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I'm a Craftster Best of 2012 Winner!  

A Little Froggy

I was given very shocking news the other day. Ella told me that I would have to grow a NEW Ella, because she was going to turn into a frog and I wouldn't have her any more. It's very tragic and sudden, and I'm not sure what to do about it. Besides laugh, that is.    

The Owl and The Pussycat

In my house, fairy tales, nursery rhymes and storybooks are as important to daily life as peanut butter sandwiches at lunch time and bubble baths before bed. One of my favorite classics is "The Owl and The Pussycat" -- a beautiful little love story that has inspired quite a few paintings in the past few months.   

The Owl and The Pussycat

The Owl and the Pussy-cat went to sea

In a beautiful pea green boat,

They took some honey, and plenty of money,

Wrapped up in a five pound note.

The Owl looked up to the stars above,

And sang to a small guitar,

'O lovely Pussy! O Pussy my love,

What a beautiful Pussy you are,

You are,

You are!

What a beautiful Pussy you are!'

Red Light, Green Light

The other day, we were driving around town, trying to get some errands done and I was trying desperately not to go crazy. Traffic was horrible (as usual) and as I slowed the car to stop at ANOTHER traffic light, Ella, being a very curious three-year-old, asked why we were stopping.
"We're supposed to stop at red lights," I said.
After an eternity, the light changed to green.
"We go at green lights," I added as I moved the car forward. Apparently, this was the world's fastest traffic light, and it was already turning to yellow by the time I got up to the intersection. I stepped on the gas.
"And we go really fast at yellow lights!" I concluded, jokingly.
"Yeah, if you're a maniac," Annabel muttered. Only nine-years-old and already a backseat driver.  

"Race Car Dog"
Whimsical Children's Painting

Camp Out Essentials

I've been camping many times in my life. I've roughed it in the wilderness, hiked many trails, and fished my fair share of lakes. This past week, however, I learned an entirely new way to camp from my girls. Here's the rundown:

When you want to go camping, there are a few essential things you need to take. Along with your sleeping bag, pillow and bedtime snacks, you will probably also need your toy cat piano (just in case there's a spontaneous need for a dance party). Also, it's important that you bring along ALL your stuffed animals, not just your favorites, because you don't want any of them to feel left out (it's a good idea to have a big stack of books to read to these animals, too--you don't want them to get bored). And don't forget, if you don't have at least half your toys stored away in various purses, sacks and bags, you may regret it sometime late in the night. Last, but not least, you must have not one, not two, but THREE changes of clothes. It would be scandalous not to be wearing the height of fashion while walking around the campsite.

Luckily, the camp out took place in the backyard. I don't think we're ready to trek into the wilderness just yet!

   

Silly Ella

Ella had just gotten dressed and was having a little trouble adjusting her clothes.
"Let me help you, Ella. We need to fix your crooked pants," I said, calling her over.
"Oh, no!" she exclaimed, running to me. "Don't let it get me!"
"Don't let what get you?" I asked, puzzled.
"The cricket in my pants!" she cried. "Get it out!"

Common Sense

As a mother, I quickly realized that common sense is not really all that common. It is something that is taught (painfully at times), and things that may seem obvious to a grown up can be a true realization for a kid. 

I have compiled a short list of "Things that I have said that I never thought I would have to say." Please feel free to add your own to the comments (I'd like to feel like I'm not alone and completely crazy!).

*Don't put the cat in your mouth.

*Don't put lettuce on your head.

*Don't put toys in your nose.

*Yes, you have to wear clothes to the store.

*Ketchup and ice cream don't taste good together. 

*Don't put trash in the garbage disposal! Yes, I know it's called a "garbage disposal" but you can't put trash in it! Don't argue!