One of my love languages is time. And I can tell you who took the time to teach me just about every skill I cherish today. I know who taught me to sew, to crochet, to knit, to knead bread dough, to identify weeds, to mend socks, etc. Even though some of my teachers have left this world, I carry their skills within me still. (And think of them each time I use them!) So teaching my kids skills is an important way for me to show them I love them. Sewing is a skill we've been focusing on lately. Perfect for occupying my toddler and my preschooler at the same time and strengthening those little hands I love so much.
Has the snow caught up with you yet? Between the freezing weather and the icy hills, we've spent many days inside trying to stay warm and entertained. With two energetic, runny-nosed kids, it's meant centering myself the best that I can to breathe life into our days. Big exhaled breaths that result in dancing times, long games of chase, beating on drums, and making creative messes. Then those quieter times of inhalation. When we snuggle to read books or settle in at the table to draw in our art journals, assemble puzzles and do home-school or handwork. It's these rhythms that keep us centered (and me sane!). Simple sewing is a handwork favorite right now, and these buttoning ribbons are always a favorite. Here is one perfect for Valentine's Day- or the King/Queen of Hearts in your life if you love Alice in Wonderland as much as we do!
I've always loved teaching print-making to kids. There's something so special about transferring an image to a piece of paper or cloth. So many are intimidated by print-making, thinking of methods that involve wood-carving tools or chemicals. These mono-prints don't require either and are a perfect place for kids- and their parents!- to start.