Lately everyone seems to be commenting on their strange weather. It’s no different here. It’s been unusually warm. Beautiful weather in fact. The kids are pulling off coats, attempting to convince me that it’s t-shirt weather. The snow is melting, mud puddles are forming, spring is in the air.

It’s feels like April.

Now, I’m not ungrateful. It’s nice and all but, to be perfectly honest, I’m missing winter. I certainly realize I’m blessed not to head out to work in it or wait for buses in it (I don’t miss those days) but where are the cozy times snuggled up against the cold? Watching snow fall and enjoying hot drinks by the fire (or in our case, by the candles). Wrapping up in blankets with a book. Rosy cheeks, red noses and brushing off the cold.

We did have a couple of cold snaps but it hasn’t felt like winter. Now that the dark days of winter are passing I’m ready for some snow days. Winter always brings a change in our pace and I’m missing my winter nesting time. Winter has never been a favourite of mine but it’s place is perfect. A rest at the end of the busiest season and a rest before we start fresh in spring.

I can’t believe I’m saying it but what happened to winter?

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How about you? Are you missing winter or getting more than enough of it? Perhaps you’re enjoying summer in another part of the world and winter is a distant memory. Guess I’d better get out and soak up some Vitamin D while I can.

We’ve been trying to be a little more mindful about carving out one-on-one (or two-on-one) times with our littles – the older ones in particular. As you can imagine, the dynamic is quite a bit different when all eight of us load in the van. I love when we’re all adventuring together but there are times when it is so special (and much more manageable) to have a trip out with just one or two little people.

It’s not been as easy as I’d expected (the fairness police, aka the 7 & 8 year olds, have been on the case) but it’s been a great chance to get some extra-special quality time. These aren’t big deal trips for the most part – a helper at the grocery store, a run with daddy for new skates, a trip to craft store with mommy (not everyone considers this a treat).

Along that vein I made a plan with my two oldest daughters (the aforementioned fairness police) while my sister was still in town earlier this week. The weather was glorious – sunny, warm and snowless. We wandered out in our light coats and shoes (shoes in January are a rare treat).

On the advice of a friend we checked out a new-to-us diner. Although it was fully booked, they directed us to their other, larger restaurant. I was thrilled to learn they use mainly local ingredients, sustainable practices, and serve both breakfast and lunch meals on their daytime menu (have you noticed I’m weak for breakfast?).

The stuffed french toast was yummy and the roasted potatoes even better The tea was black and hot (I chose to ignore how caffeine affects my body). The bacon was guilt-free  – only because I measure bacon guilt in origin of meat not fat grams. The restaurant was bright and inviting.

Of course the company trumped all. Sweet girls and my sweet sister. So wonderful.

I’m so glad we enjoyed this time together. And definitely pleased we took the chance when we had it as the next morning was covered in a blanket of snow. Goodbye, TOMS, see you in the spring.

(Photos snapped on my sister’s iPhone – Thanks, K!)

Happy Solstice, dear friends.

During these days of long winter nights we’re seeking light. We’re joyfully celebrating the shift and looking forward to the lengthening of our days.

Best wishes for a beautiful holiday season full of light and love! Wishing you peace and joy, harmony and laughter.

Merry Christmas!! Much love to you all!

xo R

We’re heading home today. Saying goodbye to our beloved ocean and majestic forests. Goodbye to multiple bathrooms, doting grandparents and the self-cleaning kitchen (oh, that was the grandparents, too). Trading green, rainy and temperate for brown, dry and a looming winter.

But lest I sound too mournful, we are looking forward to being home. There is just something about being home that always feels right. Sleeping in our own beds, catching up with the friends we’ve missed, making plans and getting back to our schedule. Not to mention the last of the applesauce that needs putting by – I’ve missed those market visits.

Our trip begins with the ferry ride – always a crowd pleaser. Then we settle in the for the long ride aided by audio books, sketch pads, ginger, peppermint and sea bands, along with plenty of snacks. Plenty.

Wave if you see us!