Happy birthday, my little man

Reality check - could it really be that my baby boy is turning 4 today? Time has flown by and I still think of him as my "little" man. Anyway, I woke up this morning to find my two favourite boys in my bed - don't even start to ask yourself how much sleeping space was left for me...Then I took my iPhone from my nightstand and took a picture - and then another one - to find that my son has brought his favourite knife ever to our bed. He loves it, because when you hold it up, the blood vanishes, you hold it down, the blood is all there.
It almost made me cry, because that is SO him. Ever since he could carry things he always put stuff next to his bed and as soon as he woke up (no matter if it was in the middle of the night or in the morning, asking if he's allowed in our bed) he grabbed that item and took it wherever he's headed. Seeing him lie there with his giraffe, that he had since he was a baby, and his knife, which is his coolest toy at the moment, I was so happy, that I have him in my life. Happy about all these mornings when he sticks his little cold feet between my legs, he pulls me close and makes these funny noises that are supposed to mean: I like this VERY much. Sweetie, you are the very best little man this earth has to offer and I will help you become the most wonderful friend, boyfriend, husband and father - every step of the way, anytime you need me. I love you with all my heart.
P.S.: When we were driving back from kindergarten today, your father said to me: "He is already four. Let's have some more children real fast." Well, I don't think so - what is there left to discover after having you?

Lotti

I have been very occupied by preparations and traveling lately, but now the book fair is over and it is back to normal. I realized that I really have to start the writing of some of my projects. So on Thursday I will be having breakfast with Yvi, mother of Charlotte. I am writing a series about mothers who face special challenges with their children. Lotti has MLD and is going to die. She is the same age as my daughter. She is as pretty and lovely - but her time on earth might be shorter. She touches my heart in a way that is hard to explain. I will tell you more, as I progress.
Love for today!

Leisure time

Today was so nice - we got a phone call this morning from our close friends Markus and Jessica. They invited us to a barbecue at the Isar - so off we went. While the children were playing in the water we had such a nice afternoon at the riverside (and some glasses of wine). Sometimes the spontaneous settings are definitely the best. Right now I am glad that the kids are off to bed and I'll be going to sleep soon as well.

Keith Johnstone Workshop

The master himself.
Julia at breakfast.
Me, all smiles.

It started as an idea and went on to change my life. I really wanted to see Keith Johnstone (the inventor of Improvisational Theatre) once in my life, so my friend Julia and me booked his workshop in Cologne and I have to admit it was pretty life changing. Not because of all the games we played, not because of the way he teaches and not because of his experience. But there is something about learning from a master that you only get later, in real life. In that sense, Keith taught me something - as he would put it - I already knew, but he reminded me of. To let loose, not to try to be the best and have fun. Oh - it IS nice to not try all the time but enjoy. So for a change - why don't you try not to try so hard and have all the fun along the way.

Wiesn 2009

I am glad I went to the opening act this year - terror warnings and all that don't really make you wanna go this week. Here are some images from my Wiesn trip with some mothers from kindergarten. Tourists kept stopping us to take pictures so we had some fun.

Ballet lesson No 1

Lis is telling me how much she wants to dance ballet for 1 1/2 years now, so I finally gave in today. Not being much of a dancer myself I have to admit: it was the cutest sight. All these little girls in their pink ballet dresses and Jasmin, the teacher, all in black. We will be part of this for a long time to come, I can feel it. If you are in Munich check out Jasmins ballet school, she is VERY good. Lis is all happy now, practicing her new moves in the living room.

Denmark, last episode

We've been home for almost two weeks now, but I still wanted to post some final Denmark pictures that show how great it is to have a family. Honest to god - there is nothing more encouraging and more important. Today, my friends, I wish you all well and hope you can spend quality time with your own wonderful families.

A day at a time

As I am in the middle of a book project with my husband we are trying to take it a day at a time now that we are away in Denmark. The mornings are for writing and then we take off with the kids.
Yesterday we went into Aarhuis' splendid store magasin, you can see the children lying in the reading corner - they loved it there.We also went to a toystore and got a fantastic bubble-kit. Lis and Ludwig spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening making bubbles. I was tempted to try, too - especially with the panoramic background. I love our yellow danish house.

Another day at the beach

We had the first day of REAL sunshine since we arrived in Aarhuis, Denmark. So the kids went crazy and we stayed at the beach for 4 hours straight- thinking this chance might not come back. My daughter underwent some serious costume changes while my son loved it to be naked. I just know now that I will look at these pictures one day and think of that day as being pretty perfect. Uwe painted a nice picture while we were at the beach and I got some time off just lying there and feeling the sun on my skin.

2 kids under 6

Holidays with 2 kids under 6 - everyone who's been there knows, that you will have to visit an amusement park. So we made our way to Djurs Sommerland and did all the little kids rides. Look, suddenly it is me in all of the pictures ;-)

Ludwig was afraid of some of the bigger rides, though. This is him in his new raincoat - Danish design for kids is pretty cool.

And this is the two of them, discussing which ride to go on next. I just love it when they act in their secret sibling mood - and not the "This is my toy" mood.

The big ship, part II

We went to the harbour next to the ship to find a smaller yacht that was called Lissy. See my daughter standing in front of it with the biggest smile on her face. I am sure she will grow to be a material girl now, she really wanted Daddy to buy the yacht for her. Look at him, he was all ready to do it. Well, I held him back (boring me). Lissy taking over the yacht. Part of the big ship.

My kids steering the big ship.

The big ship

There is a very big ship in Ebeltoft, called Fregatte, you can go and visit. Well, we went and besides having to tell you that a cannon is very loud when being fired (holymoly) I was surprised by how big the ship's propeller is. It was a wonderful sunny day, too, so this was very rewarding after the last days of not so good weather - meaning temperatures around 18 - 20 degrees, which doesn't sound like a lot of sunny beaches, does it?

Viking convention

It was crazy, but so much fun. We went to Europes second biggest Viking Convention on Moersgard Strand and I have never seen something like it. The Vikings (and there were 2000 of them) fought against each other and it was breathtakingly aggressive. The children couldn't believe it first but then thought it was fun to see everyone "dying". They have been playing Viking every since and I will probably have to buy some weapons before we go home.

Here you can see our Siberian AuPair Larissa killing a Viking. By now she knows how to shut someone up (good thing!).

Pure bliss

We spend so much time with the kids that we keep doing such important things as jumping on the trampoline, lying in the hammock and building sand castles. It is quite amazing how much fun it is to spend time with the kids when you can really dive into the experience without being stressed out because of work or having to be somewhere on time. This morning Ludwig and I spent an hour (sadly it was the hour between 6 and 7) playing with a little ball - just rolling and throwing it back and forth. I probably was four when I did that the last time. Denmark rocks! Oh - and my son loves the Danish flag so much that he tried to paint it on his body. Too bad it doesn't wash off, but then again he is busy doing other things like tasting salty water. He SO is daddys' boy. Lissy seems to be more on the safe side with her wetsuit. She SO is my girl.

The beach

Just look at their faces. Need I say more?

Taking over the house

Ever thought about exchanging your home during the holiday season? I strongly recommend it. Right now we are in Denmark and totally love it. We are living in a parsonage (pastors house) and it is SO nice and SO big. And there are SO many toys I didn't have to pack. Pure joy, I tell you.

This is everybody, just minutes before we were taking over the house. And everybody did this in his or her very own way.

Ludwig by getting used to new weapons.

Lis by creating a barbie retreat in the meditation room.

Me in the kitchen.

And the master himself at the Danish masters desk. Thanks for this wonderful home, Iben and Morten!!!

Goodbye, ladies

For the last two years Ludwig and I have been visiting such a fun music school course. I don't know what it was, but all the mothers always said that the course seemed to be more for ourselves than for the children. Anyway, we had so much fun dancing and singing away and it was a pleasure to see all the little ones grow up over such a long time. Last Wednesday was Ludwigs last lesson before he starts to visit the course for the older children (including my daughter) so we had a little muffin and sweets and apple juice feast at the end of the lesson. I even remembered to take a picture of our gang - so here it is. Farewell ladies! We'll miss you for sure.

A pair of wellies and a bikini

Remember, when a sunny day and some free time were ment to be spend in wellies and bikinis? I don't know what it is about my girl and this summer, but I keep taking millions of pictures, thinking that all these moments go by too fast. You truly are the apple of my eye, sweetie pie.

People I meet

Scrolling through my blog I realized that it almost looks as if I only spend time with my kids. That is so not true. A) I am working and b) I meet a whole bunch of people older than 5 every week. Let me give you some examples: Meisun and me at RTL, having loads of fun. Kati and Meisun (both Norddeich TV) and me as Charlies Angels. These girls rock. Kristina has been a trainee and friend of mine since I started my very first company (meaning almost 10 years ago). Obviously she isn't a trainee anymore but the friendship remained. We were so excited to see each other again that we couldn't get one shot right. And last but SO not least - my Julia, whom I miss every day. She used to be my husbands assistant but that doesn't AT ALL describe who she is and what she is able to do. Love her.

Thanks, Affa

About a year ago, Affa from China asked me to be a part of her upcoming book project. I was more than excited. Now, as I am holding the book in my hands, I think Affa did a GREAT job in picking the various crafters and designing the pages. Thanks a lot for choosing me to among all of those talented fellow mothers/crafters. This is truly overwhelming.

At the fire department

As soon as we saw the first fire engine, we lost it. There was an open house at the fire department Riem in Munich last Saturday and we did it all: ride in the fire engine and
dress like fire(wo)men. After that, the kids needed a break and coloured some fire engine pictures while eating banana muffins and drinking lemonade.

Island of smiles

We went to our beloved Schliersee (again) the other weekend. As it was raining and raining and raining we decided to take a boat trip to the island in the middle of the lake. As you can see, the rain stopped and we all loved it there. I just think it's the most fascinating thing - as soon as you arrive at an island you feel all adventurous, want to sit down around a campfire, run around the woods and stay forever. Oh, sweet childhood memories.

Larissa, finally

We have waited for her some month, but it was sooooo worth it. As our new AuPair, Larissa from Siberia, settles in, we realize just how much of a blessing she is. The whole family calmed down. I have so much more time to work and finally get things done without taking someone to the toilet between calls. And last but SO not least: the children absolutely love her. The pictures show my brother Jens and Larissa on her first night in town (I was with them, taking the pictures). We raced up to the Olympic Tower to show her the scenery (always worth a ride up, no matter which weather) and then went for some Bavarian-Japanese food in Haidhausen.

Perfect summer moment

What more do you need to have fun? A big glass full of ice cubes, coke and lemon. What a perfect moment on a hot day.

Ain't no sunshine when there's rain

I am NOT going to pretend that the sun is shining today. But I have the perfect weapon against those grey clouds outside: Some fun in the sun pictures, taken last week when the summer finally seemed to have arrived. Well, I am waiting patiently for it's return. Meanwhile enjoy the pictures.

Depeche Mode

My husband and our AuPair are at the Depeche Mode concert in the Olympiastadion right now. They have a blast - this is the picture he sent me just before the band started playing. Wouldn't you love to be there? Mirya, a friend of ours who lives in Schwabing, called me to tell me she can listen to the concert in her garden. Isn't it just the best to live in a big city???

The lady is a tramp

Mrs. "I know what I look like" lately visited the Feringasee in order to show off her latest swimsuit addition. How come that girls are born nowadays, knowing the meaning of the phrase "editorial posing"? Anyway, we had a blast and while I took pictures, the Missus enjoyed the moment.

Hotel Abtei, Hamburg

I just love charming little hotels, especially if they are very private and intimate. Whoever plans a trip to Hamburg, should make this a must-see (or better THE place to sleep or eat). Oh, and if you visit the restaurant make sure to ask Remigio for his wine recommendation. He'll show you heaven.

Food, Poletto-style

Eating good food is like a love affair - you always come back. I know Cornelia Poletto (take a look at her famous restaurant) back from when we were teenagers. She didn't change a bit, her food changed a lot. I just love her style of dishes and her sunny state of being. If you get a chance, go, taste and enjoy. Just make sure you call way in advance. What a treat!

Old friends

Almut is my long time friend. We know each other from the day she was born and it was just great to celebrate her birthday over dinner. It is always wonderful to see each other. We are on the phone every day (more than once) and are very much involved with each others lifes. So seeing each other is always about friendship and laughter and being oneself.

Just the two of us

Weekend getaways can be really romantic and inspiring - this one surely was. We flew to Hamburg on Saturday and had a fun day. After taking time for a short business meeting we went to the "Landungsbrücken", then dressed up and went out for dinner. On the next day we had a lovely breakfast, looked at some hotels and took a cab down to Blankenese to take in the beauty of that fishervillage like part of the city. Back at the airport we had a chat with Kelly Hansen, lead singer of Foreigner, and went straight back to our children. I just love short trips and new impressions.

All about Adele

Adele is my husbands 89 years old grandma. After having a bad year and some health troubles she is on her way to recovery this year. We went to see her at Schliersee last Sunday, where she visited her daughter Hannis mountain resort. As always, Adele was reflecting on life, talking about God and giving advice. She has strong opinions and I could listen to this brave and wise woman forever.

Daddy duty

Last week daddy took the kids to a playground nearby in Munich Riem, close to the old airport. It is a really modern playground and while the kids enjoyed all kind of great outdoor toys I was at home, sound asleep, dreaming of a life where you can always do what you want to do and no one expects you to entertain them. Oh, hold on, that was BEFORE we had the kids. Just kidding.

Birthday girl

What a sweet day! Blue sky, lots of balloons and sweet little kids. May-Britt turned 4 and SO was princess of the day. Thanks to the weather we were able to spend the whole day outside - hunting treasures and playing ball. What a treat. Just wanted to share some impressions - it was a quite editorial setting - all colorful and in the middle of Munich-Schwabing, right in Hohenzollernstraße. Happy birthday, big girl!

Schliersee - The best lake outside of Munich

The title says it all: My family and me have fallen in love. We found a wonderful house at Schliersee and since then try to spend as much time as possible there.

It is only 40 minutes from Munich with breathtaking views and lots of things to do. The children simply love it - mostly because we always do loads of things and take friends with us.

The house is perfect for two families as it has lots of space, 5 bedrooms and a parklike garden. Wanna come?

Love

Svenja

My little boy

I can't believe how long it took me to write another post. It seems that each spring is busier than the one before. The kids have been playing indoors way too long - so we took every opportunity to go outside, breathe some fresh air and get some sun. As you all know, this is my sons' first year in kindergarden - and it is also his first real spring. Having two children born in October I always think the spring and summer when they are three are "firsts". Somehow they seem to take it all in and act so grown up. Therefore this post is dedicated to my (not so little) boy, whose sweetness and innocence breaks my heart every day.

A zebra and a princess

There we go having 500 costumes and every year my kids end up dressing as princess and zebra.
Actually - it expresses quite well how they behave in everyday life.And now look at this: Before and...after. The princess lost her first tooth. It's been some weeks ago, but I never got around to post the news. First there were tears and now she thinks it is the coolest thing, naturally.

The last weeks have been busy again. It is so interesting how each time everyone is speaking of a crisis we are booming once again. See me in a very thankful mode here! And now - tatatata - THE news: We have finally decided to invite an Aupair into our house. I am very excited about it because I think it will be a personal gain for everyone involved. More on that as soon as things are progressing - it might even be the middle of March.

Today it is going to be a long day again. It is kids first, then work, PT in the afternoon, then kids again and a work dinner. I hope there is going to be some peaceful sleep afterwards, with no zebra disturbing me.

Have a great day
Love
Svenja

busybusybusy

Kleinhesseloher See, Englischer Garten, Munich


Restaurant up in the Olympiaturm, Munich

Sorry, I wasn't planning on being absent for so long. Life has just been unusually busy the last weeks. First we had a stomach flu going on, now it's the real flu. The children are coughing all night long which leaves me all tired and exhausted. Still, I am in a pretty good mood. My husband and I started to work together again. Not that we ever stopped, but we are working on the same projects again, communictaing about professional things more often. I love that as it is always a real highlight to listen to his opinion on things. The other news is: I started to work out with a personal trainer. After being in the gym for quite a while I decided to take my fitness to the next level. And I can only tell the girls out there: get yourself a PT NOW. It is the best decision I made in the last years and it so pays off. I feel a million dollars after working out with him as he is really pushing me over the limit. I will keep you updated on this - it is fun!!!!
As I don't want this to be a post without pictures I am just showing you some of the trips we did with the children lately.
Have a wonderful day
Svenja

Happy

I have to tell you: I have been very happy lately. December and January have just been great. Me in December, being happy on the balcony of our beach house in Malibu.Malibu always puts me in a great mood. Even when I am inside the beach house.Me, smiling after a night out in Munich with really good friends of ours, Kerstin and Wolfgang.LOVE this picture. The lady in black is my girlfriend FOREVER and this was at the party when her husband turned to be a professor in December. As you can see, my life has been quite nice lately, as I traveled and met wonderful people!
Love Svenja

What traveling does for children

There are times when you think your children will never grow up. They are fighting with each other as soon as you leave the room, won't dress themselves and leave you dizzy, as you are explaining things over and over again. And then, there are other times. Times, when you are traveling and your children do nothing but surprise you. I couldn't believe it when I read a book for 2 hours straight as they were playing in the living room in the morning. This is, what else my children did on our New Years trip to Ireland:Stand in a milk parlor and help milk the cows for 2 hours straight.Act very relaxed and not shy at all in a new location with nothing but strangers - even eat their pancakes and enjoy the whole experience.
Go on a little trip with one of those English speaking gals you have not seen before in your life. This was my sons' first trip with someone he hasn't known for ages. Their only shared word was "tractor", but that lasted a while. Thanks for doing this Mike!
Being easy to handle in a plane for 2 1/2 hours. See how I am patting his back - I was nothing but happy.Dancing on a beach out of pure joy. I love you, princess.
Svenja

Ireland, revisited

If you haven't been there yet, I strongly recommend going. Have I ever met more people who are open-minded, up for something new and love adventures? No. Have I ever seen greater hospitality? Surely not. This has been a blast again and I just want to give you some picture impressions:Land of beauty - very romantic secenery, wild and calming at the same time.Ireland beaches - obviously the place to have fun and go family.
Hospitality - it is unbelievable how nice total strangers will be. Try it!
Adventures around every corner. Mystic landscape and interesting people: to die for.And last but not least - the girl who makes it all happen: my dear friend Grett. Thanks for opening your door and your heart. You are one of a kind!
Love Svenja

My relaxed in-laws

I just have to say: There is nothing more amazing than relaxed in-laws. We went over to my mother in-law yesterday to meet my husbands two brothers as well as one wife and cousin Paula. Look at us playing a game in the middle of X-Mas chaos. It was all fun and comfortable - like home. Therefore I very much enjoyed the day. Hope you had a good day as well. Any family visits?
Today I am back to my desk and off to the gym later. I love X-Mas, but I love going back to normal as well. Which means: it is 6:30 and I am going to join my son in the living room and entertain him.
Have fun you all
Svenja

Dancing with my daughter

Merry X-Mas everyone! I can't believe it is already Christmas morning. I have been trying to keep up with my blog, but this December was just too busy. Sorry. I will be better prepared in January. We will have a nice family holiday season - it is just the kids and us (well, and for today one brother and one grannie), but that is that. This month was filled with kids celebrations at their various engagements. Today I am blogging some pictures of my daughters' dance lessons Christmas party. It was really cute to see how excited everyone was. Those little girls in pink really break my heart.
It is still 7 a.m. over here and, which means my early bird son and me are the only one downstairs. As much as I could kill for just ONE morning of sleep - I love those quiet hours where it is just the two of us.
Gotta get going to prepare that Christmas grocery list. I still haven't done a thing which I think is a good sign: I am pretty relaxed these days. Anyway - have a wonderful Christmas night and celebration. We are off to Ireland for New Years Eve but I will be posting in between.
Love
Svenja

Article about lilukids at The Storque

NEWS*NEWS*NEWS*

The fabulous pearlswirl has included me in her shop local article about German based Etsians.
Pearlswirl, thanks a million! I feel honoured to be put up there with amazing German crafters and artists. And all of my lovely readers: Don't forget to look at pearlswirls shop for some fantastic jewelry!

I will be posting some Malibu pictures and more that has been going on in my busy life very soon!

Love - and enjoy the holiday season,
Svenja

Leaving for L.A.

Oh, how I love to post this. You are welcome to look at my master bedroom for the upcoming 6 nights. I will update you from Malibu - promise. What a view to wake up to, eh? Anyway, I am already missing the children, who are staying home with nanny and grannie.

Excited to go
Svenja

Sir Terence Conran and the Seven Sins

If you are planning your trip to Munich you absolutely have to stop at this restaurant right at the Stacchus: Lenbach. It was designed by Sir Terence Conran. Its theme, The Seven Sins, is glamouros as well as voluptuous. Food has to be tasted as cannot be described - lets put it that way - I always go back.Interiors are very dark in these pictures, but then again it was nighttime. The ceilings are breathtaking. I love the catwalk, as it is higher than the rest of the restaurant and makes everyone so tall and attractive. Which isn't a must, as there is always a lot of eyecandy around anyway. Enjoy!
Svenja

Claerwen James

All pictures copyright by Claerwen James

Every now and then you click onto a website and are almost shocked about how much you like what you see. Happened to me when I visited Merrilee's blogspot and found out about the British painter Claerwen James. After studying zoology at Oxford she turned to painting, the love of her life. She specialises in portraiture, particularly of young people, based on photographs. A true artist, isn't she? I would love to have one like that of my children.

Svenja

X-Mas patterns

I just scrolled the papersource website and love a lot of their this years X-Mas patterns. Thought I'd share those with you and hope to get you in the mood, too. This year very graphic patterns seem to do it for me.

Hohoho,
Svenja

Lollihopp

This weekend we've been to an indoor playground called lollihopp. It is quite recommendable, as it is huge and has a lot of attractions for the little ones. My husband was in the picture mood, so I finally have some pictures of me and my kids. Most of the times I am the one who is taking the pictures, so it almost looks as if I am never around. Anyway, this proves: they ARE my children. We were having loads of fun. By the way - I love my husband a lot. (This has to be said from time to time, doesn't it?)

Let's start this week...
Svenja

Let's do this

I just read a piece in the New York Times magazine about how we use the term "Let's do it". They had this cute illustration to go with it by James Joyce, I just had to make it my new header! Sweet, isn't it? Makes me wanna go and work out, finish sewing that dress for my daughter, end an article I have been lingering over for a while and another million things. I have to make a list, soon. Another one...

Have a great Sunday!
Svenja

The creativity of others

Sometimes others people creativity gives me a crafty flash. Happened in the case of Sandberg fabrics some while ago. I was so inspired, that I made a baby quilt for my Australian friend Megan. I blogged the animal pillows before when they were not quite ready. As you can see, those were inspired by the sandberg animal fabric below. I really want to spread the word about that company - full of admiration. It's too bad you can't really buy them online. Or does anyone know a shop that sells Sandberg?

Bye for now
Svenja

Oh happy day

We went on a family day trip to Austria yesterday. The region is called Karwendel and it is said to offer an Indian Summer like experience as there are a lot of maple trees in that region. Well, what they don't tell you is that roads to that special area are closed exactly by last weekend, which means that you have to walk there. It was our family and another family with two little children and a wife, pregnant in her last trimester. Anyway, we gave it our best and didn't really see any trees but collected branches, fir cones and leaves. On our way back in the car we drove past a beautiful lake with an almost magical reflection. We stopped in the middle of the road to take a picture. It was breathtaking and I thought I'd share it with you.

Love
Svenja

Halloween Party III

I just had to let you in on my party decoration when it was finished. Pictures speak for themselves, I guess.

Halloween Party II

As I said, there was a lot going on at our Halloween Party. First it was all cakes and candles.
Then came the clown, Mr. Breuer, who made them laugh for almost an hour.
You can probably imagine how I loved him for that.
And these are my babys in front of the TV when the party was over. All exhausted. Five and three years old - and they still want that bottle of hot chocolate in the evening. Guys, I love you.

Halloween Party I

Just a really quick post. Our Halloween Party went great. You can tell by the looks on their faces: Lis in her new Arielle dress and Ludwig dressed as a skeleton - the party about to begin. I will post some more party pictures later on. We are going on a daytrip to Karwendel now, so I have to start packing. See yah
Svenja

I blogged about those chairs I love the other day. Then I remebered that I had some beautiful pictures of my little (birthday)-girl (pink dress) and her best girlfriend in the world, Clara (turquiose dress). Those pictures are 1 1/2 years old, but I think they perfectly portray how much fun these girls have together. And the chair is great, too, isn't it?

Birthday party

I spent all of yesterday cutting bats, skulls, ghosts and pumpkins. As Ludwig turned 3 on Tuesday and Lis turns 5 today, we've invited 11 children and their parents over for Halloween. I love to decorate for parties so I was all over the place. This is what it looked like yesterday pretty late at night, but I will put up more pictures as soon as the party is over. Right now both kids are in the living room watching television (birthday treat) and they love the party feeling of all the rooms. Gotta go, there is food to prepare and children to dress. What a day - best feeling in the world when another year is gone and everybody is safe, developing and having fun. Are you having a Halloween bash yourself?
Love Svenja

Another Sunday

Another Sunday and another playground. Just some impressions before the busy week starts.
Wish you well
Svenja

Great bargain and fun at the playground

We went to the fleamarket this morning. Sun was shining, kids were in a great mood. And guess what - I bought the coolest tin can (originally for peppermints) ever. Doesn't it look great?
It is really big, about 30 cm high. Love it. In the afternoon we went to the playground around the corner. I was stealing flowers (well, actually just cutting down half a tree owned by the city) and the kids were playing football. Here are some shots - me with no make up, but who cares on a Saturday afternoon?
As you can see - my family is the most important part of my life. I love those three people (hubby not pictured, but always included) to death. Hope you have a great weekend yourself. Up to something special?
Talk soon
Svenja

Potato party

I have no idea if it is a Bavarian thing, but we went to celebrate a potato party yesterday in kindergarten. The kids sang a potato song while we put some potatoes in the fire in order to eat them later. Afterwards there was a potato play and finally: We ate potatoes. Even if all of this doesn't sound very surprising the kids were having loads of fun. It was really cold though, so we left kind of early.
I left the children with my Mom afterwards and went to a fabricstore in Munich City in order to get some patterns. My husband lost lots of weight lately, so that means he needs new shirts. Oh no, I am not THAT good - I am not sewing him shirts (who has time for that). But I thought I can recycle his old shirts for my son. Now comes the clue: They are iron-free and made out of great fabric. It is kind of hard to get iron-free shirts for kids in Germany, so this is my chance. I will hopefully start this weekend, so there will probably be some pretty blue (striped, checkered) posts coming up. I was also thinking about sewing some matching pyjama pants. Let's see what happens.
Bye for now
Svenja

Party banners

The fabric for my next project arrived lots sooner than I thought. It is from the Barefoot Roses Collection by the very inspiring Tanya Whelan. I managed to make one banner this morning. It is supposed to be used next week at the childrens' Halloween party. There's a lot of girls invited which probably all come dressed like princesses - so it can't be too spooky. Well, let's see how this mixes with vampire decoration. The butterfly bunting is by Laura Ashley home. They do have nice stuff, don't they?

Sorry, the pictures are a little dark but it was quite early in the morning. Keep you up to date on the party planning...
Svenja

That's what I call great service

I found this great fabric shop www.twinsgarden.de online, which (even better) is located in Germany. This week I placed my first order and was amazed by the outstanding service. Ingrid Amenda who runs the shop managed to send everything - including a personal note and some goodies - in 24 hours. And I mean 24 hours from placing the order to the moment the postman delivered the package. I can't believe this is happening in Germany. Too wonderful to be true.

Anticipation

Isn't it the best feeling in the world to really look forward to something? My hubby and I have booked a "grown ups only" vacation, and it is coming up in some weeks. So this is why I am full of anticipation right now. Thanks to the www I already have some pictures to share with you.
It is a beach house in Malibu, private beach access only. I miss the kids already because I know they would love it there - but if it is really as nice as it looks we might just take them next year. Do you have a dream holiday coming up as well? Let's hear about it...Have a great day!
Svenja

Memory lane

My children are turning 3 and 5 at the end of October. A great reason to go down memory lane.This is Lis, 6 month old. Lying on the floor in her nursery in our first house in Paderborn.
And Ludwig, about the same age. The picture was taken in our first appartement in Munich-Bogenhausen.
Ludwig, 1 year and 2 month in my VERY favourite holiday home in the Netherlands.
Just before we started to visit Lis' first Oktoberfest. This picture was taken on the porch of our second home in Munich, which I sometimes dearly miss.
One of my favourite pictures of all time. Both children love to dress up and love Pippi Longstocking by Astridt Lindgren, one of the best childrens' author worldwide. I love those guys. It is ALL about them, every day.

My MAC addiction

Isn't it the best to go out and buy cosmetics? As a married woman I found myself getting rid of some bad habbits (like smoking) and developing addictions (fabric, cosmetics) instead. You can see that I am a loyal addict, preferring MAC. Ever since a Macy-girl in NYC showed me how to handle all the colours, this is what I use everyday. They say that addictions run in the family. When my godchild Carlotta was in Munich to visit this summer we went to Ludwig Beck and the girls had their lips done.
I am so glad I took these pictures, it was such a girly moment and they were so proud.

1965-1968

What a great aera to have lived in... This armchair (Up5) is one of my favourites of all time. It was born in 1965, just like my husband and is still so contemporary. Design by Gaetano Pesce für B & B Italia.
And another one I will buy as soon as I have the perfect room for it. It is three years older, from 1968, design by Eero Aarnio. The Bubble Chair. Luv it.

Sandberg and no end

I am sure that I told you about my love for Sandberg fabrics before. I must have. This season I was so into the star fabric that I used it for almost every piece I made. It's still everywhere in my house, from the livingroom to the kids' rooms. And looking back, I have to say it came in quite handy for my lovebirds and the peace bus. Have a favourite fabric design yourself you buried yourself in this year? Show me!
See yah
Svenja

Wonderwoman

On a good day you find someone on the web who really leaves an impression. So, Shirley, forgive me, but I just had to post this entry as "Wonderwoman". Shirley lives in New York City, which itself is amazing. I don't even know how I found her blog, but I have been following her steps since then. Shirley is a mother of three with a growing population of grandchildren and a VERY active life. She is taking part in the EDM challenges, so a lot of her wonderful (mostly watercolour) drawings are having their origin there. I love her animal drawings, her architecture sketches, how she keeps track of her exhibition visits by drawing part of the artefacts. I could go on forever: views through open doors, N.Y.C. sights, ballet dancers, everyday kitchen or household goods. I very much recommend to check out her work at her blog www.paperandthreads.com. As I am very much into the child segment, I am posting some of her pictures (all copyrighted by Shirley) of nurseries, grandchildren, decorations and playdates at the park. Thanks Shirley, for sharing your work with the world.
Copyright for all pictures by Shirley Levine of www.paperandthreads.com

Crafty kids

This afternoon I got all crafty with the kids. Our daughter and her cousin Paula painted a "Haunted House" (I guess Halloween is knocking at their doors big time) and my son and I did an elephant box. I love painting big style, well at least the first part. Afterwards I put them in the tub while I was trying to clean up their paint-footprints in the livingroom. Right now they are sound asleep and I can start my part of the day. Which means off to work, as my husband gives a storytelling seminar tomorrow and asked me for writing excercises I have to come up with tonight. All you crafty or not crafty Moms out there - treat yourself to a quiet evening. Mine will definitely include a glass of red wine. Cheers,

Svenja

Oktoberfest 2008

When you live in Munich it seems that you always go to Oktoberfest the very last minute. It was said to be raining today, so we went early and spent two and a half hours until it started. My husbands brother, his wife and their daughter are visiting, so the girls all got dressed in Dirndl dresses and off we went. As you can see, moods were great. The blue and white slide is a must and as much fun as it looks. It is a big tradition in our family to go there, as I went there when I was little, too. When it started raining we took a cab to our most loved pizzeria. They are so friendly and love kids (Italians, they all do!). It is the best place ever because they don't look at you weird for coming to their restaurant all wet with hungry children which need to be fed NOW. All in all a great day.

I went on a trip to Freiburg to one of my oldest girlfriends, Almut, last weekend. We had so much fun - we always do. It really is a shame we are living that far apart from each other... Anyway, on the way there (which is like 5 1/2 hours with weekend traffic) we were stuck in traffic on the Autobahn and suddenly everyone had to go to the toilet. I had no other choice than to sit them down on their potties, which looked so funny that I got out of the car and had to take a picture through the open trunk. My kids thought it was all hillarious - you can tell by their faces. We went to a soccer game of Almuts younger son Justus, so you can see my very happy little boy (soccer, what else to say...) and my daughter Lis who is admiring her daughter Carlotta (who again is my fabulous godchild). What a blast. Everyone was so enjoying their time together, I just had to post these. Oh, and by the way: Almut, thanks for the fantastic reciepes. We are eating your food ever since. Yummie!

Girls, girls, girls

I know, the time my daughter loves pink is soon coming to an end. Almost five, she will soon love greys, blacks and turquoises. Which means I am going to wear a lot of pink again, so that we don't look alike all the time. Anyway, this soon to be history love of pink made me sort through my pictures and look for things I made for her and other girls lately, who love pink, too. I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Love Svenja

Pirate Pat

I know that I am not the only pirate obsessed Mum in the world. It is hard not to be as soon as your boy goes pirate crazy. I posted this guy on flickr and found out about a new group by revoluzzza called "The monthly craft challenge" which features pirates as Septembers' theme. What a great idea!
Isn't his back fun? I just had to do it this way, as I think the more detailed, the easier to love.
See yah
Svenja

Stitch a girl

Did a late night shift and now the new pillows are done. I put them in flickr and my shops already, those girls just love going out! Now I am off to gymnastics with my little girl and whish you a fun afternoon!

Love Svenja

Stitchin' hot

I have to admit that I have been into stitching for a long time and I thought that it was time to freshen up the craft a little bit. As I have a little girl that loves girlish stuff I stitched away to create some pillows and a doll and I like the designs so much, that I just had to do some work in progress shots. What do you think and how do you like them?
As our house is pretty much overcrowded with pillows and I treated myself to some of the old drawing room and the new garden party fabric by Anna Maria Horner I might sell them on etsy and dawanda, though. Inspired by the stitching process I designed a new pillow for my daughter for her kindergarden nap. They all snuggle in the gym around a quarter past one until two, so this will be where she lies her head. Sorry, no ironing done so far.

Talk soon,

Svenja

The big day

We started the day quiet as always, but everyone was already looking forward to the big event.

Therefore the choice of shoes was especially hard to make this morning. Is it Moms' black stilettos or Cinderellas' blue plastic high heels? Finally it was there: the start of kindergarden year.
I am still trying to take it all in. My little man is going off to kindergarden. So when I dressed him and his sister this morning and took the "first day of kindergarden" pictures, I had to hold back pretty much. Guess I have to have another baby sooner or later, as this better isn't the last time I buy a new backpack and am so proud of my kids. Best feeling in the world! My husband was here to come with us, so this was extra special and I loved to share it with him.

Let the adventure begin. And off they went.

I liked it how Lis was really supportive.

Back home they were in the best of moods and sat down with Jumpys and grapes. What a way to end an exciting brother and sister day.

Love
Svenja

Sharks and other water animals

It has been so hot in Munich lately that I am surprised to wake up to an all cloudy morning. A good moment to share some summer sharks and a splashing moment with you.

The big shark has ended up in Ludwigs (my son) bed and is mainly used for hitting his sister while fighting.
The little ones are now arranged as a mobile in his room. And for you to finally see what Ludwig looks and is like I am attaching a picture which pretty much says it all.

This summer was very rewarding so far as I can just go to the lake, let the kids run around and think about all my projects. Last year I was busy watching that nobody drowns. Those days are not really gone, but it is so much easier. So for all you Moms that think this will never end and you will never be able to just lie down: It does end, and sooner than you think you will be stretched out on a blanket, a book in your hands. Just keep the faith!

Fairy tale all over

Well, if I wouldn't love life this much I would probably like to be a fairy. A pair of wings come in handy from time to time, I guess. I will post more tomorrow, I found some girl sketches and had a crazy bunting and birds session today I have to fill you in on. Now, as my little ones are finally asleep I will try to read some more pages of a movie script I've been trying to finish since Friday. Movies and writing being another one of my creative obsessions this seems way too long. See , again the wings would come in handy. I could fly to a different timezone and have another day there. Well, sleep will get me soon, as always. Still hoping for quieter times at the sleepfront here. No nonsense.
Love Svenja

All my little girls

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Friendship

I am one of those moms who always wanted a girl. Good for me my first child was a girl, so I could relax with the second - the most incredible little boy in the world. Did I say I only wanted girls? Neeeeeeh! With painting it is different. Maybe it is because little girls wear dresses, I have no idea, just love to paint them. Here are some of the girls I have painted this year - and I think there will be more to come.

6 months later

Six months ago I started to paint an ABC picture for my sons' bedroom. The idea was to paint an ABC and some animal outlines. The more I got going the more I knew that it couldn't be only outlines, but it had to be real animals. As I got all creative I started some other nice projects and suddenly there was no more progress. The picture came to an halt. But then, one Monday I said to myself: This is what got you all started, you better finish your very first project now. And I did. It took all of my discipline to start again, but I was rewarded with some wonderful painting time with my son, who was painting right next to me. Today I went to a professional photographer who turned this picture into a tif for me to be able to do reprints. Now I will soon be able to sell it on etsy and dawanda. I am excited - again.

Shops are open!

Pictures had to be taken, words to be found - let alone all the sewing prior to that - the result is, what counts. YES, I DID IT. My shops at etsy

and the German equivalent dawanda

are open. I can't believe I even kept my self-set deadline, which was today. I am so excited about this new beginning, especially as I am now starting to be part of a community including so many creative people and artists I much admire. I couldn't have done this without the help of Phuong (graphic design), Alex (pictures) and Julia (everything, from researching, having an opinion, serving coffee and helping me all the way), Megan (for encouraging me all the time and always being there) and my husband (who always believes in me. Period.) I cannot believe how much enthusiasm you guys put into lilukids, that once started as a little project and now is finally going somewhere. I hope you'll all be there to see what's happening next. Thanks. A lot.

Getting ready for etsy and dawanda

How exciting the next week is going to be. I set my own deadline: My etsy and dawanda shops will open on Juli the 31st. Meanwhile I am busy sewing, writing profiles and product descriptions and taking pictures. Figuring out everything from shipping costs to pricing takes some time as well. I guess some of you went through this a long time ago and probably know exactly what I am talking about. I have to say that I haven't been looking forward to something as much since the birth of my children and maybe some lovebird weekends with no kids and just my fabulous husband. Here are some sneak previews of what to expect:

Holidays are over

Wow, that was nice. My husband Uwe and I went on a family holiday with our two kids and our Irish friends Ger and Grett and their 4 children. So all in all it was 6 children under 6 - and you wouldn't believe the fun we had. Uwe and I spent some time in Ireland on a short Valentines Day vacation and knew just then that we HAD TO show the kids. It was very inspiring - I just love Irish landscape and houses. Ger took us to see a house a friend is building right now. He is almost done and it looks really great - especially the views out of each single window are amazing.

We took the children to see Muckross House and the traditional farms and they loved it. There is something about traditional places and buildings children and animals seem to understand lots better than grown ups. They were falling for the myths and you could tell that they were amazed by the spirit as well as loving the unbelievable parks surrounding everything.

Although Ireland is said not to have any sun we had some beach days and my daughter started surfing. I took like a hundred pictures in case she is going to be world champion one day. You never know.

Here we go

I spent the last few weeks coming up with new designs and product ideas and this has been extremely fun and satisfying. Today I'll show you two of my latest pieces, a hand & machine stitched fairy and two animal cushions.

which are not cushions yet but only cushion fronts. Next to sewing and painting my time has been consumed with my studio which is finally next to ready - HOOORAY!
A room just for myself and no one to bother me. Best of all - my brother made a thread holder for me and it is the best thread holder one could wish for. Next to my reedition of Vitras Uten.Silo I by Dorothee Becker (originally from 1969) it looks quite stylish, doesn't it?
Any comments on how to improve any aspect of my craft room are more then welcome! I will be back with more to show soon. It's just - the weather has been perfect lately and I spent a lot of time with my kids near and in the water. There is this amazing lake nearby and they just love to jump in - which gives me lots of time to think about fabric, colours and designs. I just LOVE the summer. Hope yours is just as beautiful so far.

Talk to you soon
Svenja

Today is the day

Today is the day: I am starting my blog. Which actually means I am putting my way to live and to see things out there for you to read, enjoy and comment on. Most importantly I will show you how I am trying to live a creatively fulfilled life as an artist, crafter, mother and loving wife. To make this not too cheesy - there'll be some gossip and girls stuff, too. Anyway, I hope you enjoy as I am stumbling along. I promise, I'll show you everything I adore, learn and have big feelings for. In the end, that is what stays, isn't it? To start, I post this picture of one of my very happy moments in my life. I am on holiday with my husband in NYC, sitting in the restaurant of the Whitney Museum of Art and enjoy this moment of life at its best. See me smiling?

Love
Svenja