Trace a votive on the inside of your sliced gourd.

Kids can scoop out the center.

I think 4 is going to be my favorite age yet. Rowan is old enough to communicate in the most hilarious, wondrous ways, but young enough to still be a baby who needs his mama. He is magic right now. His imagination is boundless (along with his temper and bossiness), while his energy is exhausting, but so delightful. He is beautiful and crazy and surprises me everyday.

We are still getting our footing here in San Diego. At times, I can tell that Rowan is thrown off by the big changes in our life. I know that rhythm, and routine are very important to him right now. Most afternoons we try to have “quiet time” in lieu of the naptime we said goodbye to when Rowan was just two and a half (sigh). Some days we listen to stories or play or read. Today we made these candles with inexpensive gourds I got at grocery store. Rowan had fun scooping out the “icky! gross!” pulp and seeds, and I enjoyed the simplicity of a project that made quiet time, well quiet.

Pumpkin Votive Candles

Small gourds

Small candle

Pairing knife

Large Knife

Pen

Using a large sharp knife to cut the tops of the gourds. Then, place candle on the top of the cut gourd and trace. Using a pairing knife cut out the shape of the candle. Scoop out seeds and pulp. Insert candle.