The new me :)

Hello blog world! The new Jessica is here!

Something happened to me after my kid turned 1. I became uber-productive. I've decided to start a business, I'm finishing up a writing project with an illustrator-friend, and I'm cooking a lot of new recipes from Gwyneth Paltrow's amazing new cookbook. Needless to say, the ol' blog has taken a back seat.

I guess that is what happens sometimes. Life gets in the way!

Here's to productivity, though. I'm feeling like a new woman, and I'm loving this new side of myself.

More good news: The Noel family is moving to a new neighborhood! Philly has never looked so good :)

Tenderly and with gumption,
Jess

Father's Day

Dear John (aka "Dada"),
Thank you for being the best father Singer could ever have. He is one lucky little guy, and he thinks you are the coolest.

"Take your time, think a lot.
Think of everything you've got."

I love you,
Jess (aka "Mom-Mom")

A beautiful friend

I met Laura when Singer was about four months old. I had the pleasure of joining this really cool group of Earth Mamas who (surprise surprise!) resided in South Philly, too. Over beers and babies one Friday afternoon, Laura and I realized we had a lot in common. A beautiful friendship was born.

Sadly, Laura and her family recently moved out of the city to a quaint little community called Bethlehem, PA. But not so sadly, Singer and I get to visit!

Not only is it refreshing to be surrounded by trees, breathing clean air, and eating salad picked straight from Laura's garden, but it's also really wonderful to get "Laura-perspective" on life. She reminds me to give "good energy" to things that I'm self-conscious about for healing purposes, and her clarity and positive living is so very inspirational to me.

Needless to say, Laura and I will be continuing a valuable friendship despite her move out of Philly. I am so blessed by this woman! And Singer is blessed by Alma's friendship, as well. Obviously, Alma provides Singer with good rest after a playdate :)


Shanti,
Jess

PS: Look what time it almost is!! Hydrangea time!!!

newfound FREEDOM

With Singer's new steps, I'm doing a little more stepping myself! The chase is just beginning. New workout routine? Fine. I'll take it. I guess it's worth it, and seeing my little man light up with his new wings that take him wherever he wants to go is priceless.

Teetering and tottering,
Jess

and so it begins...

I'm making another blankie. I've made two so far...one for Ro and one for Singer. Now, Ro has a new sister. So, I'm off to stitch land. I hope to finish it by the time baby girl Ryder Mae is three years old. :) Just joking. I hope to finish it by the time we meet Ryder Mae this summer.

Slip stitch n pass,
Jess

Uncle Patri

came to visit. He stayed for a week, and I swear I don't even really remember what went on because I was laughing hysterically the whole time. Here's some pics to remind me.


hmm...nope. I don't have a clue. But, I can tell you that Singer's face looks like this when Uncle Patri is around:
We all miss you dearly, Uncle P. But, I'm sure we'll see you soon!
Here's to real housewife realness!
--Jess

Reflections on a Year

One year ago, I was in my midwife's office VERY ready to have this baby. I was huge, I was uncomfortable, and I couldn't wait to meet my little boy. Fast forward to today: I'm a mommy. And I have a one year old. And it all flew by in the blink of an eye.
Happy birthday my son. You have transformed me in a way I didn't know was possible. You are the reason I evolved into someone stronger. You changed me, and I am forever blessed by this change.

Singer, thank you. You made me a mother. And there is nothing in this world that fulfills me more. You challenge me every day to be a better person...for you. You bring me such joy, and sometimes I can hardly catch my breath because the love I have for you knocks me over.
To my son on his first birthday!
Mothering always,
Jess