The snow fell so heavily and for so long that not many people wanted to brave the roads for their morning lattes. I was sent home early from my barista gig and decided to seize the day and take Lucy out for ice cream! Ice cream before lunch! Because it’s my job to teach Lucy about appropriate activities for snow days.

A few months ago, Lucy had her very first taste of ice cream at Milk and Honey, our favorite Canton ice cream parlor. Her world was changed forever. We make healthy balanced meals for her at home, but seeing her delight in the occasional indulgence is such a joy for me! Besides, Lucy won’t let me eat treats in peace any more without tugging on my arm and squealing and signing for more. I’m learning quickly that whatever I do, she will want to do too. I’ve thought a lot about making a complete overhaul- not eating sugar, no gluten, etc, to set a good example for our family. But the fact of the matter is that would make me miserable. So I’ve just come to terms with the fact that Lucy will enjoy eating ice cream and donuts. And that’s normal. And that’s okay. And I’m letting go of the guilt.

P.S. I know I probably haven’t mentioned it here on the blog, but I did get a job outside the home working as a barista. I’ll tell you more later about what’s been going on with my life. I’ve been stepping out of jobs and into new ones- it’s overwhelming and exciting and just all so new! I’m learning a whole new balancing act, but things are going really well.

Right now I’m off to work on some exciting new projects as well as to make a couple of pies to share with family tomorrow. Happy Thanksgiving, friends!

Lucy is wearing this dress, I’m wearing all vintage
photos by Phil Johnson

Hi guys! Just thought I’d pop in and let you know that I’m doing a crazy 75% off clearance  sale at Fine & Dandy Vintage through the weekend! Use discount code SEVENTY5 at time of checkout. Help me make more room in my office while padding your closet with vintage delights!

Life’s been super busy as of late, but I’ve been hoping to pop back in here to unload my guts in a mooshy gushy personal post soon. Bet you can’t wait, eh? P.S. The model in this picture is my dear friend Allie Smith. Isn’t she the prettiest?!

Maybe it just got lost amongst college planning, dates with my boyfriend, and the pursuit of coolness. But somewhere in my late teens, the holidays lost their magic. Sure, I would still get excited about the season of family gatherings, cookie baking, and Christmas music, but it just wasn’t the same. I don’t think I even carved a pumpkin from the years 2004-2008. I think I was just going through a shift that happens with a person becomes independent and tries to navigate adulthood. But when Phil and I decided to start our own family, one of the things I was most looking forward to was having the real chance to get excited again for the holidays. Decorating our home for the seasons could finally bring joy to someone besides myself. Traditions would become important once again, and we could experience the excitement of the holiday season through the sparkling eyes of our children.

This Fall, the Phil and I took Lucy to Maize Valley, a local farm that bustles with family friendly activities this time of year. They have a huge corn maze, a pumpkin patch, hot air balloons, hay rides, animals, games, and even a pumpkin cannon! Lucy was amazed at everything, and we were amazed at her amazement. It occurred to me that I was finally, genuinely enjoying seasonal traditions again, and that maybe this trip to the pumpkin patch was a bit more for me than for it was for Lucy. I mean, she probably won’t remember it, anyway. But it’s my hope that while she might not remember the specific moments when she first experienced the magic of Fall and the joy of Christmas, the lingering feelings of excitement and comfort will leave a deep impression in her tiny heart. These early experiences is how nostalgia is born, and I’m hoping we’re getting her off to a good start with plenty of warm fuzzies for the years to come!