Sunshine Wave

Cooking up a storm

2012-02-20T16:34:00.002-08:00

I have found a whole new food world. I've started following a bunch of vegetarian and paleo bloggers. PaleOMG has some GREAT recipes for treats and No Meat Athlete reminds me that I can get enough nutrients with out animal protein.

I am cooking a lot more. Cooking is starting to become part of my routine. And, I like it. Besides feeling great, I can justify putting all those great items on our registry!

I've got some red beans cooking right now with onion, garlic, and yummy spices. Man, I eat a lot of beans. Last week it was black beans. My favorite part is the toppings!

Oh, and I don't know why I didn't think of adding almonds to to the baked peaches. Yummmmmmmm!

In CrossFit related news-Lori and I did our first CrossFit total today. I love working out with Lori. We are both realizing that we are strong, strong, strong! My totals for today were:

Back squat - 175
Shoulder press- 75
Dead lift - 155 (I've got to work on my form)

I'm feeling great and loving every day!

Week 2-ish

2012-02-12T18:13:00.002-08:00

Well, this weekend went well. I used Saturday as my "don't feel guitly" day. I had a glass of wine and even ate a small cookie! But, I didn't go out of control with bad foods. When I have cravings I just pop a couple of nuts or raisins in my mouth, or drink more water.

I did not make the stew this weekend. I also didn't make black beans. If I am going to stay on track this week I'd better make sure I soak the beans before I go to work so I can cook up some go-to protein this week.

Mark got Chinese food and I asked for only steamed broccoli. Wow, who am I? I am taking fake chicken, broccoli, and the sweet potato (that is now cooling) for lunch tomorrow. I also baked up a batch of sweet potato brownies. ~~If they were cool I could tell you if they are any good.~~ They are cool and they are good. Oh, so good. Excuse me, I'm going to go make sure they still taste good.

Yup.

My clothes are fitting better and I just feel strong. So, things are going well. Tomorrow I am doing "Fran" for the first time. I've got to make sure that I have good food tomorrow and that I pack my protein powder for after the workout!

Oh, and my new favorite thing: baked peaches with ground ginger. Yum..

Nom Nom Changes

2012-02-10T19:09:00.000-08:00

I am two days into my foodie goals. Wednesday I stocked up on nuts, seeds, and fruit. I had to make sure I had snacks on hand for those weak moments. I bought my protein powder again so I wasn't starting my day with cereal. Nut based or not, I wasn't getting enough protein in the morning.

I nearly lost my mind today and had the equivalent of 3 chips with my vegetarian chili dinner. And, I'm okay with this. Ashley reminded me not to go cold turkey. I have to remember to make subtle changes so I don't feel like I'm depriving myself of things I love.

We have fallen in love with the Moosewood Gypsy Stew recipe. I have made it nearly every week this year. There are some chick peas in it, so we usually have to add more protein to our meal. But, it's packed full of veggies, spices, and nothing else. Yum!

I'm craving black beans, so I'm sure next week's meals will look very different. Happy Weekending!

New...something

2012-02-08T05:00:00.001-08:00

With help of my friend (certified CrossFit trainer) I am going to treat my body better. This is a duplicate post from her Power Monkey blog. :) Here goes nothing!

Hi all, Val here. Ashley and I haven't been so active here on the blog, but you must know this does not reflect our actual activity in the real world. I'll give you a quick recap and then post some of my goals for the next few months.

So...I started strong right before our winter vacation. Ashley has been working with me and our friend, Lori. Through some giggles and banter we really are pushing ourselves during workouts. Then, it happened-VACATION. You know, that time. Sweets, lush meals, chocolate for dessert...after breakfast. I actually didn't go crazy eating this year. But, since I was away visiting my mom I didn't work out...Well, it did a lot of sit ups the day I went wedding dress shopping (found one!)

Fast forward to January 1st. I got up and did a workout on my own. January 2nd I tried to beat my Annie time and pulled my back. (BTW, stretching really does help). So, after a week of doing NOTHING I was back, again.

Psssst! Hit-and-run, you're up next. Yes. Horrible. My fiancé's car was totaled and the jerk drove away. There is a lot more to the story, but why dwell on the negative. So, I spent a couple of sore days, but Ashley coddled me just enough to get me going again. Now, I'm really back. I did beat my Annie time (by almost 3 minutes) and I feel stronger. I feel like I CAN do this. That being said, I need to do more.
Ashely is in day 20-something of her Paleo challenge. I am SO impressed. I love the foods she is eating (except for the meat). I can't take a Paleo challenge, I'd got very little protein as a vegetarian. That being said, I am inspired to evaluate my eating habits and put better foods in my body.
I eat a lot of grains as sides. I love them. Give me a steaming bowl of veggies and brown rice. My goodness, vegetables to so boring! Bread, check! However, if there is an alternative I am more than willing to try it. Great, I just publicly committed to GOAL ONE.

Now...I...oh, is that the phone ringing? I think I have to go...What? Oh, busted. No phone, it's 3:30 in the morning. This goal is just going to be a hard one.

I love to bake. I still have cookies cutters I used with my mom when I was a kid. I went to pastry school. I love great tasting dessert. I bake for other people.
I have a cookie order for Friday. I love sweets. Yeah, well, I think you understand what I'm trying to say.

But, I am starting-today-but cutting waaaaay back on my sweet consumption. GOAL TWO. This is going to be hard folks. I made my first batch of paleo muffins this week-yummy. And, instead of whipping up a batch of brownies, last night I had a banana and few chocolate chips for dessert. I know, chocolate-sugar, but I have to start somewhere.

UP NEXT: Less talking, more pictures. And, once I get my hair done, another video!

images: frint-http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/210554

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T17:22:00.001-08:00

I have been a bad blogger. All my online time lately has been spent looking at wedding things. But, I have had a wonderful year and will not be too hard on myself. I don't really have any resolutions, but I have a list I would like to check off.

1. Plan a lovely wedding with Mark and get hitched
2. Continue with Cross Fit thanks to Ashley's motivation and training
3. Play my beautiful new banjo a lot more

Those goals shouldn't be to hard to reach!

I wish an amazing 2012 to all!

I think I've been busy

2011-11-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

I noticed my last post was over a month ago! Well, I've been playing the banjo, working, and now I have a wedding to plan! Yeah! Saturday Mark proposed and I couldn't be happier. Actually, we couldn't be happier! Yeah! Did I already say that?

I've already looked at every online wedding site out there. And, my wonderful friends have already offered to help me make...well, anything I can think of for the reception.

Good thing I have lots of fabric scraps!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

"New" Ukulele

2011-09-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

I tried my hand at wood burning this weekend. Though I'm not quite done burning, I'm inspired to play my uke a little more.

(original artwork by Sailor Jerry)

Woah, what's this?

2011-07-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

So...I have a blog. I almost forgot. The end of school is always a bit crazy and I've been having a great summer. So, my computer has been a bit neglected. I have tons of pictures to upload and will get to it one of these days! Here are the Cliff's Notes from my summer so far:

The sweat shop...I mean sewing camp

Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamp

A fiber workshop at Arrowmont

Pearl Fryar and his topiary garden

The 4th at TJs

Whew! Well, back to practicing the banjo!

Mug Rugs

2011-03-06T06:37:00.000-08:00

I've seen them all over the internet. I didn't think I wanted one until Mark turned his Valentine's Day card over and used it as a mug rug. Well, I made this that same day.

Then I had to make one for my dear friend Sue.

I love these things! And, yes, coffee tastes a little bit sweeter when I use it.

Thin Mints

2011-03-02T10:01:00.001-08:00

I'm never experienced this before (with Thin Mints). But they seem to be melting in my mouth today. I eat one and I have to pop another in my mouth. I am bringing them up to the office. This cannot continue!

Gifts for Friends

2011-02-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

I am a big geek. I can't help it. I love when I get to make something sports related. I hope everyone likes their goodies!

My friend LOVES Rajon Rondo. This is my favorite. It's just so silly.

A Beautiful Monday

2011-02-21T13:04:00.000-08:00

We had the day off and decided to take a walk by the Pier. Pictures don't do the water justice. I love Florida!

Sketchbook Delight with Alisa Burke

2011-02-18T16:42:00.000-08:00

I love to make things. I have great confidence with fabric, beads, and frosting. However, I've always been self conscious when it comes to drawing and painting. I asked Mark for drawing lessons in January. We've discovered that we don't do so well taking classes from each other (he never followed my recorder lessons!)

This is my first line contour drawing. Mark said I should do this every day.
This is my second line contour drawing. I did not do this one the next day. It was about 1 1/2 months later. At least I did it...

I've been following Alisa Burke's blog for a little while now. I can't remember how I came across it. But, I am always inspired when I read a new post. I was so excited when she offered an online class called Sketchbook Delight. I must say, the class is a delight.

Alisa's personality and passion come through even in her videos. She makes the process of sketching, exploring, and enjoying my art almost...easy. I've done some sketching this week and I don't hate anything I put on the paper. Miracle!

Just checking out the color palate of my watercolors.

I call this the "Alisa shell" because I simply followed her directions in one of the initial videos. It was really nice to be retaught about shading and using color.
Here are two sketches I did from pictures I took on vacation.

I had a lot of fun and I can't wait for more directions, more lessons, and more inspiration!

Valentine's Day and more

2011-02-14T18:28:00.000-08:00

I saw this idea for a card or craft on a blog. I can never remember where I find inspirations when I write my posts. So, if I find the link I'll add it later. Mark has class on Wednesday nights, so the boys and I spent these nights stitching the card. He loved it.

This weekend I finished paining more Scrabble tiles. Yes, I am keeping that beautiful red one in the middle. I can't wait for baseball season to start!

Fiberologie is back!

2011-01-30T16:57:00.000-08:00

Fiberologie is my favorite fabric store not just because of the beautiful fabric, but because of Karrie, the store owner. Fiberologie has opened up inside of Whim-So-Doodle, an amazing scrapbook store. It is a beautiful marriage.
I popped in Thursday night for a workshop. We each made an adorable fabric covered file folder. I had a blast, and it was great seeing Karrie again. Funny, she didn't forget any of my quirks!
I decided to make two more folders this weekend. One for a former student and one for a wonderful parent at school who does so much for us teachers.
This is a great way to use up scraps and fat quarters. I can't wait until I'm off my fabric diet so I can so shopping at Fiberologie again.

Want: Kelly Moore Bag

2011-01-29T10:54:00.000-08:00

I have two camera bags already. One to hold just my camera and the basic lens. The other is a backpack that holds my camera, the two other lens I have, plus some. The only problem with these two bags it they are very causal. I never take my camera to slightly dressy functions because I don't have an appropriate camera bag.

ENRTER KELLY MOORE. I have been on the Kelly Moore site over 50 times in the past month. Really. Her bags are fabulous. I'm in love with the B-Hobo Bag.

Why haven't I bought yet? Well, I'm having trouble choosing just one fabulous color. I'm digging the Mustard...but maybe I should get the Grey.

If I could go crazy I would get two bags. The B-Hobo (of course) and the JuJu Bag for every day. The internal dividers are removable so you can use these sans camera.
Yes, I am just going to look at this picture for a while. Love. It. I must have a Kelly Moore bag!

Do you have a Kelly Moore bag? Tell me how much you love it!

(all images from kellymoorebag.com)

Lady Chargers

2011-01-27T18:35:00.000-08:00

I painted these Scrabble tiles as gifts for the senior girls on the basketball team. I was even able to find the tiles with their initials. Oh, they grow up so fast.

GO CHARGERS!

Etsy Treasury

2011-01-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Okay. I'm a little excited. My Turquoise Play Zippy is featured in my first Etsy treasury ever! See, down there at the bottom. Thank you Sabon Kitty!

Ruffles and Skulls

2011-01-23T16:21:00.000-08:00

I ordered business cards from Moo in December. The business cards are slightly larger than cards cut in the US. So, naturally I had to make a card holder for them. I finally cut into my Spoonflower fabric. I don't think I've ever been so excited to have something so matchy-matchy.

These were so easy to design that I decided to also order mini cards and stickers. I loooove them! The business cards are even made of 100% recycled paper!

Naps on a rainy day

2011-01-17T16:42:00.000-08:00

I can't stand his cuteness.

A Lovely Sunday

2011-01-17T07:03:00.000-08:00

I saw this Valentine banner on Moda Bake Shop's blog this weekend. It gave me such a good feeling I knew I had to make it. Immediately.

I don't have a Sizzix machine, so I cut out the letters and scalloped circles by hand. (Note to self: don't use your old, cheap scrapbooking scissors to cut out fabric-it drives you crazy)

I just added a few yo-yos at the end and decided to stitch on the letters. With my luck they would fall off by February 1st.

Ah, now I feel better.

Time to Cook

2011-01-01T15:37:00.000-08:00

It's so nice being on vacation. Mark and I have actually had time to plan meals and cook together. For New Year's Eve we had bread, manchego cheese, and fig jam as appetizers. For dinner we had three different pastas: cheese ravioli with pomodoro sauce, pear and cheese pockets with sautéed garlic, and prochini tortellini with pesto sauce. It was divine and we ate way too much! I only made the pomodoro sauce, the rest was from Mazzaro's.

I've been looking for a good (half-way decent) red velvet recipe for years. Since I didn't do much actual cooking Friday night I decided to try a new red velvet recipe for dessert. To quote Rooster Cogburn (True Grit), "That did not pan out." The cake was mediocre and the cream cheese frosting was just plain bad. I am leaving all attempts at red velvet cakes behind with 2010.

Today we worked out and took a nice walk to the Saturday Morning Market. After getting outside and enjoying the first rays of the new year, I was ready to get cooking again.

On the menu for today: Hoppin' John salad with molasses dressing,

pickled collard greens with pineapple,

and, of course, corn bread. I used a Molly Katzen recipe from her Sunlight Café book.
I had left over yams and okra and I my hand at making fried okra-not too bad for a Yankee gal.
Dinner tonight was better than we expected! For dessert we have left over strawberry and peach brown betty I threw together on Thursday. Thank goodness. I would hate to start the year out without a tatsy dessert!

Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

2010-12-29T17:24:00.000-08:00

We had an absolutely magical day at Fairchild Gardens in Miami. This wonderful place has a mission of preservation and education. The sculptures were striking. The guide was hilarious. I can't wait to go back.
Pretty, but not so comfortable.

Christmas Traditions

2010-12-25T17:14:00.000-08:00

This Christmas started out like all the others-with Mickey's Christmas Carol. Before Mickey's Christmas Carol came out in the theaters I used to listen to in on record. This year Mark watched with me. :)
Then we went for a walk, read, ate lunch, and napped.

Since we're down in Miami visiting wonderful friends, we decided on a movie and our favorite Chinese food restaurant for dinner. Dinner was fabulous-as expected. We went to see True Grit before dinner. This movie was beautiful. We laughed (a lot) and were all so moved by the film.

We are now sitting on the bed watching Scrooged, with Bill Murray. I've already had my ice cream and am thinking that is has been a wonderful Christmas spent with people I love.

Happiness and love to all!

Ornament Exchange

2010-12-18T16:32:00.000-08:00

Our exchange party was on the 10th and it has taken me this long to get a post up! It's been a busy two weeks. But, it was great to get together with wonderful friends and have some fun. Here are our finished ornaments-
Sue's Tree
My Partridge in a Pear Tree
Dianna's Turtle Dove
Dawn's French Hen

Lori's Calling Birds

Debbie's Golden Rings
Ashley's Geese-a-Laying
Stephen's Swan
Anna's Maids-a-Milking
Jessi's Ladies Dancing
Marion's Lords-a-Leaping
Joyce's Pipers Piping

Bethsabé's Drummers Drumming

Getting ready for the Ornament Exchange Party

2010-12-06T06:11:00.000-08:00

My friends and I are getting together for our first ever ornament exchange party on Friday. Yeah! We decided on the 12 Days of Christmas theme and I chose "a partridge in a pear tree" as my verse. After cutting out and firing the birdies I took them home to paint.
I decided on a cold finish technique because I didn't think I cold wait to them to fire again!

Beaks

Eyes
Wings
All I have to do is sew them onto the tree part of the ornament and I'm done!

I am Thankful for...

2010-11-29T11:30:00.001-08:00

Home made cookies
Cute doggies

Rolling hills

That leaf that hangs on until the end

Icicles

Memories of the fire

Enough is enough!

2010-11-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

I went to Ikea today to get a Billy shelf to help me (continue) to organize the craft room. I said a while ago that I was not going to shop at Ikea anymore. I support my local businesses, so I'm not going to beat myself up about this trip. After putting the shelf together I took my fabric out of the plastic bins and sorted it by color. Gee, I have a lot more fabric than I thought. I do NOT need to buy anymore fabric for a while...

Good thing I got some super cute fabric at Ikea before I made this decision!

This just screams reversible bag.

Finished!

2010-11-22T17:41:00.000-08:00

I finally finished the Scrabble tile necklace for submission to Florida Craftsmen. It's my first entry to a show and I'm not sure it'll get into the show. Whatever the outcome I had fun making it!

Working on...

2010-11-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

Dum dum dumm dum dadumm dum dadumm

2010-10-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

What, you don't recognize that song? It's Darth Vader's theme music. Maybe I should have started with the Star Wars theme. I'm just so excited. Look what came in the mail yesterday!

Once I've turned my grades in I'm putting these to use!

Halloween Parade

2010-10-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween at school. Our students are adorable, and we have an excuse to dress up. This year the Specials teamed up with the PE coaches. Hi ho, hi ho! It's off to work we go!

Halloween last year.

Something Fishy!

2010-10-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

My fishy foot stool is finally finished. I love that I spent so much time on something that is going to live under my desk!

New Tiles

2010-10-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of work due today. As you can see, I took a lot of breaks this weekend. The tiles still need to be mounted so that they are chain ready.

Little Giovanna is having a Chococat birthday party. The "G" is for her mom.

More Halloween Goodies

2010-10-19T07:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't gotten these up yet. I made them at the beginning of the month and brought them to school to liven up the classroom.

I got inspiration from Tatertots and Jello for this painted pillow.

I loved the idea of candy corn bunting I found at Funky Polkadot Giraffe. I made mine smaller. The little witch was purchased years ago. I wish I could find the rest of the set!

Scrabble Tiles

2010-10-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

My friend keeps buying Scrabble tiles. So, I can't help but paint them!

Don't worry, I'm still a Pats and Red Sox fan. These are not for me.

This double-sided tile I made for me!

Works in progress

2010-10-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

Halloween Countdown Calendar

2010-09-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

I've seen a lot of perpetual calendars and countdown calendars on the web lately. I decided my friend needed one full of treats. Making people things is my way of showing love. So I searched and searched for inspiration. Finally I found this Halloween calendar from Pottery Barn Kids. Perfect! I spent all weekend cutting, and sewing, and cutting, and sewing. Finally...

She loved it! Another friend has requested one. But, I don't think I can pull this off again. Sorry! There will be something special for you in the future Mrs. H! xo

Week in Rap

2010-09-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

I subscribe to-and love- Free Technology for Teachers. Today they turned me on to the site Week in Rap, by Flocabulary. The week's news, no matter how depressing, gets a little lift. This won't replace Jon Stewart, but it is certainly a welcome companion.

Side Note: Flocabulary creates resources that help teach concepts through hip hop. How many ways can we make 8? Click here to rap and find out!

Study Aid

2010-09-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

So...I haven't taken online classes for a while. The last time I was in school I was making pate a choux and studying the alternate types of wheat. 3-4 nights a week and working full time-it was no easy "A."

I've just started a foundations graduate course in Educational Technology at UF. I have two friends who have gone through the ET program. One is just beginning her PhD. work, one just finished. I will be studying for the GREs this year so I can apply before year's end-yikes!

I don't need any motivation to read and study for my course, but it can't hurt. I though a notebook cover was an appropriate introduction to Gator life.

Sugar

2010-09-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

That's all I can think about right now. My body seems to be rejecting anything that is not laden with it.

Last night, for the first time in my life, I ate a whole pint of ice cream. I didn't even feel sick.

I'm just going to ride this wave out until I can't cram another sugary treat in my mouth. Now, where did I put those Mike and Ikes?

Scrappy Snake

2010-09-17T07:41:00.001-07:00

I am doing a jungle themed music unit with my Kindergartners. To get me in the mood I made a snake who will be our guide through the jungle. The kids loved Silly Sam! One student even asked my if he was real. Ah, I love Kindergarten.

I just love my friends!

2010-09-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

I convinced some friends to make peace shirts. Well, it really wasn't that hard to get everyone together. One friend just stumbled into the room and we wouldn't let her leave! I'm so glad. We had a wonderful afternoon of giggles and inspiration!

Here's a sneak peak at tomorrow's art lesson!

...but it's for my classroom!

2010-09-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

I'm having so much fun making things for school. I just can't stop. I can't! I started this a t-shirt to wear for International Day of Peace, September 21st. We are singing and celebrating so I thought I should make a shirt to wear.

Then I decided I should have a peace theme item for my classroom. This was going to be a
"peace, love, happiness" hanging, but I had a hard time figuring out how to make the face look cute. Since I teach music, I think this is appropriate.

New Washer and Dryer

2010-09-11T09:36:00.000-07:00

YEAH! Last weekend we went to a coin operated laundry mat to wash clothes. Let's just say I was a bit out of practice. Last time I gathered quarters for the wash was in college. After window shopping and some online research we decided on the MAYTAG 4000/5000 washer/dryer set. Thank goodness it was Labor Day weekend and everything was on sale.

The delivery guys came today and I have just completed my first wash cycle. Ahh. The spin cycle is so quiet I could barely hear it-even when I was in the garage. I still have to idea how to use all the buttons! The manual says it requires HE (high efficiency) detergent. I have to do some more research on that. I've been using Seventh Generation (mainly because they don't test on animals) and I've got to make sure it's still okay.

Happy no-quarter-washing weekend to all!

The Stack

Spin Baby Spin

Five Things About Me

2010-09-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

I love being a teacher. Not only do I get hugs every day, I am also inspired by the wonderful teachers around me. One of our second grade teachers asked her students to make a hanger mobile with five objects/pictures that define them. I was so inspired I had to make one!

1. I am a Pisces and I love anything having to do with the ocean.

2. I was born and raised in Massachusetts. I love the Red Sox and am loyal to all my Boston teams.

3. I love to bake. I still have the cookie cutters I used to make cookies with my mom when I was little.

4. I love music. I love making music. I love teaching music.

5. Come on-who doesn't want world peace?!?

Ah, Vermont

2010-08-21T13:52:00.000-07:00

It's not just rolling hills and open minds. The beer, oh, the beer is so good. This is what I call good design.

New Kitty!

2010-08-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit late on this post. We actually added a new member to our family at the beginning of the month. But, Mark and I had to agree on how to spell his name. Please join me in welcoming Alowicious to our crafty home.

Alowicious was rescued by the same people who rescued Andre. He was on the "mean" streets of St. Pete for almost a whole year before he was found! It's not a very nice story. Alowicious and Andre have become fast friends...even though Andre still lays claim to the best duck watching spots in the house.

Eat

Play

Sleep

Love

Back to Work with Michael Thompson

2010-08-11T17:22:00.000-07:00

Faculty and staff came back today. Ah, the first day of work. We had a very long first day back. However, We had a very special guest speaker and I appreciated every minute of our workshop.

We spent the day with Michael Thompson, an author and psychologist who specializes in children and families. He spent the morning speaking on the subject of social cruelty, and the afternoon on the development of boys. He was insightful and incredibly informative. Take a look at his books if you are interested in either of these subjects.

My first Spoonflower Order

2010-08-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

I'm a little excited. Well, perhaps a bit more than that. I just opened my package from Spoonflower and danced with the fabric in the living room. I ordered two fabrics for the "Spoonflower I Spy Swap.

I figured that since I was placing an order I'd design a fabric. Mark actually created the design-my Sunshine Wave logo. I LOOOOOOOOVVVVE it! I was afraid the colors would be off. But, the are PERFECT!

Time to go cut my squares...

My Space-In Progress

2010-08-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

The third bedroom is slowly turning into a very comfortable crafting room. I keep organizing, reorganizing, and adding little homey touches.

Mark gave me an tiny, old shelf. It was very country. After I got rid of the door I painted it white.

Ah, perfect! I've had these letters since I was a baby.

Vacation-Pt. 1

2010-08-04T15:53:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a wonderful, and very busy, vacation. While in Massachusetts we popped over to Belmont, a lovely town where I lived during middle school. On our walk to Belmont Center we passed the library and Powers Music School, where I took piano lessons. Oh, so many great memories.

While in MA we had two wonderful dinners. Il Casale, in Belmont Center, is located in the old fire house. The food is rustic in theory, and sophisticated in presentation. Dante, in Cambridge, overlooks the Charles River. This was the most amazing dinner I have had in years. Every bite was heaven. As a vegetarian, I often have trouble finding satisfying food when eating out. Not the case here. Perfection!

Il Casale

Me and my mom before dinner at Dante.

Our last night in New England Mark and I walked around Downtown Boston. We didn't have tickets to the Red Sox game, but we felt the spirit!

Ah, Summer

2010-08-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally finished the cookies! I think they were a hit.

The day after packing up the cookies we took off for New England-a much needed get away. I had no internet access for a few days. I was wonderful! Once I unpack I'll post my favorite pics.

I Love Dolly Donations...Again

2010-07-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't been working on my dollies as much as I had hoped this summer. But, I plan to send at least 15 before the next deadline. I am so inspired by the work I see on the Dolly Donations blog. Scrolling through the blog today I was surprised, and pleased, to see two very familiar little dollies. Thank you for posting my dollies Sarah! Okay, I have the inspiration and motivation to make more dollies.

Do I have a problem?

2010-07-27T20:16:00.001-07:00

This has been a great summer. We've been getting the house in order and I've been sewing a lot. My fabric stash was dwindling and I thought I needed to restock. This is what I've bought this month. Yikes!!!

Andre loves to help me sew. Well, maybe he just loves fabric. He helped me unpack my fabric.com order today.

Cookies! Cookies! Everywere cookies!

2010-07-26T18:20:00.001-07:00

My friend's daughter is getting married this weekend and I am making the wedding favors. 180 guests=360 cookies+ extra to leave room for mistakes (I've already dropped 5). So...380 cookies later I'm thinking I am in WAY over my head. I worked on the white cookies with polka dots today. Tomorrow I'm going to tackle the green cookies with white designs. Wish me luck! I am ready for a glass of wine.

Finally...

National Ice Cream Day

2010-07-18T17:35:00.000-07:00

I was at the gym this morning running and watching True Blood on my iPod. I glanced at the gym TVs just in time to see a report on National Ice Cream Day! Well, if that's not an excuse to eat ice cream I don't know what is!

I actually have ice cream whenever the fancy strikes. I've been watching what I eat, so I actually do measure my ice cream-all 102 g of it. I have been buying Haagen Daaz Five-Vanilla Bean. I love the fact that there are five ingredients in the ice cream. And, non of them are high fructose corn syrup.

The ice cream on it's own should be enough. But, I love toppings. I usually get the Sunspire Milk Chocolate Sundrops, but today I hadthe dark chocolate chips. Still yummy!

I hope you celebrated. It's not too late to scoop up a bowl of your favorite ice cold treat.

Ratatouille

2010-07-17T14:39:00.000-07:00

I made dinner tonight. And, it wasn't the same old black beans and rice! I tried a new recipe. Well, most of them are new to me. I have four shelves full of cook books, but I only bake on a regular basis.

Mark told me he loves stews and biscuits. I narrowed the recipes down and decided to try Ratatouille from The New Moosewood Cookbook and Buttermilk biscuits from Cook's Illustrated Baking.

I'm glad to say that dinner was a success! It took just over an hour to chop and make everything and it was perfect. Yeah. Except for Mark eating to many biscuits we had no mishaps. I may actually do more of the cooking thing!

Spoonflower I SPY Swap

2010-07-16T16:59:00.000-07:00

I came across the Crafterhours blog somehow...I can never remember the links I follow! The first post I read highlighted the I SPY Spoonflower Swap. I've seen a few I SPY quilts online and thought it woudl be fun to make one. But, gathering the fabric would take a while. Through the I SPY/Spoonflower Swap I'll have all my fabrics sent to me in a neat little package with very little work on this end.

I immediately joined in. Yikes...and yeah! I got to make my first Spoonflower purchase and I even designed a fabric! Well, Mark actually designed it-but he only demands a bookmark for use of his design. So, I've got some yardage coming. I'm a wee bit excited. It's like a quilting bee around the globe.

The two fabrics I picked:

One beautiful Backyard

2010-07-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

A

little

piece

of

heaven

In the Meantime...

2010-07-09T17:09:00.000-07:00

I have started hand stitching my quilt. I love the irregularity of the stitches. I'm sure the pros do a much better job, but there is something to be said about imperfections.

So that my machine didn't feel neglected, I decided to start on another project. I am a Pisces and cannot resist a beach theme. Not everyone does "beach" right, though. I saw this collection in Joann's and had to have them. I'm thinking of making something with a zig zag pattern. We'll see...

Pinning, and pinning, and pinning...

2010-07-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

I attended a quilt class this morning. This was a "free for all" type of day over at Sue's Bay Area Sewing. Kathy taught me how to lay out and pin my quilt together. It actually took me the whole three hours to pin the quilt! The ladies in the class were so kind and I wish I had the time to go more often.

I've decided to hand quilt this bad boy. So, my next job is to grid out the picture and start marking. I don't think I'm going to ask Andre to help me with this.

Andre helps with my border

2010-07-05T12:41:00.000-07:00

I finally found a fabric that worked for the quilt border! It was more difficult than I though it would be to find a fabric (not already in the quilt) to match. Andre loves when I lay the quilt top out in the living room. He helped me measure and pin the border this morning. Thank you, Andre. You are such a good kitty!

More Stuff from Stitch

2010-06-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

I finished the Travel Lingerie Bag last night. I can't wait to go on a trip so I can use it.

I started on the adorable clutch on the cover of the mag last night too. I had a chain from an old bag so I added tiny hooks to the clutch so I could use it. Even though I fused the petals on I chose to stitch over them. I think it looks better, and the wonder under is never enough on it's own. I will certainly make this bag again. However, I'll need to make some adjustments with the interfacing.

Kitty Pillow for Andre

2010-06-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

I saw this fabric at Joann's and had to have it. I know...I sound like a broken record. I'm not impulsive, I just live in the moment. Anyway, I was going to make the cat bed from One Yard Wonders, but didn't have the patience to cut out all the trapezoids. So I made this up. I put the pillow EVERYWHERE Andre normally sleeps hoping he'd claim the pillow as his own. It's been almost 12 hours and he hasn't done more than sniff at this strange puff (not impulsive, but impatient). Mark seems to think he just doesn't want to sit on another kitty's face.

Stitch

2010-06-27T17:38:00.000-07:00

I just picked up the Spring 2010 issue of Stitch Magazine. The picture on the front was too adorable for me to pass up.

After flipping through the tutorials I decided to start with the apple coasters. If I were better with bias/binding I think this would be an adorable gift. My boyfriend thought it looked like a turtle belly...so this one is staying on my own coffee table.

I then decided to start the Travel Lingerie Bag. I've got to pick up some 12" zippers before I finish this one.

Dolly Donations-I LOVE them!

2010-06-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

I happened upon the Dolly Donations blog somehow a couple of days ago. They offer free doll patterns and lots of tutorials. I made two dolls yesterday and have seven more cut out. The dolls are easy to make and benefit orphans in Haiti. Check out the site, sew some dolls, tell your friends. It's so easy!

Car Organizer

2010-06-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

I had it in my mind that I absolutely needed a car organizer. I decided to try this one since Simplicity patterns were on sale at Joann's. It looked simple enough...then came the bias tape (nooooo). It looks like my cat sewed it on! However, it holds my pens and my gum and it's unobtrusive. In a day or two I won't even notice the crazy, overlapping stitches.

Learing to Quilt...kind of

2010-06-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to make a quilt. I've passed up many quilting classes because the timing wasn't right. So, I decided to do a little on-line learning. I started with a log cabin block. I had so much fun I made four! I don't know if I did it right, but at least I'm trying!

Gifts Given

2010-06-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

My two gifts are done and in the hands of two wonderful young ladies.

This is Sarah's apron. We both jumped up and down and giggled when I gave it to her. She REALLY wanted ruffles!

Chelsea's sketck book cover proved harder than I originally thought. I added pockets and a place marker as I went and drank A LOT of coffee in the process. I love my little niece!

2010-06-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

My next projects for the two girls who helped out all week. Sarah will be getting an apron with ruffles and a crown to represent her sorority in school. I've just started to work on a sketch book cover for Chelsea. André has been helping me sew.

Time on my hands

2010-06-14T06:19:00.000-07:00

Now that school is out and Sewing Camp is done I have time to sit and sew again! The girls in Sewing Camp refreshed my spirit and creativity. They took on projects with gusto and left with an incredible sense of accomplishment. I needed the weekend to recover from the thirteen girls, but my machine is humming...

I have wanted to make the Pin Cushion Caddy from Anna Maria Horner's "Seams to Me" since I bought the book. It's bunchy in the middle, but I think it's so pretty. I don't really need to use it, I just want to.

Summer is Here!

2010-05-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite places to go to relax is Oakland. It's right in Winter Garden which is just outside of Orlando. We took a walk through Downtown Winter Park today so I could get some shots of this charming town.

Good Friends

2010-05-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

Nothing like 'em!

Did I already say...

2010-05-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

...that I love my new camera?!? I do. I'm still learning how to take decent pictures. I've got to figure spend some time with Photoshop. I'm just amazed at the quality of the silly pictures I have been taking. Below are pics of flowers I got from the Kindergarten team at school.

Saturday Morning

2010-04-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

My idea of a good time.

Andre's idea of a good time.

WOO HOO!!!

2010-04-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

"It's the most wonderful time of the year!" I sang that to my students this morning. Why? Well, baseball, of course! The Red Sox beat the Yankees in the season opener! What more could I ask for? If my camera was working I could post pics of the adorable bag Lori Bell made me and the zippy pouches I made to match.

PLAY BALL!

Broken Camera

2010-04-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

It's official. My camera is broken. I did not just need a new battery. I get a "lens error restart camera" every time I try to turn it on. The lens won't even retract all the way. I Googled this and it seems I'm not the only one with this problem.

BIG :(

I loved the quality of the pictures I was taking with my Canon G9. I'm not going to spend $200.- to repair a problem half of America is having. So...when I get a new camera. Do I go with a higher quality Canon? Do I switch brands? Why, oh why?!?

My First Quilt Class

2010-03-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

I managed to squeeze in a class at Fiberologie before they closed (sigh, whimper). I don't know if I was more impressed with Pauline Salzman's quilting or her quick wit! Everyone's creation was so different. I loved the choice of colors and patterns at each table. I learned so much in just four hours. I'm not done. Now, I've got to actually learn how to stitch on this thing!

Chair Cover

2010-01-23T10:30:00.000-08:00

I am loving "One Yard Wonders." I made this folding chair cover for the chair in my craft room. Instead of a pinafore ruffle on top I made a plain old ruffle. I didn't have the patience that night for any sort of precision! Rather than making the flat chair cover I chose to cover a pillow I had been using. I cannot sit for hours with out some cushioning. The pillow cover slips off for easy cleaning.

Lunch...Yum

2010-01-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

I could not go back to school without a new lunch bag. At least that was my excuse for trying this pattern from "One Yard Wonders." I've learned that bias tape is not my friend, but we all have to start somewhere!

I made the flower from Sew Ritsy-Titzy's tutorial. I found a whole bunch of other great flower tutorials here.

Cookies!

2009-12-31T15:33:00.000-08:00

My mom and I made cookies on Christmas. We did this every year when I was a little girl. Between the two of us we must have 100 cookbooks. We narrowed the selection down to Cocoa Crinkles, Lemon Madelines, and Chocolate, Chocolate Cookies-this recipe called for 20 oz of chocolate! YUM!

Last Three Gifts for Christmas...

2009-12-31T15:25:00.000-08:00

Christmas Gifts

2009-12-21T06:17:00.000-08:00

I am so excited. This is the first year I've made almost all of my Christmas gifts. The only person I didn't make something for is my boyfriend. He's not so much into the bag thing. I just have to finish a stegosaurus for my neighbor's little boy and the gifts for my mom. I took these pictures with my phone, so they are not the best. Here's what I've made so far:

Now to start on the cookies...

Getting in the Christmas spirit

2009-12-13T19:03:00.000-08:00

I've been distracted by Christmas. I needed something for the tree so I made a topper out of some left over fabric. (The teeny little star from Target wasn't cutting it anymore.)

That wasn't enough. I've seen all these tutorials for tree skirts and had to make one. I stopped by Fiberologie for an emergency purchase. Instead of my usual turquoise and orange I knew I needed some red and green for this one.

Yeah, little tree.

Finally Sewing Again!

2009-11-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

Nearly every day in November has been taken up with Oliver! rehearsals or performances. The show was amazing...but now to feed my other love!

I popped into Fiberologie (I adore Karrie) and picked up the "Penelope Ruffles" pattern by Izzy & Ivy. It doesn't look like anything I have or have ever tried to sew. I haven't made anything in about a month and I need a challenge!

I'm not a ruffle kind of girl, but I've been waiting to use my "Calavera" and zebra fabric. I think the combination of skulls and ruffles is just plain fun!

I love this!

2009-10-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

"Healthy" Halloween

2009-10-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

I few years ago I gave up all candy made my MARS because I found out they tested on animals. No Milky Way, no Twix, no M&Ms! And then I found SUNSPIRE. They make M&M-like candy without artificial ingredients and without hurting innocent little animals. I love these "Sun Drops." They come in bittersweet or milk chocolate. Yum.

You can find them at Nature's Finest or here.

Reversible Bag

2009-10-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

I made this bag this summer for a wedding. I made it reversible because I love both of these fabrics, but did't have time to make two bags. I still have to make buttons for the bag, but it works fine with out them for now.

The Outfit is Finished!

2009-10-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

I made the bloomers out of "Weekend Sewing." The smallest size was for 6-12 months, so I just shrank the pattern to what I thought may be a newborn size. The bloomers may be a bit big for a while. Nonetheless, this outfit is adorable!

I have been inspired by "Weekend Sewing," and I'm...well, sewing. It's a wonderful thing. I've been so comfortable making my own patterns here and there, but it's nice to follow a really good pattern for a change.

My First Baby Project

2009-10-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I did it. I bought Heather Ross' "Weekend Sewing" because I couldn't resist the book any longer. My first project was the kimono. Though not perfect, it was made with lots of love. I hope Olive likes it!

Before you ask...yes, I am in love with the book. I don't know if I should make the apron or the PJ pants next.

The Wristlets

2009-10-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

I spent a weekend sewing these up. I figured it was time I combined my love of sewing and beading.

I just can't stop making them!

Holiday Shopping

2009-10-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

Our first holiday shopping bazaar was a hit! Lori, Sue, and I had been sewing non-stop for weeks! It was all worth it. Thank you Jill for opening your home to our craziness!

New Bags!

2009-10-12T19:07:00.001-07:00

Lori Bells Designs is expanding it's line. Check it out!

The Lori

Drawstring Backpack

Composite Cover