we've had a lovely weekend here, in our little nest. There's been just the right amount of sunshine, just the right amount of rain, just the right amount of chocolate (ie, lots!), and just the right amount of family time. We even managed to fit in a spot of rearranging, which always makes for a happy mamma, as it means that one more little mess has been cleaned up.
we made this cosy little corner from what was an ugly mess of computer gear. Now the computer gear is in a different corner, in a much tidier state, with much less stuff "on display". Although it's a shame to hide away things like blank discs and usb cords, it is possible to in fact store them in nearby drawers, where they are still somewhat accessible, while much less in your face. It took some convincing, but I won out in the end. How long these items will remain in said drawers is debatable.also discovered the sweet music of seabear and agnes obel this weekend, via this blog, which is very umm ... pretty, and features nice music. In discovering this new stuff, it has occured to me that I generally seem to like most things that come from scandinavia and iceland. Oh, except for herrings and any other kind of fishy snacks. Those I do not like. It has long been a dream of mine to visit this part of the world, and one not many other members of my family seem to share, except for fin, who would like to one day visit finland, where he would obviously be king. It's nice to have dreams.
so what have we been doing? Well, a big loungeroom shift was at the top of the list last week, as a certain little person had become rather fond of climbing on and around the fireplace, a bit dangerous given that we will soon be lighting said fire with the onset of chilly nights and mornings that we are feeling now. The fire screen is back up, and we have that funny little lounge next it, with just enough room left for a cosy little corner for snuggling into on winter evenings.
of course, that cosy corner has also proven to be the perfect spot for a little willow cubby house action, which he spends much time preparing, piling up the cushions and getting it just so, only to have jasper come along and crash it all down. This little game can go on for ages, punctuated by lots of (very frustrated) "aww jas-per"s, before he finally gives up and just sits there, in tears, with the blanky draped over his head. It's hard, being six and not being able to keep the vandals out of one's cubby.
betty james got in on the action this week too, and donned her favourite old apron, for baking season is upon us. She's already wowed us all with roast lamb, a pretty awesome chicken and veggie pie, caramel popcorn, and a scrummy apple cake. Apparently there's more to come. Mmm.
of course, the walking has started. There were a few shaky weeks, and then suddenly he got it and now there's no looking back, although the super-fast crawl is still in use when there is a ladder beckoning.
but, there are also these lovely moments of concentration and curiosity. It's these moments that I treasure, they remind me so much of his brothers, especially fin, who used to build the most magnificent block cities, far greater than any I could ever hope to dream up. And it's these little things that keep reminding me of how little children really need...a few wooden blocks, maybe some pencils and paper and a good dose of imagination is all it takes. Oh, and a good ladder to climb on will never go astray.
