I'm so very excited to tell you that I have been selected to teach a class for a new online art school.  Lean Into Art is launching their program with 30 Classes in 30 Days throughout the month of November.  Most of the courses are on design and art but for a twist they want me to do my Creative Families workshop.  I'm nervous and excited - I hope that audience digs it.  There is still time to sign-up...

Ahhhh, just a quick note to remind everyone to watch your children sleep.  It is so beautiful it will soothe your soul.  Those peaceful little eyes, closed.  That beautiful body, quiet.  I had the joy of watching my toddler sleep tonight - it brings me peace.

Of course, "peaceful" is not how it started, it started with tears, lots of tears.  My toddler was "off" tonight at bedtime.  My guess is that she was simply overtired.  We started our bedtime routine about 15 minutes late and she was agitated throughout.  She cried as each book ended and insisted I not sing our final good night song.  When it was time for me to leave her room she cried, but I left.  I went about cleaning the kitchen expecting her to work it out herself, as she typically does.  But after a few minutes it was clear she was ramping up - not down.  Now I know from experience that when she gets like this she will eventually wear herself out and fall asleep - its just a matter of time.  But tonight I followed my mother's gut going back in a little sooner than I typically would - she sounded like she needed me.

I returned to her room when I heard her distinctly calling for me.  I'm a sucker for her "using her words."  We try and respond to clear communication (she does not always get her way but she knows that we heard the request).  Anyway, I went in and rubbed her back until she was calm. 

Then I sat on the floor by her crib and watched this beautiful child fall asleep.  As she slept the days weight lifted from my shoulders.  As she slept love burst into every cell in my body.

I'm glad I went back in.