tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86938432038160892322024-03-13T04:00:46.271-04:00English Muffin BlogBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.comBlogger743125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-72104317563364270192016-07-10T14:22:00.002-04:002016-07-10T14:22:40.699-04:00We've moved!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMb3AkDaF2PkS10tAlQ_U8FUE_ZNQOnP_OjFZpt1vJeHwcvCOzmk4cWNmI_Rzisew_vFY-zoB0dwLmp1YEyoJvSyTn6L38qywftOIqoP2iELgVGEAdJzEsKo4zE8yGIuUrubr-7mxd1Q/s1600/wevemoved-blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMb3AkDaF2PkS10tAlQ_U8FUE_ZNQOnP_OjFZpt1vJeHwcvCOzmk4cWNmI_Rzisew_vFY-zoB0dwLmp1YEyoJvSyTn6L38qywftOIqoP2iELgVGEAdJzEsKo4zE8yGIuUrubr-7mxd1Q/s1600/wevemoved-blog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
The English Muffin Blog has moved to:<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/blogs/news">englishmuffinshop.com/blogs/news</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Please come and join us over there!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-54280816754550649882015-04-02T11:29:00.001-04:002015-04-02T11:29:48.079-04:00Personalized Easter Cards!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkonfhHIAsDqpLMkvKnyxw7_6zSmW3nxApF5l3a5cbWtJJRRDccP1tr-ZJC4iwGzLvCeOaasLWXn1AX1KdPmcu0jhM7BTou1U12lXx0xiZbD32SWBs3nGzxFGm9ucFFMuZa8cYq9qT6lw/s1600/EnglishMuffin_EasterCard-blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkonfhHIAsDqpLMkvKnyxw7_6zSmW3nxApF5l3a5cbWtJJRRDccP1tr-ZJC4iwGzLvCeOaasLWXn1AX1KdPmcu0jhM7BTou1U12lXx0xiZbD32SWBs3nGzxFGm9ucFFMuZa8cYq9qT6lw/s1600/EnglishMuffin_EasterCard-blog.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hello! Just a little note to let you know that I'm offering personalized Easter Cards for the first 50 submissions. Check out the details on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EnglishMuffinShop/posts/836314726403962" target="_blank">English Muffin Facebook Page</a> and get a special greeting from the Easter Bunny for your little ones. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy Easter! </div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-83641289160487986942015-02-16T08:54:00.003-05:002015-02-16T08:54:44.609-05:00Day Trip: Museum Tinguely in Basel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTErl5UcgKr43-9iSy_ZZqHhvRFmzx33k-tNU4r_OxionwnplwP6BJdfQtqzcz4-uSpnxwa78t_0mFnTHANCW7kfEiCkV8qi8z9aOUb1nicY_az7zD2KR87QMoaf9G7kO7pxrj0LUTx-k/s1600/Tinguely3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTErl5UcgKr43-9iSy_ZZqHhvRFmzx33k-tNU4r_OxionwnplwP6BJdfQtqzcz4-uSpnxwa78t_0mFnTHANCW7kfEiCkV8qi8z9aOUb1nicY_az7zD2KR87QMoaf9G7kO7pxrj0LUTx-k/s1600/Tinguely3.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IQViQ4hd1UGUCCJIIlvEtJ-CQIrk1dwC4sRCePAkfFcfhnn8Zme02r6ybEvyW3Dg4hNUVERbg8Nx6nWgosmPWnrnM7MpJ2ron4ME_Rv9riP57j2jh3XqPP5JavWsbkNxGad7uB-5edU/s1600/Tinguely2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IQViQ4hd1UGUCCJIIlvEtJ-CQIrk1dwC4sRCePAkfFcfhnn8Zme02r6ybEvyW3Dg4hNUVERbg8Nx6nWgosmPWnrnM7MpJ2ron4ME_Rv9riP57j2jh3XqPP5JavWsbkNxGad7uB-5edU/s1600/Tinguely2.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On Saturday, we hopped on the train and headed just over the Swiss boarder to Basel. Our destination was the <a href="http://www.tinguely.ch/en.html" target="_blank">Museum Tinguely</a>, to see the museum's collection of machine sculptures by artist <a href="http://www.tinguely.ch/en/museum_sammlung/jean_tinguely.html" target="_blank">Jean Tinguely</a>. The interactive exhibit featured a huge machine made from all sorts of found objects, there were ladders built into the sculpture that allowed the spectator to climb up into it. There was also a big red button—just begging to be pressed—that started up all the wheels and gears on the giant machine sculpture. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcm76rXuaXI9X8m0e6gz6CSjbd-YGLq_AJeLWbvDyCtqqj6y5T0WexxTiTGRbE3Nmfy9c3iDc7MJFm69JHJ1r1IgkPZN6PDttJWemhzzO72YUiwHZWf734Uh9EjF_cPLTsNjfVP9PqybU/s1600/Tinguely1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcm76rXuaXI9X8m0e6gz6CSjbd-YGLq_AJeLWbvDyCtqqj6y5T0WexxTiTGRbE3Nmfy9c3iDc7MJFm69JHJ1r1IgkPZN6PDttJWemhzzO72YUiwHZWf734Uh9EjF_cPLTsNjfVP9PqybU/s1600/Tinguely1.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There were smaller machines as well, some drew pictures, some were locomotive, some elegant and simple, and some more complex and haunting. It was a great exhibit to see as a family, and after Edwin got over his apprehension of being so near these imposing, intricate machines, he really enjoyed it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRTvRUwZyNoWDjJUv4AdvTZVXB6cfihh5NecoAFbww1xOQuNPy19x1BZZJ1adYDR-M7OMYHA_ZnIq6kXN-OOcvTYMrGeNxGZLAayx4u7wct6wmZ1W7QIl97P1ODe0nLmPrMhrs3r7sHo/s1600/Tinguely4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRTvRUwZyNoWDjJUv4AdvTZVXB6cfihh5NecoAFbww1xOQuNPy19x1BZZJ1adYDR-M7OMYHA_ZnIq6kXN-OOcvTYMrGeNxGZLAayx4u7wct6wmZ1W7QIl97P1ODe0nLmPrMhrs3r7sHo/s1600/Tinguely4.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm3rsdL-uK94P9kgFHv8fvC_dbqQttwBQYGCcV3RZ0ZtZa9RHZZjPvcxES8KSAkuh4Zot6CxdwXbhlDPPPJFa2Pl6WFySEpM2HqKI-Z6fMgSV_qJz-zbfTp6NOvw_ynTZRn_pBLTlwWG4/s1600/Tinguely5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm3rsdL-uK94P9kgFHv8fvC_dbqQttwBQYGCcV3RZ0ZtZa9RHZZjPvcxES8KSAkuh4Zot6CxdwXbhlDPPPJFa2Pl6WFySEpM2HqKI-Z6fMgSV_qJz-zbfTp6NOvw_ynTZRn_pBLTlwWG4/s1600/Tinguely5.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We realized after our visit that that was the first time Edwin had been to a museum! We were telling him on the train that we going to the museum and the poor kid had no idea what we were talking about. At one point during our visit though he declared (as he was speed walking around the sculptures), "Look, I'm walking around all the machines I like the best!" I guess he's figured out how the looking at art thing works ;)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
</div>
</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-69467855364143820482015-02-06T11:17:00.000-05:002015-02-06T11:17:22.537-05:00Pure Green Magazine, Vol. 9<div>
The latest issue of <a href="http://www.puregreenmag.com/" target="_blank">Pure Green Magazine</a>, an eco-lifestyle publication I illustrate and design for, was themed Family Life. We opened our pages up to the little ones, the different types of families and definitions of family, and approached the issue with a feeling of fun and playfulness. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNltYkMJlkXgdXhfGrH7yUKGVh5_wa49lkV2ZY58APN-kXSkSkhsvAfuZQLB_0XA0-ZhBlEEoKIa59OZDf4-qiECL9YfqUfZA2jUBJ8cDg23TBqM1-xz2OZx22qDq6Xp69gW47sH6ay1Y/s1600/Shak-Shuka-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNltYkMJlkXgdXhfGrH7yUKGVh5_wa49lkV2ZY58APN-kXSkSkhsvAfuZQLB_0XA0-ZhBlEEoKIa59OZDf4-qiECL9YfqUfZA2jUBJ8cDg23TBqM1-xz2OZx22qDq6Xp69gW47sH6ay1Y/s1600/Shak-Shuka-1.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMHz8P8UcpEfsmN5h_xPLvsnozSuma3hgU8ilrNWUdLDeR4ED5ux5mAaZUHZYeE76Qwh_YZHPiVUJegSVlS-_wndXE6BmZwq0NYeFlsvLOBBUg4QLLoHBWmAujYG46XMGMFSyPE0L7n8/s1600/Shak-Shuka-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMHz8P8UcpEfsmN5h_xPLvsnozSuma3hgU8ilrNWUdLDeR4ED5ux5mAaZUHZYeE76Qwh_YZHPiVUJegSVlS-_wndXE6BmZwq0NYeFlsvLOBBUg4QLLoHBWmAujYG46XMGMFSyPE0L7n8/s1600/Shak-Shuka-2.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
In this issue, I had the opportunity to do something I've never done before, contribute an interview with a wonderful Mama and inspiring entrepreneur in the Netherlands, Joslyn Oppenheimer, of the online eco-boutique <a href="http://www.shak-shuka.com/" target="_blank">Shak-Shuka</a>. Joslyn allowed me to translate her story into illustrations, and I had a fun time capturing the essence of her work and home life, and her adorable St. Bernard.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypph6nNOX7Xq-uqfqPTFaDvVN4t53rwHC8MAuySaSGbCgoqFlhtK37QHAHb3mERgaTpiXdQEvI01kJYayIKwchPyVXI7Awf0_cZMthsySlod1QxZlyAIQIN2xuWGCj7P2TL-fkwKCOoM/s1600/ScientificInvestigation-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypph6nNOX7Xq-uqfqPTFaDvVN4t53rwHC8MAuySaSGbCgoqFlhtK37QHAHb3mERgaTpiXdQEvI01kJYayIKwchPyVXI7Awf0_cZMthsySlod1QxZlyAIQIN2xuWGCj7P2TL-fkwKCOoM/s1600/ScientificInvestigation-1.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
I was also charged with developing an illustrated piece geared to school-aged kids and sought out the help of one of my oldest and dearest friends, the warmest and most wonderful elementary school teacher I know, Courtney Pozzo, on teaching Scientific Inquiry. Courtney asked her grade 6/7 class to contribute to the writing and then crafted a piece worthy of a place right above every kids' homework desk. I know I'll be saving a copy for Eddie when he gets older.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you'd like to get your hands on a copy of the latest issue of Pure Green Magazine, you can <a href="http://www.puregreenmag.com/subscribe" target="_blank">subscribe</a> or visit one of our <a href="http://www.puregreenmag.com/Stockists" target="_blank">stockists</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-51399127297261948252015-01-29T05:47:00.000-05:002015-01-29T05:49:57.678-05:00On the Edge of Understanding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyE_4wxNJq6SBAE20YZPGdzdWZY8Wd-GOkEwbHr9EtX-TsljEp5jV78fEIthTO5nD8IsTCVmFCTYCxr4tmg7OCiy-yWkI1ypbsKgbeB3KKWKy-go2U3EkOpkMwNHELAIjUNPSyUKqJ9zg/s1600/IMG1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyE_4wxNJq6SBAE20YZPGdzdWZY8Wd-GOkEwbHr9EtX-TsljEp5jV78fEIthTO5nD8IsTCVmFCTYCxr4tmg7OCiy-yWkI1ypbsKgbeB3KKWKy-go2U3EkOpkMwNHELAIjUNPSyUKqJ9zg/s1600/IMG1.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">A snowy morning drop-off, the Wald Kindergarten is just to the right, in the forest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
We had our first <i>Elterngespräch </i>(parent-teacher meeting) with Edwin's teacher from the <i>Wald Kindergarten</i> (forest kindergarten) this week. The teachers at the kindergarten are really wonderful, they are warm and friendly, and enthusiastic about their work. It was a really nice opportunity to sit down and hear how they feel Edwin is doing 3 months in. Especially in a situation like ours, new country, new language, new people and new environment, I was eager to hear more in depth about how things were going.<br />
<br />
The first three weeks of kindergarten were particularly hard. It started out well, Edwin loved being outdoors all morning and he was excited about the new experience. He had been in daycare in Montreal so I wasn't too concerned that the separation would be an issue—it never was there. This time, however, was a different story. After a couple of days of me staying at the kindergarten and then leaving for an hour or two he started to get upset. He realized that this was going to happen everyday, and saying goodbye to me was not something he wanted to do. Of course, I understood. And, having the flexibility in my schedule, I ended up staying at kindergarten with him for 3 weeks. It was pretty intense. The most difficult part however was the fight every morning to get him out the door. As soon as he realized were going to kindergarten it was an uphill battle. I know this is not unusual, but it made me feel really awful. I would bike uphill the whole way to kindergarten, towing him in the trailer, listening to him cry and yell, "I don't want to go to kindergarten!! I want to go home!!". What was I doing to my child? He didn't need to go to kindergarten, he could stay home with me, we could make it work. Was he not ready for this yet? Was the new language too much? Was he too young? Was I being selfish wanting to get some work done in the mornings? I know these feelings of guilt are also not unusual for parents to feel. However, amplified by the fact that we'd moved him half way around the world and stuck him into a new situation that he never wanted or asked for, those bike rides to kindergarten every morning were just brutal.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQYUURq9m_PNdxrfr4PWZahL4-fbqkVt7n7C3KCjHFa0ULlWXvjwxU4kNfG_Frum6zXh7xh-fTuIXTdbM01nbyhWq-YZDnH2U-0RR_6_giUL-zpIMiNeRXIrS-yE-6Q8ye01fIannZRQ/s1600/IMG2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQYUURq9m_PNdxrfr4PWZahL4-fbqkVt7n7C3KCjHFa0ULlWXvjwxU4kNfG_Frum6zXh7xh-fTuIXTdbM01nbyhWq-YZDnH2U-0RR_6_giUL-zpIMiNeRXIrS-yE-6Q8ye01fIannZRQ/s1600/IMG2.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Eddie's favourite day of the week is Friday, because it's <i>Werkzeugtag</i> (Tools Day)!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Fast forward to today. Edwin, dare I say, looks forward to kindergarten. He has come out on the other side of the struggle and found his place among the other 19 children. He is understanding more German, speaking more German and making friends. He is absolutely thriving in his new environment, and that makes me sooooooo happy. His teachers describe him as friendly and caring, energetic, curious, open, flexible, and funny! These are all things we know him to be at home too, and the fact that he can be so open and his true self in a situation that could have caused him to turn inward, is a real testament to his spirit and the innate resiliency and adaptability of children.<br />
<br />
I was listening to an <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/thecurrent/episode/2015/01/20/free-range-parenting-kid-neglect/" target="_blank">interview on the CBC</a> the other day about the benefits of "free range" parenting. Something that really struck me was when the interviewee (a self-described "free-range" parent) said, "Learning happens on the edge of understanding." I thought about that statement for a long time. The struggle that Edwin went through, and that all kids go through, when beginning something new and beyond their understanding is an opportunity for them to learn. As parents it's our job to support our children in these new situations—but not to rob them of the opportunity to struggle, grow and learn—as they come to understand something that was once unknown to them.<br />
<br />
xo Bess<br />
<br />
<br />Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-20015417876439742602015-01-16T11:11:00.000-05:002015-01-29T06:06:10.085-05:00Shoot for the stars!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBdYMIJ6b1Sr1xOdx8EVUc6ngi9aVWvoQJP_yXVjZviEce6h_uK1J9_hx5bDCVhwNwa0SFwAPGPnulaU4njM7WyLjA5bqpJfZK9A6slGbiVmQe4ByMdlr4saKg2iDgnXglx8QPq4L26A/s1600/Rocketship.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBdYMIJ6b1Sr1xOdx8EVUc6ngi9aVWvoQJP_yXVjZviEce6h_uK1J9_hx5bDCVhwNwa0SFwAPGPnulaU4njM7WyLjA5bqpJfZK9A6slGbiVmQe4ByMdlr4saKg2iDgnXglx8QPq4L26A/s1600/Rocketship.png" /></a></div>
The other day—after many months—inspiration hit. Over the holidays we finally got around to spiffying up Edwin's bedroom in our new apartment, and now the bare walls are begging for some artwork. I was going to put up some of his favourite <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/truck-prints" target="_blank">trucks</a>, but the space works best with a vertical print. So one night after story time we were all sitting on his little couch staring at the empty wall, what should we put there I asked? And Eddie replied, a rocket ship! So, what is a mama to do but sit down at her computer and get to work. Since I really like to have some kind of educational element to my prints when possible, I've included some constellations that he can learn as he gets older. And of course, the boy in the rocket ship is Edwin.<br />
<br />
It's still a work in progress, but I'm happy with how it's coming along. What do you think? Should I pop a few in the shop? I was thinking I could have a few different kid options available too (ie, boy or girl, brown, black or blond hair, and different lengths / styles).<br />
<br />
<b>**UPDATE: Now available in my <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/all-products/products/rocket-ship-print" target="_blank">shop</a>!</b><br />
<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-17559716063056159912014-12-30T09:40:00.002-05:002014-12-30T09:40:24.079-05:00New Year's Eve for the little ones<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStOQM1Z9qLa7LsZe3rxX2TDr8NYejqEsyAhqF444-bhYKU3ZSuRSGX97NNhJYYyyZXZEzzu-a-WHj8w2S3rcNaY2vNt3IEE86YzRhU3c6cSfpMszxMBKJC_T03ikeTJOBHShP1cm3k_o/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-30+at+2.56.56+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStOQM1Z9qLa7LsZe3rxX2TDr8NYejqEsyAhqF444-bhYKU3ZSuRSGX97NNhJYYyyZXZEzzu-a-WHj8w2S3rcNaY2vNt3IEE86YzRhU3c6cSfpMszxMBKJC_T03ikeTJOBHShP1cm3k_o/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-30+at+2.56.56+PM.png" /></a></div>
<div>
I made up some quick little stickers for Edwin and his friends to celebrate New Year's Eve. We'll be hosting a dinner for a couple families with small children and I though it might be fun for the kids to do some NYE arts and crafts. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In addition to the stickers, I'll have some curly ribbon on hand, washi tape and lots of markers, crayons and stamps. The goal is to decorate little party hats, if I can organize myself in time. Hopefully they'll enjoy it and it will ease the staying-up-a-bit-later-than-normal hyperactivity. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you'd like to download the graphics, you can do so <a href="https://docs.google.com/uc?export=download&id=0B_qMKhPVbBBEM1FtVnYtd3MtZmM" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
They are designed for Avery A4 Round Lablels, 60 mm (circle dimensions), of course you can print them on normal paper and cut them out too. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy New Year!<br />Bess</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-35147439697004057322014-12-24T11:12:00.000-05:002014-12-24T11:12:30.812-05:00Happy Holidays!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKmq1KfU_i_FkJDXdr6vkYrYh8bXh52oMj7yn3vTPB_noD1EtpBRTO5-Fac6CWLgMBRbs6_A-VseoQdmrRKI4b0wz18b_9G5PPSzUbSPpH8IMg-rridaJ2W58exePISch6R1xguSzqr0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-24+at+5.01.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKmq1KfU_i_FkJDXdr6vkYrYh8bXh52oMj7yn3vTPB_noD1EtpBRTO5-Fac6CWLgMBRbs6_A-VseoQdmrRKI4b0wz18b_9G5PPSzUbSPpH8IMg-rridaJ2W58exePISch6R1xguSzqr0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-24+at+5.01.38+PM.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy holidays friends!<br />
<br />
We are staying in Freiburg this year for Christmas, celebrating a quiet holiday season and enjoying the new sights and traditions in Germany. The end of 2014 has been busy, mostly on Charles' end, but that means that my parenting duties have doubled. Things with our little family are good however; Edwin is really starting to feel settled in his kindergarten, and we are starting to find our new rhythm, ie, time for me to do some work. I've got some projects milling about in my mind and I'm eager to hit the ground running in 2015 and really carve out some me/work time.<br />
<br />
Life in Germany has been wonderful so far, but also presented us with challenges. Thank you for your patience with English Muffin, and for your continued support.<br />
<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-56701552220140204202014-10-06T15:31:00.001-04:002014-10-06T15:31:48.923-04:00We're Open!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7aKkZInWcbUO8H7dWnhlt_t3OtxQNsM8Pepcqy9h5okNxe5HUSyAULNkszYPzX2IJp8HsKa_CxdBjCsy9uGXMqp6wk6MLyu3qeZ3B9fBCqYqTf-bMgo6_lHovb1X5fXUAyzPxttH2kA/s1600/_MG_3912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7aKkZInWcbUO8H7dWnhlt_t3OtxQNsM8Pepcqy9h5okNxe5HUSyAULNkszYPzX2IJp8HsKa_CxdBjCsy9uGXMqp6wk6MLyu3qeZ3B9fBCqYqTf-bMgo6_lHovb1X5fXUAyzPxttH2kA/s1600/_MG_3912.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;">Hello everyone! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;">Sorry for the radio silence over here, I've had my Mama hat on pretty exclusively for the last few months. Edwin and I have been enjoying our Summer together to the fullest. However, with Fall upon us, and Edwin slowly tran</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;">sitioning into kindergarten, I've decided to re-open my online shop. So, if you've been waiting patiently (thank you!) to place an order, feel free to click on over: <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/" target="_blank">englishmuffinshop.com </a></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;">Happy October!! </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302948px; line-height: 20px;">xo Bess</span>Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-54614068965102872092014-08-05T14:49:00.002-04:002014-08-05T14:49:30.064-04:00Finland & France<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPGvZoRm9Vts6Otiyu19xTNWIsi0mPvQ2If4eapiibl52lqt-EIOQVjKD7LqWhUwUaprjVrbeaTOyOTAXydqSTwe6UlGjiMls4gzKIQni1KSj0rRaNtAGFOOC1W_GYAaJ8v24Vs35VSFc/s1600/Plane-Eddie.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPGvZoRm9Vts6Otiyu19xTNWIsi0mPvQ2If4eapiibl52lqt-EIOQVjKD7LqWhUwUaprjVrbeaTOyOTAXydqSTwe6UlGjiMls4gzKIQni1KSj0rRaNtAGFOOC1W_GYAaJ8v24Vs35VSFc/s1600/Plane-Eddie.png" /></a><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello! (Yes, I still exist.) July was a busy month around here! We began the month traveling to Finland for 10 days of beautiful summer weather and delicious food, hot saunas, cool swims in the sea, and lots of love from my family. We traveled on busses, in planes, trains and cars and had a really great time. Edwin loved it, although travelling with a toddler is still always harder than I think it will be. Vacation to me still means time to relax and recharge, when will I get the memo? Vacations with toddlers are more work than being at home!! For us though, it was definitely worth it, Edwin had so many wonderful experiences and got to meet his Finnish family—what memories are made of. </div>
<div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddzvGcSNAASzCThENoE6orVeIZqtgfqOSW77anZXVWGil1mLZL-JgoDKwf8GF0-qaDPgRcyUu677hYbHCFJB9YMbbARklK-10wW1omOO3K-zYeRFnai3GEegL8kWfeFuFYvHocy_CvYs/s1600/Essarois1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJgr-l17jgfKYcTvE2mdVminEWpwF8mkJvV1dGj0U_A5mXvulKum4bH_b69Nx40Cs834X1ez70k-QunD6gEH6yIyYnz8KySPojxXZasug6U3IFP7KlXOL6lS2TSrE8z1OhQZGfZZaqk9Y/s1600/Swim.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJgr-l17jgfKYcTvE2mdVminEWpwF8mkJvV1dGj0U_A5mXvulKum4bH_b69Nx40Cs834X1ez70k-QunD6gEH6yIyYnz8KySPojxXZasug6U3IFP7KlXOL6lS2TSrE8z1OhQZGfZZaqk9Y/s1600/Swim.png" /></a><div>
<br /></div>
After our holiday in Finland we met our friends from Halifax and headed on a mini-road-trip to Burgundy. We rented a house with some other friends from Paris / Toronto and spent 3 beautiful days in the tiny (80-inhabitants-tiny) town of Essarois. The house was beautiful and old, the backyard large and green and the food delicious. We let the kids run wild, and caught up on each others' lives.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddzvGcSNAASzCThENoE6orVeIZqtgfqOSW77anZXVWGil1mLZL-JgoDKwf8GF0-qaDPgRcyUu677hYbHCFJB9YMbbARklK-10wW1omOO3K-zYeRFnai3GEegL8kWfeFuFYvHocy_CvYs/s1600/Essarois1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddzvGcSNAASzCThENoE6orVeIZqtgfqOSW77anZXVWGil1mLZL-JgoDKwf8GF0-qaDPgRcyUu677hYbHCFJB9YMbbARklK-10wW1omOO3K-zYeRFnai3GEegL8kWfeFuFYvHocy_CvYs/s1600/Essarois1.jpg" /></a><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
The following weekend we had friends from Montreal visit, and tried to host them as best we could in our new adopted city. It's funny to show people around a city you've only lived in for 4 months! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Things have quieted down in terms of summer plans, but now the work deadlines loom their heads! Oh, and we still have no child-care! So if you find yourself wondering whatever happened to Bess and English Muffin, I'm still here, mostly likely just hanging out at the playground or out riding bikes. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-mA8lykRpQEw%2FU-Eg2QT7bnI%2FAAAAAAAAD6E%2Fx7KsxhZ9shE%2Fs1600%2FEssarois1.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddzvGcSNAASzCThENoE6orVeIZqtgfqOSW77anZXVWGil1mLZL-JgoDKwf8GF0-qaDPgRcyUu677hYbHCFJB9YMbbARklK-10wW1omOO3K-zYeRFnai3GEegL8kWfeFuFYvHocy_CvYs/s1600/Essarois1.jpg" -->Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-24631473719749192992014-06-30T04:00:00.000-04:002014-06-30T04:44:53.637-04:00Summer Holidays!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbIxf09cUKelERHPN1G1_eA45-RKwcT9fEiNSs4g5A-0oHK5szH7Ca47G0mRJKlbdM-GFVrH7S7WC5GBsRn6mtSx97xabQxjEC0989Y0DUW4vnjcQOBdfA7C48Frp5Oa1eXdDrklg0o8/s1600/CampfireBags.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbIxf09cUKelERHPN1G1_eA45-RKwcT9fEiNSs4g5A-0oHK5szH7Ca47G0mRJKlbdM-GFVrH7S7WC5GBsRn6mtSx97xabQxjEC0989Y0DUW4vnjcQOBdfA7C48Frp5Oa1eXdDrklg0o8/s1600/CampfireBags.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/184186734/adventure-pack-large-grey-waxed-canvas?ref=shop_home_feat_1" target="_blank">Campfire Bags - Adventure Pack</a> (I want one!!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're off to Finland this week for 10 days of coastal living, forest walks, saunas, Scandinavian food and design, and maybe even a few <a href="http://www.muumimaailma.fi/en/moomin_world" target="_blank">Moomins</a> (for Edwin, of course!). I'm so happy that we are once again close enough to Finland that we can afford the airfare for all three of us to go and visit my Finnish family—this will be the first time they're meeting Edwin. We'll be staying with my family in their home in Turku for a few days, and then going to the cottage on the Baltic Sea. On our way back we've booked a night in Helsinki, so we'll spend one day there before flying out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AAyqPEC1cHfvKarW7JYb9kgfGqVSxB-WhvI-EyhkgKI33LoxbKjC5eoS69WWY2-h6zv7j5i3chDxy7BzWgf-wCiOJ0c6obRbVOFGEcJ5GXVWh72ps4vFtqbWOzy391CMofPFJwsbG8o/s1600/PolkkaJam_TurkuMap.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AAyqPEC1cHfvKarW7JYb9kgfGqVSxB-WhvI-EyhkgKI33LoxbKjC5eoS69WWY2-h6zv7j5i3chDxy7BzWgf-wCiOJ0c6obRbVOFGEcJ5GXVWh72ps4vFtqbWOzy391CMofPFJwsbG8o/s1600/PolkkaJam_TurkuMap.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And, in a super lucky coincidence, one of my favourite Finnish design studios, <a href="http://www.polkkajam.com/en" target="_blank">Polkka Jam</a>, just released a <a href="http://polkkajam.blogspot.fi/2014/06/turku-treasure-map-2014.html" target="_blank">Turku Treasure Map</a>, "Find everything from art, books and records to ecological products, vintage clothing and Finnish design." Sounds great, can't wait!<br />
<br />
Hope you're enjoying your Summer!<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-16268733041417496772014-06-10T09:05:00.000-04:002014-06-10T09:09:06.059-04:00WE'RE OPEN!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvKMHp05twv0xAe81HyDgD4VqGt0ceuhAQ145ACk2d-cak3iLHkFLqs95qWMnYbcCWS8BWNAyRJzjfpkCS9wAlIAUfII3FAq6HR1THnQ0Oi13QBj2h6PHAslKpogrwjh83eXD0SXkMIg/s1600/SlideshowImage-Trucks-blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvKMHp05twv0xAe81HyDgD4VqGt0ceuhAQ145ACk2d-cak3iLHkFLqs95qWMnYbcCWS8BWNAyRJzjfpkCS9wAlIAUfII3FAq6HR1THnQ0Oi13QBj2h6PHAslKpogrwjh83eXD0SXkMIg/s1600/SlideshowImage-Trucks-blog.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm so happy to share with you that I re-opened both the <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/" target="_blank">English Muffin online shop</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/englishmuffinshop?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> last week. They had been closed for a bit longer than I had originally anticipated while we got our little family settled in Freiburg, Germany, and I thank you all for your patience.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Some Good Shop News</span><br />
<br />
<b>Shipping to North America</b> and many other locations around the world will be less expensive than when we were shipping from Canada (if you can believe it!). English Muffin now offers two shipping options, Standard International Shipping (anywhere outside of Germany) for $5 USD, and Int'l Shipping with a Tracking Number (anywhere outside of Germany) for $7.50 USD.<br />
<br />
<b>New Prints</b> will start appearing in the shop over the next few weeks beginning with the individual <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/truck-prints" target="_blank">Truck Prints</a>! There are currently four trucks available in sizes ranging from 8" x 10" to 17" x 22".<br />
<br />
I'll be sending out a <b>Newsletter</b> soon with a promo code for a sweet Summer deal—sign-up to the English Muffin Mailing List (in the blog sidebar, or at the bottom of our <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/" target="_blank">website</a>) to make sure you don't miss out.<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful day!<br />
xx BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-18078813030149544542014-05-30T08:27:00.000-04:002014-05-30T08:27:25.350-04:00iPhone Study No.1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKo3rOCon30SzArPLBNFf-3Hz9TyqLOYPAVi21c1SLdnny4S0kKyaqR-wu_jWmZ5Zfn0h_bEiNetWsj5bSAj7DzPJCfiugEljOUI09niZZ2JNFZI4NLwqkkE8Ah7ThV8tUOaK2jwGFMFg/s1600/IMG_0954.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKo3rOCon30SzArPLBNFf-3Hz9TyqLOYPAVi21c1SLdnny4S0kKyaqR-wu_jWmZ5Zfn0h_bEiNetWsj5bSAj7DzPJCfiugEljOUI09niZZ2JNFZI4NLwqkkE8Ah7ThV8tUOaK2jwGFMFg/s1600/IMG_0954.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
The world is an ever changing place, and if you had told me only a couple of years ago that I would leave my Nikon DSLR sitting at home while exploring a new European city I wouldn't have believed you. However, that is exactly what I am now doing. We've been in Freiburg for two months and the only—I repeat, the ONLY—photos of the city I have are on my iPhone. <div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Does it mean I'm getting lazy in my old age and new motherhood? Maybe. Does it mean my love of photography is waning? I don't think so. Does it mean the convenience of the iPhone and it's small and practical size are winning out over my expensive and bulky camera? Yes. Not to mention, the photos it takes are pretty impressive. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, here's a little study I made on moss and lichen while Edwin and I were exploring one day. He was having fun running up and down the ancient stone staircase, and I was having fun discovering what was living on these ancient stone walls. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIfmKqvHfQncZVbWDPbOtr_PDxCZRRqAcccnO0AeGIcHLjjJC79fK3XsTv3JEvMb_EXksHARb3JFQm-9CtnFfeZUOux1bCiVKJjwE5oY3Vltfc9QmEDQUdNEFsyVIeffLQ_4EvxxQhLE/s1600/IMG_0956.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIfmKqvHfQncZVbWDPbOtr_PDxCZRRqAcccnO0AeGIcHLjjJC79fK3XsTv3JEvMb_EXksHARb3JFQm-9CtnFfeZUOux1bCiVKJjwE5oY3Vltfc9QmEDQUdNEFsyVIeffLQ_4EvxxQhLE/s1600/IMG_0956.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55mquSz4Kp2USNEO8IIj-P-1-vUy2WHEidLmULCJ3uOwaFWFBPW21rIR7d7C5CWE9reVkbMLb4icOEOKwBmDKeyXXfHv0LVBCF83cz3J9DV7ldVigZWUcm-TKT9ZMa7ErnBYU5_0PaBw/s1600/IMG_0945.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55mquSz4Kp2USNEO8IIj-P-1-vUy2WHEidLmULCJ3uOwaFWFBPW21rIR7d7C5CWE9reVkbMLb4icOEOKwBmDKeyXXfHv0LVBCF83cz3J9DV7ldVigZWUcm-TKT9ZMa7ErnBYU5_0PaBw/s1600/IMG_0945.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxdSGaZt-paE1SCh_4TiYKe1hQmGf3QhY1yBjQilOvP3xtPp3PMMZy_XOubM8kWa8w50cEcSKEAe1Yfg2YZToAGzvsTX_XB8a8MxRSteb8J9u8UgucR9qMosPF_L2QZmTMzWHUQqKUBw/s1600/IMG_0948.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxdSGaZt-paE1SCh_4TiYKe1hQmGf3QhY1yBjQilOvP3xtPp3PMMZy_XOubM8kWa8w50cEcSKEAe1Yfg2YZToAGzvsTX_XB8a8MxRSteb8J9u8UgucR9qMosPF_L2QZmTMzWHUQqKUBw/s1600/IMG_0948.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nBKl9s6TaQedpqk3SbinjNg1Jjiu8rDnWZFZqdxYZGMmloJL2TOZqQ3gCrLQp3yCL6AfXAtdfOpcbDCkYxG0xE_fXLCNgLTpQ245o9BhSWp_5WDCQrzFccrs0gwxqQrBNhFiSRwR4IQ/s1600/IMG_0927.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nBKl9s6TaQedpqk3SbinjNg1Jjiu8rDnWZFZqdxYZGMmloJL2TOZqQ3gCrLQp3yCL6AfXAtdfOpcbDCkYxG0xE_fXLCNgLTpQ245o9BhSWp_5WDCQrzFccrs0gwxqQrBNhFiSRwR4IQ/s1600/IMG_0927.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_gBCXyz4vDy4Eb__7SJS8pawlc0l67GXHuottKsRXTFgSMWC3ZOszO5TWDTa0yAgHh7TdZ8AfndaSFY_LtLIveP8083rK5umixfOunKft3w6dR37fABdm7KuQ-1qUe2upvqaS9vHDfA/s1600/IMG_0953.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_gBCXyz4vDy4Eb__7SJS8pawlc0l67GXHuottKsRXTFgSMWC3ZOszO5TWDTa0yAgHh7TdZ8AfndaSFY_LtLIveP8083rK5umixfOunKft3w6dR37fABdm7KuQ-1qUe2upvqaS9vHDfA/s1600/IMG_0953.png" /></a></div>
Have a wonderful weekend!<br />
xx Bess </div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-46308800841045394072014-05-23T15:23:00.000-04:002014-05-23T15:23:31.346-04:00The Girl From Away - PEI, Canada<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihNiAHO1V0Y-YIThO-wg3sdBnzKj1JU5eLbAZycfVlN2S0xjwHV_ybaq4Dl66uvdO_AecqzUVqoSJ43aQI-I4Ebb55ijtADEVPa13-UIR_AcT72SglYG_-lSI49DXUmUOIBTn5yOSzTw/s1600/WestPoint_FINAL.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihNiAHO1V0Y-YIThO-wg3sdBnzKj1JU5eLbAZycfVlN2S0xjwHV_ybaq4Dl66uvdO_AecqzUVqoSJ43aQI-I4Ebb55ijtADEVPa13-UIR_AcT72SglYG_-lSI49DXUmUOIBTn5yOSzTw/s1600/WestPoint_FINAL.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
My wonderful friend (and former hair dresser of <a href="http://www.chezsnips.com/" target="_blank">Chez Snips</a> fame), Nadyne, has recently embarked on a new adventure in her life having opened a studio and <a href="http://www.thegirlfromaway.com/" target="_blank">shop</a> in the lovely province of Prince Edward Island. This new chapter was spurred by a sudden tragedy in her life, the loss of her beloved step-father. Nadyne, being the champion that she is, has taken her deep sadness and grieving and used it to create something hopeful, inspiring and beautiful through her new shop, <a href="http://www.thegirlfromaway.com/" target="_blank">The Girl From Away</a>. Before Nadyne left Montreal she asked me if I would create a print inspired by the fair island, I was flattered and honestly am very honoured to be among the artists whose work is available in her shop.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thegirlfromaway.com/" target="_blank">The Girl From Away</a><br />
697 Rustico Road<br />
Route 7 North Milton<br />
Prince Edward Island<br />
<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-81659665746189172252014-05-19T15:22:00.000-04:002014-05-19T15:22:15.826-04:00LA PRESSE Press<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoILvrucViSgZIW-eP6ckA2zPiJGja62GXpx-hmVZmmDygTndnodxVdljMIT9NyuqeQfYm2j6HbprAh2sH5AzhFOfZNwhHcLMHYwZcJKuIkiK-HlIct70qJTIWw8T95KljSAAJqDPTz8/s1600/LaPresse-Map.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoILvrucViSgZIW-eP6ckA2zPiJGja62GXpx-hmVZmmDygTndnodxVdljMIT9NyuqeQfYm2j6HbprAh2sH5AzhFOfZNwhHcLMHYwZcJKuIkiK-HlIct70qJTIWw8T95KljSAAJqDPTz8/s1600/LaPresse-Map.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thank you for the wonderful press <a href="http://www.lapresse.ca/" target="_blank">La Presse</a>, and for saying that my French is impeccable! It is such a treat to be featured alongside the other artists and designers. Merci!!<br />
<br />
For those of you looking to purchase your own English Muffin map, the shop will re-open shortly.<br />
<br />
Oh, and that "new baby" in the English Muffin family happens to be a book collaboration with the oh so talented <a href="http://www.girlfriday.ca/" target="_blank">Girlfriday</a> :) We don't know the due date yet, but we'll keep you posted!<br />
<br />
xo Bess<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-35622845229569996202014-04-20T09:13:00.000-04:002014-04-20T09:13:05.037-04:00Easter Sunday in the Forest<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZf2ZIx-K51zTnHdi1mdLnI5gIxi-HavrZviVfyp5xgQkde7lN5DWr-rCrS94TZI8KsUVgrz944OWHFGjQNgCJPl2DD2K2IonP3DVosU4Gk98IEo1oHkOga_EtX3O6vSIzjKV6rAq73IE/s1600/DSC_0179.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZf2ZIx-K51zTnHdi1mdLnI5gIxi-HavrZviVfyp5xgQkde7lN5DWr-rCrS94TZI8KsUVgrz944OWHFGjQNgCJPl2DD2K2IonP3DVosU4Gk98IEo1oHkOga_EtX3O6vSIzjKV6rAq73IE/s1600/DSC_0179.png" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavhlohOkU3nAoY7k2LNzKxryNv4mzhLB-Fp4b1U8BuJL79F0HX6seu1ZpJCl6JwbhgRuv9ds_pAnpmxE59wkeweDKsz4FlGMcVDaI5WGVLs-4GPvZmhp6Usp7EAxAYDNWJXRKkYUBYQE/s1600/DSC_0139.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavhlohOkU3nAoY7k2LNzKxryNv4mzhLB-Fp4b1U8BuJL79F0HX6seu1ZpJCl6JwbhgRuv9ds_pAnpmxE59wkeweDKsz4FlGMcVDaI5WGVLs-4GPvZmhp6Usp7EAxAYDNWJXRKkYUBYQE/s1600/DSC_0139.png" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZSbHtptgQAzK4VG3swKMBE_1zwWUeU1X263M98Wa8HlIeBf70tvaQpmYa5KKlI50pjgTp6Emx1WPaJPF0kHjnGUJ3iN6YYU0OTbDF3PiWTT2jI6z_iD82h9NINJAmwTIS1jmPHbWCWM/s1600/Eddie_jump.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZSbHtptgQAzK4VG3swKMBE_1zwWUeU1X263M98Wa8HlIeBf70tvaQpmYa5KKlI50pjgTp6Emx1WPaJPF0kHjnGUJ3iN6YYU0OTbDF3PiWTT2jI6z_iD82h9NINJAmwTIS1jmPHbWCWM/s1600/Eddie_jump.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_C4nTTGMhjsolrk3kkg6MfduoCPnuB2aoiKHSCTnEiWJ1QGFNPR3oM-zBR9oAFAP4hUlP5X6BGRUEuDHC7wnb7MB6zNLTR-j7Bpnz_iGDc3q_1uWGRSOyxnBU6EI5YxA9v78sP-rzRc/s1600/DSC_0162.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_C4nTTGMhjsolrk3kkg6MfduoCPnuB2aoiKHSCTnEiWJ1QGFNPR3oM-zBR9oAFAP4hUlP5X6BGRUEuDHC7wnb7MB6zNLTR-j7Bpnz_iGDc3q_1uWGRSOyxnBU6EI5YxA9v78sP-rzRc/s1600/DSC_0162.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This morning we decided to go for a little hike in the forest, near the Waldsee. It is a short walk from our apartment and the weather was perfect for a stroll outside before lunch and nap time. The hike up is a little toddler-treacherous at points, a steep drop off and narrowed path, and I wondered to Charles if this might be too much for the little guy, but Edwin did a wonderful job and had a great time exploring the woods, as did we. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The path was almost deserted—luck us—we had the forest all to ourselves. Just when we thought the magic couldn't get any more magical we were treated to the beautiful sounds of the Easter bells from the church below...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<object height="480" width="640"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/UVjoL1dr5cc?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param>
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param>
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param>
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/UVjoL1dr5cc?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="480" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>
<br />
<br />
Hope you are having a wonderful long weekend.<br />
<br />
Happy Easter!<br />
xx Bess<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-71944460612098180592014-04-11T08:39:00.001-04:002014-04-11T08:39:55.901-04:00TGIF!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYTR8ysPraJVbC0hGdsGO_aiEG0ZJpFOMAGVMty6GjqcS5tw1FX_OgLShQ0SmqqiThI8Xua1KcoqOyu03YdpdgxvHuMXv5veQt1296PhC8o2SQ1hcUnwJl3b23xpumMbRewZ7Rbq6O_0/s1600/photo-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYTR8ysPraJVbC0hGdsGO_aiEG0ZJpFOMAGVMty6GjqcS5tw1FX_OgLShQ0SmqqiThI8Xua1KcoqOyu03YdpdgxvHuMXv5veQt1296PhC8o2SQ1hcUnwJl3b23xpumMbRewZ7Rbq6O_0/s1600/photo-2.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I rarely thank god that it's Friday, but this week I am! We made it through our first week in our new Freiburg routine; Papa at work and Mama at home with Edwin. Granted, this won't be our routine forever, but while we look for a suitable childcare solution (daycare spaces are very hard to come by here, as are apartments) I have returned to my solo-parenting daytime duties. It wasn't that long ago that I was home with Eddie full-time, from birth until 14 months when he started part-time daycare, and then a couple days a week until he starting going full-time to daycare at 18 months. A lot changes though in 9 months in the life of a toddler, and 27-month-old-Eddie is a whole different can of worms. <div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These days feel more intense, interesting and exhausting (I think there will always be an element of exhaustion when it comes to motherhood, no?). We go on adventures, and chat, he can help me do laundry or load the dishwasher, carry home the bread from the bakery, and he notices all the wonderful little details around us that I might otherwise miss. He's funny and bright, and having the time of his life—for about five minutes. Then there's the flip side, he drags the laundry across the balcony, pushes buttons on the dishwasher while it's running, drops the bread on the way home from the bakery, ignores me and my commands to "Stop and wait for Mama!". He's whiny, mischievous, and says no to anything and everything I suggest or offer—for about the next five minutes. We seem to oscillate between these two Eddies quite frequently throughout the day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I guess that's being two years old, right?! (Please agree here!)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's a little bit like living with a crazy person, the days are exhausting not just because of our outings and the general physical nature of being with a toddler, but more so emotionally, the ups and downs of his absolute most wonderful self juxtaposed with his strong will and determination to be his most oppositional self. My back is also taking a beating with all the picking up I have to do... "Mama, I wanna pick you up." He really means he wants me to pick him up, but sometimes the other version sounds so much more inviting. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmyyQbIVTAXk9RAafrEPDSQr_lFHqA0ceb_h71gtZxrZbsxCCZeEYp4yeuq4ifBU2An_Q50G3qlwbmyhNfOtjL8T-zMUPSaaeG_1f69V3vlQ9RAnFM_Ixl0nD12bf3dqvnD_uDvzLXOg/s1600/photo-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmyyQbIVTAXk9RAafrEPDSQr_lFHqA0ceb_h71gtZxrZbsxCCZeEYp4yeuq4ifBU2An_Q50G3qlwbmyhNfOtjL8T-zMUPSaaeG_1f69V3vlQ9RAnFM_Ixl0nD12bf3dqvnD_uDvzLXOg/s1600/photo-1.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In all honesty, I'm really thrilled that we've been given this time together again. When he was at daycare in Montreal, I always felt guilty that I wasn't spending enough time with him—a common feeling for working moms, I'm sure. The situation now is good though, I know it's not going to last forever, so we are making the most of it. We're working through the difficult moments that happen for all of us as we grow and learn new things, and basking in the amazingness of tractors, chasing pigeons and comforting "pick you ups". </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ahhh, life with a 2 year old...</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-23097399346864436932014-04-08T15:44:00.000-04:002014-04-08T15:44:29.429-04:00WE'RE HERE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhgfLDh21GRW3vBTnZaiD_GAoCYKBWbdihNOxzVnUMLW9EqeKIi9b4gfD9zS7mzY62gCfJTVdCy-c85s11ES1WaWyuZeJ28IGXAGlzX_Ko8YTMsXMI8L7DXn9GJmUSTaCKwtEKU_0liY/s1600/photo-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhgfLDh21GRW3vBTnZaiD_GAoCYKBWbdihNOxzVnUMLW9EqeKIi9b4gfD9zS7mzY62gCfJTVdCy-c85s11ES1WaWyuZeJ28IGXAGlzX_Ko8YTMsXMI8L7DXn9GJmUSTaCKwtEKU_0liY/s1600/photo-1.png" /></a></div>
<br />
We have been in Freiburg for just over a week now, and I am happy to report that things are going very well. The days leading up to our departure however were stressful, to say the least. Edwin developed laryngitis / croup on the Friday before the Monday we were leaving. I spent most of the weekend taking care of him, and the majority of Sunday morning we spent at the walk-in clinic waiting to be seen. Luckily, the doctor also diagnosed an ear infection and we got medication for both ailments, unluckily we had a very sick little boy on our hands who needed to board a plane in 24 hours and a ton of packing still to do. Fun times—NOT. So, Charles took over most of the packing/cleaning/storing duties and I tried to keep Edwin happy and on the road to recovery. The meds for the croup kicked in pretty quickly and his breathing and cough started to improve. He did a great job on the plane, slept like a champ and stayed happily in his car seat for the entire 7 hour flight (I highly recommend travelling with a car seat). I think all those trips between Montreal and Toronto paid off, because (knock on wood) this kid is a good traveller. We had to change planes in Frankfurt and the last leg of the trip was a bit more trying than the first—jet lag, illness, and the fun of the airport was wearing off. We did however make it, and only suffered one luggage causality, we left the car seat in the taxi that took us from the Basel airport to Freiburg. So, Eddie's car seat is in Switzerland at the moment. I do have to give my husband a big, public, high-five for the stellar job he did packing my 27" iMac and Epson printer, both arrived safely. Thank you Charles, I should have never doubted your genius. (If you plan to take your computer on a flight email me and we can recommend a flight case.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjalcjLffuNqUgmBzG2w3KZgGlg3y1TXA6GTAH891InQSYnYgei1faT2iR7lTARdKq9prQd_xWdY0dJ0IsqCFiA9GSoDJ_zwNJiOGJsY3UUvoMaul6hfIXm_miZTk8W56ZXMgX4rad1ir0/s1600/photo-(10).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjalcjLffuNqUgmBzG2w3KZgGlg3y1TXA6GTAH891InQSYnYgei1faT2iR7lTARdKq9prQd_xWdY0dJ0IsqCFiA9GSoDJ_zwNJiOGJsY3UUvoMaul6hfIXm_miZTk8W56ZXMgX4rad1ir0/s1600/photo-(10).png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When we left Montreal we were wearing parkas, hats, mits and boots, thankfully spring is in full bloom here. I hated wrestling Eddie into those snow pants every morning. Speaking of Edwin, he is thriving. The freedom he has to run around by the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreisam" target="_blank">Dreisam river</a>, just a few minutes from our apartment, is unparalleled. We are all enjoying it so much. We spend a huge portion of our days outside, exploring, walking, running, climbing, jumping, touching, looking, smelling and listening to all the new things around us. I feel like this proximity to nature is what had been missing in our lives. North America provides the suburbs and countryside as an alternative to the hustle and bustle of city living, but Europe generally manages to keep cities liveable. We have always lived in a city and will likely continue to do so for Charles' job, but have also longed to be surrounded by the freedom and beauty that nature provides, I feel like this is what we have found here. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freiburg_im_Breisgau" target="_blank">Freiburg</a> is not a big city though, with 230,000 inhabitants and surrounded by the Black Forest—and with the Mayor a member of the Green Party—it's not an impossible feat to make nature and city feel seamless, of course it takes a lot of planning and a strong will for it to succeed but it is possible—and it works so well here!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
There are many more things to share about what life is like here, and I'm sure my opinions will continue to change as we spend more time in Freiburg. For now though, things are looking up! And, if you want to follow our journey in photos, I'm posting daily to my <a href="http://instagram.com/englishmuffinshop" target="_blank">Instagram feed</a>.<br />
<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-26451223685289920212014-03-21T10:52:00.003-04:002014-03-21T10:52:55.919-04:00New iPad Background<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTHjY7MT748dbSrzbOMU9LHNrVouOk6cTsCrrypNNnZemQjdKD_Z2f6720GiAK1jQuBpkotetvgvSAJjFYFzGXbpR6ETdXwlp4Sc7Qe27fulw5uI8KYJJImp3jW9fxowNVPQayt-Lq5M/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-21+at+10.33.11+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTHjY7MT748dbSrzbOMU9LHNrVouOk6cTsCrrypNNnZemQjdKD_Z2f6720GiAK1jQuBpkotetvgvSAJjFYFzGXbpR6ETdXwlp4Sc7Qe27fulw5uI8KYJJImp3jW9fxowNVPQayt-Lq5M/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-21+at+10.33.11+AM.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I popped my Happy Spring illustration from yesterday onto my iPad last night and thought it looked pretty good as a background. So, I've made it available as a download should anyone else want a Happy Spring background from English Muffin. It would probably work on iPhones too, or any other device for that matter.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/uc?export=download&id=0B_qMKhPVbBBEbEJtTF96TGN5d3c" target="_blank">Download here</a>. For personal use only, please :)<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-59947408732112579702014-03-20T09:55:00.001-04:002014-03-20T09:55:44.046-04:00HAPPY SPRING!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLeB4P5bS6TiFCZPCcKIEhbg04wtYHnUB2s1aTP3mnW6ZfkbDiMPoQD8XYa9cmnFbHPwaRZLB8C4mKcqpIsa6J6ocAjWzOefjttaDCpP0qxXbEvP_JCIXKYFEz2zvp6a2mHL-aF1hdtjI/s1600/happyspring.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLeB4P5bS6TiFCZPCcKIEhbg04wtYHnUB2s1aTP3mnW6ZfkbDiMPoQD8XYa9cmnFbHPwaRZLB8C4mKcqpIsa6J6ocAjWzOefjttaDCpP0qxXbEvP_JCIXKYFEz2zvp6a2mHL-aF1hdtjI/s1600/happyspring.png" /></a></div>
<br />
We did it! We survived this long, cold winter. Even Edwin is over all the snow and cold, it's been like wrestling a full-grown tiger trying to get him dressed in his snowsuit for the last few weeks.<br />
<br />
So happy to see you Spring!<br />
<br />
xo BessBess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-21928590931616065232014-03-19T13:03:00.001-04:002014-03-19T13:03:32.303-04:00Videos are fun!Since moving to Montreal almost four years ago, I've had the opportunity to meet so many creative, kind, inspiring, encouraging and really wonderful people. I've met many of these people as a result of <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/" target="_blank">English Muffin</a>, and I'm always thrilled when new projects and collaborations emerge from these new relationships.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Earlier this year, Melania and Manuel of <a href="http://emesval.com/" target="_blank">Emesval Photography</a>, approached me about shooting some of my work for a video they were producing for the lovely Marie-Josée of the boutique <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Identi-T/131170381058" target="_blank">Identi-T</a>. Marie-Josée opened her shop at the end of 2013 and she wanted to create an exciting and fun video to introduce her customers to all of the wonderful <i>made in Québec</i> products that she carries. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think the video is so stinking cute—and the little boy is pretty adorable too ;)<br />
<br />
Enjoy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/25FIrAkB1kc" width="640"></iframe>Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-6946287212933214052014-03-05T10:39:00.003-05:002014-03-05T10:39:38.938-05:00BIG SALE, VERY BIG SALE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4Ch3tRMwx6nVmTzgrDaFQ-RhbNxg7u5SWHoSjy7Q9hyLfDUAyWPGF5N5JgIlugnh5mdRz_y6FBEN70s76xo_dLJbwCjKRVIIPhbtk053Gdwh1qL-SwHprL0cDl0DzHSOoxCmV68Qx2w/s1600/Sale3_680x680.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4Ch3tRMwx6nVmTzgrDaFQ-RhbNxg7u5SWHoSjy7Q9hyLfDUAyWPGF5N5JgIlugnh5mdRz_y6FBEN70s76xo_dLJbwCjKRVIIPhbtk053Gdwh1qL-SwHprL0cDl0DzHSOoxCmV68Qx2w/s1600/Sale3_680x680.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You read it correctly, <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/" target="_blank">English Muffin</a> is having a <b>50% OFF (almost) EVERYTHING</b> in the shop <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/sale" target="_blank">sale</a>. In an effort to lighten our luggage for the move to Germany, I am selling off as much remaining stock as I can. <b>Quantities are limited!</b> Some prints have already sold out, so shop quickly before your favourite items are gone! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Want to see what's on sale? <b>Click <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/sale" target="_blank">here</a>. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy Shopping!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
xo Bess</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
PS. If you want to be the first to hear about sales, news and other shop happenings, sign-up to the English Muffin Mailing List (sign-up form is in right hand column) ----------></div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-17523243339489427762014-02-28T16:13:00.005-05:002014-02-28T16:13:57.873-05:00The Animal Colouring Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqkWijpMorTFyNYkbeGApG5RA-V76OM5HA2C_YcdUi0fT8Zi43yhAINdY-GgBG3QaKmMrO21r1KPF_UVdL1uAOYJvE-XptAfDa43sD6V9c3nFvsqYPNX1GCzR2Xix01CRo6NFpRPjOb8/s1600/cb-animals-blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqkWijpMorTFyNYkbeGApG5RA-V76OM5HA2C_YcdUi0fT8Zi43yhAINdY-GgBG3QaKmMrO21r1KPF_UVdL1uAOYJvE-XptAfDa43sD6V9c3nFvsqYPNX1GCzR2Xix01CRo6NFpRPjOb8/s1600/cb-animals-blog.png" height="453" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Have you seen our <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/books/products/animals-colouring-book" target="_blank">Animal Colouring Book</a>? It was another item I created for the Holiday shows, and now it's available in my shop (just a few months later...). The 12 illustrations are based on the <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/all-products/products/123-animals-print" target="_blank">123 Animals Print</a>, with a couple new ones in there as well. The Animal Colour Book makes a great gift for little ones, my personal product tester can attest to that ;)<br />
<br />
Happy Friday!<br />
xo Bess<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-41791911031148537142014-02-25T15:17:00.000-05:002014-02-25T15:17:36.745-05:00WELL SAID, ANAÏS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Jpr44BPo9NHRldw9QTrzS0D5Is9RpvhhH1OXHTFZW8Mg7TcKoApMtlgClpNWbuwxBe7oSBVp9KKcwUew2b7ZJj8CPtPi9gkq1JEGXk_94kfqlZ2s-7NzLpnkvVudP0KLmrOdB0HxDaw/s1600/AnaisNinQuote.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Jpr44BPo9NHRldw9QTrzS0D5Is9RpvhhH1OXHTFZW8Mg7TcKoApMtlgClpNWbuwxBe7oSBVp9KKcwUew2b7ZJj8CPtPi9gkq1JEGXk_94kfqlZ2s-7NzLpnkvVudP0KLmrOdB0HxDaw/s1600/AnaisNinQuote.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We are less than 5 weeks away from our big move to Germany. I'd been humming along nicely right up until last night.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I went to the post office earlier in the day and told the friendly post-woman who has been ringing through my orders and sending my prints all around the world for the last 4 years that we're moving. It's funny when you realize that someone who is almost a stranger knows you and your family and your business so well. She was understandably surprised, it's a big move, but I shrugged off her concerns, assuring her it's not really <i>that</i> big and that we've got it all under control. I blame my Finnish genes for this sense of calm that comes over me when major life stuff is happening. It's the smooth clear ice that seems to go on forever, right up until you fall into the open water. It's the feeling that everything is fine, everything is doable, as long as we have the important things, the rest can fall away. It carries me right up until the moment that I have to open my mouth to say my wedding vows, or put my newborn son in his carseat and drive away from the hospital for the first time. It's a business-as-usual, let's-not-get-too-hysterical place I go to when all signs point in the other direction. I don't know if it's a help, or a hindrance, but probably the former. The cracks in the ice are starting to appear, the first of which happened last night when I confirmed with Charles the date of Edwin's last day at daycare, last day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's the beginning of the goodbyes, and those are not easy. However, if there's anything I've learned after moving to Europe and back (and back again), it's that the world is a small place, and no distance is too great to stand in the way of love and friendship. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo Bess</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693843203816089232.post-1728834222941624612014-02-17T13:22:00.001-05:002014-02-17T13:22:06.346-05:00MONTREAL NOTEBOOKS<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVr5YUHvanMIlZnfedbGWlTtAYyJLEFLPEjXJuwdjX0RnLA7p_-mj5GV8-C5cxgYFeg7EXx-6uCpKROdCyXZ7zcYLqGYBZAt3RYm5aIK7ba1B21XCnxthAqMBoB1uH5GcIBsOd16WNJk/s1600/MTL-Notebook3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVr5YUHvanMIlZnfedbGWlTtAYyJLEFLPEjXJuwdjX0RnLA7p_-mj5GV8-C5cxgYFeg7EXx-6uCpKROdCyXZ7zcYLqGYBZAt3RYm5aIK7ba1B21XCnxthAqMBoB1uH5GcIBsOd16WNJk/s1600/MTL-Notebook3.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SdDN3QV7UEl63hGIBhSJafGCdTZi-du1uwrd4gO72pFkBPfC_HLRhyphenhyphenvz8xKry56ZtNx5QxzR5nlcp-oYifzzv625rY0S0o7_xUhQlOfwhogPzYr9gEjsr-70xENld3iYnUZW1usWB7w/s1600/MTL-Notebook1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SdDN3QV7UEl63hGIBhSJafGCdTZi-du1uwrd4gO72pFkBPfC_HLRhyphenhyphenvz8xKry56ZtNx5QxzR5nlcp-oYifzzv625rY0S0o7_xUhQlOfwhogPzYr9gEjsr-70xENld3iYnUZW1usWB7w/s1600/MTL-Notebook1.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There's nothing like a big move to get you going on your to do list. For the 2013 Holiday shows, I created some <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/all-products/products/montreal-notebooks" target="_blank">notebooks</a> based on my <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/all-products/products/montr-al-city-print" target="_blank">Montreal City Print</a>. They sold really well and I've been meaning to list them in <a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/" target="_blank">the shop</a> for a few months now. So, like I said, the ol' move to <i>Deutschland</i> is giving me the kick in the pants required. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Quantities are limited, so if you'd like one, I'd encourage you to act quickly. I don't think I'll be printing anymore... sigh. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://englishmuffinshop.com/collections/all-products/products/montreal-notebooks" target="_blank">Montreal Notebooks</a> - 4 designs: Hockey, MTL Print, Pigeon, Bike</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
$8 each, 32 blank pages</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
xo Bess</div>
Bess Callardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03428365521524625060noreply@blogger.com0