A Bit of Earth

Hibernating Hobbit Hole

2012-02-03T23:57:00.001-08:00

So some of you must wonder why it seems I am pretty cool with being home a lot more than is normally considered "normal" for an extroverted hobbit mama like me. Especially this pregnancy-I totally made the commitment that starting January 1st until this baby hobbit comes-I am laying low. Lower than normal, even. Yeah-we can make the usual guesses as to why: so I can nest, rest, and enjoy this

One Of Our Fish Died...Sort Of

2012-01-18T21:11:00.001-08:00

I'll spare you pictures. Needless to say he was paralyzed and occasionally "breathing"...and I noticed it and pointed it out to my husband. He flushed it down the toilet (still slightly alive but what are you going to do?). So- like any hyperemotional pregnant mommy 6 weeks-ish from giving birth I burst into tears. I don't have this crazy deep complex over this stuff normally, though I am

Pregnancy Update: 33 Weeks

2012-01-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

So again, I have fallen "behind" in giving you all an update on my hobbit gestation progress! As you can see from the title, I haven't far to go! Here are the stats: How Far Along: 33 weeks (as of tomorrow) Total Weight Gain: 28 lbs. (2 stone) How Big Is Baby: about 4-ish pounds I believe and the size of a melon (small one.) Best Moment This Week: started reading Real Marriage by Mark and

Banana Nut Pancakes aka HEAVEN IN YOUR MOUTH

2011-12-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

So let me preface this by saying that I was going to say mouthgasm in the title. There. I said it. I don't say it often, but it really portrays the level of awesomeness this recipe creates in your mouth. It's. That. Good. So that being said; if you aren't offended by the word and have left by now writing me off as an immature punk...read on. Your....tastebuds will be VERY happy. photo courtesy of

Surviving and Thriving in Pregnancy

2011-11-30T17:00:00.001-08:00

I am sure any and all of you pregnant mamas can relate to me at one point or another with the following: That silent guilt trip you give yourself as you stuff your face with Tater Tots for the 3rd time today because making a sandwich is seriously too much to handle right now. Nothing sounds good. You want me to cook nourishing meals for my family when I feel like WHAT?! I'm barely on top of

Pregnancy Update: 25 Weeks

2011-11-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

I have fallen behind on updating all of you interested in my belly stats! No there isn't a picture but I DEFINITELY look like I am hiding a small beach ball under my shirt. Yes, it really is a baby. So, without further ado, here are the stats! How Far Along: 25 weeks today! Total Weight Gain: 18 lbs. How Big Is Baby: about the size of a small melon and over a foot long now Sleep: not so

Apple Butter Tutorial-So Easy A Nerd Like Me Can Do It

2011-10-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

You know it's here. The sharp crispness in the air...the wafting of woodsmoke, wet earth, and detritus around us. Inside our homes are wont to be filled with fragrances of new apples, warm spices and hearth bread. Autumn. So without further ado I give you my "so-easy-a nerd-like-me-can-do-it" apple butter. I am sure lots of wonderfully experienced kitchen and cookery people out there have some

Sunday Morning Sundry

2011-10-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd give you all a lovely recipe I tried this morning taken from "APinch of This, A Dash of That" cookbook from Gooseberry Patch. I adapted the recipe with better ingredients as we do not use margerine. It's quite easy and is sooso light and fluffy and moist! Blueberry Streusel Coffee Caketaken from "Pinch of This, Dash of That" adapted by Kileah McIlvain 2c. flour (I combine spelt/

Half Way There and Upcoming Hard Cider

2011-10-11T15:10:00.000-07:00

It's that time again for an update! As you have guessed by the title (you smart human, you!) I am HALF WAY THERE. In other words...this baby is growing like crazy and the end of February is fast approaching. Here are the stats! Then, I'll talk more about the other part of my title. Promise. How far along: 20 weeks Total weight gain: 15 lbs. How big is baby: umm...i have no idea. lemme go

Pregnancy Update (18 Weeks)

2011-09-28T21:14:00.000-07:00

Hello to you all! I thought I'd humor you with a quick, yet picture-less post regarding my pregnancy;P Yeah, yeah. Whine. But you know you'll read it anyway. How far along: 18 weeks, and a couple of days. (i think. hey, this is my 3rd baby, 4th pregnancy so give me some brain slack.) I am almost 1/2 way there already! Total weight gain: 14 lbs. (one stone if I recall, for those lovely Brits

Spiced Orange Raisin Scones With Spice Glaze

2011-09-15T14:57:00.000-07:00

This morning as it was drizzly and breezy outside I thought I'd try my hand configuring a new recipe. I was wanting something with orange zest, raisins, buttery flakiness (the REAL buttery flakiness) and a hot cuppa tea to compliment it. These turned out fantastic, so I thought I'd share the love and let you delve into this small tiding of the changing seasons. Spiced Orange Raisin Scones with

Of Sleep and Not-So-Much-Sleep

2011-09-13T12:43:00.001-07:00

Some of you may just completely relate to some of the following sentiments at one point or another in your life (especially you moms!) Insomnia. Starfish-child-in-the-middle-of-the-bed-insomnia. Unknown-baby-is-so-upset-and-i-have-done-everything-and-so-has-husband-insomnia. Baby-wants-mama-milk-every-hour-and-I-can't-see-straight-insomnia. Baby-is-sick-and-needs-to-be-near-me-insomnia.

First Day of September

2011-09-01T11:53:00.000-07:00

We've had some lovely cooler weather to give this temperate mama a break over the past 3 days. This weekend is Labor Day Weekend, and temps will be heating back up into the 90's. Summer's last hurrah! I am thankful for a new month, and planning for my fall goals (most of them dealing with food preservation, or food in general. you can laugh.) Here are a few of my upcoming September/October

Pregnancy Update (14 weeks)

2011-08-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Just gonna update you with what's going on this week! First letting you all know I am currently writing up future posts (like the series on my birth stories, etc.!) and a current update on my pregnancy:) How far along? 14 weeks 4 days (got the real estimate from my midwife today!) Total weight gain: 5 lbs. How big is baby? about the size of a lemon...or 3 inches from head to bum.

Pregnancy Update

2011-08-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

So hopefully I will be getting these out every week or...two...or three...but just so you all can follow my progress^_^ I got the lovely idea from HERE (she happens to be one of my absolute FAVOURITE blogs on this planet. I wish I could meet her in person<3). The updates might come with a completely unrelated topic...maybe even to just what I've been doing as of late. (like, being a hobbit mommy

Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Growing Clan McIlvain

2011-08-23T12:11:00.001-07:00

Well, for most of you who know me, I'm sure the bantha is outta the bag by now-I am 13 weeks pregnant with a growing hobbit! I'm passing out of the "I wanna puke my guts out" phase of pregnancy life...thank the Maker. We are ecstatic, joyful and praising the Lord for this new addition to our clan! We won't be finding out the gender with this one (I know I know...it's gonna drive all of us "Type

KEFIR SODA TUTORIAL

2011-06-23T13:34:00.003-07:00

Well-I thought I'd be kind since I've been taunting one too many of you with my photos of bliss...aka...water kefir soda. There are practically hundreds of different flavors you can make with it, but I'll keep it simple for you today and give you some ideas for your own! My family guzzles this stuff like it's nectar in the desert and it contains WONDERFUL enzymes and probiotics (yes, just like

One Hundred Blessings (the final day!)

2011-06-17T12:16:00.000-07:00

Well today is the day! It's our 5-year anniversary! I am closing with reasons 80-100:) 81. He loves Trader Joe's 82. He dresses well always and doesn't believe in loungewear in public. 83. He has sexy detached earlobes perfect for gauging, which he does;) and this is also sexy. 84. He is a really safe driver. 85. He gives excellent and uncomplicated directions. 86. He buys me cloth diapers!(for

One Hundred Blessings (Day Four)

2011-06-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

Whew-getting ready to head out of town with our little hobbits tomorrow so I thought I would take advantage of the naptime and clean house (yeah, amazing I've kept it as clean as I have this week. It was a monumental effort for both Nerfherder and I!) So here is Day 4 of my One Hundred Blessings celebrating my and Nerfherder's 5th anniversary tomorrow;) Tomorrow is the last day and should be good

One Hundred Blessings (Day Three)

2011-06-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

In case you have missed the first 2 days of the One Hundred Blessings my husband is in celebration of our anniversary this Friday-you can look back HERE! Otherwise-here is my continuation for today:) 41. He has the most glorious laugh that seriously makes his eyes shine. And his nose wrinkles up just like our daughter's when he does. 42. He has this really REALLY big affinity for chocolate chip

One Hundred Blessings (Continued)

2011-06-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

Tuesday and 20 more blessings in celebration of our (Nerfherder and I) anniversary! If you missed the first 20, read them HERE. Enjoy:) 21. He gives the most incredible kisses.22. He designed and made me flaxseed-filled heatpacks for me when pregnant with our hobbits to wrap around my hips when they were aching so badly.23. He has this beautiful and unique way of writing words to me.24. He isn't

One Hundred Blessings

2011-06-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

In celebration of my wedding anniversary I have decided to start writing 100 reasons as to WHY I love my husband, the Nerfherder. (yup. you heard it right. secret family recipe given to the one who knows what movie THAT one comes out of...and you have to be specific.) I am writing 20 blessings a day that my fantastic husband is to me-the last 20 being posted on my anniversary (which is Friday!).

Strawberries & Cream Spelt Muffins-You Know You Want Some.

2011-06-02T14:05:00.001-07:00

This morning Hobbit #1 insisted we have muffins this morning-I had some wonderfully ripe and juicy organic strawberries from Trader Joe's...(don't hate. spring and summer are late in coming to the Pacific Northwest this year so our local ones aren't coming on yet.) So without further ado I thought I'd share the deliciousness! It is safe for most with wheat-sensitivities and can be made dairy free

Menu Plan Monday (even though it's Tuesday)

2011-05-24T16:19:00.001-07:00

So another two weeks have rolled around-thought I'd share my menu plan for the next 2 weeks-give you an idea of breakfasts, lunches and dinners around here for late spring/early summer. I went low on the budget this go-around so things are pretty simple but nourishing! Monday: it's over, baby. Tuesday: potatoes & eggs fried in bacon fat---leftovers---vegetarian black bean nachos with "the works"

Three Red Gerber Daisies

2011-05-17T13:38:00.001-07:00

It's a bit late for talking about Mother's Day but I wanted to talk about it anyhow. You see, having a miscarriage changes the way you view Mother's Day forever. Even with two fresh-faced hobbits hugging my knees and a husband who blesses and cherishes me every other day of the year there is still that small shadow that quietly follows me in the corner of my mind. Wrapped in warm light and

Menu Plan Monday

2011-05-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

It's the start to a new week! In an effort to rotate ingredients a bit more to be easier on our food budget and variate, I like to switch off weeks for how much meat, or dairy that I use...(so that it's not cheese and meat every night...lol.) My husband's paycheck is happier for it and it frees me up to get to purchase other things I have been needing/wanting like THIS which has blessed our

I'm On An Indian Kick

2011-03-31T15:34:00.001-07:00

Well right now I'm on a curry kick again. I partially blame OPB's CREATE channel and that darned "Globetrekkers" show that comes on...where people visit amazing countries (personal note: I believe all countries are amazing) and eat amazing food and travel. It's got me craving world cuisine again so yeah. God bless Trader Joe's for their ready-made sauces...but lately I've really been wanting to

Naan, Non, and Knead...Read On!

2011-03-24T14:51:00.001-07:00

Sadly, I did not take photos of this step-by-step...or of the finished product (yes, it's because we were all little piggies and ate them all.) When I DO make them again (which will be soon, the tastebuds can guarantee you all that) I will update with more than just a picture courtesy of my friend-Google Image. A few things NOT to do when venturing out to make Naan Bread: 1. Tell your toddlers

Chili and Children

2011-03-07T16:30:00.001-08:00

Oh, Monday! Today was actually an excellent start to the week-my sourdough dry starter my mom gave me for Christmas finally started bubbling like crazy this morning! (I started it last week and we keep our home on the cooler side, so it took a bit of coaxing!) It looks fabulous...visions of english muffins, sourdough spice cake, and rustic sourdough loaves are dancing through my head every time i

Rain, Remembering and Rest

2011-03-03T10:27:00.000-08:00

I woke up with a start at a quarter to 2 this morning and grabbed my phone from my little sidetable by our bed as Imogen layed snuggled in between me and my husband. I'd been awaiting an announcement from some friends of ours on the arrival of their 3rd little blessing. Sure enough, our prayers had been answered! I put the phone back down to charge and laid there in the dark, thinking of my own

Bands, Babies and Basalmic Vinegar

2011-02-22T14:47:00.001-08:00

Well I am happy to admit that the general awesomeness of life has pushed the blogging priorities on the back burner for a while. Let's get a rundown: Follow The Albatross We have since launched a worship band at Core Life Church. The band is called Follow the Albatross (the name is taken from C.S. Lewis' Voyage of the Dawn Treader). My husband Micah is in the band with me, my friend Kelsey and

Autumnal Nesting

2010-11-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

I am a firm believer in the fact that women nest whether they're pregnant or not. It's just in our nature...some have it more than others, and that's okay. Me? I go in spurts-autumn being my most productive time because of the harvest and whatnot. That means alot of preserving for me:D But who's complainin'? This means I get to play my part in modern pioneering...even if it IS in the middle of

Early Morning Thoughts On Psalm 4

2010-11-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

Photo by Weirdfish695 This morning I was able to wake and get ready for the day while the hobbits slept. (showers in peace are truly a treat! But I will admit, I love the morning chaos too.)I read out of 2 John and Psalm 4 and wrote down some thoughts on the latter passage. Here are just a few of those thoughts-especially in light of what has gone on in the last couple of months I considered

November's Beginnings

2010-11-02T13:49:00.000-07:00

Here it is November the 2nd, and I have already neglected to post for a bit! Lots of wonderful things have been going on in the McIlvain clan's life. I celebrated my 26th birthday this last month. Our little clan went to our worship ministry retreat for Core Life Church. We were refreshed, challenged, built up and encouraged as we gathered together at Eagle Fern Camp near Estacada. The

Choosing To Be Still

2010-10-12T14:42:00.003-07:00

Be StillStephen Curtis Chapman Be still and know that He is God Be still and know that He is holy Be still, O restless soul of mine Bow before the Prince of peace Let the noise and clamor cease Be still and know that He is God Be still and know that He is faithful Consider all that He has done Stand in awe and be amazed And know that He will never change Be still Be still, and know that He

Of Biscuits, Bread and Sundries

2010-10-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

So I've been promising to post some recipes from friends. Be forewarned for all of you Weston A. Price lovers (including myself!)...these are NOT soaked versions of these recipes! (for more information on the importance of soaking your grains, or to find out what the heck I'm talking about because I sound crazy, please click HERE). I am currently developing the soaked versions of all of these, so

A Healing and Speaking

2010-10-03T11:21:00.000-07:00

Things have ebbed and flowed this past week. Nerf went back to work to a promotion and a raise (totally an answer to our prayers)...the desires of some of our family's hearts being answered after years of faithfulness and trials, and the slow process of processing through our grief and beginning to heal from the loss of our little one who even now is held gently in the arms of our beautiful

A Big Yawning Mouth

2010-09-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

This week is stretching out like a big huge gaping maw with teeth ready to shred at me the nearer I come to it...It makes the pit in my stomach feel sick. I have to remember that I can only take one minute at a time...one hour...one day. Even if I don't think I can feel God's strength, I have to believe that it is there; that HE is here. We're not alone. I'm not alone. Life will move on, it will

It's Done

2010-09-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Our little hobbit passed into the arms of Jesus a little bit ago. Our hearts are broken. God is still good. I don't know how. But He is. Psalm 139

Fall, Fungi and a Bit of Cheese

2010-09-23T15:08:00.001-07:00

It is officially autumn in the Pacific Northwest. I think that I look forward to this time of year for several good reasons: 1. It shows me things do change, eventually; for the good, the bad, the beautiful, the ugly...but mostly the good and beautiful. Change. It's a good thing. (did I just sound like a "Beef, it's what's for dinner" commercial with Copeland's score of "Billy the Kid" or "Rodeo"

Thinking Things Are Done

2010-09-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of google images Well-I am thinking things are winding down. Hard to say, but I think this little one went Home ahead of us. Alot more stuff came out (including fibrous tissue, like placental tissue. yeah i know, gross. whatever.)...and could be something could be nothing...but I'm just going to wait until things dissipate (about 2 weeks) and then

The Ugly And The Beautiful

2010-09-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: I will probably talk about "natural body stuff" on this blog (which means that for most of my male readers/easily-grossed-out-readers this might, well...gross you out.) But hear me out. It isn't for shock value or anything. Maybe it might help someone out there in the intrawebs universe to understand, cope, join arms or whatever...and mostly it just helps me work through stuff. So

Sitting In Starbies, Because I Love My Friend, E!

2010-09-21T10:11:00.001-07:00

So I am sitting here in a Starbies (starbucks for all the rest of you) waitin' for a friend who gets to leave her hobbits with her sister for a couple of hours. I also got to leave my own little gnomies with the Nerfherder and man....gettin' out for a few hours is almost as good as letting me loose in Hogwarts with a wand. Almost. My eyes don't feel quite so accosted in here with the sun

Welcome To A Bit Of Earth!

2010-09-20T17:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my newly-revamped site! It's been a long time coming. (I know, like after how many times I said I would revamp it and blog consistently, it didn't happen due to lack of interawebs connection and life happening...good life, but life nonetheless!) I hope that as I journey through all of this you'll join with me as we traverse this story together. I've tried to keep things simple here, so

Mondays...

2010-08-23T13:45:00.001-07:00

This will be short. Just going to say that sometimes I think that I self-impose that "dark monday" feeling. Maybe it's contributed to by others, maybe I hear things wrong, maybe I hear them right....but regardless...today is definitely a day to live out "Love bears all things...". yeah-you can say ouch. I am thankful for a Lord who pours upon me grace, shows me mercy, and gives me a gracious

Summers and Sonnets

2010-08-09T18:03:00.002-07:00

Well here it is! Not completely revamped, but letting you all know it's coming-the newly re-designed brain of my ramblings. I took a blogging break mainly due to time, new baby and just life in general, so thanks for hanging in there with me ;-)So those of you who'd like to get geared up for all the fun, zany and maybe even occasional somber posts coming your way, please link up, put my blog in

Nearly Here! Sorry For the Hiatus!

2009-10-23T17:49:00.002-07:00

Well folks-Sorry the hiatus has taken much more than I intended! Getting ready for baby, decluttering our sweet little home, and lack of wireless internet at our house has culminated into well-the extended absence...which of course is no good for a blogger! I apologise! I am about 4 weeks-ish away from my due date already, and have nearly everything done and ready for baby. Amazing how simple

Cloth Wipes and Upcoming Projects

2009-09-15T11:27:00.012-07:00

Hello there in bloggerland! I thought I'd give an update with what I've been working on with my husband! More things on my "nesting list" are done, but more things have been added;) We just recently made a trip to Zoom Baby Gear on NW Lombard in Portland, OR and purchased some GREAT fabric to make our own cloth inserts for our gDiapers! If you live in the Portland/Vancouver area and have NOT

Family/Pregnancy Photos

2009-09-11T13:18:00.004-07:00

Hey all! Coming up on Bit of Earth...post on replacing the velcro on your GDiapers! (The company sent me all of the replacement velcro for FREE!) I am pressed for time at the moment getting ready for a wedding rehearsal I am singing in, but I thought I'd show you some LOVELY photos my friend Heidi Haden of Velvet Owl Photography did for our family! Ten weeks to go until I am due with little

Let Nesting Begin

2009-08-26T16:26:00.003-07:00

My brain wouldn't sleep all night last night as I realised-after the midwife came for her visit-that I have only about 12 weeks until little Imogen will be entering the world outside the womb! Sure, I had my mental list of things to make/accomplish before she arrived, but good grief...3 months and now it's down to crunch time. (yes, the Firstborn mentality to schedule/plan projects in order to

A Pause To Ponder-

2009-08-11T17:47:00.003-07:00

The sky is attempting to spit out a bit of rain on this cloudy day-which makes me all the more excited for the coming of Autumn and the colours, life and richness it brings! So in honour of dreaming of England and of the Yorkshire Dales, I came across a wonderful poem that sums up one of the fondest of Yorkshire loves-Yorkshire Pudding:) (in my estimation tasted pretty good, albeit a bit "

Pomeroy House Scones

2009-08-07T13:11:00.002-07:00

Happy Friday to all of you lovelies! I just made some scones this morning from a slightly-modified recipe from the Pomeroy House Tearoom, which sadly, is no longer open, but my sisters, mum and I used to go out there for their lovely tearoom and british foods and fare! So en lieu of the beautiful grey cloud cover today and cooler temperatures-sit down with some warm scones and jam, a good book,

So Many Things On the Mind-

2009-07-27T12:56:00.003-07:00

Eoin on a family picnic day near the waterfrontWe are getting settled into our cute little brick duplex. You should see my tomatoes and green beans...they're going insane with growth and produce! I have a few rogue tomato plants that decided to say "hello" and start growing as well-so I'm going to have to find some pots and more soil to plant them in...you know, the whole "don't

The Big Push for Midwives Campaign

2009-06-22T12:31:00.002-07:00

Here is a great video-please take the time to watch and ponder. Get involved! Birth is natural-and something that God created. How will you respond?

Quiet Times and Anniversaries

2009-06-18T12:02:00.007-07:00

I am here to post between washing and hanging up loads of laundry, but I just had to say what a wonderful day I had yesterday! It was me and my husband's 3rd anniversary, and we had such a lovely time! We dropped Eoin off at grandma and grandpa's house and headed over to the Pearl District in Portland and walked around. Had to get some spicy chocolate at Moonstruck Chocolate get some cinnamon

Possibly the most important film you

2009-06-16T13:22:00.001-07:00

Possibly the most important film you’ll ever seePosted using ShareThis

An Almost One-Year-Old

2009-06-13T12:48:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd share a little photo of me and Eoin-he will be turning 1 a week from today!!! WOW!

Okay-Still Alive Here:)

2009-06-11T23:01:00.002-07:00

Yes, friends...I am still alive! We are still unpacking, sorting, living, and doing the things that little families do to prepare for another little one. Been thinking with my handsome husband about making our own OS pocket diapers, and all sorts of things. I have been preparing to open for a guy on the 26th at the Main Bean coffee house at Calvary Chapel Southeast-which has been exciting to look

Eoin Guarding the Garden

2009-04-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

thornless raspberries

2009-04-21T18:10:00.001-07:00

these guys produce quite a bit too!

herb beds

2009-04-21T18:10:00.000-07:00

here are herb beds with a dripline irrigation system installed...the entire garden has the syste installed...and makes gardening a BREEZE...die weeds...die!

Multimedia message

2009-04-21T18:07:00.000-07:00

raised beds, grapes, packed gravel, and boxes for the European apples and asian pears to be planted later on this year

Thornless Blackberries

2009-04-21T18:06:00.001-07:00

this variety is a hearty producer...and oh so yummy!

A Raised Bed

2009-04-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

some propagated garlic and rosemary

Garden Entrance

2009-04-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

Grape Hyacinth

2009-04-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

Of Plantings and Wombs

2009-04-09T18:00:00.002-07:00

We have planted seeds in the sodden womb of the earth this week. As I plowed, trowed, fertilised, pushed seeds into the loamy soil and split up propagated garlic I was struck with such a huge sense of life and blessing from the Lord regarding my own womb. My husband and I were told that we would not be able to conceive children on our own, yet here I am with our 2nd beautiful little child growing

Toothpaste

2009-03-26T17:40:00.002-07:00

So I thought I'd post really quick about our little toothpaste switcharoo. We finished up using our Tom's of Maine toothpaste we'd been using for a couple of years (not one tube..the brand) because of the Sodium Laureth Sulfate in its ingredients. We're phasing out this harmful junk out of our home and our toothpaste was the last to switch out! We just started trying out Jason's Sea Fresh

So Many Changes-So Little Time

2009-03-24T15:27:00.002-07:00

Well I am here to jot down a "summary" of what's been going on in my world! My husband and I have decided to move back to the Vancouver/Portland area. We are so thrilled to be back around our friends and family! We made the decision based on several things-to highlight a few:1) had been really feeling the Lord's tug to go back2) had been wanting to be more involved in art, music, and missions3)

Victory Gardening

2009-03-09T14:59:00.003-07:00

Life is transitioning! Please excuse the delays in information and such! But I thought I'd share this wonderful clip about the revival of Victory gardening! As we seek to simplify our lives and be wise with the lives God has given us-let us be reminded of the simple pleasures of Simplicity itself--of being self-sustained--and of Enjoying Life with friends and family as we walk this road with the

Cliff Diving in Life

2009-02-26T20:39:00.003-08:00

You ever get that exhilarating feeling that you're about to go jumping over the edge of the most beautiful cliff? Yeah-the whole bit about swiftly plummeting to depths that might even scare a poor bird into pooping unbidden on a windshield. Well that's how life feels at the moment, honestly-and I have to say I am holding my breath, smiling, and waiting to tip over the edge JUUUUST enough for

A New Bud

2009-02-19T21:08:00.003-08:00

That is how my life feels right now- a trembling new bud about to burst forth into a new flower-a new colour. May God grant us the desire to burst forth and to go out and bloom beauty and life around us. May we cradle new life and old life and cherish the moments we most often miss. May we listen to whispers of hope and thundering futures. "Show me the way....where I belong...show me the way...to

Listing and Scheduling

2009-02-04T20:30:00.002-08:00

Ahh so today has been a day of listing and scheduling! This afternoon I was able to get out in nearly 60 degree weather to weed! Got another great section cleared out and took down the bean poles to prepare for tilling this weekend, weather permitting. I usually do a "first" tilling like this in February to help the ground cover to start composing and adding more nutrients to the soil as it dries

A Recipe Worth Devouring!

2009-01-23T19:08:00.003-08:00

Okay my friends! At the request of my dear Facebook friends from my status updates, I am posting my homemade Peach/Pear Spiced Crumble! It's really easy, and tastes exquisite with Vanilla Bean icecream! Spiced Peach and Pear Crumbleby Kileah McIlvainPreheat oven to 375FServes 6-12 (yup it's family sized!)Crumble topping:1 1/2-2 c. of walnut pieces1 c. whole wheat flour1 1/2 c. rolled oats1/2 c.

Pictures of the Zoo Adventure!

2009-01-19T20:04:00.006-08:00

Okay. So the "great seed purchase reveal" is postponed about a week or so! In the meantime I thought I'd share some great pictures of our family outing to the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium on Saturday! Enjoy!Eoin's Suprise at the Sharks in the BIIIG tankEoin and the SeahorsesTuckered Out after the cold day and all the animalsP.S....little did we know that the day after this wonderful outing...

Seeding Excitement

2009-01-15T15:02:00.002-08:00

Okay everybody. I am SERIOUSLY geeking out right now! Yup...once again it is time for seed ordering! *duhduhduhhhhh* I am looking at ordering from Full Circle Seeds and Heirloom Seeds this year! Why heirloom? Well, they're fun for starters and you can find alot of beautiful and amazing varieties that have been around for centuries! You can also save the seeds and keep on planting next year! Maybe

A GREAT Recipe Find

2009-01-07T09:56:00.004-08:00

So Micah and I took some old dvds we didn't want anymore to Half-Price Books (the premie-version of Powell's Books in Portland. Ha.) and got credit to get some great books! (and movies!) My most favourite of the two finds is The Hay Day Country Market Cookbook I have been LOVING the nutritious wholesome recipes in this book! They have a plethora of recipes for cooking seasonal fruits and veggies

Crazy Carrots!

2009-01-05T16:44:00.003-08:00

So I have to be quick..but I just had to say that Lo and behold...I went out to do some preliminary weeding and assessment in the garden and found 3 rows of multi-coloured carrots that in my very pregnant state last year had planted and completely forgotten! They are beautiful! Some very big...some small...and colours ranging from plum to white! What a find! I am going to freeze some and make a

Snow and Friday Nights

2008-12-19T15:47:00.001-08:00

Here is our sweet Eoin enjoying his first lights under the Christmas tree!I have taken a very fast break to come back here and say "ello"...and tell you all we DEFINITELY have snow. I am trying to finish up quilting like a madwoman so that they are done in time to give to our families as gifts!!! Yes, I will post pictures in the future;) we currently have 5 inches of snow and every twig and

Of Snow!

2008-12-16T23:12:00.003-08:00

The snow is nearly here! I am up too late on a Tuesday night catching up on emails and dinking around in general--and my husband just phoned from his late night working freight to say that it has started to snow where he is! So-nothing important or really actually beneficial to say this late evening...only that I am off to bed to snuggle under our down duvet with Eoin and wait for the husband to

Of Albums and Late Nights

2008-12-09T22:26:00.004-08:00

I sit here late at night waiting for my strong husband to get home from doing his freight night at work, and there is a load of laundry needing to be folded in the Poang chair and I would rather go read Brisingr while Eoin slumbers away on the couch beside me! Tomorrow Nerf (short for Nerfherder) gets to stay home for the day, and we will be going to the post office...blowing crooked willow

A New Week and a New Giveaway!

2008-12-01T13:55:00.004-08:00

Well welcome to another week! I am back from the weekend and I must say I had an amazing time! My bloggiefriend Stephanie over at Keeper of the Home is hosting a giveaway of BPA-free and non-leaching stainless steel water bottles! So head on over and enter in your name in for a chance to get a freebie! Also, visit The Tickle Trunk to see other great plastic-free products for HALF of the price of

2008-11-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

My Homemade Bebe Au Lait!

2008-11-20T14:25:00.000-08:00

Well here is what I have been working on! So, instead of going out there and paying up to $35 dollars for a nice one, I made one for $10 dollars...^_^

Reformation Day

2008-10-31T14:06:00.004-07:00

I am listening to "Bi A Iosa, Im Chroi-Se" (accents not put in there properly;)) or otherwise translated from Gaelic "Jesus Be In My Heart". It's a perfect instrumental match for a perfect rainy autumn day. I am still searching for the elusive camera cable so that I can start downloading pictures of my finished endeavour-Pumpkin Butter-otherwise known in our house as "Autumnal Ambrosia". I am

PC is Down:(

2008-10-27T16:06:00.002-07:00

Ah yes-just when I was going to show all of you the beautiful pumpkin butter I made...the computer decides to crash. So I am stuck with trying to post something brief on my phone while it gets fixed! Lord-willing soon! I will have more time forthcoming to post some recent recipes I have conjured. May your week be filled with the richness of friends and of God's blessings!

All The Pears Are Put Away

2008-10-10T13:12:00.003-07:00

Ahhh----*the sound of me sitting back and relaxing for a moment*. My dear friend Charlotte came over for the day and helped me can my pears from the Bosc tree in the backyard...and they are BEAUTIFUL! The rest I will be making into dried slices, freezing, and pear butter. YUM. It was a great opportunity to teach Charlotte her first lesson in canning, and was really easy. It became quite apparent

Fall Yums

2008-09-27T12:25:00.008-07:00

Well I have finished off the last of the Italian plums and succumbed them into spiced plum butter! I had this giant pot slowcooking for about 17 hours with spices and orange peel....good heavens the house smelled like Christmas! :DYUM.So now it's on to canning the pears from our Bosc Pear tree!I've picked about 100 lbs so far, and given some away, and I still have about 30 more lbs to pick!Again

Almost Autumn

2008-09-08T16:01:00.002-07:00

Well another day and the start of another week! I think I am going to attempt to finish canning the applesauce today! The hard cider that we are brewing is holding up well, and is just about ready for its first racking off. I heard my first flock of Canadian geese flying south today and I got so excited! Autumn is coming, folks! Get your carving knives and mulling spice ready!Plums are out in

canning...canning...and brewing!

2008-09-05T12:59:00.007-07:00

Well we are finally finished canning all of the peaches! I might get a box or two more so that I can make some peach butter and syrup and such. The every jar sealed and I was very excited;-)Now the Italian plums are ripe and ready for making into butter and drying them! I am now in the midst of canning our Gravenstein apples into apple sauce, apple butter, and drying all of the peels in our dryer

A Moment Or Two

2008-08-23T16:02:00.002-07:00

I am in the midst of canning the freestone peaches from my tree out back-and let me say they are juiiiicy! So far every one of the jars have sealed (thank you mum for being so detailed in your instruction growing up!). I am so excited that the tree produced so very well this year, even with all of the freaky weather. It WAS a challenge, I will tell you...seeing as how I have a 2 month old who has

Finally....Someone's Alive Here!

2008-08-02T13:32:00.001-07:00

So here it is. Finally. A new update on the universe that is not just Kileah's!Motherhood. How do we describe it? Revealing, amazing, frightening, empowering, beautiful, evolving, humbling, and blessing.I am reminded of a scene in Lord of the Rings-the Two Towers, when Arwen replies to Aragorn's remark "My path is hidden from me..." and Arwen replies "You path is already set before you-walk in

Days

2008-06-12T13:10:00.002-07:00

Well. One more day of work in the business world and I embark upon the beautiful challenge of being a home woman. Can I say I am ecstatic???? Now, this is not to say that I am now going to hole myself up in my house and shed the outside world...what a narrow-sided view, eh? To ignore the fact we are to be not only salt and light and nurturers of our home, but of the community and world around us.

Countdowns and Greenrooms

2008-04-29T16:40:00.002-07:00

Ah. So I have reached the last stretch! Seven weeks and I am due to give birth. We'll see what kind of wonder-filled child this is. I secretly think that he will have his own mind as to when he will decide to come out.We have finished his room (picturing details to follow!) and I keep on exclaiming over the colour of green we chose to paint it! "Scotland Isle" reads the name on the cans of

Snowy Saturday in April

2008-04-19T10:38:00.003-07:00

So....today I work all day and it's snowing outside. Wouldn't be so bad, only it's April, and not January! Such a strange year! My poor tulips and hyacinth are all in confusion, but are holding fast. I think the weather played a cruel and sadly usual joke on us poor gardeners. Last Saturday was nearly 80F...much too tempting for me to just sink my toes into grass and freshly-turned earth and

Days are running together

2008-03-18T09:17:00.002-07:00

Moments that make up my days have been running together as of late. I am definitely not complaining, though! I am 2 1/2 weeks away from being seven months along in my pregnancy, and it's been going pretty well! It does help that I am working full time so my days are not spent so much dwelling on the fact that this beautiful boy inside of my womb is getting bigger and bigger every day;-) I am

Another Post

2008-02-28T14:28:00.002-08:00

Well! Here it is-2 days until March. Almost all the seeds have been gotten and/or ordered. I'm extremely excited to see all of the changes going on outside around me, and within me! Everything is blooming and growing and coming to life-just like the life growing inside of me. God truly is an artist. I surely will get around to posting pictures of everything-I'm just still waiting for the camera

Of Pruning Shears

2008-02-09T15:25:00.000-08:00

Well-I went on a pruning rampage today, and I must say I feel quite accomplished. The weather was cloudy but agreeable so I decided to take advantage of the fact it wasn't pouring rain or blowing the branches around!I started in on the grapes-They are some kind of a red variety-I have yet to discover the exact variety-but it is a very mature vine-I manage to prune everything back to the original

Stepping in Water

2008-02-07T11:00:00.001-08:00

So-normal morning getting ready to work at the bank. I got ready, and left our bedroom-and started walking down the hallway...only to have my feet completely soaked in sloshy carpet. Somehow, during the night...something had flooded our entire hallway. Nothing else. I frantically ran to the utility room to see if the washer had leaked-and it was bone dry in there. Ran to the kitchen-and it was

Moves and Genders

2008-01-30T13:20:00.000-08:00

Well we have completely moved in-unpacking is actually a good deal finished-Micah has done most of it, seeing as how I am somewhat confined to not bending over and delegating! On Friday we were able to find out the gender of our little one we are expecting to arrive somewhere around Midsummer's Eve! We are having a boy! His name we've already picked out-Eoin Callum McIlvain. Love it!It has been