An afternoon on Flanagan’s Farm yielded a basket of berries that smelled like berries. We enjoyed our pick-your-own crop with a slice of pound cake after supper.

The only parenting books I’ve opened have been rooted in Montessori’s philosophy of early childhood development. The idealism they foster is the bane of my first time motherhood experience, but I can’t seem to help myself. What particularly resonates is the idea that parenting is rooted in observation. Similar to the biblical command to be quick to listen, and to nursing/medical education’s admonition to collect the subjective data first (what does the patient say is going on, or what do they look/act like), the idea of taking the time to learn your child’s temperament/proclivities, and encouraging their drive toward doing things for themselves makes sense to me. What I haven’t quite got a finger on is how to accomplish this task without creating eight more clean up jobs before lunchtime. 

In her Easter card, Aunt Lisa included some spending money for an ice cream cone. Seeing as Winnie had never tried such a treat, I thought we ought to do it right. We drove down to Chesapeake, nearly to the North Carolina border, in search of a creamery/petting zoo. Winnie’s response to her strawberry shake among the bleating goats, “mmmm.”

One less thing to worry about. Winnie and I went on an edible weed forage in Pungo yesterday, and learned that there are many leafy yard patches that are just fine for her to nibble on.

All we have to welcome him is a moss colored rug. Winnie is thrilled with an open, sun-bathed track. Little does she know, more is to come. A lot more. The unoccupied space will shrink with each new day of a growing brother. A much awaited little boy.

Norfolk Botanical Gardens is hosting a LaternAsia exhibit. While I’m sure the lights are captivating at night, in daylight, the art dotted gardens take on a fantasy land feel à la Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.

Starting tomorrow (April 15th) at 8am EST, in collaboration with Free Babes Handmade, I will offer a $50 instagram giveaway to the brand of bows featured in this post (among others). To enter, simply follow me and Free Babes, and be sure to comment on the giveaway post on my profile so I know you wish to be included. I will also add a temporary 15% off code for all in the same posting. The winner will be announced at the conclusion of the contest at 8am EST on Saturday, April 16th.

“And with a golden ticket, it’s a golden day…”

Sea temperature yesterday was 41 degrees. Her first solo foray into the ocean waves did not begin with a timid wade. No, she rushed in until only her head remained above the frigid salt water. What did she have to say for herself?

“Brrr.”

Today we are indoors, hiding from the drizzly chill. Aware of the dreary forecast, we trekked down to Fort Story yesterday to enjoy an afternoon of syrupy sweet fruit in the full sun.