tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62494454532908163402012-02-27T06:03:39.484ZKristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.comBlogger3191100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-25124243886701832292012-02-26T07:37:00.002Z2012-02-26T07:37:55.818Z

I'm back!If you haven't been around in a while due to my absence check out my BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY. I turned the big 3-0 this week and want to celebrate with you all. But onto the HUNT.... The rules are simple:  Anyone can participate. You're encouraged to take five new photos this week for the challenge. Creativity is also encouraged! If you get stumped, you may use one photo from your archive (

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-4338868054453642822012-02-25T13:55:00.001Z2012-02-25T14:19:43.623Z

A couple of weeks ago I posted about 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up. I really am determined and I secretly wish I could buy EVERY. SINGLE. BOOK. and have the coolest library ever...but then, I guess that is what it would be, a library. Anyway, I went to the Cambridge Public Library to get started. If you notice on my sidebar I have an Amazon widget with 1001 Children's

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-88840820822477812712012-02-24T20:34:00.000Z2012-02-24T20:34:09.931Z

About a year ago, I had this picture of what my 30th birthday might look like. Paris...surrounded by romance, culture, amazing food and as many macarons as I could eat. Then I remembered that the weather in Paris in February is not very conducive to carting around two young children who kinda kill the romance and I quickly decided that April may be a better time to visit the city of love. No

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-35141732136614126232012-02-23T13:38:00.000Z2012-02-23T20:27:42.946Z

Today, is my 30th birthday and to celebrate, I am sharing with you 30 Loves. In 30 years I think I have a fairly good understanding of who I am, what inspires me and what I love. And when you love something, you want to share it with the world so that they can love it too...kind of like the love of God. For Loves 27-30 however, I am going to shake it up a little and will give away 1 of each

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-83639521273244426962012-02-22T22:23:00.001Z2012-02-22T22:36:10.160Z

It occurred to me today just how quickly I am running out of numbers before I hit 30. It also occurred to me that this list does not include God. Ben. Jakob. Ella. or Soren...remember him? For those of you that have joined me post-move to Cambridge, we have a dog. His name is Soren and he is living with friends back in Canada for the year.  Believe it or not, I really miss him...I don't miss

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-85352619695644108052012-02-21T21:12:00.002Z2012-02-21T21:29:18.072Z

In celebration of my 30th birthday, I am sharing with you 30 Loves. In 30 years I think I have a fairly good understanding of who I am, what inspires me and what I love. And when you love something, you want to share it with the world so that they can love it too...kind of like the love of God. So here you are, 16-20 of 30 things to love. Think of it as your goodie bag! ** Note: I am not

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-58128695632691942682012-02-20T19:53:00.002Z2012-02-22T16:41:31.117Z

Every blogger questions themselves at some point: their writing, their motives, themselves. The start of a new year often prompts these questions as we refocus, set goals and reorganize not only our stuff but our time. I am no exception. Like many others, there are times when I wonder why it is that pour out my heart into this microscopic space that I call my own on the worldwide web, to

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-23424199434213470722012-02-18T19:16:00.001Z2012-02-18T19:52:59.682Z

In celebration of my 30th birthday, I am sharing with you 30 Loves. In 30 years I think I have a fairly good understanding of who I am, what inspires me and what I love. And when you love something, you want to share it with the world so that they can love it too...kind of like the love of God. So here you are, 10-15 of 30 things to love. Think of it as your goodie bag! ** Note: I am

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-14990939891391476672012-02-17T08:05:00.000Z2012-02-17T08:05:38.980Z

I posed a facebook challenge last week: Name that Veg! (By the way, if you haven't already doneso, you may just want to pop over and "like" the page as I will often post related articles to things I have been discussing and other fun stuff.) I had some of you pretty stumped.... So I suppose you are all wondering what I did with the Swede. Well this month, Abel and Cole's Recipe of the Month

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-73107708775335760612012-02-16T21:59:00.002Z2012-02-16T21:59:40.901Z

Today, we went to London. The agenda: Science Museum Covent Garden Market Big Ben (because a trip to London with no big ben, is no trip at all for my boy) (Uploaded my pictures onto my computer only to realize I didn't get any good ones of Ella. Epic Fail.)

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-19022025793270806742012-02-15T20:33:00.001Z2012-02-15T20:34:18.179Z

In celebration of my 30th birthday, I am sharing with you 30 Loves. In 30 years I think I have a fairly good understanding of who I am, what inspires me and what I love. And when you love something, you want to share it with the world so that they can love it too...kind of like the love of God. So here you are, 6-10 of 30 things to love. Think of it as your goodie bag! ** Note: I am not

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-24465425867693213282012-02-15T18:49:00.001Z2012-02-15T19:07:41.172Z

A few days ago I read this post. It was just what I needed. In our diverse world, there are so many different theories on how to raise children. And depending on where you are, whether that be Paris, New York, Three Hills, Alberta, or Cambridge, England you will always find somebody more than willing to tell you what is right and what is wrong. In Alberta, I was one of few moms that worked and

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-74047535489339353502012-02-13T20:13:00.000Z2012-02-13T20:13:42.274Z

What is half-term? Here in the UK they work hard and play hard. The school system follows a basic calendar of 3 terms: Michaelmus (Fall), Lent (New Year to Easter) and Summer (May-July). There are 3-4 weeks inbetween the terms and a week-long half term break mid term. If you ask me, way better than all these flex fridays, professional development days, etc. This week is half-term and while I love

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-28486316605717170172012-02-13T13:23:00.001Z2012-02-13T13:25:12.212Z

Happy Monday! It's a new day and a fresh week. Thank you so much for all of the birthday wishes already...it isn't my birthday quite yet, but I am of the opinion that birthdays last a month as opposed to just one day. Don't worry, you'll know when it is the actually day - you'll see fireworks light up your computer (just kidding...but you will know, I don't really let it slip by unnoticed.) I

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-6279236656832084842012-02-12T06:34:00.000Z2012-02-12T06:34:48.249Z

The rules are simple:  Anyone can participate. You're encouraged to take five new photos this week for the challenge. Creativity is also encouraged! If you get stumped, you may use one photo from your archive (although I'm not too strict about it - I do my best to take fresh shots). Link up here on Sunday (or Tuesday at the latest) - you can use the button above. Leave comments for at least

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-35978469783373394792012-02-11T22:22:00.001Z2012-02-11T22:22:17.253Z

Remember this guy? Little Baby Jakob. Remember his forever family found him? Well, I have some amazing news! Jakob was taken back by his birth parents. And while this evokes mixed emotions for the family it is where he should be and we need to pray that they have the resources to care for him. Meanwhile, the Pardue's have a new little one that they are working to get home but I will let them

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-88228472338929835722012-02-11T10:38:00.000Z2012-02-11T11:27:39.735Z

In celebration of my 30th birthday, I am sharing with you 30 Loves. In 30 years I think I have a fairly good understanding of who I am, what inspires me and what I love. And when you love something, you want to share it with the world so that they can love it too...kind of like the love of God. So here you are, the first 5 of 30 things to love. Think of it as your goodie bag! ** Note: these

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-72705432899651142452012-02-10T14:00:00.001Z2012-02-10T14:00:56.493Z

Wednesday, we finally had a consultation with a Speech Therapist here, in Cambridge. Speech is on the top of my list for Ella because, while you won't see many adults with Down Syndrome unable to walk, there are some who have a great difficulty speaking and being understood. The bottom line, is that I feel like Ella should be more developed in her speech since she has had VERY few set backs. That

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-30194635773012462212012-02-09T22:55:00.000Z2012-02-09T22:55:00.715Z

Right now, thousands of mothers and fathers around the globe are doing everything they can to ensure that their child has the best possible chance at surpassing expectations, breaking down stereotypes and fulfilling their beautiful God-given potentials. They are doing physiotherapy, drilling speech language exercises, practicing occupational therapy, attending early learning sessions,

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-33613260224505657242012-02-08T21:43:00.000Z2012-02-08T21:43:05.344Z

Do you ever dream? If you could fashion your ideal life, what would it look like? Where would you live? What would fill your time? I dream. I dream a lot. But I never share my dreams because I am too afraid. Mostly, I am afraid that I will fail. I am afraid that I will get sidetracked, or that I won't be as good at something as I had hoped, or that people won't like me as much as I hope.

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-11341664924056589552012-02-06T13:08:00.002Z2012-02-06T17:30:48.591Z

We emerged from the underground, which, by now, was overground, onto a dark sketchy looking street in London's west side...or was it east? Struggling to read, let alone find, the street signs, we finally saw a familiar name and headed down an alley with narrow sidewalks, graffiti covered buildings and few lights, around a corner to an unpromising door in the wall. We knocked hard. A woman

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-10903050749449120802012-02-05T21:09:00.005Z2012-02-06T07:14:13.594Z

Last night it snowed in Cambridge. This would be the second time since we have been here but the first time that it stuck. As much as I had planned to stay in my pyjamas and slippers all day the little voice in my head said that I would regret it if this was the only day of the year Cambridge was frosted white and I didn't get out to play or get some pictures....so with Ben off at King's College,

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-90431614640756484552012-02-05T08:32:00.000Z2012-02-05T08:32:04.554Z

If you can't do it well do you not do it at all? That's SHS this week. I hummed and hawed over whether to participate this week with little inspiration and a mellow mindset. But for some reason, decided to pull something together this morning...by the way this is what this morning looks like. The rules are simple:  Anyone can participate. You're encouraged to take five new photos this week

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-19022653333126203212012-02-04T10:27:00.000Z2012-02-04T20:09:16.846Z

A little while back I posted 30 books to read before you are 30. For some of us...with limited reading time, I could see how it would be a challenge. So the other day, when I was at the Cambridge Library and stumbled upon 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up I was like, "Now this is more like it!" It's a good thing I am not grown up yet or it would be too late. I thought it

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-55736967513344213852012-02-03T11:40:00.000Z2012-02-03T14:12:18.575Z

I am SO delighted to have my dear friend Marissa from This Mama joining One Beautiful Life today. While, Marissa and I went to college together, we somehow missed each other and it was only in the past 3 years that we were able to form a friendship. She is an amazing woman that has so much to share in faith, in motherhood, in creativity and in life. She, like me has just undergone a huge

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-85052197471243126582012-02-02T10:40:00.000Z2012-02-02T20:34:46.163Z

Tomorrow, Ella will go for a follow-up ECG (Echo-cardiogram) at Addenbrookes hospital and I would be lying if I didn't say I was a little nervous. You see, when Ella was born, like all children with Down Syndrome, she had an ultrasound done of her heart. They do this as soon as a diagnosis is confirmed because 50% of children with Down Syndrome are born with heart problems. Ella was no

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-60561949190904209682012-02-01T20:40:00.001Z2012-02-01T20:40:18.784Z

Lately, I have been working on a lot of meaty personal writing projects and therefore given much thought to said projects. Most of this thinking is done en route cycling or walking my way through this year in Cambridge, taking Jakob to school, or Ella to swimming. My fingers are numb from the winter's chill and my heart is heavy but full. And every once and a while, I need to take an evening,

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-12017964626359994012012-02-01T14:26:00.005Z2012-02-01T14:26:48.307Z

What big boy you are becoming! Four and a half, so desperate to be five and everyday you proclaim that tomorrow will be your birthday. For your fifth year of life we have moved you all the way to Cambridge, England and you have handled it like a champ! I am so proud of you for being so understanding, so trusting and so brave. You started school, jumping straight into full days, made friends

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-8845117754805908542012-01-31T16:40:00.001Z2012-01-31T16:40:51.642Z

Some might say that I have an addiction, others might say that I should embrace the absence of my best friend here in Cambridge but really, I feel no shame about my relationship with my computer and quite frankly, I miss one of the key sources of my livelihood here in the UK. You see, on Sunday, after Jakob had had his fill of learning about...ummm, Mars, I think it was, he shut my computer (no

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-61233917209913963122012-01-30T11:00:00.000Z2012-01-30T11:00:47.413Z

Truth be told, most of the time, being Ella's mommy is no different from being Jakob's mommy. The day begins early, I make breakfast and lunches, then go about our daily activities until it's time to make dinner and put them to bed.  But there are times, when lingering thoughts poke and prod and I find myself wondering if the future will be as normal as the present. One thought that I

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-15093866907601113492012-01-29T16:51:00.000Z2012-01-29T16:51:03.674Z

Regretfully, I missed last week. Life was just busy. You can read about it here. But this week, Daddy has taken the kids to the park and I have a moment to prepare before we head out tonight to our "Secret Dinner Party" and head out early again on Sunday morning for football, Church, Luncheon and Churchill...what happened to the Sabbath rest? Anyway, without further ado... The rules are simple:

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-69327005257138383352012-01-27T13:55:00.002Z2012-01-27T14:43:20.840Z

Today, I want to talk about Pizza theory: bread covered in topping sealed (cheese) and baked. A Crostata, in my opinion, is the dessert version of pizza. I had bought some apricots the other day (not from my lovely Abel and Cole) and they were disgustingly bland. They looked "perfect" but had no taste, so I thought I would bake the taste out of them. I like Crostatas because they are a very easy

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-7858293930808754942012-01-27T13:09:00.002Z2012-01-27T13:11:35.965Z

Meet Violet... This was Violet a few weeks ago.... And this is violet today.... Better than yesterday, but still in dire need of your prayers. You see, a few weeks ago Miss Violet needed surgery to fix a hole in her heart. Recovery,, however, is not going as planned and she had trouble keeping her oxygen levels up due to all the "gunk" in her lungs.  To me, this story is

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-58287883032062027832012-01-26T21:27:00.000Z2012-01-26T21:27:05.353Z

Last Friday, a new bloggy friend featured a guest post by yours truly over at Dance For Five and then introduced me again in a little featurette this past week. I have been very grateful for Vivian for her friendship in the last couple weeks so if you have a chance head on over to check out her little space.  I thought I would repost "On Turning 30" over here however, just in case any of you

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-29667846126372387522012-01-25T20:41:00.001Z2012-01-25T20:41:04.391Z

Every once and a while I will write a post that I think only the grandparents will find of any value: updates on the kids, pictures and the general play by play of our rather ordinary lives in a not-so-ordinary place. But then I end up getting a tonne of comments and exponentially more views and I am dumbfounded and undeserving. It never ceases to amaze me how God speaks through the mundane.

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-17439830844401611922012-01-23T15:05:00.000Z2012-01-23T20:26:41.366Z

Notice anything different? That's right, Ella got new glasses. We knew that Ella had astigmatisms in both eyes and was far-sighted but our ophthalmologist in Canada said she probably didn't need glasses enough to keep them on. So our appointments in the last couple of weeks at Addenbrooke's eye clinic seemed a little redundant. The ophthalmologist there however, asked if we had ever tried

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-71544113308005752512012-01-20T19:41:00.000Z2012-01-20T19:42:28.280Z

Hi There, You've reached One Beautiful Life. I am not here right now as I am over at A Dance For 5 doing a guest post on turning ____yrs old in just over a month. Why don't you head on over an check it out! Oh and leave a comment at the beep. BEEP!

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-15764549377558326762012-01-20T17:05:00.000Z2012-01-20T18:46:39.208Z

When we first arrived in Cambridge I looked online for a Pantry Checklist with no success. For some reason when you are faced with completely empty cupboards it is difficult to think straight about what exactly it is that you stock your pantry with. And on the flip, often when you have been living somewhere for a long time there are items that accumulate in the very back corners of the top shelf

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-84941864942139809822012-01-20T13:34:00.002Z2012-01-20T13:34:37.431Z

This has been one of the dreariest day I have seen in Cambridge. The sky is grey, it has been raining since we woke before dawn, the house is quiet and there is a general heaviness in my spirit. Ben has been sick for the last couple days which has left me single parenting three children with no balance. Balance, yes another post on balance - something we are forever trying to achieve. Mother.

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-7329148824919572152012-01-18T20:23:00.000Z2012-01-18T20:23:45.815Z

Ever since Jakob was an infant he has loved sleeping in our bed but because of all the fear mongering they do around SIDS, I rarely allowed him the luxury. In fact, he wasn't home two weeks before I had to move the bassinet out of our room and put him in the crib in his own bedroom as he was a noisy little sleeper and his grunts and groans would often keep me awake. But in the morning, as dawn

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-3488734926587365062012-01-17T20:59:00.000Z2012-01-17T20:59:24.430Z

[Said somewhat tongue in cheek] ... So lately, I have been in a bit of a funk with my photography. You see, while there is a need for "family values" photography in the UK, a need which I originally set out to fulfill in September, the bottom line is that Brits just don't like having their picture taken. So all I am left with are pictures like this... I know. It's rough. This morning all of

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-59263714670007278612012-01-16T21:34:00.000Z2012-01-16T21:34:25.532Z

In just over a month it will be my birthday and for those who don't know me, I take birthdays VERY seriously! I think it is a beautiful thing to celebrate one more year in this one beautiful life. It is a time to give thanks for all the blessings that have been poured out in the past 12 months and look forward with hope into a new chapter with new stories. But not only is it my birthday, it is

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-40263703688230702042012-01-15T08:48:00.000Z2012-01-16T06:34:15.705Z

The rules are simple:  Anyone can participate. You're encouraged to take five new photos this week for the challenge. Creativity is also encouraged! If you get stumped, you may use one photo from your archive (although I'm not too strict about it - I do my best to take fresh shots). Link up here on Sunday (or Tuesday at the latest) - you can use the button above. Leave comments for at least five

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-34476353491538823332012-01-13T19:56:00.000Z2012-01-13T19:56:09.767Z

I don't usually have too much time just to "surf" but as of late, I have found some new little gems that I thought might bring some inspiration to your day. Reading My Tea Leaves Source: readingmytealeaves.com via Krista on Pinterest West Elm Source: blog.westelm.com via Krista on Pinterest Cup of Jo Source: joannagoddard.blogspot.com via Krista on Pinterest Our Paper

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-37131661590264907212012-01-13T06:16:00.001Z2012-01-13T06:16:19.275Z

Today, as I sat down to write, there was a little voice in my head saying, "Come on Krista, just let it out." As if this food addiction is something which requires regular therapy and a spilling of my culinary thoughts. In truth, I used to have a support group. We would meet monthly to express our pent up culinary creativity but since I moved away and abandoned them, here I am. Even as I was

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-86808039281906572682012-01-12T14:44:00.001Z2012-01-12T14:44:34.561Z

Guess where we have been spending time lately. You guessed it. It's potty training time. Let me begin by saying I LOATH potty training. When I tried the "3 days and $30" method (in which you stay in your house letting them run naked for 3 days and then rent a carpet cleaner for $30 to clean everything up) I lasted until noon on day one and was a wreck. It just doesn't work for our family. I

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-62371184752887415342012-01-11T21:13:00.000Z2012-01-11T21:42:19.684Z

The Lent Term has official begun here in our beautiful little city. The streets are getting busier and the morning bike traffic is picking up. We are settling back into routine like a well worn pair of shoes: not much to look at but they get the job done. Jakob was ready and eager to go back to school on Tuesday and I was once again reminded of just how much we are blessed to have him in Sancton

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-24864654626054713672012-01-10T21:17:00.000Z2012-01-10T21:17:28.769Z

Today, I cried over a hospital. As I was walking though the narrow off white halls of Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, lit only by the blinking fluorescent lights, I longed for Calgary... Now there is a phrase I never thought I would hear myself type, let alone, say. I missed the familiar, bright halls of Alberta Children's Hospital, the huge windows letting in the frequent Alberta sun, the

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-29282935895508412802012-01-09T19:29:00.001Z2012-01-09T19:29:19.123Z

Many of you joined One Beautiful Life after Christmas and missed our Angel Tree Fundraiser for a little boy named Jakob, so let me fill you in a little. Every year, I am a Christmas Warrior for an Orphan in Eastern Europe who has Down Syndrome through an adoption Ministry called Reece's Rainbow. It is no secret, nor surprise that these children are near to my heart and I long to see them all

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-66130480699776684272012-01-08T08:16:00.002Z2012-01-14T10:22:23.153Z

Ashley over at Ramblings and Photos hosts: I always find it is a fun little exercise to get out there and intentionally take photos of things I would normally not think to. Not only that but part of the rules is to comment on other peoples' photos which builds community, gives you feedback and helps you to give feedback to others. If you are "into" photography or just want some practice with

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-10570889269592771052012-01-07T18:41:00.000Z2012-01-07T18:41:28.545Z

Just over a month ago, I wrote this post drawing attention to the UK's newest baby model Taya and said that the world needed more Down Syndrome. Thank you Target for stepping up to the plate! Recently, Target put out a new advertisement featuring a little boy with Down Syndrome. In response, Noah's Dad wrote a post commending Target for recognizing that people with Down Syndrome deserve to be

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-5468424570678195482012-01-06T19:13:00.000Z2012-01-06T19:13:34.197Z

Just a few highlights from my week as part of Favourite Things Friday over at Finding Joy I bought a jigsaw puzzle this week from one of the many local thrift stores. It's a train so Jakob loves it and for the most part loves doing it with me....he hasn't gotten the whole idea yet, however...and has tried to help by putting it away many times already.  Small. Independant. Bookshops. 

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-29115434870593389882012-01-06T09:59:00.001Z2012-01-07T16:07:50.268Z

I love food. It is one of my love languages. If I love you, I will cook for you, and if you cook for me, I will assume you love me too. It is where connections are made. Gatherings of one or of many bring us closer together when we commune around a table of bread and wine, tea and cookies or a 6 course meal. As I want this space to be a true representation of who I am, I have decided that I need

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-87660828400015653702012-01-05T22:06:00.001Z2012-01-05T22:09:36.932Z

If you want to see me flee the scene in a real hurry just bring up parenting. I love talking, I love writing about anything...but parenting. Ask me about Down Syndrome, or food, photography, or travel and I could go on for hours but ask me about parenting and.....well that's about it. Perhaps, it is because I am still in denial about being a parent. Sure, I have kids but being responsible for the

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-9751784040116747722012-01-04T14:28:00.002Z2012-01-04T14:30:41.715Z

In the last little while I have discovered some amazing blogs written by amazing women in an attempt to figure out just what I want this space to look like. I stumbled across Finding Joy. I know that it may resonate with some of my readers as it is written by a homeschooling mother of 7  who is a believer and an advocate for Celiac Disease, so some of you may want to check it out. A post that

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-54727577439409197462012-01-03T09:50:00.000Z2012-01-03T15:14:27.303Z

Few of us will ever be called to be the Kelle Hamptons of the world, or the Nelson Mandelas or the Mother Theresas (Not that I am putting them all in the same category). But we are all made in the image of God giving us worth and a voice. Perhaps not an audible voice using language but a testimony through which God speaks: from the child who only lives to be minutes old, to the infant born with a

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-73198534782498963912012-01-01T14:23:00.000Z2012-01-01T14:34:06.825Z

Transition.  If I were to describe 2011 in one word, it would be transition. It was one of the best years and the worst years of my life and I am ready to say good-bye. 2011 taught me that God is not interested in religion but a deep genuine head-over-heels love relationship with us, although I am still not sure what this looks like. And through this lesson, like so many other years, the hardest

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-41339861714203410642011-12-31T20:19:00.000Z2012-01-07T13:23:26.088Z

Wow! 2011. Time flies when you are having fun! And that is just what Audrey (My 60D) and I did. Here are my top 10 from 2011. I took this photograph as part of my photography class. The assignment was light painting. I set up the shot putting my camera on my kiddy table in my basement. Shutter speed was maxed out at somewhere around 30 seconds and I had my husband use a flash light to "paint

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-47913074480133679212011-12-30T08:47:00.001Z2011-12-30T21:41:43.539Z

When I was in Paris, somewhere between an artistically crafted cup of coffee and perfectly sweet macarons, my friend and I stopped for lunch at a little hole in the wall filled with warm tomato basil bisque, comforting lentil stew and the friendly familiar buzz of foreign conversation. As we ate, we shared our dreams and plans and I asked, "What is your biggest source of inspiration?" Pause. In

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-47963827784232300602011-12-29T02:00:00.000Z2011-12-29T02:00:00.067Z

Greetings, I hope this email finds you well and enjoying a relaxing break over the holidays. I think that I can finally appreciate the song "White Christmas" a little bit more as the snow has yet to make a substantial appearance in Cambridge. People assure us that this is not normal and that it does get much colder, however I personally am enjoying the consistent use of my eyelids. Krista,

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-45132233208522544952011-12-28T12:17:00.000Z2011-12-28T12:17:02.273Z

Come the New Year I like to set goals for all areas of my life and this year a huge part of my life is Photography. I finally have a hobby...maybe more? Time will tell but at any rate, I am feeling the need to set a few goals that I can focus on in 2012....no pun intended. The only way to get better is to practice, practice, practice. So if I can draw your attention to my fancy new and improved

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-74348481862991131312011-12-27T19:18:00.000Z2011-12-27T19:18:04.268Z

There are few things in life that give me greater joy than filling in each perfect white square on a new calendar. That's right, I haven't graduated to an iphone or Blackberry. Bottom line: I like paper. I like the way it smells, I like seeing it all out in front of me. I like not staring at a computer screen 24 hours a day, although, I am pretty sure my parents think I do anyway.

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-29049774061657448832011-12-26T09:12:00.000Z2012-01-02T21:25:16.249Z

Christmas in Cambridge is what you make it. Oddly enough, it doesn't come in a beautifully wrapped, antique box. The King's College Carol service is not automatically included nor is a sleigh ride through the snow.....oddly enough. But apparently, Cambridge is like all other place in the world where it is what you make it. After my post a few days ago about my woes of not cooking a turkey or

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-57817924451365186202011-12-23T22:02:00.000Z2011-12-23T22:02:25.854Z

I want to wish you a Merry Christmas.  I want to thank you for reading and being a part of this journey because to be honest,  sometimes it's lonely.  But thanks to the wonders of technology, I can share it with you,  and you can comment and be a part of the conversation and then I feel not so alone. So thank you. I wish you joy, love, peace and hope for the Christmas Season and the

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-73135478932198420402011-12-22T22:11:00.000Z2011-12-22T22:11:12.263Z

I am, as you read, wrapping the last of the Christmas presents, my tree is lit and Bing is serenading me with "The Holly and the Ivy". And while my mug is full of soothing camomile tea, there is part of me that wishes it was hot apple cider - yet another item which suddenly seems like a integral part of Christmas.  Earlier today, as I passed the Christmas Crackers that were 50% off at John Lewis

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-86536124803007274192011-12-21T21:00:00.000Z2011-12-21T21:05:52.055Z

Edinburgh - the historic gem of Scotland, home of the Scottish parliament, The University of Edinburgh and the Edinburgh Castle which sits upon an inactive Volcano. It is the image that springs to your imagination when someone mentions William Wallace or kilts. We were only there two full days but it was an amazing experience. It was the first sight-seeing vacation that our little family has

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-90544776938107815712011-12-16T22:28:00.001Z2011-12-16T22:42:29.304Z

I came home from Paris and 10 minutes later I was out the door again and off to Jakob's nativity play at school. I was extremely worried about this given last year's episode in which this momma ended up making a star appearance. Bottom line: Jakob does NOT like to dress up and this year, the note came home that he was to be a stable animal....good luck! But he did a great job, and was the

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-43093867038531712472011-12-10T22:05:00.001Z2011-12-10T22:27:11.959Z

I feel like I have written this post a thousand times before  and yet God's goodness never ceases to amaze me.  Tonight, as I prepared to go to bed, I slipped in to check on my sleeping babes. Ella, of course was backwards in her bed, flopped over forwards in a position  that would make most people cringe.  And as I picked her up to put her right I stole some cuddles as I often do.  And,

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-76013801213914820942011-12-09T20:07:00.001Z2011-12-14T21:18:11.949Z

When you become a mother your world suddenly becomes filled with little luxuries: drinking a hot cup of coffee without reheating it, walking without a stroller, sitting down to eat a meal in its entirety from start to finish, and travelling to Paris. These are just some of the luxuries that I indulged in this week. After a long term of evenings of solo parenting, cold coffee, cold meals and the

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-249516138000487802011-12-04T07:56:00.001Z2011-12-28T07:48:54.193Z

The rules are simple:  Anyone can participate. You're encouraged to take five new photos this week for the challenge. Creativity is also encouraged! If you get stumped, you may use one photo from your archive (although I'm not too strict about it - I do my best to take fresh shots). Link up here on Sunday (or Tuesday at the latest) - you can use the button above. Leave comments for at least five

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-73599554533022525792011-12-03T19:38:00.001Z2011-12-03T21:14:16.402Z

Ella never ceases to amaze me. Everyday she learns new skills and brings joy to everyone she meets. Despite what the majority of society may believe, even though she has Down Syndrome, she lives a full and beautiful life. But there are other places in the world where children born with Down Syndrome are rejected and left to die in understaffed, underfunded orphanages and institutions. They are

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-89482804446251378732011-12-03T15:14:00.001Z2011-12-03T15:21:50.145Z

Believe it or not one of the most searched items that leads readers to my blog is Advent. I remember spending hours searching out readings and resources last year as there are surprisingly few publications on the internet....or even in the library so I thought that I would repost the Advent Readings I had prepared for last year and link up to some of the ideas that I had about how to incorporate

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-2779302856702907402011-11-30T19:23:00.001Z2011-11-30T23:23:05.812Z

Monday was a blur filled with more coffee, a shot DVD drive, the guys at mac looking at me like I'm an idiot and for Reg and Shelley, a Term Highlights concert at Churchill College where Ben conducted part of Vivaldi's Gloria again. ***** Then Tuesday we headed into London. It's hard to believe that Ben's parents, after living in Germany for a number of years after they were married have never

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-48681508582732795752011-11-30T14:46:00.001Z2011-11-30T23:23:48.823Z

Do you ever wish you could take a feeling and bottle it up for later. There is a contentment and a joy that is full and it has nestled itself comfortably in the depths of your soul. It's a feeling I longed for most of last year but today, in this moment, as I go through pictures, thanking God for his many blessings, I feel it and want to savour it. There is lots to catch up on, so go on and grab

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-58880483077032449542011-11-28T14:54:00.001Z2011-11-28T15:48:09.713Z

I love this! As you all know now, I, myself was a child actress so I have never been opposed to the idea of children being used in tasteful advertising within reason and with balance. In fact, it was one of the experiences that was pivotal in my social development as I learned to interact with adults in the professional world. I learned how to properly groom myself and how to behave at the table

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-15346971513397034412011-11-25T20:59:00.001Z2011-11-25T22:00:42.051Z

I have wanted to be many things in my life. Here are just a few: A Teacher A Veterinarian A Mom I want to be a marine biologist or conservationist every time I visit Tofino, BC A University Professor An Interior Designer There was a short time I wanted to be an Licensed Practical Nurse but only because of the convenience of a one year course but the reality is that I could NEVER be a nurse. I

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-7817341152528555782011-11-24T19:51:00.001Z2011-11-24T21:02:52.392Z

Last Thursday, Ben's Parents came to visit from Canada. We went from living in the same town as them, seeing them every other day to not seeing them for over 3 months so naturally, we were very excited. They were dropped at the house and had a quick cup of tea before we hit the ground running and went to pick up Jakob from school. Jakob was thrilled to see Grammy, Grandpa and BUZZ (who happened

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-43967452204130123032011-11-20T09:18:00.001Z2011-12-28T07:49:18.170Z

Yesterday, we took my in-laws on a tour of Cambridge and stopped at the American War Memorial. It is a beautiful place set atop a hill just outside of Cambridge city limits. And while it stirs up different emotions for different people and most of the time I just wish war was not necessary the reality is that many men and women lost their lives for the freedom of others. Enjoy this weeks

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-46451451683373769882011-11-19T09:25:00.000Z2011-11-19T09:25:12.135Z

I have probably changed in ways I don't even know since moving to Cambridge. Life is the same and yet different. We adapt as necessary to our income, our cultural surroundings and our physical environment. We drink more wine and eat more bread. We don't have a car, dishwasher, coffee maker, slow cooker, microwave or a Kitchenaid mixer. We spend less, obviously drive less and entertain less. My

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-666288656686596312011-11-17T14:06:00.001Z2011-11-17T14:07:58.894Z

Notice anything different? Look up...and to the right slightly.... A NEW PAGE!!! Just for the holidays so check it out if you are feeling crafty. A Cambridge Homemade Christmas

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-46931605776932349612011-11-13T15:40:00.001Z2011-11-13T15:55:59.977Z

I have done this a couple of times but the reality is, it is usually Sunday before I start thinking about it and don't have time. But given that this weekend was indeed a "weekend" in the adorned sense of the word I tried to make it happen.  The rules are simple:  Anyone can participate. You're encouraged to take five new photos this week for the challenge. Creativity is also encouraged! If you

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-9197436885436911732011-11-12T20:25:00.001Z2011-11-12T20:38:25.973Z

I had to laugh when I read this post before I did my own rendition. It's been a rough week with a sick Jakob and a sick mommy and yet I get this idea in my head that "Saturday WILL be family photoday" and so the show must go on. Needless to say...guess what's coming! Just a sneak peak of the outtakes...

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-79280413993235987102011-11-06T22:53:00.000Z2011-11-12T20:29:33.177Z

Early last week we said goodbye to my cousin, Ben and his girl friend Emelie who stopped by before they closed off their two month long trip to Europe. That marked the end of our visitors...for just over two weeks anyway, until Ben's parents come mid-November. With the exception of a few days we had gorgeous weather for our guests and Autumn was, truly, at its best. It was so nice to see

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-20293567449179169532011-11-04T13:11:00.001Z2011-11-04T13:41:32.528Z

This post is not about Cambridge nor is it about Reece's Rainbow. It is about being a mother and questions that I cannot reason my way through so am looking for feedback. Ella is 2 and half. She is a big girl and an active girl. I know the end of Mommy time is coming/come but I am unsure as to how to cope. I have always prided myself in my children's sleeping habits and attribute it to our

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-11155249431293327022011-11-02T19:56:00.000Z2011-11-02T19:56:27.710Z

If you have a chance to get to know me in person, I can tell you that it doesn't take long for one to realize, like my husband has, that I have a black heart. I rarely cry, truth be told, I don't usually miss people…never have, and it takes a lot to offend me. But if you want to get me fired up, angered to tears, just mention oppression: an oppressed people group or individual, racial

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-36489192070098213882011-11-01T12:11:00.000Z2011-11-12T20:28:58.474Z

The air is turning cold, the city is beginning to twinkle red and green and kitchens are beginning to smell of cinnamon and cloves. It is coming: Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year. But for too many, Christmas will be just like any other day, tied to the side of a crib, malnourished, neglected, preparing to die. So before you buy that next Christmas gift or new Christmas outfit I

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-87088942758884356592011-10-26T10:18:00.000+01:002011-10-26T22:22:46.628+01:00

Lately, I have allowed myself to give some thought to where I would like to be come Fall 2012. I know I am not supposed to be thinking about that yet. We are only 2 months in but they have been 2 months of discovering a different culture and a different way of living life with different priorities and different influences. I have mentioned some of these differences before such as the "less",

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-39494491439712286302011-10-19T21:06:00.001+01:002011-10-19T22:09:36.413+01:00

I was determined to sit down tonight (3 nights ago) and put together a genuine update on what we have been up to in the last little while (you know, like the one I was nagging Ben to do for the last three weeks). But then I started going through pictures and realized how long ago it actually was since I did one. I have good reason though, and that is I was trying to determine whether my beautiful

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-3577934561934837192011-10-15T11:12:00.003+01:002011-10-15T11:12:57.857+01:00

Recently, a few blogs that I follow have been posted somewhat out-of-the-ordinary posts that allow their readers a glimpse into their souls: a small picture of what makes them tick as they share tidbits of their lives that shaped who they are and to be honest I find the concept strangely appealing. I have always struggled with my blog and more specifically the purpose of it. It has evolved in

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-91664872292186557622011-10-14T12:44:00.000+01:002011-10-14T12:44:38.917+01:00

Greetings! I hope this email finds you all very well and enjoying an autumn filled with crisp mornings and sunshine. It has been a little over a month since my last Cambridge update (which was really just a "we're leaving tomorrow" update) so there is much to tell. I'm sure that many of you have seen loads of pictures and comments regarding our life here on Facebook but I'd like to give

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-77243878061832823772011-10-13T20:27:00.001+01:002011-10-13T20:27:25.080+01:00

Still livin' the dream, still patio dwelling, still eating far too many cookies. I am on blogging strike until Ben posts an update. Eating roast beef dinner on Sunday afternoon at a Pub.

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-70325412271698081242011-10-07T01:00:00.000+01:002011-10-07T01:00:02.793+01:00

Its funny, Autumn is upon us here in Cambridge and Canadian Thanksgiving is just around the corner and yet I have no plans, no turkey, no table centre…and I am….okay with it….sort of. Because while everyday is filled with a new sense of freedom, there is something missing. The pumpkins, the crafts, the pies are all reminders to be thankful, they are tools and traditions that help my children

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-42634298600334537672011-10-06T12:25:00.002+01:002011-10-06T12:25:51.123+01:00

Do you ever find that there are certain things that you can boast about your child and then others that you cannot, even when prompted. I had a bit of an awkward experience today which forced me into the modesty corner when really I didn't think it was necessary.  You see today, Ella had music therapy and it is no secret that Ella naturally loves music. Not only that but she is extremely

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-20053026150229258872011-10-04T21:14:00.000+01:002011-10-04T21:16:26.154+01:00

Hi! My name is Ella and I love living in Cambridge, England. Why? Well, because I get my Momma all to myself everyday, all day, and we do a lot of fun things. Every day typically runs the same because that is how my Momma and I like it, with little variances and adventures thrown in here and there. Let me give you an example. Monday. Just like every other day, I am excited to see what the day

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-19926497564139267372011-10-01T21:23:00.000+01:002011-10-02T06:32:37.833+01:00

Down Syndrome. A term that was so rarely brought up in Alberta and yet a vibrant underlying thread in our everyday lives. The hours I would spend in the car driving to and from Calgary for "Down Syndrome". The friends that Ella had because of "Down Syndrome". The friends I had because of Down Syndrome". The aids, the therapists, the appointments. I have almost begun to forget that Ella has Down

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-9860654186319965102011-09-27T14:40:00.000+01:002011-09-27T14:40:24.612+01:00

Remember this? It was taken the day after we arrived in Cambridge. We have now been here for three weeks and I finally feel like we are settling in.  Things are finding their place and there are places to put our things. This is Ben's corner. The kids' bedroom. We put them together not only for their own sense of security but also so the 3rd bedroom can act as a study/guest room for

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-68336855111754414192011-09-26T20:49:00.000+01:002011-09-26T20:49:24.939+01:00

This past Saturday we went to London.... Apparently the kids were excited because they woke up at 5:30am....so someone was a little grumpy. We stepped off the train into complete chaos. It's a whole different ball game travelling with children and I would consider this our first "real" time travelling with our kids. Even our journey to Cambridge was not too much of a challenge as we

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-61403893978610638432011-09-23T22:29:00.001+01:002011-09-23T22:30:18.609+01:00

Ben will eventually write on his musical experience eventually, I promise. But for now, as I walk between the shadows of the Great St. Mary's Cathedral and King's College Chapel there is an everydayness which transcends the mystery of Cambridge. And that, my friends, is what I know and what I can write about. The extravagant in this one, rather ordinary, beautiful life. Autumn has arrived...

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-88646827064330984592011-09-21T13:10:00.001+01:002011-09-21T13:11:46.368+01:00

Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page and turn off the blog music will you....

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249445453290816340.post-70349087791456642382011-09-18T21:39:00.000+01:002011-09-19T13:47:53.160+01:00

The weekend was overflowing and after our first full week here I had begun to wonder what Cambridge looked like at night. When you have children your quiet evenings become a luxury savoured in the comfort of your own home but one of my favourite times to take pictures is at dusk and at night time when the streets are a little emptier and lighting a challenge. So we set out after dinner in search

Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02088954144281629542noreply@blogger.com4