Babies Are As Cheap/ Expensive As We Let Them Be

So even though I have always embraced the concept that all babies really need is love, breastmilk, warmth and kindness, (with a clean diaper thrown in here and there) I almost succumbed. I have a serious lack of "stuff' and 'baby-gear' around my house, at least in comparison to many modern parents. If big box baby stores were the way to judge, my kids are down right deprived in fact. The most important item of baby gear in my repertoire (aside from the car seat) has always been a sling. While a good diaper bag has always been present as well, it's never been anything to call home about. I am saddened that many families design the size of their family based upon the expenses of babies in the first year or so. After three kids I still have no swing, bouncy seat, or play pen. I have happily survived this lack with my kids (I think) better for the lack. After all, no one I have ever met has ever lamented that they held their baby to much, didn't use the play pen enough, or spent to much time with their kids when they were small. This is in no way meant to comment on others choices in parenting, simply an acknowledgement that for me, less stuff is more encouragement to daily parent the way I think is right in my heart. Even the baby stuff minimalist in me has had a few hesitations with this latest little boy though. He approaches things so differently than his sisters did, that I often find myself wondering about a certain fairly mainstream toy etc... that I am depriving him of. This last few weeks it has been evident that he would really enjoy on of those little 'walker' toys that they can push around to kelp them walk. Should I break down and go spend money (that I don't have right now) on another toy (that will only last for a month or so) to let him fully learn and explore his world? It's laughable to many that I spend this much energy thinking about this I know, but as it goes against my general philosophy as a parent to buy more junk that lasts only a short time, fills our home with more plastic and ties up resources in things instead of on experiences like say a zoo trip. So after a weeks mental lamenting I had almost decided to succumb as I watch my 9mo little boy try every chair and stroller in the house attempting to find something that will let him walk around with a little support. A thrift store toy run was even in consideration for toady's activities when I was once again vindicated (at least in my mind) that a rich environment is enough and that more stuff is really not the answer.





While bread making may require a like reconnaissance for the next few weeks, I find it completely worth it to retain my principals.


Little P seems happy with his new 'Flour Canister Walker' as well!

Pirate # 2

Another costume down...

One Pirate Princess

She still needs her sword and patch, but here is the basic idea!

Girl Scouting

Aren't they cute!

************************************************Scouting Begins with a Peace Rally...

***************************************************************************Friends...


****************************************************************************Flags...

***********************************************************************And Floats...

Happy Clapping

So Cute!

So help me pick the best overall for a family card!

Some New Pictures of Little P