another beginning

Getting back into the swing of things after a year-long hiatus and am hoping to start this blog back up again. Pregnancy and the demands of a new little person has kept me quite busy for the last 10-ish months. But it's good to be back in time for the holidays, and all the wonderful things this season brings.

But first - a little about my last few months. At the end of September, we welcomed a little Owen into the world. He's been a blast to have around - and has given me plenty of craft ideas and very little energy to actually do them. Taking care of a newborn has felt easier this second time round - perhaps we are less stressed as parents, perhaps he has been an easier baby. Either way, it gave me a chance to engage in a few Chinese traditions that I didn't get to do with the first child...


Got a chance to make Chinese "jiu niang" - an alcoholic rice drink that is sweet and yummy. Drinking it hot warms up the whole body! Chinese tradition believes drinking this helps post-partum moms with increase circulation (and milk production). I like it because it tastes so good! I, more or less, followed this fermentation recipe, and it seems to have worked.


Another Chinese tradition is giving out red eggs to celebrate a baby turning one month. The egg symbolizes fertility and the red color signals happiness. I'm not exactly sure what prompted me to make these red eggs (did not do it with the first one)...maybe to introduce the tradition somewhat to Collin and as a celebration for this gift of new life.

We are feeling quite grateful for the blessing of family this season. Looking forward to being back on this blog!