Our cottage part 2

Going through one winter on the North Shore meant a rainy season we weren't expecting. It rains almost everyday here in Pupukea-the whole year.We bought a dehumidifier which lets us know every morning we are up to eighty percent humidity in the house and we dump out a container of water outside every night. We had to get rid of several leather items, including the sofas. We went with washable and removable fabric instead. All and all it was an experience I'll always remember because now I have to check my shoes every week and wipe off mildew.

We also did some house and mind cleansing since the last house post so I wanted to give you all an update. Looking back on our moving experience we made a lot productive choices and some...well, mediocre ones. If only some other family of five we knew moved across the country before we did to give us some tips. For example: "You do not need those books on making soap, you won't have time to make your own soap for another 3 years and at that point you will want to take a class vs. reading a book." When you think you've gone through your treasures go through it at least 3 more times.

                                                                        August 2011:

May 2012: 

Learning to be aware of what makes up our home is always a challenge for balance. Items of value-our family games, anything to make our kitchen experience fun, books, instruments are what we have and enjoy. We are to the point that unless we are getting rid of one thing another item should not come into our house. We waited patiently since moving here and found an amazing wooden play set on Craigslist for $200. It was almost completely put together and only a 25 minute drive. Rather than the 6 boxes of pieces, a 45 minute drive to Costco, and $1,300 on a single swing set that was estimated at 23 hours of work. No-thank-you!

That's Richard's garden near the play set, growing abundantly. He loves to watch the plants, he even talks to them. The seed company we buy from High Mowing have been reliable every year.