grateful: day on the bay

We went whale watching in a little skiff today. Some days stepping out of the usual routine is just what we need. Today was one of those days. The sun was out, the ocean was calm, the sardines were running. The boys and I rented a skiff on Capitola Wharf so we could explore the bay. There are many humpback whales out there right now, and dolphins and birds and sea lions and seals! We were all a little nervous. (I didn't tell the boys I was nervous, that would not have been a good idea.) One of Coleman's classmates told him they almost got rammed by a whale while they were in a skiff. Naturally Coleman imagined that might also happen to us. In all honesty there was one point in the day that it seemed like it might happen. We lived to tell the tale, though!

We were out there only an hour because we had a lot to do to get ready for Halloween. What an action packed hour it was! I am so looking forward to doing this again, hopefully soon. If you get a chance to go out on the bay don't pass it up! It was only $30/hr to rent the skiff - we were out for an hour. Next time I hope we have a chance to stay longer and go further.

look to the left of Max, there's a dolphin.

{this moment}

A Friday ritual. A single photo, a single moment to savor and share. 

inspired by soulemama.com

2014 Auction Project Ideas

Yes, it's that time of year again. Time to start the auction project plan. The kids are studying Native Americans again this year. I'm thinking Dream Catcher. Big, bold, beautiful and collaborative. I think we can get a lot of good karma into this one. The dream catchers above I found on Pintrest, the two colorful ones are from etsy and the center piece is from Torchlight Jewelry. Our chickens are moulting, so we've got plenty of feathers!

And, let's just say the auction wouldn't be complete without a clay piece. Precious hands coming together to make a difference in the world. Be the change. You can find out more info about this bowl at Studio Art Dallas. I plan on making a similar one with Max's class using their qualities and colors. I'm hoping to get a little poetry into this one.