Going For a Bike Ride...

When we went to Amsterdam a couple years ago, I had so much fun riding bikes around the city, and I vowed to come home and buy myself a bike. I haven't owned a bike since college. Well, it took a while, but I finally did it!  Kevin and I both bought ourselves bikes, and we went for our first family ride this past weekend. My legs feel great, and I'm excited to discover more local bike trails as we explore as a family. 

I LOVE my bike!  She has a big comfy seat, a handy basket, and she's bright orange!  

A Few Things...

picture from here

Thanksgiving was wonderful, as always. It remains my favorite holiday of the year, with its focus on food, family, and gratitude. What's not to love? The day after, the mood shifted and the Christmas holiday season began. Our tree is decorated, the stockings are up, and the carols are playing nonstop on the radio. I haven't begun any shopping yet, and yet somehow I'm not stressed about it. More motivation to keep it simple.

While I attempt to work off the tremendous amount of awesome food I ate last week, I thought I'd share a few things I've come across recently...

One highlight from this year's Thanksgiving feast was this recipe:  Roasted Butternut Squash and Pears. Yum.

Bill Simmons Interview with President Obama. I appreciated this interview, because Bill asks a lot of the questions I imagine a lot of us would ask if we got a chance to sit down with the President.

I think I'd like this clutch. Sometimes I hate having to bring my whole big purse somewhere. It'd be nice to have a little clutch to carry the essentials.

The Secret to Enjoying a Long Winter.  During this darkest time of the year, it's hard to imagine a place that's even darker. What's cool is that the people there have embraced it.

Think Better.  I fully admit that I struggle with this. I work in an office setting, where it has become commonplace to be sitting in a meeting, writing an email, and getting an instant message simultaneously. It's crazy. I don't like it, and I'm trying to figure out how to influence the environment to the extent that I can. One person can't change culture, though, so I'm mostly interested in how to change my own approach to working (and living) wherever I can.

Where Syrian Children Sleep.  These pictures, and the stories that accompany them, will make you cry. They will make you feel frustrated and powerless. But it's still important to look and acknowledge them.

Carrie Brownstein Doesn't Want to be Famous.  Carrie Brownstein has led an interesting and creative life, and I find her fascinating. Her book is on my wish-list too.

Sweden Introduces Six Hour Work Days.  Love it!

Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett and Six More Top Actresses on Pay Gap, Sex Scenes and the Price of Speaking Frankly: "There Is Always a Backlash". I loved this conversation with eight fabulous actresses.

And to wrap up this round-up:  Parenting Comics That Are Almost Too Real.  The comic below is just one of many excellent examples. So spot on they are awesome.

Dresses, dresses, dresses...

Help! I want to get a new dress for this year's holiday parties. I've been getting by with old wedding/bridesmaids dresses for a while, and I think it's time I add an actual party dress to my wardrobe. The problem is...I hate shopping.  I will probably have to go to the mall (ick) eventually, but maybe I can narrow down my search before I go.

I did some looking online, and the above pictures represent the dresses I saved. I like the cute cocktail dresses, but then I have to remind myself that it will be December in Boston - when I remember that, I start to appreciate the long sleeved options. The main goal is to be cute and comfortable, though.

Do you have any opinions?  Please share!

Top row (left to right):  #1 , #2, #3
Middle row:  #4, #5, #6
Bottom row:  #7, #8, #9

Wish List...

Even though we're not doing a gift exchange this year, it's hard not to think about what would make up my wish list.  It's okay to want things, right?  I also always end up getting Kevin something, because I think we should each have a little something under the tree.  It's just more fun that way.  So just in case he decides to reciprocate, I thought I'd share a few of the things I'm wanting right now.  My birthday is in just a few months too, so here are some early ideas.

Perfume.  I need a new scent, and I'm thinking I'd like to try Nectarine Blossom & Honey by Jo Malone.

Wallet.  The wallet I'm using right now was purchased in one of those little side-street shops in NYC, where they pull you off the street into a dark little room stuffed with knock-off bags.  (Mine is a "Coach" wallet.)  I got it at least 15 years ago.   My mom actually stitched it up a couple years ago to extend its life, but it's falling apart again.  It's time for a new one.

Art.  I want more of it in our house.  And I don't want to wait until I know the exact spot for it.  Photographs, posters, paintings…  I just want to collect beautiful things and figure out where they go later.

Daytrotter Membership.  Access to concerts and albums by new bands and favorites.  Yes please.

Records.  Classics I'd love to own include The Real Ramona (Throwing Muses) and August & Everything After (The Counting Crows).  But there's a lot I'd love to have on vinyl.  Some Christmas music would be fun to have too.

Le Creuset dutch oven.  Or a cast iron skillet.  Two items I'd love to add to my kitchen.

I finally got myself a rain coat, but I still need a pair of rain boots.

And workout clothes.  I'm exercising often enough that I could use a few additional items.  Like this maybe.  Or this.  Or this.  Basics.   I could probably use a new pair of shoes too, but I suppose I'd have to try those on myself.

What's on your wish list?

Love Poems...

Here are a few of the greatest love poems ever.  The Shakespeare sonnet was read at our wedding, and it remains a favorite of mine.  

We are celebrating Valentine's Day with lots of cards, hugs, and our new tradition of chocolate-covered strawberries.  I hope you're having a great day and celebrating in your own way as well!

e.e.cummings

A Few Things...

photo by tania kindersley

There's a storm coming!  It's been a long time since we had a good old-fashioned blizzard, but it looks like we're going to get hit with a good one.  We might get a couple feet of snow!  I see lots of shoveling, sledding, hot chocolate, and movies on our weekend agenda.

I thought I'd share a few things here before heading to the grocery store to stock up...

I'm glad I'm not dead.  This article in the NY Times will make you smile and think of all those perfect moments in life.  It will also make you appreciate the less-than-perfect ones.

I just ordered a new bottle of facial oil.  It is the answer to my winter dry skin, and the smell is divine.  The perfect way to end each day.

The 30 Rock series finale was awesome.  What a fitting end to a silly and great show.

Article on being a happy mom of boys.  I still get the questions.  "Are you sure you're done? You don't want to try for a girl?"  It's insulting.  My family is complete, and I am so happy that the universe blessed me with two gorgeous, healthy boys.  I was meant to be a mother of sons.

Speaking of sons, my six-year-old made his first purchase with his own allowance money.  I think he made a very cool choice...

An Early Christmas Present...

Kevin and I are working on filling the empty living room.  It has a built-in cabinet, which used to contain the TV.  When discussing how we should use that cabinet now that the room will no longer have a TV, I threw out the suggestion of getting a record player.  I thought it could be kind of fun to be able to play music in that room, and I'd love to be able to collect some of our favorite music on vinyl to be able to pass down to our kids.  As it turns out, record players can be very inexpensive, so we picked up a simple Sony player and got it set up this weekend.  We ventured into a local record store and had fun browsing through the stacks.  They have a big set of shelves where the records are $1 each!  Some of the newer or more popular items are more than that, but still.  I picked up three - Stevie Wonder, Carole King, and Joni Mitchell.  The boys put on blanket "dresses" and danced around the room to 'Isn't She Lovely?'.  A very nice start to our new collection.

Valentines

I have a super sweet, five-year-old Valentine.  He loves me and I love him.  I have a three-year-old and a 36-year-old Valentine too.  Three!  On this Valentine's Day, I am reminded of how much love I have.  I am a lucky girl.

Battling Grumpiness...

Is this week really a short one?  It sure doesn't feel like it.  In general, I've been liking January's vibe this year.  The optimism that comes with the start of the new year has kept its momentum.  On the weekends, that is.  My weekdays are still filled with more stress and grumpiness than I'd care to admit.  This week has more stress, but I'm battling the grumpiness with all I've got.  I've been exercising, drinking more water, dancing with my boys, making plans, and playing guitar.  I must say...it's working.

I've also continued to seek and find lots of inspiration in my blog reader, and I thought I'd share a few posts I've enjoyed reading recently...

You really have to check out the latest home tour on Stephmodo.  It's fabulous.

I love the way this girl writes.  This post is a great one.   

The Alabama Shakes' debut album arrives in April.  Listening to them makes me smile.  I love watching and listening to people who so obviously love making music.

A beautiful letter written by Ansel Adams to his best friend.

Another guest post is up over at Lou, Boos, and Shoes.  This time by the wonderful Tania Kindersley, whose own blog, 'Backwards in High Heels', is another of my favorites.  

A Little Art...

My husband and I typically don't exchange Christmas presents, but for some reason we felt compelled to this year.  Perhaps because we both knew something that the other wanted.  I knew he wanted an iPad, and I was happy to oblige.  It'll be great for the family to have.  But I also wanted to get him something he wouldn't be expecting.

Paul Ferney is an artist currently based in Paris, although his home is San Francisco.  You may know him as the husband of Jordan Ferney (Oh Happy Day) or the brother-in-law of Gabrielle Blair (Design Mom).  I like his style, and I was intrigued when I saw that he was starting to do commission paintings.  I originally thought that a painting would be a nice anniversary present - we'll be celebrating 10 years in September - but Paul plans the commission project around the holidays.  And no way could I hold on to it for nine months!  So Kevin got an extra present under the tree, and really it's a present for me too.

It was so hard to choose a picture, but I love this one of the boys.  I love the water, I love both of them walking forward together, and I love that it reminds me of a happy trip to Maine.  It now sits on our mantle, at least until we decide to move it elsewhere.

Isn't it sweet?  Looking at it makes me smile.

A Few Things...

As you may or may not have noticed, I haven't been posting as regularly.  It's summertime, and I'm inclined to be outside as much as possible these days.  But I still do feel the urge to write, and inspiration is everywhere in these gorgeous hot summer days.  These things could all be individual posts of their own, but I thought I'd throw them all out together.  Enjoy and have a happy weekend!

Just a few things I'm loving today...

photo via gimme some oven

Popsicles.  I just made a batch of blueberry-yogurt popsicles for the weekend, but this fabulous post has me inspired to try some new flavors.  These creamy lemon popsicles are next on the list.  Peaches and cream sounds great too.  I don't know if I'd ever do it, but the adult versions sound awesome too - watermelon mojito?  Yes please.  

The Low Anthem - Apothecary - A Take Away Show

Street music.   Music always makes my list.  Loving The Low Anthem, and this fun video of a cool song.  

source unknown via from flabby to fit

Exercise.  I'm back in my groove.  I had a good week of fitting in some exercise each day.  Actually, I'm sweaty right now as I type.  It feels good.  

image from Stan Moeller

Stan Moeller.  Spotted via Pretty Stuff by Patterson Maker.  His paintings are stunning, especially the ones with water.  It's amazing how he's able to capture the light and movement of the water.  Awesome.

Kid's Artwork.  I throw tons away, and I still have tons.  It's getting better too.  I love this creative idea for displaying some of your kid's artwork. 

Sprinklers.  Hot summer days.  All you need is some cool water for instant fun.  My big boy can squeal and run through the water for hours. 

Friends.  Another one that always makes the list.  This of course includes local friends and those that are far away.  Friends that I've known my whole life and those I met last week.  Family members who happen to be friends as well.  And friends like some of you who I've never even met!  Keep Fresh.  Stay Rad.  A good reminder for us all as we enter our weekend.  

Strawberry Print

via Lucile's Kitchen etsy shop

I'm starting to think about details for our new kitchen.  I find myself looking at faucets and cabinet pulls and window treatments in all the pictures I see.  I wonder if we'll have any wall space.  This pretty print would be lovely in a white kitchen.  

For the Love of Ice Cream

via Gayana Etsy shop

Love this.  I am an enormous ice cream lover, so it fits perfectly.  Speaking of, I have some bananas foster and chocolate chocolate chip calling to me now...

Pins of the Week

*Stunning - Isn't she?  I adore the long, healthy gray hair, and I can only hope I look this good as I get older.  Judging by how my mom is doing, I'd say I have a very good shot. 

*Cool Music Genre Posters - These are fun.  I like several of the others, but this is definitely the one I would choose.

*Entryway - I love this space.  The bench, the big stack of firewood, the plants...it's all very welcoming.

*Handbag - Okay, I think I found the one I want.  Now I just need to save up for it.  Basic black, but cute, right?

These are just a few of the photos I've recently pinned on my pinboards at Pinterest:  Mary Loves

I hope this always remains true...

 

via pinterest

Unplugged...

via etsy - I love this and think I really must have it.

We're almost there.  My family arrives tonight, and I think I'm ready for them.  I've even impressed myself by my planning and have made it through the month with minimal stress and maximum fun.  Hopefully this means that I'll be able to relax a bit over the next week or so.  Saturday will include spending a lot of the day in the kitchen, but as long as my sister is with me with a bottle (or two) of wine, I'll be perfectly happy.  The week will hopefully involve lots of games, music, talking, playing, sledding (need a little more snow please!), and eating of course.  It will be especially magical for the little ones - we'll have four kids between the ages of 1 and 4.

I hope you are able to find a little relaxation and peace over the coming week as well.  I won't be posting here much so that I can focus on spending good quality time with my family.  I'll be back in 2011.

Happy New Year!

via wit and delight

Pins of the Week

*Cookies - I've designated Sunday my cookie-baking day.  I still haven't figured out which ones to make, but I'm sure they won't be quite this gorgeous.  

*Sequined Tee - I wish I had an occasion to wear this.  I almost feel like I should get it just to wear at home on New Year's Eve.  

*Boots - For as long as I've lived in Boston, I've complained every winter about my lack of snow boots.  I don't know why, but I could never quite find what I was looking for.  I finally got a pair, and I am loving them.  Simple, warm, and they fit under my jeans and still look good.  

*Handbag - The search is still on for a new bag.  I really like this one, but I don't know where to find it.  I think perhaps it's not coming out until the Spring.  I really like it though.  Did I already say that?

These are just a few of the photos I've recently pinned on my pinboards at Pinterest:  Mary Loves

When the holidays are over, we're all going to need a day on our calendar that looks like this:

via 

Pins of the Week

Here are a few things I've spotted and loved this week (clockwise from top left):

*Balloons - This is a pretty picture, and it reminds me of the book I recently finished reading - Enduring Love, by Ian McEwan.  The writing is so good and so intense - it grabs you and doesn't let go.  
*Silver Facet Earrings - These are an example of what I need more of in my little jewelry box.  Simple, classic items that I could wear every day.  K, if you're reading this, you could pick these up now and be prepared well in advance of my birthday.  Hint hint.  
*Ellen Page - Isn't she so cute?  
*Pumpkin Cream Pie - I feel a bit lazy with this year's bake-off entry.  I'm making this pumpkin cream pie.  It does look yummy, though, doesn't it?  I'll let you know how it goes.  

These are just a few of the photos I've recently pinned on my pinboards at Pinterest:  Mary Loves

I also just pinned this one, which reminds me that although I'm not feeling great, perhaps what I need is to spend some time on the couch with a cup of tea and a book.  Here I go...

via tea for joy

Pins of the Week

Here are a few things I've spotted and loved this week (clockwise from top left):

*Neck - My sister told me the other night that I should wear more clothes that display my neck and collarbone, even shoulders.  I guess I tend to go for the warmer options - living in Boston, you can hardly blame me - but I'll keep this in mind the next time I'm on the lookout for something new.
*Brilliant and Amazing - Isn't this awesome?  There's nothing wrong with having confidence.  
*Slippers - How cute are these?  Slippers are on my wish list, and although these are definitely more expensive than your typical slippers, I'd wear them every day!  
*Holiday Lights - I'm starting to see them, and I can't wait for the houses, stores, and street explode with light over the coming weeks.  The boys get so excited by them too.  I know I've asked this before, but are you a white lights or colored lights person?  I prefer colored lights, but my husband loves white.  To date, we've had to compromise by alternating years.  This year is supposed to be a white lights year, but my almost 4-year-old has informed him that we'll be having colored lights.  "I know you like white lights Daddy, but we're having colored lights."  I didn't even put him up to it!

These are just a few of the photos I've recently pinned on my pinboards at Pinterest:  Mary Loves

At This Moment...

via mary ruffle

...it is 8 o'clock at night, and the boys are asleep.  I have always had an appreciation for silence, but I absolutely crave it now.
...my holiday wish list continues to grow.  My family and I don't even really buy a lot for each other.  Especially since my family has to travel a long distance via airplane, we generally keep it small, filling our stockings and that's about it.  And yet I can't stop adding to the list!  There's nothing wrong with wishing, right?  The latest additions?  The cookbook from the Flour bakery here in Boston just made the list.  It's one of the best bakeries ever, and the book looks divine.  Also I could really use a new address book...
...I'm exhausted.  It was another weekend alone with the boys, and the little one is sick.  We managed to have quite a bit of fun, but I'm beyond pooped.
...the house still smells like the pumpkin-cranberry muffins the big boy and I made this afternoon.  A great diversion, and so nice to have an easy and yummy breakfast ready for the next few days!
...There is a pile of stuff on my dining room table.  It drives me crazy to have things piled up in that room, which is central to the house, and yet I can't bring myself to clean it up tonight.
...I'm going to pack lunches and get ready for the week.  I'm a little nervous that I might end up at home tomorrow with a feverish little boy, but better to be prepared either way.  Fingers crossed...
...I thought I'd leave you with a little loveliness to start your week.  Enjoy...

via kikisloane.tumblr

via prettystuff.tumblr

via prettystuff.tumblr

Pins of the Week

Here are a few things I've spotted and loved this week (clockwise from top left):

*Michelle Obama - Love this beautiful picture of our stunning first lady.
*Cool shirt - It may not be substantial enough for New England winter, but looks pretty for New England fall or spring.  
*Heels - Since I'm trying to wear more dresses now, I also need more shoes.  Heels, to be specific.  How cool are these?  I love the substantial heel and the cute little flower on the front.  
*This is what I would do all day if I could - Just a fun picture, reminding me that it's nice to read during the day too and not just at bedtime.  
*Sweater - This one does look warm enough for the New England winter.  Another holiday wish-list item.  (My list is getting a bit long, I'm afraid.)
*Cranberry Almond and Cinnamon Tart - Trying to select desserts for the upcoming holidays, including a bake-off entry.  (I compete with my sister-in-law each year for the best dessert - just a little friendly family competition that adds a little fun.)  This one looks so pretty, and I like to steer clear of chocolate at Thanksgiving.


These are just a few of the photos I've recently pinned on my pinboards at Pinterest:  Mary Loves