Francoise of Aroha Knits had more than a few obstacles in her way when she decided to launch her knitwear business--but she did it anyway. Read the inspiring story of this expat American designer living in Japan whose business has grown to encompass the globe.

This pattern, over a year in the designing (that happens sometimes), is finally done. Inspired by the challenge of getting a seamless, one-piece toque in a rectangular shape to make it simple to create "owl ears", this two-tone topper will look adorable on the little man or lady in your life!

As much as I enjoy travelling, and visiting, and adventuring, by the time we pulled into our yard at 11 p.m. last Friday, I was VERY ready to be home, and so were the boys.

However, we all enjoyed our week at Tony and Candace's. Jabin actually refers to their place as "Naomi's house"--you can tell who he sticks like glue to while we visit there. Something about them both being five--they get along like two peas in a pod.