My transition from cluttered to simple living.

Monday, April 26, 2010

What's new in the "Hood?"

This weekend, there was a lot of activity in my backyard. Hubby built five more raised garden beds....and cut down some trees (Manitoba Maple) to allow the sun to reach the gardens. While I hated to see the trees go, I understand that Manitoba Maple can pose some problems for the homeowner as they are often hollow inside and can break in a high wind...

We did some shopping this afternoon and came home with some more strawberry plants, and two Raspberry bushes.


We have replaced the trees we cut with this little gem...a Bing Cherry tree to keep our other cherry tree company.


Our little backyard is becoming a productive half acre or so. I look forward to the day when I have to go no further than my backyard for fresh produce. Our neighbours voiced the same sentiment yesterday! I think my next purchase will be a motion detector!

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Wednesday, April 21, 2010

The Launch!

Every year at Christmas, we try to buy the kids educational gifts. This Hydrogen Rocket was Dustin's and this weekend was designated as the official launch day. Both kids heard about the Hydrogen molecule...over and over again...as we attempted to figure how to launch it.

Papa explains the chemistry behind the reaction...

Mocha is told to behave or she will have to go and watch from the house....


(This is the first time that I have seen Papa read instructions!...shhh!)


The Rocket...


Back to the drawing board....


Patience wears thin....

Finally! Lift off!!!!

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Monday, April 19, 2010

I just love...

Handmade...

...free...

new growth....

new sprouts...

...little sprouts...

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Thursday, April 15, 2010

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Simplicity

A wise person once told me that you don't have to be a Mennonite to live like a Mennonite. That same person told me that to avoid excess in our lives we should remember these words... "Moderation in all things."

It has taken me a lifetime to learn that a life lived simply and mindfully and moderately is what I desire most.

I am reminded of simple living when I pass the homes of the Mennonite in our area.

I am reminded of "Moderation" when I remember the pain of living with an alcoholic, or when I remember the things I thought I needed, only to see those desired items now stored in boxes in my garage.

I feel happiest when I do those things that remind me that I have a responsibility to do my part to care for this beautiful...beautiful...planet. Mindful living denotes operating with contemplation, conscience, ownership and recognition in all things that we do.

I cannot be a Mennonite. I am not certain that I would want to be...BUT...I will remember their example, and continually strive to journey towards that destination of simplicity...moderation...and mindful living.

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Thursday, April 1, 2010