Did Somebody Say Cheeseburger Muffins?

We discovered a delightful new recipe to try: cheeseburger muffins. It sounds funny, but they are actually very yummy and kid friendly. They made an excellent lunch for us, especially since getting a decent burger in Jakarta is quite a challenge. So, I was happy when I saw a post on Facebook that led to a great new discovery...give it a try. They are very easy, super tasty and incredibly portable. I followed the suggestions of the reviewers to put less ketchup and cheese and add more meat. We also tried a batch with blue cheese instead of cheddar and highly recommend that, too. Enjoy!

Cheeseburger muffins ready to be sampled...yum!

Amelia recommends dipping them in ketchup and mustard.

Bryce is not pictured because lately when I point the camera at him he yells, "No mommy! No!"

A Sling for Baby Rose

Santa brought Amelia an American Girl Bitty Baby, who has now been named Rose. We are pretty sure she is named after the beloved Sleeping Beauty or Briar Rose. Rose came in sweet little pajamas and Santa was also kind enough to bring her a pretty little red dress with white tights, little shoes and a matching headband. Amelia wrapped her arms around Rose so tightly all day that I couldn't wait to make her a new sling. Every new mother needs to discover the joy of wearing your baby and having access to your hands again!

Rose takes a rest in her cradle as we prepare some batik Jim brought back from Bali a few years back.

"I want to help mommy sew."

Stitch by stitch the sling is coming together.

It's ready and Rose loves it!

Amelia's new favorite pose.

Amelia wants to sew, too! She is very keen to stick loads of pins into fabric. 

I will have to find her a beginner needle and get her started on some hand stitching very soon!

52 in 2014...

Remember that goal I set to make at least 50 posts in 2014? Well, I did it! 52 total posts this past year. (Is it really 2015??? Man, time flies!) I hope that you enjoyed having a little window into our lives. It seems like the best way to get a glimpse of how Amelia and Bryce are growing and developing. Of course, there is a lot left to be shared - I still haven't posted anything from Japan in October! But, there is time for that this year...right? So, in the spirit of sharing I will challenge myself to another 50 in 2015. There will be lots to report on as we have some major transitions in our future. More on that soon...