Category Archives: family

13/52

marie

 “A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Marie: such a big girl now…and the most polite toddler I know, saying “thank you” all the time.

I’ll be honest, keeping up with this weekly project is a challenge, especially with twin toddlers. I’ve realized that my goal of photographing them both, (together), is too ambitious, especially considering how many shots it takes to get just one good one.  So this week, it’s just Marie. This photo was a happy accident–her beauty (inside and out) continues to amaze me.

post inspiration

sully-sur-loire

sully-sur-loire-castle

sully-sur-loire-chateau

sully-castle-keep

sully-castle-france

 

My brother lives here. Ok fine, not in the castle, but a few blocks away. And ok yes, he’s my half-brother, but I don’t think of him that way. You can read all about our connection here if you’re curious. Now that I’ve gotten that all out in the open, let’s talk about this amazing, historic structure, shall we? For nearly four centuries this beautiful example of medieval architecture has prevailed in Sully-sur-Loire, which is about 2 hours south of Paris, in the Loire Valley. If you’re a history buff like myself, you can read all about the castle’s history here. I’m so fortunate to have family here and know of this great chateau and surrounding town. Quaint + charming, the people are always welcoming and the shop owners know you by name…including one who knew mine (and shocked the hell out of me) when I went shopping for my nephew! My brother’s home is quiet + serene, overlooking farmland, with a chicken coop in the yard. I was especially excited about that, as I had never handled fresh (from the hen) eggs before and was giddy about it, as evidenced by this instagram + this vine. The time with my family was priceless, and I’ll be sharing more of our adventures in the Loire very soon!

remembering billy

remembering-billy

“

“When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth…

you are weeping for that which has been your delight.”

Kahlil Gibran

 

Exactly one month has passed since I lost my furry soulmate. It is very surreal…I feel as if I will still be processing his death for some time. I see him everywhere-at the foot of the bed, at the bottom of the stairs, in his poof, in the stroller with the kids…always by my side. For twelve years, he was my constant companion, my heart. That part of my heart went with him…and so I mourn the void. I am sorrowful for the days that were taken from us, yet forever grateful for the days that we were given. Each and every one was a gift. It was him that, at the age of twenty-three, made me a mommy. He saw me through very difficult times in my life, providing great comfort and unconditional love, always. I secretly always hoped he would be with me until I had children- the grief would be so much heavier without Marie + Henry’s laughter and youthful innocence. They miss him – even at such a young age they know…I’m so very thankful they knew and loved him. The quote above gives me strength, as it is so very true. He was my delight, our delight, and will never be forgotten.

nye redo

new-year-sparkler-candles

 

2014, I can finally acknowledge you…hello! With us all coming down with the flu after Christmas, we decided to have a New Year’s Eve redo on Saturday night. Nothing major-just a bottle of bubbly and sparkler candles…really more representative of a fresh start for us than anything. Last year was such a whirlwind of momentous moments-it will be one we look back on with great fondness (except for that last week, ugh). This year will be just as memorable…merging my businesses (more on that soon), a trip to France, our babies turning two (what?!), turning 35, and celebrating 5 years of marriage! I’m not really one for resolutions, but in the spirit of accountability, I’d like to share a few of my goals for 2014.

Eat clean. Get healthy.

This is priority #1 for me this year. I need to stop with the pity party about my weight (and overall health) and kick ass to get back to the healthiest version of me. It starts NOW.

Cultivate my children’s curiosity + thirst for knowledge.

One of my favorite aspects of parenthood comes with great responsibility. I’m so excited to introduce them to the wonders of the world and guide them on their learning journey. It’s truly an honor.

Spend less time plugged in and more time just living.

This actually affects all of my resolutions-I need to be better about putting down my iPhone, turning off the computer + tv, and being more present. This video is a great reminder.

Make more time for my marriage.

At the end of the day, my husband and I are both so exhausted from work (me as a WAHM, him at a demanding 9-5) that we struggle to have energy for each other. I know this is an issue that plagues many married couples with children, and we have to get better at making time for US. More date nights are in our near future!

Challenge myself personally + professionally.

This may seem obvious, but it helps me to put it in writing. I already have some exciting projects in the works for the year that will be fun yet challenging. My business and blog continue to evolve and keeps me on my toes! Personally, having never traveled alone internationally, going to France by myself will certainly push my comfort levels, in the best kind of way. I’m both anxious and giddy about it…less than two months away, eeek!

What is your #1 goal for 2014? I’d love to hear friends!

happy new year

2014

 

I am only slightly aware that a new year has been ushered in, as this is the first time I’ve looked at my computer in five days (unplugging is refreshing, I must admit). Unfortunately our household has been struck with the flu in a big way. We are a pitiful bunch right now, although seeing some improvement…the extra cuddles and family time has been the silver lining. Please excuse my absence as we focus on getting healthy, so that we can properly acknowledge the new year!