It's always exciting to find a new book, especially from the library. I came across these two awesome reads lately and had to share:I Love Dirt!: 52 Activities to Help You and Your Kids Discover the Wonders of Nature by Jennifer WardThis book presents 52 activities divided into the four seasons. It introduces children to nature's wonders through simple (and free) activities, most which can be done in the backyard. I also thought it was a good reminder for adults to get out and enjoy the beautiful world around them, especially during this time of year.
The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections by Amanda Blake Soule(speaking of children) "They know how to be creative. They know it with every ounce of their being - it isn't conscious or rational. It is simply who they are. Until something stands in their way, they will be creative."Some of my favorite activities and ideas from the book:1. Bulletin boards and inspiration wire to display inspirational pieces, artwork, photos, etc.2. Pattern for a felt pencil roll (to store colored pencils, pens, markers, etc. for on-the-go). There is also a really awesome (but more complicated) pattern for the pencil roll in Joelle Hoverson's Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts .
3. Ideas for choosing "The Best Toys" includes questions like "Is it beautiful?", "Is it simple?", "What is it made of?" I really liked this section, since it seems like kids have too many toys (most of which are cheap, create clutter in our homes, and don't activate the imagination). 4. A chapter on connecting with the family has some good ideas about celebrating birthdays and holidays.
In another effort to organize a family book club, my mom has chosen Peace Like a River. I don't know anything about this book, but I've heard good things. I do know the title was taken from the hymn "It is Well with My Soul" by Horatio Spafford. This is only the first verse and I've never actually heard the song, but I think it sounds pretty (it's a great message, anyway):
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul.
I came across this poster online and thought, "I really need to remember this sage advice next time I'm feeling frazzled." Chris and I were just talking last night about all the huge changes that have happened/are happening this year (quit job, go back to graduate school, have new baby, sell condo, future plans to move for internship/job...) and he reminded me that it's probably normal for us to be feeling a little stress now and again. If I had known how crazy graduate school was going to be, I probably wouldn't have been so excited for Chris to go back. Thank goodness I didn't know better because I trust it will all pay off in the end. In the meantime, I'll just take one day at a time and be grateful for all the blessings I do have, especially my awesome husband who it bigger than all this and keeps me sane.
Looking at all the tiny baby clothes gets me so excited! I think little girl dresses are like their own decoration in a nursery. By the way, I LOVE matching, wooden hangers and I found these child-sized hangers at IKEA.
Sunday, August 31 marked the first day of my last trimester! Time has flown by and now I'm starting to panic at the thought of all the things I planned to do, but never found the time. But, Chris and I couldn't be more excited to meet our little girl...and hopefully all the kicking means she's excited to meet us, too.
We had our ultrasound last week. I was so sure it would be a boy, but we couldn't be more excited to be having a little girl. It was exciting to see her kicking and flopping around. The doctor says she's healthy and perfect!
Look at that beautiful spine! Can you tell I've been taking my folic acid?
The doctor couldn't get a good shot of her face, since she kept putting her chin down or her hands up. We did get pictures of both her little hands open. She even gave us a thumb's up!
It's always exciting to find a new book, especially from the library. I came across these two awesome reads lately and had to share:
The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections by Amanda Blake Soule
3. Ideas for choosing "The Best Toys" includes questions like "Is it beautiful?", "Is it simple?", "What is it made of?" I really liked this section, since it seems like kids have too many toys (most of which are cheap, create clutter in our homes, and don't activate the imagination). 
