Today, Wandering

I had some time to wander freely today, just outside of Portland, Oregon. I took a few pictures of the goodies that are in my current surroundings. I have a love for the colors that I find here, even on chilly, gray and foggy days. Unlike my home in Minneapolis this time of year, Portland is still very green. The leaves may have fallen from most of the trees, but their branches are covered in gorgeous moss and lichen that flourish in the colder months. Fall is still upon Oregon and I captured some of the exciting colors. I couldn’t resist taking a few shots of the horses on the farm that I am staying on, including some of the sweetest baby “horsie” with the distinct fuzzy coat and white mark on her head.
Copyright 2008 Jessica Wood

Sofia Amiel

A burst of joy to brighten the day....My tot, Sofia.

Visiting Nana, Leeloo and PP!

I am visiting what feels like my second home, Portland, Oregon. I am so grateful that for ten days, I get to enjoy Nana's delicious home cooked meals, always prepared with vegetables freshly picked out of the garden, lots of walks in gorgeous settings, and plenty of relaxation.

DIY: Whimsical Butterfly Tree

Inspired by nature and leftover birthday decorations, I created a whimsical butterfly tree for my toddler's bedroom. It is a very simple and fun project to create and the results are quite enchanting. It is a very inexpensive project and fun for parents and their children to create together.

Whimsical Butterfly Tree Instructions:

1. Head out to nature (if you are lucky like me, you may have some in your own backyard) and find a gorgeous branch sans leaves, the curvier and more ornate the branch, the better. I used a fallen oak tree branch.

2. Purchase or create decorative butterflies. To create your own, feel free to use the butterfly stencil that I illustrated. Click on it to enlarge. Print it out and the possibilities are endless. I love to use stencils on gorgeous decorative papers, such as these found at Paper Source. Encourage your children to paint and draw on the butterflies to create their own, unique designs.





3. Attach the butterflies to the tree using either thin wire or fishing line.

4. Hang tree branch by attaching string or fishing line to either end of the branch. Hang the branch on something sturdy like a hook or screw.

Farewell My Beloved Camera

You will be missed. You help me savor memories from the mountains of Italy to the brave day I gave birth to the lovely, Sofia. Your love for capturing beauty and life’s precious moments will forever live in the thousands of photographs that you snapped. May you rest in peace.

My camera snapped its last photos in Portland, Oregon about one month ago and it decided that it would be its last. Now I am undertaking the grueling process of choosing the perfect camera, any suggestions would be appreciated. I look forward to posting new photographs very soon.