, Alana; her blog is full of girly inspiration!

7/52

"A portrait of my daughter, once a week, every week, in 2014."

Maile: A little Valentine's Day "princess picture".

Once again, I didn't take many photos this week. I think I have a case of the Februarys, which are much like the Mondays. I'm aching for spring, and I know Maile is too. We've been a little testy with each other, and I'm working extra hard to take deep breaths, count, recite mantras, pray, as we attempt to overcome our cabin fever, together.

I do love this picture, though. There are few things better to me than when I have an idea for a photo, and Maile is equally enthusiastic; we both had fun with her little Love Day photo shoot.

Last week, I particularly enjoyed Gone Tribal, and Lou's photos. Please, pay their lovely portraits a visit.

Maile's dress was made by the talented Jess, of Dream Catcher Baby. The felt heart banner Maile holds was a sweet, handcrafted gift from my sweet friend Cristin, half of the duo behind Camp Wolf.

Slow Cooker Gluten Free Minestrone

This tasty delight looks and tastes like a lot of work, but it's insanely easy to whip up, and the time it takes to cook isn't any more than it takes to brown the meat, and chop a few veggies. You can serve this dish to family, friends, your partner, your kids -- everyone loves it. And guess what? It's healthy. It's practically a perfect meal. Make it when you need a belly warmer, or a big bowl o' comfort ... just make it!

Recipe here.

xo

6/52

"A portrait of my daughter, once a week, every week, in 2014."

Maile: The 'mad' scientist. The picture of concentration.

This week, I have to admit, this project was not at the forefront of my mind. One snowy day, though, we were having a particularly slow afternoon, and Tim grabbed some old Coke bottles, some food coloring, and the two of them had great fun mixing colors.

Last week, I particularly enjoyed Visual Love Notes', and Dressing Ivana's photos. Please, pay their lovely portraits a visit.

Maile's "Wild & Brave" tee c/o Quarkbaby. Thank you, Lindsey!