The Story of Bee

this moment

2011-02-18T04:09:00.000-08:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

inspired by SouleMama

fingers crossed

2011-02-01T03:55:00.000-08:00

Tonight we have our fingers and toes crossed for the safety of all the people in North Queensland. My beautiful mum, step dad, sister, brother in law and 2 little nieces are right in the firing line of cyclone Yasi. I am nervous. I have a knot in my stomach. They were in cyclone Larry, this one is meant to be much worst. Saying lots of prayers.

{this moment}

2011-01-21T04:10:00.000-08:00

{this moment }- A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember. Inspired by SouleMama

p.s - one of my favourite moments, a family effort to build a beautiful sandcastle (had to add an extra photo of the finished product).

in a month

2011-01-16T18:53:00.000-08:00

in a month i have celebrated a beautiful christmas. spent a week in byron bay. fell asleep at 9pm before the countdown to new years. watched my sixteen year old son sky dive from 14,000 feet. housed my wonderful mother for four weeks as the roads were flooded to rockhampton. cleaned lots of mould off walls. watched the devastation of the floods. cried over the lives lost in this natural disaster. felt uplifted by the amazing and generous people that have helped with the cleanup. cleanout and donated many items to people less fotunate. spent very little time on my computer. sat in stillness and counted my blessings.

xox

magic

2010-12-24T07:12:00.000-08:00

everything is in it's place

christmas time is just magic with a 3 year old in the house

we are all in the spirit.

happy christmas to you all

be back soon.

{this moment}

2010-12-17T06:53:00.000-08:00

{this moment }- A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

inspired by SouleMama

{this moment}

2010-12-12T03:30:00.000-08:00

{this moment} inspired by SouleMama

P.S - Mr 14. The chef in our family. A freshly baked choc chip pizza! Oh my, it was a little over the top but very yummy.

{this moment}

2010-12-02T22:08:00.000-08:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama
Celebrating my baby boys 14th birthday!

{this moment}

2010-11-26T02:58:00.000-08:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama

they play

2010-11-23T20:26:00.000-08:00

my two boys. they are the two in the middle. violins in hands. they played .

after all these years of watching them perform, my heart still sings.

{this moment}

2010-11-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - Inspired by SouleMama

turning 3 with fairies and gnomes

2010-10-20T05:14:00.000-07:00

a little fairy turned 3 in our house a couple of weeks ago.....

the night before her birthday i told a special story about a little baby who was longing to come and live in our family (this was symbolic of gracie and of a new little waldorf doll that i had made in the weeks leading up to her birthday).

the look on her face when she met her baby doll on the morning of her birthday..... so priceless. she told me "mummy, her name is lucy".

gracie had her first birthday party this year. she asked for a fairy and gnomes party -who could resist that!

one of her favourite gifts was the bubble maker.

the plans for circle games outside in our garden and a treasure hunt were not to be. the rain came to visit and stayed all day.

so the children played contently in the sandpit. the bubble maker was a big hit too.

my heart was full with all the beautiful handmade cards and gifts grace received.

the little girls were given a pair of fairy wings. i made gnomes hats for the boys and stitched the first letter of their name on each hat.

the house was filled with handmade tissue pom poms. these pretty thing are very easy to make. there are lots of tutorials on the net!

we had lots of fun decorating and making everything look beautiful. i stamped out grace's name and punched out some patterned paper scallops. she loved her cake.

happy birthday darling girl. you were born into our hearts and home 3 years ago and we are so blessed.

{this moment}

2010-10-15T03:02:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Soulemama

{this moment} A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words -capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special extradionary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

{this moment}

2010-10-08T00:49:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

Inspired by SouleMama

a blessingway for two

2010-10-03T04:26:00.001-07:00

Today we sat in circle as women, sisters and mothers. We sang, nurtured and painted with henna. We enveloped these two beautiful pregnant women with love.

Each women bought a bead. The beads will be strung together and a necklace will be made to provide strength and courage for their birthing journeys.

My two friends will be birthing their babies in the safety of their own homes. After their babies are born - the women in their community will provide homemade meals for them. They will be supported and showered with love. Can you imagine if every women had this support after birth ...... just imagine.

There are so many ideas and things that you can do for a blessingway. For inspirations this book is perfect *Mother Rising : The blessingway journey into Motherhood

All these pregnant bellies are making me clucky!

{this moment}

2010-10-01T08:02:00.001-07:00

Inspired by SouleMama

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

nearly 3 and a fairy morning tea

2010-09-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

It's busy around here. School holidays have arrived and boy am I thankful for that. No school runs and warmer weather equals a happy me! I have had my busy spring hat on - cleaning out cupboards and preparing for my little ones 3rd birthday. She asked if she could have a little party.... she asked! I think after attending two in the last few months she has clicked onto something - parties are fun!

The thing is that I am not really into planning children's parties. We compromised on the party and decided on a small morning tea with just a few children. For someone who isn't into children's parties I have enjoyed making her little fairy inspired invites and browsing through this lovely blog for inspirations.

I have had my crafty hat on too. My hands and heart have been busy making a waldorf baby doll for Grace. I wish I could say that craft comes easy to me. It doesn't. However, I really believe that the love and joy of making something with my hands and giving it to my little one is priceless. So I push on. I am searching for a moses basket to put her new dollie in. Fingers crossed that one will appear in the local Op shop.

{this moment}

2010-09-24T04:54:00.000-07:00

Inspired by SouleMama

{this moment } A Friday ritual. A single photo. No words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment to pause, savour and remember.

{this moment}

2010-08-27T04:35:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo. No words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment to pause, savour and remember.
Inspired by SouleMama

A beautiful birthday afternoon spent at the park. Happy birthday to my lovely hubby x

this moment

2010-08-13T06:01:00.000-07:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember. Inspired by SouleMama

sixteen

2010-08-03T03:50:00.000-07:00

Life was so different before you.

I was surprised when you came,

so early, so tiny, so perfect.

I held you in my arms,

pretending that I knew how to care for you,

of course I learnt, I grew and so did you.

I still watch you,

wondering if I am doing an ok job of being your Mum.

Maybe that is how it is with your first born,

always wondering.

Together we learn a new dance everyday,

overcoming challenges.

I am learning to let you go,

to let you grow up.

And boy, I am so proud of you.

Happy 16th Birthday Whyatt,
keep shining.
Mum x

{this moment}

2010-07-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

{this moment} A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

Looking back on June

2010-07-06T04:21:00.000-07:00

I often get side tracked from doing regular posts. Things big and small seem to get in my way. I get stressed that maybe I should just give the whole blog thing away..... but then I remind myself of why I keep a blog. For my family, a journal, something to look back on. Because all the moments that I blog about are my precious memories, moments that make up my life and I just don't want to forget them.

The month of June was a time of.........

* hosting and celebrating a dear friends blessingway.

* getting ready for my oldest son's 16th birthday, I am still getting my head around it!

* witnessing the beautiful sounds of my son Josh, playing a piece on his violin from the Schindler's List soundtrack.

* feeling a deep appreciation for my beautiful family and friends.

* saving my pennies and getting closer to buying my new camera.

* enjoying our winter fire this year, after a beautiful friend came to my home and cleaned out my fireplace! Thank you Louise!

I have added Josh's beautiful violin piece, just because....

oh, sorry about the bumpy recording (a tripod would of been good).

the show

2010-06-26T06:03:00.000-07:00

today the sun was shining and we went to the show. no need for words. the pictures tell the story. the only thing missing was the company of my two sons. the boys have been away for 10 days visiting their grandparents. they have been having their own fun.

wishing you all a little sunshine in your week.

{this moment}

2010-06-04T06:25:00.001-07:00

{this moment} A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

My two sons and their Auntie Em. They love her so much. We are blessed that she is such a big part of our lives. She is my sister and one of the kindest souls that I know.

Happy Birthday Em - we love you.

may days

2010-05-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been hectic. Lately, life has been run by schedules, measured week by week, term by term. It is not unusual for us all to be on the road by 7am. The boys run in a club at school or go to the school library for study. Afternoons are busy but we still manage (most nights) to eat our evening meal together. Sitting around a candle, chatting and listening to each others daily news. Once dishes are done, my boys are usually stuck in front of their computers - doing homework for a good couple of hours.

It's funny how life turns out. My life certainly feels like it has done a turn around, since the days of my boys primary school years, when they attended a quiet little Steiner school. But to be honest, these boys of mine are thriving and love the challenge of a academic and sporty high school. For me, I can only trust that they have had the grounding and gentleness of a peaceful childhood which will enable them to handle this new pace.

On the flip side, my days between school hours are balanced with my little one and I doing as little as possible outside of our home. Apart from a small mama's group that meets fortnightly, the little one and I keep life pretty simple. There are no plans for her to attend any kind of kindy or childcare. I totally respect what other parents choose, I really do and for some parents I know there is no option but, to go back to work. I think every family has to work out what is right for them and this is what is right for us. Having two teenagers has reminded me how quickly this time goes and it is just too precious to miss out on.

Our days between 8 and 3 are filled with little bits of craft, lots of imaginative play, walks around our neighbourhood, cooking and preparing meals for the evenings and to burst my bubble, a few two year old tantrums are thrown in there too.

On another note, I like the idea of summarising what is alive in me each month. My new little idea (which I am sure other bloggers may do) is to note a few of my months happenings. So here is May.....

May has been

. finding my needles again and catching the knitting bug

. exploring new recipes and juicing every morning

. reading this book and being inspired by it's beauty and simplicity for early childhood

. watching and listening to my boys play their violins in concerts and quartets

. falling in love with papercraft and attending this creative women's classes

. taking steps towards studying a course at home.

Loving this quote:

'A hundred years from now,

it will not matter what my bank account was,

the sort of home I lived in,

or the kind of car I drove;

but the world may be different

because

I was important to the life of a child. '

Anonymous

gratitude

2010-05-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been seeing a friend well my old midwife actually for TFT. In a few of my past posts I have written about keeping my life simple. This body of mine likes it like that and my soul too. I have been battling for some time with neurological symptoms - so the best way to stay balanced is to be gentle on myself.

Sometimes it can feel like you are the only one going through something like this, but I am reminder daily that so many people are battling or overcoming something. I continue to bring myself back to what I am grateful for and there is so much.

My mantra recently has been --- to live day by day, moment by moment, slowing, gently and with gratitude.

This is what is whats alive in my world at the moment. Sending love to you all and hoping that all is well in your world. x

{this moment}

2010-04-30T05:06:00.000-07:00

{this moment} -A Friday ritual- a single photo - no words. Capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special,extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

Inspired by - Soulemama

{this moment}

2010-04-16T05:12:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Soulemama

{this moment} - A friday ritual - a single photo - no words . Capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

together

2010-04-14T03:13:00.000-07:00

{Holidays}

Time to let go.

Unwind

Play

Time to be together.

This is a little bit of what we have been up to....

Southbank, Brisbane. Beautiful right on dusk

Hanging at the park. Fun for young and not so young.

Our beautiful gold coast beaches - simply the best

This beautiful bride is Whyatt's old Steiner teacher Skye. She taught, nourished and dedicated 3 years to him and his class and was married last weekend. Both of my boys played the violin as she walked down the aisle.

After many years of my children making bread - they still find joy in it!

Blessings to you all.

{this moment}

2010-04-02T05:41:00.000-07:00

inspired by SouleMama

{this moment} - A friday ritual - a single photo - no words. Capturing a photo from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

-----------------------------------------------------------

my little laptop has been broken all week - hence no blogging. This photo taken by a friend, was one I had saved on a disk from a few weeks ago - it still takes my breath away. Hope to have my computer back soon.

Happy Easter to you all - stay safe.

{this moment}

2010-03-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

Inspired by SouleMama

In her words

{this moment} - A friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember.

balancing life with creativity

2010-03-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

Well it's busy in our little home, once again. Things have a way of gaining momentum. I am melancholic by nature and life itself can just seem overwhelming at times. My remedy for balance has always been to do something creative -whether it is working with fleece, writing, or sewing. My new little creative love is stamping and card making! This beautiful soul and friend Renee has introduced me to this art... and I am loving it.
My camera has been playing up but when I have it sorted I will share some of my new creations with you. It so nice to have something new and creative to be excited about, something just for me.

And this photo I just love! A girl and her teddy bear and boy oh boy does she love this teddy!

Wishing everyone a fun and creative inspired week!

counting my blessings

2010-02-23T03:48:00.000-08:00

me and my guy. six years of marriage. celebrating in a little restaurant with red wine and chill out music. i love him so and am grateful for his support. he lets me be me. i love how he totally supports me in my role as a stay at home mama. he is a wonderful daddy and my best friend.

-counting my blessings today-

my love

2010-02-14T22:13:00.000-08:00

(images of our wedding day, feb - 2004)

today he surprised me with a picnic. in a beautiful place looking over the beach. we wrote our wedding vows here, and were married here too.

i love this place and this guy.

finding the rhythm

2010-02-03T03:35:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy few weeks. Lots of fun, laughs and hours spent with family.

It is quiet now with my boys back at school.

My family have all returned home.

Now all that is left is for my little girl and I to find our rhythm again.

Above are two of my favourite images of January. This is me and my big sis Kristy. The other, Grace and her sweet cousin Deja.

the unfolding

2010-01-13T04:18:00.000-08:00

(thanks to my friend katy- for taking these sweet images of Gracie)

i have been away from this space,
playing mostly with my little one,

and laughing with my boys.

lots of reading too

but now i am pulling myself out the clouds,
it's nearly time for life to return to routines.

but, i still have 2 weeks left

and i am hanging onto them.

a visit from dear family is still to come,

some from far up north

some from overseas.

a trip to new zealand to plan
a family reunion to attend,

a rich maori heritage to reclaim.

and many many more exciting things waiting to unfold for 2010.

christmas magic

2009-12-24T06:47:00.000-08:00

To have a little one in the family is such a delight. I think what our family is looking forward to the most this Christmas - is the look on Gracie's face when she wakes in the morning. Tonight before I knew it, the boys and Grace had set up Santa's little table with milk and cookies and a carrot for the reindeer's! My sons this year get to experience Christmas from a whole new perspective - through the eyes of a child, their sister. We are all feeling the love and magic.

Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

May your day be filled with love, laughter and magic.

Blessings,

love Donna

the ones I love

2009-12-19T21:17:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's not

till you stop

and look

at a image

of the ones

you love

that you realise

how incredibly

fortunate

and grateful

you are.

These 3 souls are my children and my greatest teachers and the best part of my world. Yes, life is good.

building the christmas spirit

2009-12-15T03:17:00.000-08:00

The Christmas spirit is slowing starting to build. Lots of hot sticky days and the winding down from a busy school term has kept my mind busy.

So there is nothing like jumping in the car and heading to a few favourite Christmas light spots.

I do love how so many people get into the spirit of things. Houses draped in thousands of lights and little old men wearing red suits and handing out candy canes.

There is also something special about having a little one in the family. She is so full of wonder and reminds us all of the magic of Christmas.

Every Sunday night our family have been sitting down together - listening as I read a chapter from the book "Advent Sunday Stories". There is a story for each of the Sundays before Christmas. The book covers the mineral, plant, animal and the human realms. I love how this little book gives a imaginary narrative of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem.

It is so nice to sit as a family and listen to the true story of Christmas - even my Mr 15 (after a couple of rolls of the eyes) sits and listens intently!

thirteen years ago

2009-12-02T03:16:00.000-08:00

Thirteen years ago - you were born. With strong and powerful contractions I laboured through the night.

You arrived after 17 hours. A healing and amazing vbac birth. When I looked into your eyes, I saw strength and determination.

Today you are an incredible person. With so many amazing qualities - too many to list. To write them here would take away from who you are. For you are an amazing person - a son that I adore.

Happy Birthday Josh,

My world has been blessed with you in it - I love you.

Mum xx

our carols

2009-11-30T02:46:00.000-08:00

this is my boy - and his violin. he was acknowledged, as the longest member of the school orchestra.

he played a little solo - "away in a manger". it is one of my favourite christmas carols.

it was beautiful - his playing and the whole evenings events.

i hope everyone is enjoying this special time of the year.

to walk a different path

2009-11-22T19:04:00.000-08:00

Step by step. Ten years. I have been walking this path. Hundreds of faces I have greeted. Carrying children. Holding children's hands. Walking beside them. This path has been my journey.With little then 2 weeks left of school for Josh - this path is over. The end of a chapter.

I look back to the beginning of my journey at Silkwood. We were the first ones. We were the pioneering group. This beautiful school was led by teachers and parents united - we all held so much optimism and enthusiasm. The parents and children took pride in something great. Teachers, parents and children all stood side by side and built this school. From the hay bale walls to each brush of paint to scattering seed which later become beautiful gardens.

We were all very aware that we were the pioneers of something great. This was a privilege granted to only a few. It was a time when everyone knew each others first and surnames. I loved that. Seasonal festivals were so intimate.

The years have past by with many amazing experiences. Memories that my children and I will forever cherish.

Today 10 years on this little school is not so little anymore. It has changed in many ways but still offers a unique education for those that choose it.

I will be forever grateful that my children had this experience for their education. The friendships that my children and I have made will last a lifetime.

At this point it is the end of my journey at Silkwood. Grace will be homeschooled for her early years and then we will see.......

this time of the year

2009-11-12T01:21:00.000-08:00

..... and with this spiral comes the end of a seven years cycle

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
it's no secret to my family that this time of the year is the busiest time for me. This has been the main reason for my absence in this space. The other reason -- my son Josh is fast approaching the end of his seven year cycle at primary school. I have been busy helping to organise certain things with the graduation..... I have also been processing the end of a cycle for me personally (more of that in the next post).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Because this blog is only new (one year old) I wanted to reflect back on Whyatt's Year Seven graduation. This boy of mine graduated at the end of 2007. It was very much a beautiful ceremony.

Whyatt had 3 teachers through his primary school journey. A creative and musical teacher, Simon for class 1 and 2. A beautiful and sensitive teacher, Skye for class 3, 4 and 5. And a strong and determined teacher, Kalindi for class 6 and 7.

These special teachers imparted so many gifts on the children and I will be forever grateful, as a parent and a mother that they were a big part of Whyatt's life.

The ceremony was opened by Til - the longest standing teacher at the school. Both Kalindi and Skye sang "May it Be" (Enya) a song off the soundtrack from Lord of the Rings.... it was beautiful.

The class of young adults walking into the spiral

Each child was honoured with a little speech about how the teacher saw them -- their strengths and good qualities. Kalindi also gave them a values to work with -- something that she felt would bring more balance into their lives. Whyatt's was diligence!

This was Whyatt standing , listening and waiting for his brother Josh to hand over his staff. (The staffs were loving made by the teachers - sanded and embellished).

Two brothers meeting in the middle - in typical Whyatt and Josh style they both laughed when they came together and shook hands.

It has been two years since Whyatt left this gentle and nurturing school. He is loving his new school -- with all the children, variety and opportunities. But, he often reminisces about the many memories of Silkwood .

Oh and he still has his staff standing tall in the corner of his room.

celebrating two

2009-10-17T01:42:00.000-07:00

Last week we celebrated . Our littlest one turned two and simplicity was my mantra. The table was prepared the night before with her little gifts, a birthday spiral and a few flowers.

Grace's birthday was a lovely day. Our hand made gifts were lovingly received. I have to say - it has bought me great joy watching her play with her new treasures. The many hours of doll making was well worth it and this sweet doll is now named Lulu. Her Daddy spent many many hours building this minature kitchen - Gracie has already baked a few dozens muffins and many pots of soup for us all (hehe).

I made a simple gluten free cake with butter icing and a beetroot coloured heart. Gracie knew exactly who this sugary cake was for and lovely devoured a piece in 2 seconds flat.

The birthday spiral was lit and we all sang happy birthday including Grace herself. Some more sugary goodness was consumed - homemade cookies made by her big brother.

Time has flown by, I can hardly believe it has been two years since my little girl was born - gently and peacefully in our home. I remember just after she was born, looking straight into her eyes and feeling such awe and knowing for her. She had visited me many times, even before her conception. One visit still sticks in my mind (2 years before I conceived her).*Be patient, I am still here, I am a girl and I will be called Grace*.

This little one of mine is a lively character who has a love for teddy bears like no other. She also loves making cups of tea for anyone who pops in for a visit. The sandpit it is a favorite hangout where daily sand pies and other concoctions are created.

Our days are filled with her sweet little chattering and I love hearing her speak in sentences. Day nappies have vanished and the little white potty is a constant companion. "I'm a big girl now, I wear nickers", is one of her favourites (so sweet).

The fact that she still sleeps in our bed and has her little breastfeeds a few times a night is special to me. I cherish this connection and no matter how tired I may feel in the morning - I certainly don't tire of her little face looking up at me every morning saying "I'm awake now - porridge with tarnies please".

Happy Birthday sweet girl. There are no words to express how blessed we feel to have you in our world.

happy hour

2009-10-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

The thing is our little home is not always peaceful.

Between the afternoon hours of 5 to 7 things can get pretty hectic around here. I have been guilty of calling this time"hell hour". There is always a flurry of activity going on.... computers on with boys doing homework, pots boiling on the stove, phone ringing hot (because I refuse to answer it) and nearly always a toddler around my ankles fussing. All these factors contribute to a grumpy mama and that equals a grumpy house.

My biggest son had noticed the pattern we had all gotten into. He asked if we could try something new for a while. His suggestion, to only say and do positive things from 5 til 7. He said it would be interesting to see if it made a difference to our stressful afternoons.

I just love when my kids come up with creative ideas. We decided that a name change was a must. Josh came up with the idea "happy hour". I love it all. We are nearly a week into it and boy what a difference it has made!

We are working like a positive team and if one person relapses the others offer positive reminders.

Wishing you a wonderful start to your week and many hours of happiness.

living simply for 365 days

2009-09-26T03:47:00.000-07:00

i am excited. i am about to take a challenge. the dottie angel challenge. for 365 days, i will commit myself to only buy handmade or second hand items for my home and closet. of course there will be a few clauses. i plan to start on the day of my little ones second birthday (8th october), she too will be included in the challege. my 2 teenage boys.... i will be leaving that up to them. perhaps they will particapte in some form of their choice. my hubby... well we will see.

this decision for me is also another step towards a simpler life. to tread a little lighter on the earth. to use my creativity on a whole new level. to be mindful about each item that passes through my hands.

anyone else up for the challenge?

a slower pace

2009-09-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

i have been doing alot of soul searching. i have been asking the question for so long. how can i slow down. how can i live a simpler life. the last four years for me have been a challenge. health problems and anxiety have been very present in my life.

a few weeks ago i made a decision. to give up my fast paced life. what does this mean? it means very little if any outside the home commitments. it means no more playgroups (i use to attend two a week). it means only going to a shopping centre once every few months. it means taking a break from sporting activities with my two older children til next year. it means time to breathe.

what i am gaining from this decision. oh so many things. time and space. to plan and cook nutritious family meals. time to craft and sew toys and clothes. so much more time just for me and my family. less time spent in the car. time to potter about the yard and garden. space to be present and gentle with myself.

to live a slow and gentle life.

i am finding the beauty in simplicity.

to live with more consciousness.

the joys of spring

2009-09-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

my favourite time of the year.

spring in all it's glory

our family has been pottering about

enjoying the renewal and warmth that this season brings

we have celebrated with the spring festival at our steiner school

grace's little playgroup held a simple spring festival

she loved the songs, drawing and feast that was shared

attending the spring soriee at our lovely school

watching with pride as josh played the violin beautifully and his friend jenna sang "ava maria"

enjoying my boys homemade pizzas

spending time together
homemade food
picnic rugs and sunsets

making the most of this time of the year!

soon to be two

2009-09-19T17:21:00.000-07:00

we are preparing, creating, hammering and sewing.

there is a birthday fast approaching.

it will soon be two years since a sweet little girl entered our world.

the joy involved in making and giving handmade gifts is priceless.

welcome spring

2009-08-31T07:31:00.001-07:00

we have been waiting for you.

and we are so glad you are here.

blog love

2009-08-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

i have been following this blog for many months. truly inspiring and heartfelt. many a time i have shed tears reading the beautiful words written in this blog. be warned you will be deeply moved ....

july has been

2009-08-01T04:43:00.000-07:00

filled with so many special things....

celebrating my dear friends 40th birthday with a surprise party

a trip to visit my sister and her new little darling

time spent watching two little cousin playin one of the most beautiful little steiner inspired playrooms weekends listening to violin concerts

and time spent thinking about my teenage son growing a year older.
hoping that july has been special for you too.

a surprise homebirth

2009-07-04T05:24:00.000-07:00

I am due to visit my lovely sister in north queensland in two weeks. The reason for the trip was to be there for the birth of her second child. But it seems that her little baby had other ideas. A wee little baby girl was born a few nights ago. My strong and beautiful sister gave birth to her daughter in the bathroom of her loving home. It is made even more special because nearly two years ago I gave birth to my daughter in the bathroom of my home.

Welcome to the world Lila Jade, you are loved beyond words. Congratulations Kitty, Greg and big sister Deja Rose.

buzzy bee love

2009-06-30T01:21:00.000-07:00

I am loving this brightly coloured buzzy bee. The spinning wings, the quivering antennae and the buzzing sound it makes when it is pulled along. If you were a kiwi kid you may remember this lovely little toy. My sisters and I had one when we were little tots. A gorgeous friend picked this one up at the op shop for her little one, but after hearing about how much I loved it as a child she lovingly gave it to me! I have been enjoying watching Grace walk up and down the hall with this little bee clicking and buzzing behind her.

the warmth of the winter festival

2009-06-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

a heart warming winter festival was celebrated tonight. So many beautiful lanterns. The look of wonder on the little class one and two's faces. The big class seven children held their little hands and lead them down the path.The path was lined both sides with parents and lanterns. The children were lead to the spiral. There was silence as we watched the little ones journey their way to the middle of the spiral. Once in the middle, their candles were lit by Mother Earth.

A wonderful fire twirling display was performed by class seven as the african drums echoed in the background. A beautiful farewell speech was made to a beloved and long standing kindy teacher, who also happens to be my friend - Amber. Thank you Amber, you were so beautiful as Mother Earth this year!

It is sad to think that this is my middle child Josh's last winter festival. He will be moving on to high school next year with his big brother. Thankfully, we still have little Grace to journey through. So, there will be many more years for our family to experience and celebrate festivals at Silkwood.

I counted and this year was our tenth winter festival.... i look forward to the next ten!

winter surrender

2009-06-23T04:45:00.000-07:00

i have been away from this space for a while. I always thought that I was a winter person. Rugging up in my warm winter woollies, drinking hot cups of tea while curled up with a good book. But the simple truth is that I find it hard to adjust to the cold and rain (even though I was born in New Zealand and spent my childhood there). I am a doer, I like to get things done and the cold has been slowing me down. It wasn't till I was at the winter solstice, I was reminded that winter is about slowing down. With those simple words I surrendered. I love the change that surrender brings. Maybe it is just the fact that there is no resistance. Everything just flows more easily. The winter blues are gone and I am enjoying my days again. The sun even came to visit today. Gracie and I enjoyed some giggles as she got pushed along on a friends bike that was much too big for her. I must go now and surrender to washing up the dishes! I will be back in the next few days.

going within

2009-06-03T04:41:00.000-07:00

I have been taking some time out from the blogging world of late. Family life has been busy and along with this I have had a few old health issues arise. My little one has also been under the weather and has been requiring lots of attention, cuddles and "milkies".

I am enjoying the cooler climate and am using this as an excuse to go within more. I have been pottering around the house with slippers and woolens on and with every direction I turn, there is always the sound of a little patter of feet very close behind me. My winter table is coming together and I will post a photo or two very soon. There are still a few more treasures to create.

monday can be mother's day

2009-05-11T05:13:00.000-07:00

This wonderful passion fruit cake was so lovingly baked for me as a belated Mother's Day treat. My sweet 12 year old son was stressed about not having it baked upon arriving at his Dad's house to pick him up. "It ok", I declared "Monday can be Mothers Day too", - a big grin shot across his face. If there's one thing I have learnt about motherhood it is about being flexible and creative. So, on this lovely Monday afternoon our family sat around the table and all enjoyed a piece of my Mother's Day cake.

my mother

2009-05-08T20:38:00.001-07:00

You were born the last child of three. You had a strict upbringing but not a fairy-tale one. You were determined to do the opposite when you had children. To allow us to be free individuals. You always let us choose our own clothes to wear. You let us co-sleep with you until we could not all fit in the bed any longer -Dad worked most nights making this possible. You never complained when we built cubby houses all through the house or when we had your favourite sheets all tied in knots and hanging out the window. When we dug holes as big as swimming pools in the back yard. You were giving - the times when we had foster children staying with us. Taking your friends young son under your wing when his mother died of cancer. A young boy that would end up staying with us on and off for many years. You even wallpapered and gave him his own room. You were the Mum that everyone loved.
Life was not easy for you with our Dad, you never complained- you were like a single parent raising three very strong willed girls! You were always a hard worker, working in less than desirable jobs to put food on the table. You would often say that you felt like you didn't do enough for us .... but throughout the hard times we always knew you loved us. You never smothered us, you always let us express ourselves. Yes, we all learnt how to stand on our own two feet from an early age. That has made us who we are.

Today you have three daughters who are caring, giving, loving and happy individuals - we are the essence of you and you of us.

Today you are an incredible women, mother, partner, nan, metaphysical counselor, celebrant, writer, gardener, student of yoga and a loving friend to many.

Thank you Mum

I am glad I choose you
I love you

Happy Mothers Day,

Love Bee x

lots of little things

2009-04-24T04:29:00.000-07:00

Life has busy around here of late. Three weeks of school holidays will do that! I sat down to write this post and had to really think about what has been happening in my life. Lots of outings with my boys, movies, hot chocolates and kicking around the soccer ball at the park.

some crafty projects....

a little bit of weaving inspired by a book a friend lent me. I found this gorgeous bamboo/cotton blend yarn from spotlight of all places. I will post the completed item up when I decide what it will be!

felt clips make from hand painted wool felt for the little girl in the family
and a half completed crown. I remember making the boys a kings crown each when they were in kindy.

the little one in the family turned 18 months a couple of weeks ago. Even though see is not a little baby anymore, we are all still so much in awe of her. To watch her brothers with her is so special and I won't even mention her Daddy's devotion.... that is a whole other post!

proof that a big brother can still love a wet and tired grumpy little sister.

and stumbling across Whyatt and Grace the other day. Snuggled up in a corner of my bedroom reading one of my favourite golden books . My heart melts when I see beautiful connections like these. So I peep around the corner, quietly snap a photo and left so their reading and sharing time could continue.

Yes, it's been a lovely few weeks and the days have been filled with lots of little things.

Easter morning

2009-04-11T18:42:00.000-07:00

Last night I set up a little Easter table for Grace. She was so excited to see the table with the felt bunnies and wrapped books. For decoration I placed 3 little pink chocolate eggs on the table too. I foolishly thought she would not know what they were....

This Easter fell on the weekend that the boys go to their Dads house. So of course a trip to visit them was a must. Chocolate eggs were hidden all over the house just waiting to be found. Grace watched with amusement as the boys raced around looking for these secretly placed eggs.

By the time all the little chocolate delights were found and being consumed, Grace wanted to be part of it all! So after some tug of war, we gave in and let her have some chocolate.I hope yours was a lovely Easter too.

autumn space - take two

2009-04-11T07:00:00.001-07:00

My little autumn space was in need of some more treasures. As a result of my additional treasures -the seasonal table now resides in the entry hall. Every time the front door opens a leave or two blows off the tree branch, this is much to the delight of my little giggling toddler.

a full heart

2009-04-11T06:19:00.000-07:00

Our afternoon was spent on this beautiful bio-dynamic farm. A lovely Easter festival was held, along with the opening of a Rudolf Steiner Centre which support individuals with special needs. A speech was made, followed by a piece of music played on the violins by the boys. A story then followed, while we sat and moulded a little treasure out of beeswax. My heart was full with gratitude for being part of such a wonderful ceremony.

through the eyes of a child

2009-04-05T06:53:00.001-07:00

Josh has been learning about photography in class. As part of his photography assignment he has to take photos of someone. In his case, this someone was his little sister. When he showed me I couldn't resist posting them. I love the way he has captured her - it reminds me of how babies are so in the moment.

beautiful music

2009-04-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

friday nights for my two boys are spent at youth orchestra rehersals. And every few month they have a performance - what a joy it is to attend a chamber and symphony concert..... all the hours of practice come together to make the most beautiful music one could wish for.

It has been many years now that the boys have been playing. Below are some photos taken of my lads a few years ago - it was very moving, watching them perform at our Steiner Schools Autumn festival.

I think what I love the most - is the joy that the boys get from playing such a beautiful instrument.

thank you Whyatt and Josh for bringing such beautiful music into my world.

our little autumn space

2009-03-30T04:54:00.000-07:00

having a young child in the home again has inspired me to set up the seasonal table. Well, in this case it is a little space on our bookshelf. It is a nice way to bring nature into the home - it only has to be simple like collecting a few leaves from your yard. I did have some fun creating these little pumpkins and gnomes. The timber mushroom was a gift to Grace from her brothers, brought all the way back from the black forest in Europe. I wonder what other little treasures will be added to the seasonal table in the following weeks?

a bag of her own

2009-03-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

My hands have been busy making my little one a new handbag, and what a hit it has been. Her days have been spent collecting all types of things to put it. It's such a nice feeling to watch her play with something that I have created. My mind is already buzzing with ideas for the next project.

sometimes it hard....

2009-03-07T02:40:00.000-08:00

the constant day to day demands of 3 busy children, meals to be made, clothes to be washed. I sometimes find myself lost in it all. It is hard to keep the spiritual perspective of parenting in my mind when I get lost in all things that need to be done ..... so just when I needed it, I came across one of my favorite verses which I read and automatically felt better. It reminds me that my job as a mother is truly the most important and precious thing I can ever do.

Into my will
Let there pour strength,
Into my feeling
Let there flow warmth,
Into my thinking
Let there shine light,
That I may nurture this child
With enlightened purpose,
Caring with heart's love
And bringing wisdom
Into all things.

Rudolf Steiner

it's five years today...

2009-02-23T03:44:00.000-08:00

since our wedding day, a wonderful, special, emotional and very rainy day! my..... how five years has flown. How grateful I am to have a wonderful man who I not only call my husband but also my best friend....happy anniversary - my love.

remembering

2009-02-18T03:47:00.000-08:00

our little one, 6 days old

first bath
first smile
first day with her little cord detached
first day with a name......

Grace Lahni

priceless memories

playgroup

2009-02-03T20:21:00.000-08:00

our little girl has just started playgroup at the steiner school - two beautiful hours, a gentle rhythm, songs, breadmaking, inside play and outside play with lovely natural toys. Gracie seems to be loving it and so is her mummy - a little bit of time just for us.

busy

2009-01-29T04:29:00.000-08:00

oh that's right ..... having 3 children back at home makes for very busy days. That is one of the reasons for my long overdue post! Well, the boys had a wonderful time in europe and my days have been filled with hearing about their adventures... we are already back into the swing of routines as of last week (when school returned). I am trying not to think about our busy year ahead with violin, soccer, martial arts and orchestra and did I mention a very curious toddler. Ah, I will just keep reminding myself to breath and stay present. I do hope to find some kind of rhythm soon ...

waiting....

2009-01-11T04:19:00.000-08:00

it's only 8 more sleeps till my boys return home... I can't help but feel a little empty without them . There is something comforting about having all your family together and safe under one roof. Oh, only 8 more sleeps.

Christmas gratitude

2008-12-26T01:30:00.000-08:00

Happy memories were created yesterday - a hot and sunny north queensland day, two cheeky little toddlers running around, a mummy who missed and thought about her two sons in europe but still manage to have a joyful day....... and a wonderful family who can sit around a table and eat, laugh and play boardgames and genuinely say we enjoy each others company.

my heart is full with gratitude,
Bee

Christmas wishes

2008-12-24T02:14:00.000-08:00

As we near the end 2008 I would like to send many warm blessings and wishes to my dear friends and family in whatever part of the world that you may be in. I look forward to a new year filled with lots of love, fun and spiritual growth.

Much love and blessings to you and your family as you celebrate this wonderful time of the year!

Bee x

little bird

2008-12-16T02:35:00.000-08:00

Seems that my little girl has an obsession with birds...... so she was the inspiration for this little bird that I created for the tree.

Beach therapy

2008-12-08T02:45:00.000-08:00

A lovely afternoon was spent down at burleigh beach. The afternoons are the time in the day when I miss the boys the most so a bit of beach therapy was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon!

It was Grace's first real beach experience and she seemed to love the whole thing - something tells me that we will be making regular trips to the beach this summer.

Christmas spirit

2008-12-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

Before the boys left we all spent an evening decorating our tree - such a wonderful tradition and I am so glad the boys got to do this before they left. It makes me feel like they are a part of my Christmas even if they are a million miles away.

It has been a long time since I have created anything - so I thought I would do some Christmas Crafting (not sure what that will be yet) but have alot more time on my hands - so no excuses!

I will be sure to post some pictures of it when I have completed one!

Bee x

Growing up

2008-12-06T17:30:00.000-08:00

Little Grace has been walking for about a month now and it is just amazng to watch the joy and excitment she expresses with her new found freedom. It is funny how much older they seem when they are upright! I have noticed that Grace is already missing her two big brothers - she has been walking up to their bedrooms and knocking on their doors.

Our home is very, very quiet at the moment.... no violin playing, no soccerballs being kicked and no sound of splashes or bomb diving in the pool.

I am doing my best to adjust to the silence.

Bee x

First Birthday

2008-10-28T05:14:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful day celebrating Grace’s first birthday. I prepared the birthday table the night before, I had fresh flowers on the table and placed the little crown that I had made next to the celebration spiral. The little dolls cradle that her Daddy made was wrapped and ready for her to open. Surrounded by her loving family we celebrated her first year together. Gracie watched intently as her family members offered their wish for her and placed their wooden figure in the celebration spiral.
It is funny looking at her as a one-year-old. She pulls herself up on furniture and loves to walk around it. She is a happy little girl with a glint of cheekiness in her eyes.

I enjoyed her day, it was also an opportunity to reflect on and remember the past year and turn my thoughts back on the story of her birth - my, what a journey it has been!

Our little girl - just 2 hours old

With gratitude,

Bee x

Naming Day

2008-10-22T03:09:00.000-07:00

A few days ago we celebrated Grace’s Naming Day. We welcomed her to the world with a very small and intimate ceremony. Her two big brothers opened the ceremony with a short piece on the violin.

David and I have chosen not to have god parents for Grace. We have chosen a very small circle of women as guardians – women in our lives who we love, each with their own special and unique qualities. They have not been chosen to watch over her but to know that their energies are like precious threads that will be woven into the beautiful tapestry of Grace’s life.

Each person present offered a blessing and a crystal. We were blessed to have my Mum, Grace's Nan to perform the ceremony. It was very moving....

As we stood on the back veranda and were part of the ceremony I reflected upon how important ritual is in our lives. How special it is for love ones to unite and to celebrate. Today we welcomed Grace into our lives, acknowledging what a blessing it is having her join our family.

"Grace, may the blessings you received resonate deep within you and may you always follow your truth".

I will leave you with some of my favourite images of the day .....

Josh with his little cousin Deja Rose.

Grace - you and your Nan share a special knowing

My sister Kristy with her lovely daughter Deja

I love watching your cousin shower you with love

Til next time,

Bee x

A Day in the Garden

2008-09-27T03:12:00.000-07:00

This is my first blog. I started this blog because I felt like my life was just passing me by. The moment I decided that I was going to start blogging I knew that my life would change in many ways. I know that I will appreciate the small things that would have gone unnoticed. My baby girls funny giggle, my sons frequent violin playing while I'm on the phone, my dining room table overflowing with unfinished craft projects. Taking time to write them down has already brought me so much joy.

This is my first photo post and I felt inspired to post these beautiful photo's of my blue eyed girl -Grace

Gracie was happy to sit and enjoy the sunshine as the camera clicked away.

I look forward to creating my next post,

Bee x