Right On Time

In the midst of holiday craziness I put together a little backpack made from striped denim, intended to house Ori's goods that he likes to lug around with him. He was genuinely excited when he opened up his gift, and I was just relieved that he loved it even though the train applique had no face.
And it was made just in time for Ori to take with him to the New York Botanical Garden's train show.
Ori and Danny met up with Uncle Chris to marvel at little replicas of NYC landmarks and trains scattered throughout a lush backdrop of living plants.
Needless to say, I think he enjoyed his outing- after seeing the pictures that Danny took I am considering taking Phia before it ends.
And if you have a minute to admire pictures of the show, might I suggest these and this and this.

A Capitol Trip.

On Monday we took a little weekday getaway to D.C. for Danny's annual end of summer vacation time.
We enjoyed a trip to the zoo, a surprise earthquake, and the cool, breezy days which were perfect for bike riding to the monuments. Overall, pretty exciting. After we visited with family we headed home before the winds pick up from any wandering hurricanes.
And, I just had to include these of the kids since all pictures look so much more fun from instragram.

Tomato Market

We have been hitting the local farmers market as much as possible. It has a nice selection of produce, baked goods and my favorite, Hoboken Farms.
The bike ride is short and hilly, but we usually get the best parking space. Since tomatoes are abundant, Phia likes to call it the "tomato market", and is always scouting out a new variety to try. Two pints for $3, experiment away.
But what to do with all those fresh maters?
Beet and tomato salad via Martha
Tomato Salad via the kitchn
Quickest Tomato Sauce via Jamie Oliver
And just because, Jamie Oliver dressed as a tomato

Released

Doesn't it feel amazing to escape captivity? We have been enjoying my favorite time of year with hikes, parks, hanami, wet rain boots, and even some street fair festivities.
Oh, spring- you are so thoroughly inspiring, and almost as awesome as funnel cake.

Signs of the Season

1. Spring Thaw


The ice and snow have finally melted, revealing renewed growth and beautiful landscapes. We live in close proximity to an expansive natural reserve, and while the leaves still have some time before their arrival, it is a wondrous place to explore. I love to watch the kids run wild and free, acting out great adventures.

2. Spring Songs

Ben Harper and Vanessa da Mata - Boa Sorte
Norah Jones - Somewhere Over the Rainbow
The Beatles - Here Comes the Sun
Jack Johnson - Breakdown
Stevie Wonder - You Are the Sunshine of My Life

3. Transitional Flavors

Vegetable Stew is perfect for warm and chilly days, and it reheats well for an easy dinner.

Exploration

I love how one day may be spent encouraging the exploration of new ways to entertain ourselves at home with a variety of mediums, from tempura paint to library books to new recipes.While the next might be spent invigorating the spirit of adventure with new train lines, long treks through a city, and meet ups at planetariums.
I am so happy for each and every new adventure we take together...
...even if my feet are still sore from walking in merciless boots.

Let's Hibernate

Because winter feels endless with all of this snow, which makes exploring our new town a little challenging.

Because miso soup is so warming for lunch.
Because hand quilting leads to both pretty finishes and a warm lap during the process.
So, what do you say?

Cycling New Jersey

This cool fall weather has been perfect for biking. It is so enjoyable to travel by bicycle- I love the brisk breeze on my face, and the sound of leaves rustling under my tires.

Shortly into this preschool experience I realized that one child is much more easy to manage than two, and even more so, one is much more easy to pull in my bike trailer. While I take care of most of the effort getting us from place to place, Ori regulates our playlist.

If you are looking for any inspiration to go for a ride, might I suggest you check out just a couple of posts at velocouture? And while I am on the topic of bicycles, wouldn't it kind of be totally amazing to own one of these beauties?

Outing Attire

I originally made this two years ago for a Halloween costume, but since then it has become one of my favorite little dresses to throw on Phia when we are going on last minute outings. From apple orchards to birthday parties, this little dress has seen it all.
On Saturday we met up with Lauren to enjoy a carnival held inside of an old armory in Manhattan. We explored the beautiful and spacious venue that was packed with performers, games and rides, including a ferris wheel.
We let the kids each pick a ride- Phia picked the fast and dizzying Trabant, while Ori was entranced by the flying elephants.