wait...before I forget

Hand Stitched Bib

2011-04-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

I made this sewn in bib some time ago but I'm now just getting around to posting it. I'm trying to go back and post at least what's already been photographed.

By the way it's a quick hodgie podgie kind of project. The pieces are haphazardly (lacking any obvious principle of organization) placed and and even more haphazardly hand stitched on. Kinda like my life, isn't that interesting.

Oh I wish I had some order and consistency in my life. Maybe after the baby....ya right.

Kate's Skate Party

2011-03-21T16:56:00.000-07:00

Kate's Birthday Party was one week after Jack's Party and I have to say this one was much simpler. We went to a local Ice Skating Rink which means no extra decorating and the entertainment was totally covered. Eeeesaaay!

Kate's invitations were designed by Pink Pickle Studios and I had them printed at Kinko's.

We served hot cocoa in hot cups that I covered with paper. I also gave all the girls matching knit gloves that I found at Joann's on sale for .50 cents a pair that conveniently worked out perfectly with the color scheme! Double bonus.

All the girls did really well minus a few who hadn't skated before so Mr. Frugal very reluctantly put on skates to offer some assistance. Although, I think the girls may have been the ones doing the assisting. Thomas was so frustrated that he just couldn't get it. Skating just not his thing. Good- one less lesson or team I will be asked to sign him up for. Can't be good at everything son.

Speaking of not your thing. Cake decorating is not really my thing. I swear the cakes in those cute cake books must be seriously photoshoped or be made with frosting too gross to eat to get that perfect looking finish because I can never quite make it look like the photo.

Good enough I say!

Besides Kate loved it and well that's all that matters.

Jack opted to stay in the party room and guard the presents. Skating on the cold ice was not a tempting offered especially after I passed over my phone. He was happy right was he was, sitting his warm little bum on that bench.

I gave all the girls mugs that I found on clearance at Marshalls for $1.50 each. I filled them with hot cocoa candy and chapstick.

Until next time.....

In Case You Didn't Hear....

2011-03-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

...I'm pregers. Beginning my 8th month this week!

I know, I know I was done having kids. That's what I tried to convince myself of anyway. My life was full and I couldn't imagine adding one more to the bunch. Really, if you knew the details of my life you seriously would have adviced to me to stay where I was....holding my head just above water. Like others I feel that raising kids is a tough job not to mention doing it well. Somedays I feel good about my job as their mom, but to be honest most days I cross my fingers and hope for the best or that at least their memories will skew toward the positive in the end. BUT, I really did think (deep down) there might be a girl out there that really wanted to come and join our imperfect family. So I did what any faith relying person does. I put it in God's hands. Deep Breath. Okay who am I kidding, I think about getting pregnant and wha la- baby appears nine months later. But, I am having a girl and like to think that that part of the story was up to God.

I didn't believe it at first even though it was confirmed by ultrasound. It took many weeks for it to settle in my brain. Mr. Frugal finally convince me that it was becoming obvious and I would make someone feel very uncomfortable if they called me out on it so we made a video of us telling the kids and the next day we shared the happy news with family and friends.

The Little Leprechaun

2011-03-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

Jack's Carnival Party

2011-03-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

Jack's long awaited Carnival Party finally took place last Saturday. He's been talking about this party for months and was quite involved with the details. This was one of my favorite parties to plan because Jack was so excited about everything I suggested.

Good thing he's one easy kid to please.

No carnival party would be complete without the candy and there was no shortage of sweets and treats. This is just what was on display. There was also popcorn, cupcakes and the more treats in the goodie bags. Serious sugar overload!

The decorations were really easy most of which I liberally took inspiration from several other party blogs. Man a pad of scrapbook paper can go a long way.

Kate decorated the Clown Cupcakes which looked just like picture in the cookbook. Not always an easy feat to pull off. I think I'll put her in charge of the birthday cakes from now on.

The smell of fresh popcorn added perfectly to the carnival ambiance. The kids couldn't get enough. That's probably why only half of them ate their hot dogs.

Rocket the Clown performed a magic show, made ballon animals and face painted cool designs on the kids cheeks.

I set up three games for the kids to play. Super simple and the kids loved them.

Spill the Milk was the most popular.

I bought three pieces of black foam board, cut up two for the game posters and painted a clown on the third to be used for a bean bag toss.

Happy Birthday Jack!

Jack is Turning 5

2011-03-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

Jack is turning 5 and wants a Carnival Party. His idea not mine. Not that I have any against carnivals at least back yard kind of carnival, but it sounds like a lot more work than renting a jumpy. Thank goodness their are insanely creative mother's out there to gleam inspiration from. So thanks to the flickle pickle for the party ideas!

Valentines Day

2011-02-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

Bouquet Arrangement

2011-02-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

Fresh Flowers make my heart flutter..literally. They have to be one of God's greatest creations. I try and find every excuse to buy them. Most of my reasons don't justified the cost spent and sometimes I have no reason at all but that doesn't seem to keep me from an occasional stop at the flower mart or the flower section at Trader Joes. Some chickas get regular pedicures-I buy flowers. I also like to think I'm taking the pressure off of Mr. Frugal, unless he's giving flowers to make up that is. Nothing says "I really screwed up" like a simple bunch of daisy's from Albertsons.

While working at Winston Flowers in Boston I learned this simple and quick technique to making bouquet arrangements.

The first step is to clean and prepare all the flowers by removing all the stems leaves and thorns. This is critical because you will only have one free hand to work with.

Next, make a small bunch of several flowers to create your center.

Thoughtfully bring in one flower at a time holding the stem with your thumb. Your grip should hold the flowers securely but should be loose. This is important and will make any adjustments needed at the end a whole lot easier. You should look compact but not squished.

With each one or two flowers brought into the arrangement twist the arrangement to ensure balance.

When making an bouquet you want your eye to flow through the entire arrangement with small rest spots. This can be achieved by grouping two or three of the same flower together and spacing your flowers or colors evenly.

The last step is optional depending on your final look but it's to add your sturdy foliage around the base of your arrangement. Lemon leaf (Salal) adds a good support for the bouquet.

*Important* I don't have a picture but once your arrangement is complete you need to wrap it with floral tape to hold is securely into place. This can be the trickiest step. Once your bouquet is secure cut the stems at the same length and add to your container.

Enough is Enough

2011-01-29T13:41:00.000-08:00

There are somethings that go on in my house that drive me nutty. The hand towels ending up on the bathroom floor was one of them. One day I said enough is enough. The hope that my kids were going hang the towel back on the rod was apparently too high an expectation. So I got out the hammer not to use it on the next culprit but to pound grommets into the dirty little towels. Now they happily hang on the rod removed only for cleaning.

This project is super easy and super fast.

Grommet kits are available at your local fabric store and include everything you need minus the hammer.

I machine stitched the Velcro on to make sure it stayed put.

Hello Again

2011-01-05T08:58:00.000-08:00

Artwork by Annette Mangseth

"Knowing better is doing better."

Stop here if you don't want to read about my beautifully miserable life.

I'm an open book I can't help it.

What I learned in 2010:

It was almost two years ago that I sunk pretty much to the depths. Almost over night I went from running 18 miles a week, accomplishing most projects with zest and doing the mom and wife thing above satisfaction to not being able to get out of bed. I ached everyday for months. Getting out of bed was a chore. Sleeping was always more desirable than getting up and I could have cared less about most things. My doctor suggested I was depressed and needed medication. I heavily denied the notion that I was depressed after all he saw me for what- 15 minutes. Not me, maybe others are depressed but there is something really wrong with me. I hid it well from friends and family that's because I cried in bathroom or in the closet not on the phone or at the dinner table. Over the next year I tired lots of things from hormone injections to a dizzying combination of pills that were suggested from this book or that person. I cut soda and caffeine from my day and I went on a strict detoxifying diet. I had all sorts of blood work done, which always came back a.o.k. except for slight inflammation.

I saw a rheumatologist who told me I suffered from Fibromyalgia and early onset of rheumatoid arthritis, which was somewhat validating clearing the idea that I was crazy. I continued to exercise through the aches and pain. I read self help books and truly searched for answers. Eventually I had days that turned into weeks of feeling better. I saw a therapist who helped relieve my deep and stuffed resentments. I had no idea how angry I was on both the conscious and subconscious level. My body was taking the toll for my emotional stress. Mr. Frugal was somewhat broadsided with my misery but he tired the best he could to patiently work through it with me. I worked hard everyday to be happy. Some days were more successful than others, still are, but I slowly pulled myself out of the hole. I now have a better plan and know what to do when I trip and fall. I hate to say something so cliche but I'm finding my way by finding myself.

Lesson #1

Stuffing will always result in a Explosion.

Lesson #2

Exercise does more for your Mental, Emotional and Physically Health than any pill out there.

Lesson #3

Others are Only Responsible for the Information you give them.

Lesson #4

How you Feel is the Truth. Say what you Mean and Mean what you Say.

Lesson #5

You can Accomplish More by doing Less.

Lesson #6

Stand Up for Yourself. No one's going to do it for you.

Lesson #7

Throw Guilt out the Door. Let there be no place in your Heart for it to Harbor.

Lesson #8

Be Satisfied with Good Enough.

Lesson #9

Be Grateful. At least you don't have to walk miles to get clean water.

Lesson #10

A Diet Coke and a Spray Tan every once in while provides a great quick fix.

My resolution for 2011:

KEEP GOING

Raspberry Jam

2010-11-15T10:46:00.000-08:00

I finally made my first batch of Jam! I can't believe I waited so long. It must have been the memories of my mom canning food that seemed to be an all day process that caused my hesitation. Back in the day she not only made jam but she canned cucumbers to make pickles, a vegetable relish (which she called meat relish), peaches, pears, applesauce and grape juice. Maybe the kind of food she was canning did take all day but, making Freezer Jam is easier than making dinner.
I used the Ball brand no-cooking required pectin mix. The recipe on the back calls for half the sugar of most recipes and I think twice as delicious.

Who Let the Crows Out?

2010-09-22T21:47:00.000-07:00

September is coming to a close which means Halloween is just around the corner. Once again the crows have been unearthed from their decoration tote and they are already causing havoc in the neighborhood. It looks like Barbie should be more careful next time she's cruising around the block.

In all seriousness this was my narrative project for my photography class. We were to tell a story with five photos. The story developed in part due to the imaginations of Thomas and Kate, but the initial idea was mine. I'm not sure what in world this says about me considering I could have come up with anything, but it definitely suggests I'm a little cuckoo.

The Yellow Sash

2010-09-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Fresh Cuts are my sewing projects that are made from patterns, adapted from patterns or are simply made up as I go along. (Mostly are the latter.) Some of the things I make are complete disasters, some are what I expected and others turn out better than I imagined.

Sewing something to wear is most gratifying and fills my soul with a whole lot of happy.

My most recent Fresh Cuts project is a striped jersey top with a hand dyed curry yellow sash.

Gourds

2010-09-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

This project was about 10 months in the making. Really.

It started with a trip to the pumpkin patch along with Jack's preschool last October. The tour guide gave a brief explanation of what would happen if you left a gourd out to dry for several months. It turns rock hard that what happens. And that is exactly what happened to our two little oddly shaped gourds we bought at the pumpkin patch. Although several months was more like several months times two. Every so often Jack would give them a good shake to see if he could hear the seeds dancing inside. Each month the rumble of the seeds grew louder and louder as the inside guts dried out.

Finally when they were hard enough I cut off the tops to make them look more like pottery.

I could have left them in their natural state, which was quite beautiful actually (tear), but I could not resist the glossy epoxy spray paint I found in the garage.

And so out came the paint and it's partner in crime...."Makita." By the way you can not live with her. She one of my best crafty friends!

I love the super glossy look achieved with this appliance epoxy. Beware this is serious spray paint. It takes longer to dry and it's very hard to remove from your hands. One of these days I will wear gloves.

I like they way they look even before I sanded, but I hadn't seen "Makita" in a while and so together we ruffed them up a bit.

My gourds with well with the sign I managed to purloin from an old abandoned house several months back during a photo shoot.

Placemat Basket or Tote

2010-09-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

There are many versions of this easy project of turning a placemat into a tote. The following tutorial is my version of this simple DYI project. To start with I used very sturdy placemats I found at World Market on sale for $1.49. A real steal! They worked perfectly for making little catch all baskets and little totes.

The following pictures shows a two added details. One is the monogram letter. If you are going to add any detail that would require sewing it's a good idea to attached it before you sew up the sides of the bags. I always learn the hard way.

I also showed how you can make little pockets for pencils by sewing along the edge of the seam.

Note to Self - Love Your Own Company

2010-08-20T06:49:00.000-07:00

What a commentary on civilization, when being alone is considered suspect; when one has to apologize for it, make excuses, hide the fact that one practices it...

Like a secret vice.

Anne Morrow Lindbergh

A friend passed along this video entitled How To Be Alone by filmmaker Andrea Dorfman and poet/singer/songwriter,

Tanya Davis.
It made me reflect on what it means to be alone and ultimately loving your own company. We all need time to be alone, to be introspective and to purify or thoughts and get things in order. I have always been one that needs time to feel, work through and gain clarify on what going on around me. Mr. Frugal likes to call it smoldering, I like to call it gaining perspective.

But beyond the occasional times I must walk away from a current standoff, I have through the years learned to love my own company. There is no one to please or adjust your expectations to meet that of another. You can hurry along or linger as long as you'd like. The dialogue you have with yourself is less distracted more real and to the point.

I must have liked my own company even as a child because I don't ever remember feeling bored or needing someone to play with at all times. Probably my favorite times as a child was when I was alone playing within the four walls of my bedroom. During these times my imagination was unrestrained and my bedroom became whatever I made it to be. Most of the time is was an apartment with two bedroom, a kitchen and a family room all divided off by blankets and pillows. My baby dolls provided all the company I needed. I was content for hours.

Over the years my solitary moments have taught me not only to love myself but have also cultivated a greater sense of freedom, independence and creativity, all the while gaining heaps of personal growth.

"I live in my own little world, but it's OK, they like me here."

Wise Words 08-16-10

2010-08-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

Katie Daisy

Hands On Help

2010-08-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

FYI: The following pictures do not include the fighting over the knife, the crying because a wooden spoon fell on the floor and was retrieved by another sibling, the burnt hamburger buns or the near fall off the counter. The pictures suggest peace, happiness and sense of cooperation. If only it was that simple.

We are fast becoming an all hands on family. I decided my kids helping me in the kitchen is generally one chore they are eager to be involved with and usually fight over who gets to pour, stir or cut. (I wish I got the same response when it came to cleaning their rooms.)

I look at my kids as little people in training to one day be independent adults. Doing for themselves and others is hugely important to me, like I'm sure it is for most moms.

I was introduced to Merrile Boyack's "plan" of how to raise children who one day can care for themselves, keep a job, have good professional and interpersonal skills and so forth. Her plan lists skills and knowledge your child should develop at each age group. I've keep the list and often refer back to it to see how I'm doing. The Plan among other invaluable advice can be found in her book, The Parenting Breakthrough - A Real-Life Plan To Teach Your Kids To Work, Save Money, and Be Truly Independent.

According to the plan this a big year for Thomas. He needs to be taught how to mop the floor, clean pictures, bake cakes, bake cookies,understand emergency preparedness, learn basic first aid, fill the car with gas, wash the car, vacuum interior of car, hammer nails, saw wood, cook vegetables, write letters, understand puberty and sex (oh boy), use e-mail, understand basic science, wrap presents, sew on buttons and so on.

You get the idea.

We'll get to "the talk" later, this week I'm concentrating on chopping vegetables which seems a whole lot less intimidating.

Cowboy Grub

6 medium tomatoes

1 bunch of long green onions

1 bag of frozen sweet corn

Juice from 2 limes

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/3 cup water

1 bunch cilantro (chopped)

1 can black beans (drained)

2 lg. avocados

salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup olive oil

1 package of good season Italian dressing

Jr. Lifeguard

2010-08-12T22:29:00.000-07:00

Thomas has been going to Jr. Lifeguard for the last three weeks. It's a physically demanding camp where lifeguard rescue techniques are taught with fun and plenty of competition. Last Friday it was parent participation day. Chris joined in for the tough workout.

They did a lot of running along the beach...

and through the water.

And there were plenty of push ups and sit ups.

And crawling through surfboard tunnels.

Only to exit and have cold ocean water dumped on your head.

There was a long jump competition in which the Foulger boys proved that just because you have short legs doesn't mean you can't leap like a gazelle.

After a short break it was time to perform a rescue. Thomas went first and then it was Chris' turn to rescue Thomas.

The last competition of the morning was the ball toss. Everyone lays down and when the instructor yells go they all stand up, turn around and fight for tennis balls. Each heat two unlucky participates came back from the water without a ball.

It was like watching a bunch of dogs chase after their beloved ball. Very funny.

And what was Jack doing while Thomas and Chris were doing the workout...

Not much.

Moving Out Of Auto Mode

2010-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

So these pics are not shinning examples of awesome photography but they are a step in that direction. I have liked photography for some time and am continually enamored by the sheer brilliance that some photographers seem to possess. I had a moment in college when I thought about joining the photography department to then one day take interior photos of the homes of the rich and famous. I was reading a lot in Architectural Digest at the time. But I decided that switching majors one semester away from graduating was probably not the smartest idea.

I bought my first SLR camera a couple of years ago. There was such a difference in picture quality from my point and shot camera that I felt no need to venture away from auto mode. Why mess up a better than average turn out?

One day I was looking at some photos online of a popular photographer and I wondered what made her photographs so awesome. Was it that she was uber talented and had gifts beyond the average?...Maybe. Or was it that she had the best, most expensive camera and lens that money could buy?...Maybe. Or was it that she was an expert in photoshop?...Maybe.

And then it dawned on me.....she may have had all those things but most of all she probably knows her camera in and out and has learned to shoot whenever, however, whatever.

LEARNED being the KEY word here.

So I may not be her one day but maybe if I learn my camera in and out and how to take photographs whenever, however and whatever I can come pretty close.

The first step:

Take the Get out of Auto Mode Pledge:

I, state your name, commit to learning how to shoot out of auto mode. This means from this day forward I will never have my dial turned to auto. I will fully embrace manual mode and all that it can offer. I will learn how to manipulate the shutter speed and aperture.

Okay enough silliness.

My aspiring photographer friend found this cool wall to take pics in front of. My kids where less than thrilled to be dragged around all morning posing as my models, but who else am I going to get? They'll also work for donuts which makes them cheap labor.

Toothless Kate

2010-08-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

Untitled from Tami Foulger on Vimeo.

Jazz Hall Skirt

2010-08-08T15:37:00.000-07:00

I have been dying to make some of the clothes in Wenlan Chia's Twinkle Sews Book ever since I bought it several months back. A few days ago I decided it had been long enough. My first project was one of my favorites which is the Jazz Hall Skirt. I love the way this skirt moves. The flounces around the bottom are so sultry. You can't help but walk with a slight swager.

My Collection

2010-07-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

A few years back I purchased my first vintage pattern. It was a classic fitted 2 piece suit from the 40's. I had intentions of making the outfit but when I opened up the envelop I discovered it had never been cut. I couldn't bare to cut up a 50 year old pattern and so put in back in it's plastic cover and stashed it away. I would occasional get it out and look at it. This was around the time I began to fall in love with that era of clothing. It was a time when women dressed up and kept their lipstick fresh even though most were homemakers who rarely left the house. The clothing of this era denotes strength and confidence even if it was a bit impractical.

I began collecting more and more patterns over the next couple of years and now I have a collection of over 90 vintage patterns.

I mostly have women's patterns but I have a handful of children's patterns and few men's patterns.

I would pick up a pattern here and there and about a month ago I was lucky enough to purchase a seamstresses entire collection. She was women who enjoyed sewing for over 50 years, but now in her 80's she was losing her sight and was unable to thread needles and cut fabric. When I picked up the box of patterns from her granddaughter I told her to tell her grandmother that her cherished collection was going to pattern lover. She smiled and told me that it would make her grandmother so happy knowing they were going to someone who loved to sew. The sentimentally sappy side of me almost cried right there on the spot, but thankfully I held it together just long enough to get in my car.

I love the fashion patterns from the 70's and earlier because their covers had the best fashion illustrations.

This a maternity pattern. Oh how maternity clothes have evolved.

I love the shoes on this pattern from the 70's. I think I'd like some green peep toes.

Huge Savings and Bit of Creative Inspiration

2010-07-25T00:47:00.000-07:00

A while back I wrote a post on coloring your own hair. And while I have had a fair amount of success giving myself an all over color or a root touch up I've been totally intimidated of giving myself highlights. Well about a month ago I bought myself a little highlight kit and gave it a go. It's not a weave but for under 15 bucks I successfully achieved what would other wise cost me around 100 bucks in a salon. I'm not sure what's gotten into me taking all these silly photos of myself but I thought a few of you might enjoy the workings of my brain. The following are actual thoughts of mine during my lovely photo shoot.

Inspiration springs from the most unexpected places.

Stay tuned for the Scarlet Red Wool Winter Cap...coming this fall.

Ragg Silk Bouquet

2010-07-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

Months back I bought this ball of scrappy silk at a local yarn shop. I feel in love with the colorful ball for several reasons. One it's made from recycled silk and the colors are hard to resist. This little ball of mess would have been pretty just nestled in a yarn basket. I also couldn't wait to unravel the carnival of layers. But the main reason I threw down 22 bucks for this ball of silk was that Mango Moon works with the Nepali Women's Empowerment Group. What can I say, I'm a sucker for disadvantaged hard working women.

Not knowing what I was going to do with this little ball I decided to unwind it and see if it would speak to me.

At first the tangled pile of silk scrapes revealed nothing but chaos (much like my life...interesting), so I decided to cut up the chaos and find some order. I cut out my favorite strips and began making rosettes. I must have been thinking flower arrangement and not scarf.

These little beauties are easy and there are a lot of variations on how to make them. I chose to glue them rather than use my sewing machine.

After making a bunch of rosettes I decided to make a necklace bouquet. I began arranging them much like I would a flower arrangement.

I then glued the arrangement to a piece of felt and added a beaded chain to complete the necklace.

Number 21

2010-06-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Admittedly I've become a sucker for the game of baseball. Watching Thomas play for the last couple of years has been nothing short of what I had imagined and looked forward to, partly due to his pure love of the game. His dedication and self confidence, which at times can be a bit much, is also admirable . This is a kid who lives for sports and if I let him play everything he would. He is the kind of boy that lies in bed at night and dreams of being a professional sports star; tennis being his first pick.
Recently I asked him what he was going to do if his plans of playing a professional sport didn't pan out.

He said, "Mom, do you really think I'm not going to play a professional sport?"

My response, "Thomas you can be what ever you want to be."
(No need to deflate any dreams now.....unfortunately time, age and experience will do that.)

Thomas doesn't lack for self-confidence, but in a world where you're put down pretty quickly that's not such a bad thing.

Jack and I sat in the car waiting for one of Thomas' games to start. I read my book while Jack play in the back. When it was time to go I opened up the door and found not Jack but a a space alien.
Let's just say Jack's a little goofy.

Uniform Project

2010-06-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

I came across this clip on Pattern Review and thought it was one of the coolest most inspiring projects I've seen.
Sheena Matheiken wore a little black dress for 365 days as an exercise in sustainable fashion, but, with the help of accessories and her creativity, she never looked the same way twice! So amazing. The other cool thing is the project supports the Akanksha Foundation, a grassroots non-profit founded in 1990 to bring improved education to children living in the slums of India.
Tara launched her first solo collection, Study NY, at New York Fashion week in September 2009, entitled The Square Project.

Uniform Project Picture Book from The Uniform Project on Vimeo.

Note to Self - Remember That Everyone Is Struggling

2010-06-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

susannah conway

I don't know what is that makes us feel unique in our pain or struggles of this earthly life? My rational side knows that everyone has what I like to call "their Shiz", but my irrational side feels like while my world is strained those around me are living all as well.

While I may ask why me, I realize that to struggle is human and we must all experience pain to overcome it. I meet an amazing women years ago that had more than her fair share of "shiz". I'm pretty sure if I were her I would have packed my bags, ran away and changed my name, but I watched her endure her trials with a smile on her face no less. She taught me that we are all for the most part doing our best with our resourcses and circumstances. When we realize this we can't help but be sympathic, compassionate and loving.

We all struggle but we must keep moving. Often times this is the more difficult part. Forgiveness is not about forgetting but it's about moving forward, not dwelling on the negative and focusing on a solution and healing.

Be kind and patient with yourself and with others. Everyone is in one way or another fighting a battle.

Triple Layer Apron

2010-06-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

A few years ago I saw an apron similar to this one in a shop that I've since forgotten the name. I went home and made my own version while the inspiration was fresh on my mind. Over the last couple of years I've made them for friends, teachers and have even sold a few along the way. I've seen many variations to this pattern, but this is my version.

I'd like to call her the Triple Layer Apron.

Material List:

Fabric A (waist band and ties) - 1/2 yard

Fabric B (layer 1) - 1/4 yard

Fabric C (layer 2 and top) - 3/4 yard

Fabric D (layer 3)- 1/4 yard

Fabric E (letter) - 8"x 8" square

Fabric F (under layer) - 1/2 yard

Multi Purpose Sewing Thread

Embroidery Thread

Pins

Tape Measure

Fabric Marking Tool

Scissors

1 Sheet of Heat and Bond

Sharpie

Image of a letter approximately 6" x 6"

Step 1: Cut out the fabric

Fabric A (waist band and ties): Cut 2 34" x 4 1/2" and 2 17" x 3" strips for the ties and cut 1 18" x 6" piece for the waist band.

Fabric B (layer 1): Cut 1 36" x 9".

Fabric C (layer 2 and top): Cut 1 piece 36" x 9" and 1 piece 14" x 14". To create the taper fold in piece in half and measure 1" inch in from the cut side. Mark with the fabric marking tool. With a straight edge line up the mark to the bottom edge of the fabric. Draw a line then cut along line. The top should measure 12" and the bottom should measure 14". (see photo #3)

Fabric D (layer 3): Cut 1 36" x 9".

Fabric E (letter) :Cut 1 8"x 8" square.

Fabric F (under-layer for top and bottom): Cut 1 piece 14" x 14". To create the taper fold in half and measure 1" inch in from the cut side. Mark with the fabric marking tool. With a straight edge line up the mark to the bottom edge of the fabric. Draw a line then cut along line. The top should measure 12" and the bottom should measure 14". Cut 1 piece 20" x 20". To create the taper fold in half and measure 2" inch in from the cut side. Mark with the fabric marking tool. With a straight edge line up the mark to the bottom edge of the fabric. Draw a line then cut along line. The top should measure 16" and the bottom should measure 20".

Okay now that part is over lets get on to the fun part; sewing the pieces together. Excited yet?

Step 2: Finish all the edges

The next set of photos shows me finishing all the edges. I have an overlock machine so I serge all the edges. You can finish off your edges by doing a zig zag stitch along the edge or by using the turned-under method. Finish the edges of all the of the pieces except the ties. Next you will hem the edges by folding over the edge about 1/4" and pressing with an iron to set the fold line. Then top stitch. (See photo # 3) Hem the sides and bottom of all three layers. You don't have to hem the top because it wont be seen. Hem the sides and the bottom of the skirt under layer. I like to double up the top of the apron and that is why I have you cut 1 piece of fun fabric and 1 piece of under-layer fabric. This is optional but I like to hide my embroidery stitches. It also gives the top some stability. If you are going to add a letter it's easier to do it at this point before the pieces are attached together. Once that's done hem the sides and the top.

Stay with me the best part is coming up, making the skirt!

Step 3: Constructing the Skirt

Line up right edge of the first layer to the skirt under-layer. Create pleats to fit all the way across. I don't mark or measure this part out. Just eye it. You may have to adjust it a couple of times until it fits perfectly. Don't worry if every pleat isn't exactly the same size. No one will ever know I promise. Next, stitch across the top to secure it to the under-layer. (see photo #2) Once you have the top layer sewn on flip it back an measure down 5". This will be your line for your next layer. (see photo #3) Begin pinning and pleating just like you did the first layer. (see photo # 4) Flip back the 2nd layer and mark 5" down. Mark and attach the 3rd layer.

Super cute right? Hold it up, stand in front of a mirror and admire your work thus far.

Step 4: Making The Ties

To make the ties fold the pieces in half and serge or stitch along edge and across one side. (2 for the waist and 2 for the neck)

I like to use a knitting needle to turn the strips inside out.

Step 5: Adding the Monogram Applique

To make the monogram, print out a letter approximately 6" x 6". Then you will trace onto your sheet of heat and bond. Make sure you trace the letter in reverse so when you iron it to your fabric it will read the right way. (see photo #1) Cut around you letter and iron it to fabric E. (see photo #2) Cut it out, peel off the paper and iron it the font of the top piece of the apron. (see photo #3 & #4)

You can use a sewing machine to stitch around the letter but I like to do a running stitch along the edges of the letter by hand.

Step 6: Attach The Waist Band, Top and Tie

To attach the waist band you first need to fold over the sides and the bottom about 1/4" an press into place. (see photo # 1) You may have to fold over the sides a little more to fit it to the dimension of the skirt. (see photo #2) Pin in place and sew along the top edge to secure waistband to the skirt. Next fold up the bottom edge to line up with the top edge. Give it a good press with the iron. (see photo #3)Fold the waistband down and pin the top and the ties into place. This is where you can make an adjustment depending of the length of torso.

Top stitch all the way around the waistband securing the ties and the top.

Finally attach the neck ties. Pin at the corner of the top and stitch securing all sides.

Yea, you are finished! Isn't she the cutest little layered apron you've ever seen? If you feel like jazzing her up a bit add some trim or a ruffle along the top. Believe me when you put this apron on you won't mind all that slaving away in the kitchen.

You can also wear the apron with the top down. Kinda' looks like a skirt...now there's an idea.

This is the first layered apron I made. It's a simplified version where I didn't add a top and I used a wide ribbon for the ties.

Make Me New-Sweater #1

2010-06-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

I don't have a before and after of this project but it's pretty easy to see what I did.

I ruffled a piece of 2" knit and hand stitched it to the edge of a rather boring sweater. I added a clip to the flower, attached it to a red belt, put it over a stripped t-shit and and wallah...a cute little number.

Bubba-Loo

2010-06-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

I wish I was a popular blogger to help spread the news about my friend and aspiring photography star Kelly Willardson.

So to my 10 readers let me tell you she rocks! If I was a betting girl I would have a lot on the table for this talent. She's new at this photography thing but already she has "it". It's fun to watch her be so passionate and have such desire to learn and be better. Check her out!

We were just fooling around and these are some of the shots she got of me. I'm a tricky one to photograph. Seriously I can take a really bad picture.

Rope Scarf

2010-05-25T15:06:00.000-07:00

This scarf was inspired by a necklace I saw in a boutique during my trip to New York last weekend. I used strips of red jersey I had left over from another project. It's so easy and requires only a pair of scissors. My strips were 2" wide by 110" long and I used 8 strips. It is wrapped twice around the neck to give it some thickness.

More or less, wider or thinner, it's up to you.

Once the strips are cut give them a good pull. This lengthens them a bit and curls the edges giving them a tubular look.

Gather the ends together from both sides. Secure them with a 1" wide by 12" long piece of Jersey knit. Tightly wrap the strips around the bundle. Tuck the end into the wrap.

You can also play with the how you want to wrap the bundle. You can hide all the ends or pull them through at different lengths adjusting the ropes. The possibilities are endless. Have fun.

T-Shirt Transformation #1

2010-05-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

I purchased two of the same t-shirts on clearance last week to make this beauty. I have a good portion of the second t-shirt left and I have lots ideas so check back in to see what I come up with next.

1: Start with two t-shirts. You could easily use a different color or something you already have on hand. 2: Cut off the finished edge of one of the t-shirts. 3: Measure and cut a 6" strip. Then cut one side of the shirt so you have one long piece. 4: Make a running stitch down the center.

5: Now the fun part. Pull the thread to make your ruffle. 6: Adjust your gather to about 9" in length and pin on the uncut t-shirt right down the center. 7: Cut another strip about 2 1/2" wide by 12" long. Fold edges under and pin over center of ruffle. 8: Stitch ruffle on to t-shirt with a straight stitch.

Make Me New-Dress to Skirt #2

2010-05-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

When I saw this dress I was crazy for the print, but when I put it on it was like most dresses, just a bit too short for my g-line and my comfort level. I bought it anyway and decided to make it into a skirt.

Dresses like this are easy to transform into a skirt. Think about where you want your new waist band to be and make the necessary adjustments.

Don't take out the zipper completely. Just take it out enough to make your first cut.

Try is on at this point to check the fit. Most likely you will have to manipulate the "new" waist band for a better fit. I liked how it fit at the skirt seam but it flared at the top.

So I took out the side and middle seams and adjusted them to fit snugly.

I had to taper my seam line to get the perfect fit.

Once your fit is good you can finish it off by folding the edge over and top stitching the right side.

The final step is to re attach the zipper. I like to do it by hand.

I love Mother's Day

2010-05-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

I used to think that I deserved something really great for mother's day, you know like a diamond pendant or a weekend at the spa. I did after all give birth to 3 practically perfect children not to mention the fact that I care for these little twerps everyday. Not an easy job.

But luckily for me as the years have passed I love mother's day because it means I can reflect on the fact that I am blessed woman. God has somehow trusted me enough with 3 of his most beautiful and amazing little beings. Everyday I'm learning to love the role I willing choose but did not immediately appreciate. I mess up daily but I ask for forgiveness and try a little harder the next day. I hug them and kiss them daily.

Just being there mom is good enough for me....well, and the perfectly cleaned house.

Kate's write up on me. I love that I'm 2 years younger and I love the plaid background.

Thomas made pancakes for dinner. He also wrote me a letter at school.

Mom, the thing I couldn't live without. She can get mad, but I'm not sad because a mom is a mom is a mom, and that is that. She is the most grateful, helpful, delightful, and sweet mom you could ever imagine. She helps me live and grow, so I can be here right now.

She sacrifices her time to let me do what I love. She uses most of her money to buy us food and water to keep our family alive.

In the morning she helps us make our lunches, so we can go to school to learn and play. I the afternoon she helps me do my math homework. Then we go upstairs to do what we need to do. My mom and I go read in my bed. Then after that we go to bed and snuggle. She tucks me in bed. Then she says, "Good night," very calmly. She closes the door as soft as she can.

She tries to tell me to be kind and honest. She tries to teach me not to lie. She always tells me to treat others like you would want to be treated. Mom I will always remember you.

Jack Jack left me a surprise he's been working on for a couple of days. He said it was our family.

Made me Cry

2010-05-07T10:28:00.000-07:00

I have followed Stephanie Nielson's story like so many. You can find her at NieNieDialogues. She is an inspiration and living such a beautiful and blessed life. Here is clip of her current life. It made me cry and it made me think about a quote I once heard.

"He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which has."

England '10

2010-05-06T12:36:00.000-07:00

Where to being.

In March Chris and I went to England for a couple of weeks to visit his parents who are serving a mission in London. We toured all over. England was everything I expected it to be and more. I really feel in love. Several times my heart literally fluttered. The sights, the architecture, the markets, the food, the shows; it was all perfect. Part of my heart belongs in a big city. It was a trip that left me so full and I'm not just talking about my tummy.

Chris can you look for a new job in GB?

Carlsbad is great, but it's lacks in the charm department. Besides I don't mind wearing a coat.

I took 740 pictures. Not easy to narrow down but this post is my biggest and fullest post yet. I will spare you all the wheres and whens and the details. There's just too many.

I'll save that for the scrapbook.

Dinner..It's in the bag

2010-05-04T18:28:00.000-07:00

Earlier today while I was cleaning out my pantry I found a crumpled paper bag. Humm, what could possible be in the bag? I don't remember putting anything in here. I really had no idea. As I released the tight seal the smell revealed the mysterious contents.

Onions. Probably bought several weeks ago. Okay maybe more than several weeks ago. I'm sure I had the intention of making something fabulous.

Luckily they were still salvageable and so I opened up my new cookbook written by my talented sister in law Amy Foulger and her equally talented friend Grace Rock.

I am really excited about this cookbook. They are both great cooks and I know the collection of recipes in this book are sure to be winners around my dinner table. You can purchase it through their website www.keepingupcookbook.com

With all those onions I was so happy to find Allison's fantastic French Onion soup.

This recipe is so easy.

Step one: Cut the onion. 2 yellow and 2 sweet onions. (I just used what I had...obviously.)

Step two: Saute 1/4 cup of butter and the onions over medium-high heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step three: Cook until the onion are tender...

and golden brown.

Step four: Add 2 cans of reduced-sodium chicken broth, 2 cans of reduced-sodium beef broth

and 1/2 cup red wine. (I think I added close to a cup trying to take a picture and pour at the same time.)

Step 5: Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 sprig of thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 bay leaf and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar. Simmer about 20 more minutes.

I like to make my own croutons. Start with a loaf of french bread, thinly sliced.

Brush on olive oil.

Sprinkle with kosher salt and pepper,

garlic powder,

and Italian seasoning.

Toast in the broiler until golden brown. Don't step away ladies. These puppies brown quickly. I've burned lots of bread while answering the door. I turned them over to also brown the other side. This makes them nice and crunchy. Perfect for the soup.

Top with Swiss or Gruyere cheese. I didn't have either and so I used Parmesan which was just as yummy. This soup is soooo good it's drinkable.

Now if I could just get my kids to like it just as much.

Thank you Amy and Grace for the cookbook.

Sunday's Dinner Conversation-The Lost Laugh

2010-05-02T21:14:00.000-07:00

Simple Easter

2010-04-30T12:28:00.001-07:00

Easter this year was not full of hoopla and hype. Kate wore I dress she's had for awhile, we dyed eggs from a kit I got on clearance last year for $1.00, we had a modest egg hunt and topped off the beautiful day with ham and cheese sandwiches for dinner.

It was about being together as a family. It was a perfect Easter.

Make me New-Dress to Skirt #1

2010-04-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

I have a few dresses that have been in my good will pile for awhile but I recently moved them from that pile to my refashion pile. I hoped to show how I reconstructed this step by step but it got complicated quickly when I realized I had to take out the pleats in the back, add darts, re-fit the entire waist band and replace the zipper. I have two more dresses in the works that I think are less complicated and I will show how I've refashioned them.

Here is what I started with. I loved the color but I didn't like the way it fit on the top.

First I cut off the top.

It was supposed to be really simple from here but when I tried it on I realized I would have to refit the waist.

I took out the pleats in the back so I didn't have a bubble bum. I had to scoop the line a bit and add darts to create a good fit in the back. I also broke the zipper. My simple project keep getting a little more complicated.

And just when I was nearing the end Jack got a hold of my scissors and did his own altering. I had so many scrapes around but of course he had to cut along my perfect hem line.

But I was happy with the end product and the fit was nearly perfect.

Now I just can't gain any weight.

Serious Determination

2010-04-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

Kate is determined not to leave first grade without loosing at least one tooth. She's convinced she's got a defect. According to her she is the only first grader in the whole world with a mouth full of baby teeth. By the way, don't mention baby teeth to her.

I suggested she wrap floss around that slightly loose tooth and give it a good pull. The moment was classic, but unfortunately the tooth didn't budge. I told her to be patient and that when her teeth are ready they'll come out and if by chance her permanent teeth start coming in while she still has her baby teeth then I take her down and get those baby's pulled out.

If she's so concerned about not loosing perfectly looking teeth I not sure what the reaction would be if she had a few jacked up teeth. Yikes.

2010-04-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday I was taking a nap when I was awakened by a earthquake that was occurring about 132 miles south of where we live. Chris had the kids at the park and so I was alone. I have only felt one other earthquake and that was more like a mild vibration that lasted only 10 seconds. My heart started to pound with each second that went by. My glasses in my cabinet began to chatter together and my pendant light above my dinning room table started to sway. My first thought of course was, oh my gosh I still haven't filled up my huge water barrel.

The earthquake lasted about one minute and later found out was a 7.3 that hit just south of the mexican border. Although all was well it left my nerves a bit shaken so....

I FINALLY TOOK THAT AS MY WARNING and a week later ordered 6 months worth of food storage.

Peace of mind is beautiful thing.

A little less Evil

2010-04-19T17:33:00.000-07:00

When I was in Thailand I found this collection of ravens and fell in love with them. I walked away only to return later that afternoon and bought all three from the artist for $75.00. I thought they were slightly quirky but captivating. I bought them, had them wrapped up and carried them all the way home. When I got home and unrevealed my purchase to my hubby and mother-in-law and the reaction was dismal compared to my excitement. I had no idea the raven would be so attacked. It was brought to my attention that in most cultures ravens represent ideas such as, misfortune, evil, destruction, malevolence and an omen to death. Edgar Alan Poe, even described them as "...grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt and ominous creatures."

Evil shmevil I don't really care what they did or do represent to people. Besides in some cultures they represent wisdom, healing, protection and prophecy.

I think they are stunning, yes I said did say stunning little birds.

Still the discussion bugged me just enough not hang them up on the wall. I certainly didn't want to invite evil or any other bad charma into my house and so they sat for a year in a half in my closet. Until a few weeks ago when I got them out and and painted those little ravens a bright turquoise blue!

2010-04-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday the power went out allllllll day. 15 hours to be exact! Apparently someone hit an electrical box in the neighborhood. Thanks to a crappy garage door, my manual release pull was jammed. What do you alllllll day with out electricity and no car to escape with? No TV, no computer, no vacuum, no washing machine, no glue gun and of course no sewing machine! You always think having a day free of all your electrically powered stuff is nice until you can't run the disposal to releave the goop sitting in your sink. Yuck!

Well, I couldn't do a lot of things but I could cut fabric and while cutting out strips for a blanket I was making I started playing with one of the strips. Hummm what could I do with nothing but two strips of jersey rayon fabric?

This is what.

Start out with two strips approximately 24"long x 2" wide of a stretchy fabric. I used a jersey rayon knit.

Tie a loose knot right in the center of the strip.

Then keep tieing knots, alternating each side of the strip until you get to the end. Keep your knots loose.

Open up the first knot with your fingers and bring the end through the hole.

You will have to work the knotted flower a bit to get the desired shape. Tuck the edges into the folds of the knots. One side becomes the back.

Next take the other strip and bring one end through one of the knots at the edge. Pull it through until it is centered. Then tie a loose knot.

Your knot should blend right into the knotted flower. You may need to loosen it to get the desired look.

Here is a knot flower that was used with a longer strip and therefore had more knots. Tie the knot around your head like headband. If your want you can cut off the tails by twisting the band around and hiding the ends in the flower.

SUPER EASY.

Now for the photo shoot.

The bunnies were Kate's idea. She thought they were the perfect prop for the shoot.

The boys joined the fun.

Bankrupt Lot Playground

2010-04-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

Ever since Thomas got his bike for Christmas he has been anxiously waiting to ride his dirt bike somewhere other than the cul-de-sac. So a few Saturdays ago we found an open lot with plenty of what his bike needed, a lot of dirt. Jack got his turn first while Kate anxiously waited for her first lesson.

Thomas was off before I could get a picture.

Next is was Kate's turn. I was a little nervous because the dirt bike is quite a bit heavier than her pedal bike and she was wearing flip flops. Not exactly safe. She was determined to learn to ride. I love that about her. She's not going to be left in her brother's dust.

With a few and I mean a few instructions she was off.

She did awesome. No fear today from this little lady.

She was very happy with herself. It was what I like to call a BSE (building self esteem) experience.

While waiting for their turn Jack and Thomas climbed the huge dirt pile in the middle of the empty lot. They got a little help from a rope with sandbags attached.

Jack was terrified and wanted to get down and Thomas keep trying to help him. He eventually gave up and left Jack behind and made it to the top be himself.

April Fools

2010-04-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

We made these funny April Fool's glasses in Kate's class. They decorated the frames, cut them out and glued funny animal eyes in the openings. All the kids loved this project. I got the idea from a great website called Art Projects for Kids. I am one of the art moms in Kate's class and I am crazy about this site. I also love the site Deep Space Sparkle. These two women are amazing and their sites are full of inspiration.

APRIL FOOLS

I was thinking....

2010-03-28T22:45:00.000-07:00

When I sit down and really think about what I want from life,

the people that I want to surround me,

the business that I envision running,

the countries I’ve yet to visit,

the house I want to own,

the things I want to experience,

the children I’ve yet to have,

how rich and full I want my days to be,

the love and the peace I crave...

When I sit down and think about the world around me,

all the questions that I want to search to find the answers to,

the friendships I want to nourish,

the photos I want to take,

the things that I hope to write,

the walls that I will paint,

the people I will meet.

When I stop and think about the garden I hope to grow,

the challenges I will face,

the situations I hope to withstand,

the sacrifices I will make,

the ideas that will come to me,

and the conversations that I will have.

It makes all the petty, ridiculous, and silly things seem so miniscule.

I really want a life that matters and is full of purpose,

All the while trying to be the human being that I want to be

And the person I am destined to become-

Kind, Compassionate, Creative.

I want to be a better mother, a more attentive mother.

I want to be a better wife; more loving and giving.

I want a better marriage; one that aches with love and tenderness and that is not

taken for granted.

I want to be a kinder friend, one that talks less and listens more. I want to be the person that I am placed on earth to be.

............

Daily choices.

Small decisions.

Year Round Fresh

2010-03-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

While Jack and I were strolling at the farmers market I got a call from my sister in Idaho who called to tell me she was freezing her butt off and that it had been snowing earlier that day. Apparently spring was late this year. I listened as sympathetically as I could as I pulled out a fresh juicy strawberry from my basket and sat soaking up the California sun.

After enjoying my yummy strawberry I headed to the library to pick up a couple of cookbooks.

I hope to shop locally more often and use only freshest of ingredients.

He Loves Me

2010-02-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

Chris wore this shirt out to the beach on Valentines Day.

Cheesy maybe.....endearing definitely.

Be Mine

2010-02-14T15:12:00.000-08:00

Be Ok

2010-02-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

A few weeks before I came across the song BE OK by Ingrid Michaelson, I was having a particularly low week. I really felt crummy. My aches and pains were growing worse and I hardly had enough energy to function. When anyone asked if I was feeling better I responded with,"sure." Which really meant no, but I thought it kind of me to spare them the same old "I just don't feel well" story.
It was frustrating that I couldn't just make myself feel better by my own strong determination. I knew that despite what others thought was wrong with me, putting a band aid (Prozac) on a symptom of larger problems was not the answer. I knew that "whatever" it was that was wrong would involve a long climb out of the sunken pit I had fallen into, but it was something I was capable of doing.
I sat on the bed one morning pleading with myself to put on my running shoes when all I could think was, I just want to feel OK. I had given up on feeling great. OK was good enough for me.
So when I listened to Ingrid's song for the first time the words sang right to my heart.

My New Bubbly

2010-02-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

I've been clean from diet coke for 3 weeks. Yea for me!! I thought that the first week would be the hardest. I fully expected to have a few migraines and the urge to relieve it with a diet coke. I thought it was going to be the caffeine I would crave the most and therefore would be the hardest to part with. Sadly I've realized over the last few weeks just how addicted I was. I have really craved that bubbly brown. More than wanting it for the caffeine, what I crave the most is the sweetener. That constant desire for something sweet has been the hardest part of my diet coke detox.
I knew that if I was going to survive I would have to come up an alternative. Water was not going to cut it because as odd as it may sound, I don't like water. So I picked up some Sparkling Mineral water which I believe is the closest healthy alternative to soda. ( Not to be confused with other Sparkling Water that still contains artificial sweetener.) Drinking mineral water is an acquired taste, but I've learned to love this bubbly thirst quencher, maybe not equally to soda but enough to pull me through.

My hair and skin have never been so happy.

Benefits of Drinking Mineral Water:

Mineral water is extremely helpful in replenishing not only water that is naturally lost from the body, but it also helps to balance electrolytes due to the fact that mineral water is full of electrolytes (minerals) which naturally dissolve in the water.
Mineral water is also known to help combat bacteria and funguses.
Mineral water is consumed by many on a daily basis to help detoxify the body of potentially harmful substances. These substances are usually known as toxins and can affect the body negatively in many ways.
Finally, many individuals that drink mineral water on a daily basis do so for its therapeutic properties. Many believe that mineral waters can reduce pain, aches and swelling due to the inflammation of muscles and joints. Others believe that mineral water can play a role in curing certain types of diseases and chronic conditions.

glaswater.com

2010-02-07T10:42:00.000-08:00

Just like a delicious bowl of Ben and Jerry's Pistachio ice cream, very naughty I might add, this bowl of garden roses is just as yummy! I think I going to hang it on my refrigerator. I'm hopping when I look at it I will be just as satisfied.

photo credit

The Happy Pair of Rain Boots and the Boy who Wore them.

2010-02-01T16:55:00.000-08:00

When my mom gave Jack a pair rain boots for Christmas I thought he'll love them but those boots will never see a puddle. We live in Southern California where it rarely rains. A few years ago we went close to 300 days without a drop of rain. Even when it does rain it's usually not enough to create big puddles for splashing. A couple of weeks ago we had record rains and for a solid week.

Jack and his pair of rain boots were over joyed with not only the puddles to jump through but also with the streams running down the gutters.

Mom on Strike Report

2010-02-01T08:31:00.001-08:00

I woke Saturday with Kate climbed into bed next to me and asked if I was back. And only seconds after I told her I was back and gave her a hug Thomas walked in to complain about some injustice. I rolled my eyes, pulled the covers up over my head and thought oh brother what did they possible get out of yesterday? For me personally I enjoyed many hours reading in my bed. It was lovely. When one of the kids would ask me for something all I had to say was "strike" and they left the room. I never felt so powerful!

I lamented a bit that my kids were not magically changed into perfectly happy non complaining children. At least that is what I hoping for after a day on strike. And then a small but profound thought came to me. They are little works in progress and they have imperfect parents showing them the way. Okay, okay I get it. I'll be patient, and more loving, and I will listen more. The last one probably the most important.

As I thought about the previous day I do think there were some very good lessons learned for all of us. I think my kids realized how much I do for them and how much they rely on me. They also realized how capable they are and how much they can do for themselves. For example Kate was proud of herself for walking allllll the way home. Before that I don't think it ever crossed her mind that she could walk all that way with out me and now she knows if she really needs to she can. Thomas already does a lot for himself but I think he realized just how much I do for him running him around to all his activities and lessons and that I am not the keeper of all this things.

I think going on strike did have it's payouts even if they were small.

I'm sure it wont be the last time either.

MOM on STRIKE

2010-01-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

I have had it up to my eyeballs with the whining, the demands, the rudeness and lack of appreciation my three little shizzers have been demonstrating lately that it has left me with no other choice but to go on STRIKE. I sat them down and let them know what I was doing and why. They pleaded and shead a few tears begging me not to strike. I resasured them that I was not physically going anywhere, but their mom as they knew it would not be back until saturday. I'm looking forward to day off.

For the next 24 hours I will not do any of the following:

BEFORE SCHOOL

Make them separate breakfasts.

Make them all separate lunches for school (noodles with an apple for Thomas, cheese Sandwich and orange for Kate and PJ sandwich and fruit strip for Jack)

Help Kate find a comfortable, cute, matching, no pink, no flowers, no polka dots, no leggings, no colored pants, no skirts, no sweaters, no itchy waistband, no just barley too long pair of pants, no baggy or puffy tops outfit for the day. Oh and did I mention socks that fit perfectly!

Help Kate pull her hair back into a tight but not too tight ponytail.

Help Jack (who thinks it's funny to run and hide) get dressed for the day.

Put Jack on the naughty mat for not getting dressed.

Listen to Thomas whine and complain that Kate is going to make him late for school.

Remind the kids to get their homework in their backpacks.

Help Kate find her library book.

Suggest for them to put on a jacket because it's cold outside.

Go and get Thomas' sweatshirt out the car that he left there from the day before.

Listen to them whine about the fruit and veggies I put in their lunches.

Listen to Kate complain that she does not like the military channel and that's all Thomas watches and take turns.

Threaten to take the TV away for a week if it's on the next morning.

Listen to Jack whine for a refill of milk in his sippy cup.

Remind Thomas that simply splashing some water on his hair and smoothing down it with hands is not really combing your hair.

Sign their reading cards.

Listen to Thomas' complain that he reads more than I mark on the card.

Convince Kate that she needs to go to school and can't stay home just because she has a little scab on her lip. (20 minute ordeal)

Listen to her moan for another 10 minutes.

Sign their Thursday envelops.

Help Thomas' find a piece of his homework he swears he left right by the phone.

Listen to them fight over who gets the first turn reading the scriptures.

Listen to Thomas whine that Kate's turn is over.

Listen to Kate whine that Thomas is bossy and mean.

Tell Jack to sit still while we pray.

Tell all the kids to "JUST KEEP YOUR FREAKING HANDS TO YOURSELF!"

Remind Kate 5 times to hurry and get her shoes on because she'll be late for the carpool.

Tell Thomas to chill out because he's not going to be late.

Tell Jack "no you can't have another sippy cup until you finish your breakfast."

Try my darnedest to not loose my cool!

AFTER SCHOOL

Pick them up after school. (They will be walking home! They have never walked home from school. I'm sure moms in the neighborhood are going to think of me as crewel and slightly ill fit to be letting my 8 and 6 year old walk alllllllll the way up the hill to our house. My neighbor who I carpool with gave me a strange look this morning when I told her I would still be their pick up her son and that Thomas and Kate would be walking.)

Listen to them whine and complain that is took forever to walk home.

Listen to them fight over who was slowing who down.

Listen to them whine about being starving and demand they have a snack right this very instant.

Listen to them complain that we never have anything good to eat in the house.

Take Kate to gymnastics.

Take Thomas to Tennis.

Help Kate with her homework.

Call any of the girls in the neighborhood for a play date.

Help Thomas with his Thomas Edison Report that is due in a week.

Help Thomas with his homework.

Listen to Thomas tell me I'm don't know what I'm talking about.

Go the store to get poster board.

Help Jack get onto the NickJr. web page.

Listen to Jack cry because I wont help him get onto Nickjr.

Listen to them fight about who's turn it is to pick out the TV show.

Listen to the Kate complain about Thomas bugging her.

Listen to Thomas complain about Kate bugging him.

Make dinner.

Listen to them fight over who gets to say the prayer.

Listen to them whine because they don't like the dinner.

Help them with dishes.

Bribe Jack to take a few more bites of dinner.

Listen to them complain about doing the dishes.

Listen to them fight over who gets to rinse and not load.

Clean up the family room.

Tell the kids several times to put their stuff away.

Kindly try and talk Jack into helping me pick up the toys.

Bribe Jack with treats to help me pick up the toys.

Threaten the naughty mat if Jack won't help me pick up the toys.

Send Jack to the naughty mat.

Listen to him moan for 4 minutes while he sits on the naughty mat.

Vacuum all the crumbs left by the kids not eating over a plate.

Put their shoes away.

Listen to Kate tattle on Thomas about whatever.

Tell them 5 times to hang up their backpacks.

Tell Kate 5 or more times to put away the markers and put her homework back into her backpack.

Listen to Jack cry because Thomas was a little too rough.

Listen to them complain that I'm a mean mom for making them help around the house.

Remind them that it's been several days since they took a shower and are starting to smell

Stinky.

Listen to them fight over who gets the shower first and who doesn't have to share with Jack.

Help Kate wash all the conditioner out of her hair.

Help Jack wash all the cracks.

Help Thomas get a dry towel from the laundry room.

Listen to Jack and Kate whine about getting out the shower.

Help Jack get his PJ on.

Help Kate find the only PJs she's willing to wear that night.

Tell them 5 times to brush their teeth.

Chase Jack all over the house with the tooth brush.

Listen to them fight over who gets to read with me and who gets to read with dad.

Help Kate find the book she's reading.

Help Thomas find the book he swears he left right by his bed.

Tuck them 3 times.

Convince Kate she's tired and it's time to turn off the lights.

Say it with me

MENTAL EXHAUSTION

GOING ON STRIKE ALSO MEANS I WILL ALSO NOT GET TO:

Hug them in the morning and asking them how they slept.

Listen to them talk about all the excited things that are going on that day.

Tell Kate she settled on a great outfit and that she looks darling.

Congratulate Jack on his dry pull up from the night before.

Give him a big hug.

Write Kate a note for her to find in her lunch pack.

Hug and kiss and wish them a great day at school.

Cheerfully ask them how their day went.

Listen to them talk about their highs and lows.

Tell them how proud I am that they made good choices.

Look through their work and gleam at what good students they are.

Consoles them when they get hurt playing outside.

Find the perfect bandage for the invisible owie.

Listen to them read.

Listen to them say their prayers.

Hug, kiss and cuddle with them at night.

*I will return Saturday Morning in time for breakfast.*

Dear Diet Coke,

2010-01-19T13:25:00.000-08:00

I write this letter to you with sadness and much reluctance but you and I know this day would eventual come. You have been with me for so long but I have to do what is right for my body and so it is with a great deal of grief that I am saying good bye. It's not the color your syrup or the shape of your can it's simple because you're full of crap. Crap that I'm more and more convinced is bad for me.

Why the sudden cut off after years of a joyful relationship? It's simple. I don't feel well and I want to feel well again and I have a hunch (and lots of articles to back me up) that you may have something to do with it.

For years now I have keep you as my constant companion. You have always been there for me whether at home, in the car, among friends, in the morning or late into the afternoon. You traveled with me, enjoyed long days at the beach with me and got me through some pretty crummy hours. I especially loved my McDonald runs when we would greet at the drive up window and I would take you in my hands and joyfully guzzle your cold fizzes down my quenching throat. The first gulp was the best moment and the one I will miss the most. And to enjoy a whole 44 oz of you for a mere 99 cents was a real treat. (Mario, Lisa and Jasmin I will not be seeing you quite as often. You guys rock and are McDonald's best!)

I like you so much I wanted you around every day, sometimes several times a day. But I know now that that is part of your trick to keep friends. And lets face it dependency in any relationship is ultimately destructive.
For years I have weighed the debate; Toxic! Safe! Poisonous! Harmless! Very confusing actually but I always ended up believing you really weren't "that bad" and so I keep you as a friend. My mother always thought my consumption was bad for me. But who listens to their mother, even if they're usually right? It has been my only vice; no tonics, margaritas, cigarettes or two piece bathing suits, just you.

While there does exist a happy list of why I should continue our relationship the list to kick you to the curb is even longer. The caffeine, the artificial sweetener, the other chemicals doing who knows what to my body is reason enough not to mention each week my recycle bin is overflowing with aluminum cans. Which is great that I'm recycling but wouldn't be better for the enviroment if I never bought the cans in the first place? I've also read this article, and this article and this article. But the tipping point for me was when I read this:

"If you are using aspartame ... and you suffer from fibromyalgia symptoms, spasms, shooting pains, numbness in your legs, cramps, vertigo, dizziness, headaches, tinnitus, joint pain, depression, anxiety attacks, slurred speech, blurred vision, or memory loss - you probably have aspartame disease.
I will explain why Aspartame is so dangerous: When the temperature of this sweetener exceeds 86 degrees F, the wood alcohol in ASPARTAME converts to formaldehyde and then to formic acid, which in turn causes metabolic acidosis. Formic acid is the poison found in the sting of fire ants. The methanol toxicity mimics, among other conditions, multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus. Many people were being diagnosed in error. Although multiple sclerosis is not a death sentence, Methanol toxicity is!This also applies to cases of tinnitus and fibromyalgia.
STOP drinking diet sodas and be alert for Aspartame on food labels! Many products are fortified with it! This is a serious problem.
Diet soda is NOT a diet product! It is a chemically altered, multiple SODIUM (salt) and ASPARTAME containing product that actually makes you crave carbohydrates. It is far more likely to make you GAIN weight!

DING, DING, DING, DING, DING fibromyalgia like symptoms HELLO.

Fact or exaggerated fiction? I don't know for sure but if the claims are even a bit true, well that good enough for me so Monday January 18th was the last time I will ever hold you in my hands.

So long friend....so long,

Me

Trader Joes

2010-01-17T15:16:00.001-08:00

My favorite neighborhood would include a Trader Joe's within walking distance. It is one of my happy places, a small piece of heaven with bargain prices. It's my favorite place to buy food. I love that Trader Joe's is different from most supermarkets, in that you won't find a lot of branded products. Instead, you'll find many interesting and unconventional items.

Here is a list of my favorites:

1.I love their smooth authentic Greek yogurt with honey

2. The Kerry Irish butter

3. TheFrench chocolate torte

4. The Thai Sauce

5. The frozen mac and cheese (oh this is good)

6. The dried pineapple slices

7. The Corn Bread Mix

8. The Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels

9. The Molasses cookies and

10.The Frozen Mushroom risotto

And their best bargain has to be the orchids.

While I love Tj's but I do a couple of minor complaints. Tj's is known for products to suddenly appear and just as they work there way into your regular shopping list and they disappear without notice. Bottom line-if you like it hoard it. Tj's is also not a one stop shopping place. Sorry ladies, you'll have to make one more stop on the way home for the diet coke and deodorant.

Here is the link for their yummy recipe's:

http://traderjoes.com/recipes.html

Handbook 2010

2010-01-09T08:15:00.000-08:00

(photo credit)

I came across an email given to me last month and in it included The 2010 Handbook.

I think it's brilliant. (my new word for 2010)

2010 Handbook

HEALTH:

1. Drink plenty of water

2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.

3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.

4. Live with the 3 E's- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.

5. Take time to pray.

6. Read more books that you did in 2009.

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.

9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minute walk daily. And while you walk smile.

PERSONALITY:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

12. Don't have negative thought or thing you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

13. Don't over do. Keep you limits.

14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.

16. Dream more while your awake.

17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/Her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.

20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

21. No one is in charge of your happiness expect you.

22. Realize that life is a school and your are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

23. Smile and laugh more.

24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

SOCIETY:

25. Call your family often.

26. Each day give something good to others.

27. Forgive everyone for everything.

28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.

29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

30. What other people think of you is none of your business.

31. You job won't take care you when your are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

LIFE:

32. Do the right thing.

33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful of joyful.

34. GOD heal everything.

35. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up an show up.

37. The best is yet to come.

38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank God for it.

39. Your inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

40. You have one life, live it the best you can.

Holiday Treats

2009-12-20T09:48:00.000-08:00

Golden Caramels
recipe from Martha Stewart
makes 150
4 cups heavy cream
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
4 cups light corn syrup
4 cups sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into 16 pieces
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Vegetable-oil cooking spray
Spray an 11 3/4-by-16 1/2-inch baking pan (this is a half-sheet pan) with vegetable-oil spray. Set aside in a spot where it will not be moved. In a 2-quart saucepan, combine cream and sweetened condensed milk; set aside.
In a heavy 6- to 8-quart saucepan, combine corn syrup, 1 cup water, sugar, and salt. Clip on candy thermometer. Over high heat, cook until sugar is dissolved, stirring with a wooden spoon, 8 to 12 minutes. Brush down sides of pan with a pastry brush dipped in water to remove any sugar crystals.
Stop stirring, reduce heat to medium, and bring to a boil. Cook, without stirring, until temperature reaches 250 degrees (hard-ball stage), 45 to 60 minutes. Meanwhile, cook cream mixture over low heat until it is just warm. Do not boil. When sugar reaches 250 degrees. slowly stir in butter and warmed cream mixture, keeping mixture boiling at all times. Stirring constantly, cook over medium heat until thermometer reaches 244 degrees (firm-ball stage), 55 to 75 minutes. Stir in vanilla. Immediately pour into prepared pan without scraping pot. Let stand uncovered at room temperature for 24 hours without moving.
To cut, spray a large cutting board generously with vegetable-oil spray. Unmold caramel from pan onto sprayed surface. Cut into 1-by-1 1/4-inch pieces, or other shapes. Wrap each in cellophane or waxed paper.

Cherry Cheese Pinwheels

1/3 cup shortening

1/3 cup butter

2 cups of flour

3/4 cup sugar

1 egg

1 tbs. milk

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. salt

1 3-ounce package cream cheese, softened

1/4 tsp. almond extract

1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries

1/4 cup finely chopped toasted almonds

In a mixing bowl beat the shortening and butter with an electric mixer on medium hight speed about 30 seconds or till softened. Add about half of the flour to the shortening mixture. Then add the 3/4 cup sugar, egg, milk, baking powder, vanilla, and salt. Beat till thoroughly combined, scraping sides of bowl. Then beat or stir in the remaining flour. Divide dough in half. Cover and chill about 3 hours or till dough is easy to handle.

Meanwhile, in small mixing bowl stir together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and almond extract. Stir in the chopped cherries.

On a lightly floured surface, roll each half of the dough into a 10-inch square. With a pastry wheel or sharp knife, cut each square ito sixteen 2 1/2 inch squares. place 1/2 inch apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Use a knife to cut 1 inch slits from each corner to center. Drop a level teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in each center. Fold every other tio into the center to form a pinwheel. Sprinkle chopped nuts in the center and press firmly to seal.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes or till edges are firm and cookies are slightly puffed. Cool on cookie sheets for 1 minute. Remove cookies and cool on wire racks. Makes about 32.

The Humble Gingerbread House

2009-12-15T09:50:00.000-08:00

Lowering my expectations when it comes to crafting with my kids has been a good lesson. And that is, it's the time spent that makes the difference in the end, not how grand the presentation!

Less is more and spectacular isn't always better.

Isn't our gingerbread house splendid?

Made by Thomas, Kate and Jack

Thanksgiving Feast '09

2009-11-26T09:52:00.000-08:00

No thanksgiving would be complete with out fresh homemade rolls. Yummy!

Kate and Olivia stand to get their pictures taken with The Beauty of the Feast, the turkey. Yes that is bacon covering the top of this delicious hunk of meat. Thanks Traci for the recipe. It was winner!

My two nieces Izzy and Emma and their cousin Sabrina.

I put Ann in charge of bringing the dessert because she can really bring the goods. She makes an awesome apple pie!

The food was good the company even better.

This year instead of expressing what we were thankful for I decided to let everyone give a good gripe about something they weren't thankful for. It was very entertaining as we each took a turn or two getting a few things off our chests.

Thankgiving Tablescape '09

2009-11-25T09:50:00.000-08:00

It was my year to host Thanksgiving and the most important part (after the feast of course) is the tablescape. For me this is the most fun part of the festive day. It means I can go to flower mart and creatively come up with something wonderful and hopefully worthy of a magazine cover or at the very least to impress my guests. I'm not sure I did either but Lulu (one of my favorite sister-in-laws) and I had fun in the making.

We needed a table large enough to fit 1o adults and 2 almost adults, which I didn't have but thanks to my husband's tennis table purchase I had a surface worthy of our scape. I was able to make it work beautifully, expect that fact that the guest would have to maneuver their legs through the support bars that ran along either side- just a small in convince. Next I needed a table cloth large enough to fit my large table. I found these very modern shower curtains (real fabric, no plastic here people) at Target and wah lah instant table cloth.

Lulu and I got up early, around 7 am and headed to the flower mart. (Which is by the way one of my most favorite places following only shortly behind Anthropologie and Trader Joe's.) We unfortunately didn't get there early enough for that busy day because most of delicious flowers were gone. We still managed to pick out a few bunches as well as the lovely orange flowers found at Von's grocery store. FYI- Von's has a decent flower department. I love that they sell a bunch of 'just greens', which can be so helpful we making an actual arrangement. Come on Costco get it together.

I found this awesome manzanita branch which I knew would be perfect to hang my lanterns from. About 20 tacks was all it took to insure that puppy was staying put for dinner.

And there you have it my Thanksgiving Table Scape '09.

Fairy Gardens

2009-11-09T14:03:00.000-08:00

I'm not one for garden art but when I saw these little landscapes I feel in love. I can't wait to make a miniture fairy estate with Kate and because it's green all year round I won't have to wait until spring.

Want to live here? Check out what plants Jon Millman used in his little garden.
It's feng shui in a bowl.

I also love this one made by K for themagiconions. The site gives a step by step guide to designing and making a scape like this with your kiddies.

Dawn from the-feather-nest made this simple garden.

At the sliver penny you can find sweet fairy cottages and markets.

Little felt cottages like this one found on Rounien's photostream inspire me to learn the art of felting.

The Black Witch Project

2009-10-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

Every year I tell myself I'm not going to buy or make one more Halloween decoration, but then every year I get the Martha Stewart Halloween edition and I just can't help myself.
This year I was finally going to make the witch that was on the cover of her Halloween edition that came out several years ago. I headed to the hardware store to get the materials; plywood, jigsaw (excited about finally being a jigsaw owner), black paint, conduit tubing and some thing-a-majigers to attach the conduit to the cut out witch.
As I was approaching my car with my new purchases it became very clear that my 8' x 4' heavy piece of MDF was not going to fit in my MDX. Not even close. I knew if I called Chris for help he would try and talk me into taking the thing back or making the witch smaller. Not going to do it. Besides he didn't have any means of helping me anyway. I called Jill. After all she has big 14 passenger van, but she didn't answer her phone. What was I to do?
I must have looked desperate and defeated because two nice guys driving a pick up truck who over heard me telling the home depot employee I just lived down the street and would I have to come back and pick it up later nicely offered to drive it to my house.
I told them I lived just down the street and I would really appreciate the lift for my-larger-than-my-car-would-fit piece of wood. They loaded her up and we were off.
On my way to my house I looked back into my rear view mirror to make sure they were following when it occurred to me that they could be burglars or worse yet serial killers! What was I thinking? I didn't have any creepy feeling but unfortunately you never know now days so to be on the safe side I had them unload the piece of wood up against my neighbors garage just in case they came back for me. Wrong house wrong girl; smart thinking. I payed them 10 bucks which they appreciated and they left on their way. As soon as they drove out of sight I awkwardly dragged the soon to be witch into my driveway.

Martha makes it easy. Just one click and your life size witches and cats print out onto about 30 pages. Cut and tape her together and your ready to trace her out onto your piece of wood. I have no pictures of me cutting her and her cats out but I did it all by myself in just a few hours! It was fairly easy, but I was amazed at the thick layer of saw dust the blanketed my driveway. I can sort of see why they suggest you attach the jigsaw to a vacuum.

Paint them black, attach the poles, lantern and broom stick and ta da-your very own yard art.

I cut the bats out of the stiff craft felt that comes in sheets. They are held on with duck tape. I got this idea from Country Living.

I loved the bats so much I created a bat cave inside my family room.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Watering Can Arrangment

2009-09-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

I made an arrangement recently to be donated for a friends charity dinner party. I love making arrangements and they're easy to create if you follow a few simples rules.

Start with a bunch of.......

sunflowers

The happy flower.

dahlias

They're great in arrangements because they add volume and come a variety of stunning colors.

carnations
Once banned by many florist, carnations are now considered modern and relevant thanks to Martha. They're also inexpensive and look luscious when several are grouped together.

and pepper berry.

This is a great foliage because it's drapey and the berries add a pop of color.

Pretty analogous color combination.

Choose a container. I choose this recycled watering can I picked up from Marshalls.

Start with the fuller flowers first to establish balance and proportion. You eye should move easily around the entire arrangement. Place flowers in directions to create this flow.

Then fill in with the other remaining flowers. I think it looks better if you flowers are grouped in 2's and 3's when adding them to the arrangement. Don't forget to rotate the arrangement often so it's balanced from all sides.

And wha lah, in less than 20 minutes you have a perfect fall arrangement.

Salon Cheap

2009-09-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

My new cash budget has forced me to make a few cuts and lets face it, getting your hair cut and colored can be expensive so I'm back to the box. Although I love going to get my hair done, I've always had a hard time paying to get my hair colored because I know how much color costs. It cost me about 9 dollars to color my own hair. That's considerable savings! Forget the salon experience for now, I will give myself a head massage when I shampoo. I'd rather put the saving to better use like the sweater I've been eyeing at Anthropolgie.

I've colored my hair on and off for about 7 years. Here's what I've learned.

1. WHEN IT COMES TO COLOR, GUESSING IS BAD.
Don't be fooled by the model's hair color on the box. Note: You will not magically look like the gorgeous model on the cover of the box nor will you hair color always resemble the color. Also the descriptive adjectives such as "caramel" or "chocolate" can be misleading. Instead, follow the shade guide on the side of the box. I read that's it's suggested to pick up the box you are most attracted to, then put it back and grab the next lighter one and to stay within 2 shades lighter or darker than your natural color.The further you stray means more maintenance. I haven't always followed this advise partially due to my obsession with deep and rich colors.

2. FINDING THE PERFECT HUE CAN BE TRICKY.
There are many tones within the blond or brown spectrum and it can be hard to find the perfect combination. Not to long ago I colored my hair brown that had a burgundy undertone. It was a rich color but the red undertone was a little on the purple side. Not exactly what I was going for and probably not the right color for my skin tone. You learn quickly that while it takes a good level of self confidence to pull of a bad color you don't want to make that mistake again. You live and you learn. Finding what works for your skin color is the key. I am still learning but I found this clip to be helpful.

Watch CBS News Videos Online

3. THERE ARE A FEW NECESSARY THINGS YOU'LL NEED IF YOU'RE GOING TO BE YOUR OWN COLORIST.
You will need a wide-tooth come, which you can use to distribute dye and after-color conditioner evenly from root to tips; A tub of petroleum jelly or conditioner, to smooth along your hairline and on your ears to prevent dye from staining your skin. Be careful not to get it on the hair it self; Several towels designated for hair color only to be used as a drop cloth. Spills and spatters happen from time to time and you want to be prepared. FYI- Color doesn't come out of anything; Gloves to protect your hands from the dye; A kitchen timer to keep track of the minutes to avoid processing your hair too long and butterfly clips to use to section off your hair. I have also found that a bottle of porosity control is key to good coverage and even color whether your covering your whole hair or just just touching up your roots. I also color my own eyebrows to match my hair color. My favorite products are L'Oreal Hair Color and Clairol Hair Color.

4. WHEN YOU'RE DYING YOUR HAIR, COVERAGE AND TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Don't wash your hair for a day or two before coloring. The natural oils in your hair act as a barrier to the chemicals in the hair color. Your ends soak up more color because they're drier, so they tend to turn out darker or lighter than the top. To prevent this, apply dye to roots first, then to mid-length hair. Leave the formula in only as long as the directions indicate. I've read that letting it sit for longer won't improve coverage, and the color will come out dull and flat. Set the timer as soon as you start applying the dye, not when you finish. Another tip is to mist with water before coloring. This will keep ends from processing too long.

Good coverage around the hairline is important to get the natural look. I have never been able to get really good coverage without staining the skin around my hair line just a bit so don't color on a day you will going out. The especially applies when you dye your eyebrows.

5. WHEN YOU'RE DONE WITH THE DYE JOB, IT'S NOT THE END OF YOUR WORK

You want to protect your investment and make it look good for as long as you can. I read that you should wait a full day until you wash, since it takes 24-hours for pigments to settle in to the hair shaft. I guess this means rise out the color but don't shampoo. I will try this next time to see if I makes a difference. And condition, condition, condition. I use a once a week deep conditioner every other day.

Now if I could just learn how to successfully give myself highlights.

My New Credit Card

2009-09-15T00:42:00.001-07:00

I've always had a reluctance to going "all cash", but I've known for awhile it's what I've needed to do. I've dreaded it actually. My mom was on an all cash diet growing up. I remember my dad gave her an x amount of cash on Monday and by Wednesday she was out. There were several occasions my mom left the grocery store still owing 10 or so dollars. She would hurry home from the grocery store scrounge up the money and return to pay the cashier the money due. The employees at Days Market knew my mom well and knew she would always return.
My mom never complained about her all cash diet but I did sense the stress as she would have to explain that whatever we wanted or needed that week would have to wait. Our financial situation at home was never desperate thank goodness but there were leaner years when we had to be frugal. My parents had 8 of us to feed, cloth and involve in extra-curricular activities. Provident living was just a way of life.
So whats my issue with all cash? Well growing up with my limited perspective of the situation it seemed to me that my dad giving my my mom a weekly amount of cash was controlling and demeaning. Not two words I would typically use to describe my dad. There was also some embarrassment I felt as my mom used cash to pay for things. At a young age it never occurred to me that using cash not only helped my mom stay within a budget but that I was learning valuable lessons in restraint and gratitude.
10 or so years had passed and I got married. Previous to that I had one credit card with limited expenses and financial responsibilities. All the major stuff in my life was payed for; housing, school and a car which meant that everything else was disposable. I payed for the things I wanted and the for the most part the needs got taken care of. It was no different when I got married. Sure I didn't get everything I wanted but I've never really felt deprived either. I also married Mr. Foulger (a.k.a. Mr. Frugal.) Being married to Mr. Frugal has over the years has brought certain challenges but it also has brought it's rewards. Mostly thanks to him we have never in 12 years owed more on our credit card than what we could pay. We have always moved forward financially which has been a blessing. But with each increase there was always a new set of expectation as too how much I could spend and the lifestyle I thought I deserved to have.
One thing I have always taken pride in myself is that I am a lover of all places where things are sold or given away. It doesn't matter if it's a garage sale or the Nordstom sale I love it all the same. And being the one in the family who does the majority of the spending the responsibility the how and where the money is spent is mine. It's a big responsibility and can be challenging. I don't think I took it seriously enough nor do I think I've gotten the credit I deserve for my efforts, but I do think it's me who can change that.
I've always admired my sister Traci for her frugality and honesty when it comes to money. She told me one time that being in control of your money is about making choices. What does that mean making choices? My philosophy was I need therefore I get. Relatively speaking anyway.
I have always used a credit card. It was supposed to me keep track of my spending while racking up delta miles. Problem is I never looked at the statement at the end of the month. Chris would say something like this "did you look at the credit card this month?" I would respond by saying "Umm ya. I know it was high this month but there was ________(whatever the excuse) that made the amount so high. There was always justifcation. How did that happen? Unconsciously that's how. I was spending unconsciously. Unconscious spending happens when you have no accountability, no bottom line, no reconciling of the money spent. It's not about spending money just because you have it it's about being responsible with the money you have to spend. One of Mr. Frugal's favorite sayings is "just because you have it doesn't mean you should spend it."
For the most part I really didn't think I spent a lot of money and ironically I felt like I didn't have a lot either but the credit card statement proved the contrary. When I spent unconsciously the choice of how I should spend my money was taken away from me. My feelings of being powerless and being controlled was of my own doing and not the doing of anyone else.
Restraint and wanting less is, I think, a good thing. It's having power and control subjected by no one else but you.
I have high expectations for my all cash diet.

Here I go.

Boston 09

2009-09-05T13:19:00.000-07:00

I love Boston and with each return since we left over 7 years ago I love it even more. I grew up in the west and that is where my heart's loyalty lies but admitly my heart has had a long time love affair with the Northeast. I think it started with my first trip to Philadelphia when I was 15. This is when I first realized that Utah really was a desert. The trees went on forever! My love deepened with visits to Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire and of course New York. Which is the city I secretly wished Chris would have landed a job just out of Grad School. But of all these great places I love Boston the most. It might be because there is this sophisticated snobbery energy in the air. Or that it's full of good food and quaint little shops ready to explore. Or that it's full of diverse people and places. All are true, but the thing I love the most is it's beauty. It's interesting and wonderful like a worn piece of furniture that just gets better with age.

The best way to explore the city with kids is by bus and trolley.

While waiting for the trolley, Thomas and Kate had a contest to see who could hold onto the bus spot pole the longest. Kate won.

When we lived in Boston I rode the T (the subway) everyday to work. I think this was Jack's favorite part of the day.

You can't explore the city without walking a bit. Here's Thomas and Chris walking speedily through Boston Commons in search of a restroom.

We stopped in Boston's Little Italy for a classic peperoni pizza.

Jack loves to pull this look.

Thomas age 8, 2009 and Thomas age 1, 2002. Same Duck.

Thanks to my kids and their love to take pictures with my camera I occasionaly get in a picture.

Our view (well almost) from our old apartment.

The most excitng part of the day for Kate was when she found her perfect suvinor even though it says nothing about Boston. It was a frightingly real looking kitty cat.

I love all the old architecture. It's the closest America gets to the look of Europe.

When we lived in Boston they were working on the Big Dig project which was to put a stretch of the freeway underground. They finished and what used to be a freeway is now a garden walkway.

Gnomes

2009-09-05T00:54:00.000-07:00

I kinda have a thing for the fictional humanoid creatures called gnomes. There are many interpretations of what a gnome looks like but the most distinct characteristics are their extremely small size and subterranean lifestyle.

I just love their colorful and conical hats, their pointy ears and pudgy little bodies.

And their dwellings are well...perfectly little.

The FairyFolk

Here's the gnome I created for a friends new baby.

It's so easy to create this little t-shirt. All you need is a drawing or image, fabric, heat and bond and some embroidery thread.

The Story of Stuff

2009-08-05T22:52:00.000-07:00

The Transformation

2009-07-30T00:36:00.000-07:00

I caught Kate in the bathroom doing what all little girls do from time to time....dress up like boys. Totally normal, right???

I was impressed with her detail and the commitment to the look. Check out the battle wounds from a fist fight.

The fun lasted several hours and then she put back on her clothes, washed her face and returned to being a girl.
Kate's little pretend time made me think about what it would be like to be a man. My thoughts lasted only about as long as I think that reality would be fun....just a few seconds.

Textures of the Forest

2009-07-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

Wanting Less

2009-07-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

I found an interesting article recently on fool.com. It's content is in the same vein as my last post. The article was about wanting less. Which at times I've have wondered if that's even possible. How do you live in world that is so consumer driven and actually want less. We are so brainwashed into thinking we need and deserve it-whatever it may be and we consume at an alarming rate. It's something I've been thinking a lot about lately and for some good reason it's all slowly sinking in. I know it's a good thing but it feels a little uncomfortable. It sounds silly but I feel like I'm turning my back and walking away from s dear friend. That dear friend just happens to be my spending and my desire for the things of this world. It's hard to give that up. I don't thinking wanting less is something that happens over night, but I'm willing to go there and see how it might change me and how I consume. I'm nervous but I know it will be liberating. (photo credit)

It must start then with reprogramming ourselves to want less.

Here were some suggestions given from the article how to want less:

Throw away catalogs without going through them. –I have been doing this lately and I will have to say it does help. It's hard to desire the pretty cardigan from Garnet Hill if you never see it. Even better I should contact the distributing companies via website, email, or phone so they don't send me their catalogs anymore.
Don’t watch commercials on television. – Easy. I only watch recording TV. Although I do believe most TV distracts us from real reality and leaves us feeling bleak.
Don’t read the adverts in the weekly paper. – Easy. I don't get the weekly paper and I only use the coupons and grocery store ads from the mailers.
Don’t hang out in shopping areas for recreation. – I have three kids and not a lot of free time. I'm definitely not hanging out in shopping areas for recreation although I do have other problem areas. Like the quick trips to Target. I read once that you can spend up to 50% more when you shop with your kids. I do find that leaving my kids at home helps not to mention it makes my shopping experience much more enjoyable. I also need to cut down on my frequency to such stores. When your not there you don't know what your missing.
Take a complete inventory of your house contents for insurance purposes. – I told myself I would do this 2 years ago when there were devastating fires in the area. Still not done.
Do a weekly “27-fling boogie” a la Flylady. – I guess this is getting rid of 27 unwanted or unused items a week that go to good will or the trash. Every week? How about every other?
Visualize moving all of your stuff to a new home, or your heirs going through everything after your death. – Both scenarios are a nightmare.
Keep warranties. – I'm very good at this probably because in the pass I was a cronic returner but what does it have to do with wanting less?
Perform basic repair and maintenance. – I do feel very good about myself when I stretch the use of something a little longer.
Think about what else you might want, instead of more stuff. – Ummmm...I'm thinking.

Here's what I added to the list:

Go without.- Even if it's just for a week.
Make due.- I find it surprising how many things you have around your house to make due. I'm especially going to keep this in mind when it comes to school and Church projects. Instead of running out to get new ribbon or whatever just make due with what you have.

Be resourceful.-I'm creative I should be able to handle this one. We'll see.

Forget about keeping up with Jones's.- Concede that contest. It's too exhausting. I guess the only game worth competing is the one for the most sustainable lifestyle.

Make smart purchases- The idea is to want less not want nothing. Making better choices will hopefully lead to making fewer purchases.

Turn it off.- The computer is great but can be a fuel to the desire to wanting more.

Stay Home.-It's true that you just spend less when you don't know what your missing.

I know that learning how to want less will take months maybe years before I'm good at it but I know it will better for me, my family and the planet.

Contentment is not the fulfillment of what you want, but the realization of how much you already have.

"6 Simple Ideas" I love

2009-07-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

I wish I could take credit for this inspiring post but the words are taken from Scarcity and Abundance by Allison. This post spoke right to my heart. I hope it does yours.

i would say my philosophy about what i have- materially-can be summed up like this: i believe in honoring what i have by admiring it, putting it to its best use, and enjoying it. if you aren't doing any of those things with the stuff around you, pass it on to someone who can. get rid of it, liberate yourself!
i have found that clearing out a closet, a drawer, a garage, or the shelves in my pantry makes me feel so free. it is almost obscene! i think STUFF can be a form of mental pollution, cluttering the mind and weighing down the heart. maybe it is consumer guilt or recognition of being over-privileged, but i seem to always be aware of having one thing too many. i am working to resist the temptation to buy needlessly and working harder still to just be happy with what i already have. adding more and trading up and up can be so exhausting. why can't we just embrace what is already at our fingertips and under our very own roof?
i think the root of the problem is often in the buying. i don't think we are trained to give weight to the consumer experience anymore. credit cards and miles and miles of stores and options make it too easy to just blip! and buy without giving it much thought. and oddly enough, in areas like clothing, goods have actually gotten cheaper instead of more expensive, which i think causes a certain disposable mentality. i fall victim to this all the time (thank you, old navy!) and suddenly have a closet that contains sequined shoes, a muumuu, and a bikini that will never see the light of day!
i have been giving a lot of thought not only to better buying, but also better keeping, and i think i've boiled things down to a few rules that will hopefully help me stick to the above philosophy ....
1. invest in quality, goods if on the first go round we all bought things we truly loved regardless of price tag, i think we would be more inclined to hang on to them. granted i have an insanely good knack for loving the $200 frocks of the world, but i still think it might be worth breaking the bank for those kinds of items if it means that i will value it more highly make it a prized possession and get the best amount of use out of it. in general, i do think that price tag does correlate to quality-- things that cost more are made well and that makes them last, which means that hopefully in the long haul, you end up buying less.
2. be a good house manager and know what you have. do i know what i own? do i keep it organized? can i find it when needed? it is pretty simple. fundamentally if you don't know what you have, you can't be rightfully appreciating it. thanks to my $15/week project i now keep an inventory of my pantry and freezer and produce items. i find i waste a lot less food and my grocery store runs are much more streamlined and less impulsive. i no longer just throw in a courtesy can of tomato paste and garbanzo beans every damn time i shop. it is amazing what making a list of what you have can do for you. i haven't yet done it, but i think it could be a pretty cool exercise to take a for real inventory of all my possessions. the fact that the task seems so daunting may be a warning bell, but i think i may give it a go. if i really acknowledged on paper how many white tshirts i have or how many pairs of shoes or chopsticks or plates...maybe i would be less inclined to buy more? or maybe i would just make myself insane and make nobody ever want to hang out with me again.
3.understand the term good riddance. ah, shakespeare. he coined this phrase originally, but i really love the thought behind it. sometimes it IS good to have to part with things. it frees up space in mind and house, and if disposed of properly, it can be of huge benefit to others. dropping off unused items to charity or selling things on craigs list or the ksl classifieds ensures that someone genuinely will utilize and will appreciate your cast offs. i have had a fun time going through my kids old stuff and donating and selling things we no longer can make use of. i've been doing a lot of good riddance of late and it honestly feels like a win win. i also have learned that things that you feel are too nice to use or that may come in handy down the road are usually things you should just get rid of now. i don't see much use in saving the good china for your 50th anniversary meal or never burning the fancy candlesticks or sitting on the good couch. what a waste of space and energy...i really think if you aren't enjoying it and using it, it should find its way into someone's life who will.
4. be open to new ways to shop that are more responsible and likely more fun. i haven't completely been sticking to the pledge to buy handmade, but it is certainly a goal to try and do more of that. there are so many people creating amazing things with their own two hands and there are so many local businesses working hard to make a go of it and keep the money, the craft, and the expertise local. if i am buying, i think it is a good idea to buy in a way that benefits the little guy. chances are i will end up with something more unique and meaningful. i also love love love to support buying second hand. i used to do it purely out of the love of the hunt for something quirky and weird and truly vintage, but i think it makes sense to shop for even everyday things at thrift stores and vintage shops. it is environmentally sound but it is also really fun. i need to give a shout out to savers the unsung hero of the thrift store scene in slc. most people are true to the DI around here, but me, i'm all about savers!
5. everything old can be new again i love this trend of 'upcyling" stuff, cretaing something new and useful out of something cast off. so many stores around town and a zillion etsy shops have really cute offerings that demonstrate just how chic and cute thrift store finds can be with simple updates like a coat of cute colored paint or adding a fun, new fabric. in my own house, i love the simple trick of rotating objects and rearranging things. switching up pieces of art, knick knacks, lamps, or even big pieces of furniture can breathe new life into a room. lately when i've been getting the itch to go out and buy something because i'm sick of my house and wish i could remodel it already or doing a poor me because of my less than stellar thread count sheets or what have you, this little trick has come in very handy.
6. stay home and/or sleep on it. i really feel that the best armor i have against buying things i don't need is to stay at home more and cut myself off from the consumer temptations. if i don't go in a store, i can't buy anything. an added bonus is that you don't know what you are missing and my neighbors don't seem to care a wit that everytime they see me i am wearing the exact same tank top. i throw cute catalogs directly in the recycling bin (except curses on you mini boden!) if the temptation to buy something is super strong, i like to indulge in online wishlist shopping and try to fake myself out that i've just made a purchase. i still haven't used lay away but i think that would be another great thing to do before plunging into my next big purchase this way i can double check that i still want it 2 weeks, a month later.

--Posted By allison to scarcity and abundance at 8/01/2009 02:39:00 PM

The Clean Out

2009-07-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

I have been on a serious clean out the last few weeks in preparation for the the homegoods swap party Jill and I are throwing. The clean out has been substantial and has created quite a mess. It started with pulling a few unused books off the shelf and grew into an all out unearthing of my cupboards and closets. Last week the mess was so bad you would have thought we were moving. It felt good to toss unwanted items over the banister and create "give away" piles.

I have always enjoyed the occasion purge now and then and the feeling of good will I get as I throw a bag into the DI trailer. But this most recent purging has left me feeling well, a bit bleak. Cleaning out not only un clutters your spaces but it also reveals your weaknesses and the fact that you have a few issues. It can be a bit painful. I found me saying to myself. "oh my, am I really like that."

So here's the revelation:

I like to be well stocked in case of an emergency. What's the saying-you can never have too many ____(whatever). I'm beginning to realize this statement should only apply to food, water, tampons and ponytail holders. During my clean out I found in various locations a total of 62 glue sticks. Keep in mind I don't scrapbook nor did I buy a huge jumbo pack of glue sticks at Costco. We do like to craft at my house but 62 glue sticks seems a bit excessive. You may think that glue sticks never go bad. Not true. Those babies dry out sooner than one would expect. One problem was that they were scattered all over the house and so I had no idea I had so many. Limiting them to a few locations would help. Glue sticks were not the only heavily stocked item. I have 12 bottles of bath wash. Not a big deal except for the fact that no one in my family uses bath wash. I also have this funny thing with the number 3 when I comes to home decor items. If I find a container I love I will often will buy three. After all you never know when you'll have a dinner party that will require you to decorate a really long table.

Fine fine-I like to buy in bulk whether it's 3 or 50 and I have a hard time buying one of something especially if it's on sale. What's the saying like mother like daughter. In my case it's more like mother-in-law like daughter-in-law. In the end the extras are what's killing my budget.

I buy items I think I will use. This is particularly apparent when it comes to my art and craft stash. There is something to be said about having the right equipment and there are some supplies I absolute need like paint, brushes, pins and needles, but I don't need 5 different kinds of paint trays when all I really like to use is a plastic dinner plate. In the art vein I also like to hold on to items I plan on re-purposing. Which is OK except I often can't get over the seeming brutality of deconstructing one item for the use of another. Silly I know. It's like having a stash of wonderful ribbon, which I do, and never using it. I will have to dig a little deeper to find out what that's all about and I guess I will admit I'm be a bit of a pack rat.

I hold on to clothing items because one day I will fit into them, I will find the right pair of shoes to wear with them or they just need to be mended or altered ...yada yada. Let's be real. The idea of holding on to something you wish to fit into someday this is soooo bad for your self esteem. Especially if it's several sizes to small. There is nothing like a size 2 pair of pants hanging in your closet to make you feel like a failure. Last summer I was a size 2 but just barley. I could wear my size 2 pants but only on really skinny days when all I had consumed for three days was a diet coke. At my healthiest and happiest I'm a size 6. Boo hoo some of you might say, I would love to be a size 6, stop your pity party. I know, It's crazy but I will admit I really want to be size 2. That is what is so crazy. My reality is a very green pasture but I've always wished I was on the other side of the fence. I should know better and that size 2 is just not for me. Not because I probably couldn't get there again, but because it takes up too much energy thinking about, worrying about and trying to achieve. That energy could be put to better use like appreciating my body for what it is-a capable and healthy vessel.

As far as the other reasons I hold on to clothing I need to be honest with myself. How much time do I want to invest in mending or altering or finding the perfect companion piece for a particular item? I spend so much time as it is just caring for the clothing I do wear. There's the washing, the folding, the ironing, and then the putting away into drawers and closets that are, to be honest, overcrowded. There's a problem if your drawers are stuffed so full that all the clothes in the bottom never see the light of day. Some days I want bigger closets or more drawer space, but the truth is I have more than enough space and what I really need is to get rid of things I don't use or want. All of my unworn clothes equals waste and indulgence.

I've also realized we just have a lot of stuff. Books we will never read, manuals we will never study from, adapters and cable cords that no longer have any use. Paint cans with dried up paint, medicine that's years past expiration, stuff from college with little or no meaning, games that haven't been played in years. And the list goes on and on.....

The other day while looking around at the piles scattered around the house I couldn't help but realize the tremendous wealth I possess in this world. Not because what I have is really nice or expensive but simply because-I have a lot of stuff! All this "stuff" means I not only have an abundance of material things but I'm richly blessed with opportunities, experiences and choices-all in overflowing abundance. I'm a lucky girl!

Cleaning not only make me feel extremely grateful; it makes me actually want to want less.

Here's to order and to my things having a home.

Craft for Cash

2009-07-10T00:53:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I bought a pot holder kit for Thomas with the hope his busy little hands would find joy in creating and hopefully relieve the "I'm so bored" moments I knew would pop up from time to time this summer. Luckily for me he liked it from the get-go. They were easy to make and could be started and completed without any of my help which was the best thing about project! Kate even joined in the crafting fun along with Thomas' friend Ben.

I suggested to the boys they make a bunch and try and sell them at the fireworks show on the 4th of July. All I had to do was mention making money and they were in full production. We went to good will bought a bunch of old t-shirts and made our own recycled loopers. Here's a tutorial courtesy of the Beerhorst Family. http://www.flickr.com/photos/studiobeerhorst/sets/72157594490161717/
(I made mine a bit narrower. I found it made the loopers easier to work with.)

For the next couple of weeks they sat in their fort, a.k.a. "the pot holder sweat shop", they had made under the ping pong table and created pot holders.

Sadly this project was not unlike most goods things which eventually come to an end, but between the 3 of them they had made 35 pot holders. Due to poor planning and a sudden cringe of embarrassment at thought of my kids begging people to buy their pot holders, the 4th of July came and went. I was all for the little summer venture but I was not ready to go door to door asking for my neighbors to support my kids summer craft project and I knew asking Grandma to buy 35 pot holders would be a bit much. Luckily for us he park was holding a Jazz Festival lasting several weeks. Thomas suggested we try and sell them there. I was over my embarrassment by then and I knew they deserved to try and sell them if for nothing else then their hard work. It was Perfect.
On the last day of the festival Thomas and Kate mustered up the courage to walk around, talk to strangers and try and sell the adorable pile of recycled pot holders. They worked out a price and decided that Kate would hold the tall stack and smile while Thomas gave the spiel. I was so proud of them, especially Kate who gets queasy in the tummy just looking at a stranger; I knew for her it took a lot of courage. It started off a bit slow but once they made there first sell they were off.
It took them just 45 minutes to sell all but five. I'll admit it was a "you're a good mom" moment for me and for Thomas and Kate they left the festival more confident, proud and a whole $45.oo richer. Not so shabby.

Big Sis Love

2009-07-06T00:22:00.000-07:00

I caught Kate holding Jack lovingly while at the beach. It may have had something to do with his fear of the water. As he would say,"it too dangerous for me." But what ever the reason for this tender encounter it made me realize it's these moments that matter the most.

Today...

2009-07-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

I'm thankful for my healthy body, my upbringing and spell check. I'm thankful for hot showers and instant messaging. I'm thankful for the abundant options of fresh food in the grocery store, particularly the blueberries. For coincidences. For getting the first row parking spot. I'm thankful for words that needed to be said and that I don't know everything that is said behind my back. I'm thankful I was born well after the popularity of the corset. I'm thankful for lip balm, tampons, nonstick pans and blended fabrics with spandex. I'm thankful for options and that hard work really does pay off. I'm thankful that happiness is a choice and that at the end of a really crappy day there is sleep. I'm thankful for the ordinary.

cut out by Tina Tarnoff

Remembering Sep 1996

2009-06-29T21:50:00.000-07:00

In the late summer of 1996 I was traveling through Europe with my cousin, her boyfriend and my ex boyfriend. (That's another story.) Anyway it was a month long adventure that started Greece and took us through, Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and ended in Spain. It was an amazing trip.

We just so happened to be in Prague on September, 07 1996. It also just so happened that MJ was in Prague on his world tour and was going to be in concert that very night. The boys left early in the morning to find a Laundromat. An hour later they returned much to our disappointment with dirty clothes but they also returned much to our excitement with 4 tickets to the concert. Lucky us. Here is a video taken the night of that concert. Ya gotta love YouTube.

My first two cassettes were the Thompson Twins and Michael Jackson's Thriller. It was the summer of 1983 and was 9 years old. It's been 21 years and his music still rocks my ipod.
A blast from the past.

2009-06-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

Thomas is 8 and that means he's officially a scout. Yep, I just bought his getup this week. The first day I bought his handbook he dove right in and by the next morning he'd read the first 40 pages. I think he's more interested in the thought of getting the actual merit badges then he is with learning something new but he certainly shares my enthusiasm for a challenge.

That is why the book, You Can Do It! The Merit Badge Handbook for Grown-Up Girls, had me at Hello. I am a sucker for books or ideas presented to me as a kind of challenge. I'm a little competitive I know. While I have never thought I was really great at one thing, I love to try new things and have had to some degree success with many things. I loved this book written by Lauren Catuzzi Grandcolas because it inspires you to do just what it says, dare to dream, learn something new and do something just for you. She tells us that wherever we are is the perfect place to begin. And come on who doesn't love the idea of giving themselves a merit badge.

Here is a sampling of the guided merit badges activities in the book: Champion a cause, writing, draft a business plan, take a really good picture (photography), fire walking, gardening, building a web site, art appreciation, cooking, negotiating, flower arranging, surfing, triathlon, breaking a bad habit, strengthening your relationship, skydiving, yoga, budgeting, teaching, meditation, and the list goes on.

For my first merit badge I think I will pick something easy like flower arranging or knitting. Fire Walking seems well, just a bit ambitious.

Lee Meszaros will be my inspiration when I make my own merit badges.

Just a thought....

" We cannot have deep and enduring satisfaction unless we have self worth. We cannot have self worth unless our lives are a earnest attempt to express the finest and most enduring qualities that we are aware of. Purpose is an important condition for an enduring satisfaction with life."

No, that's the story of my life.

2009-06-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

Sweet Note

2009-06-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Jim and Grandma Elle came to visit last week for Thomas' baptism. And that means chocolate donuts and chocolate milk for breakfast. It is the thing Kate looks forward to most about their visits. Several mornings during their visit Grandpa Jim will get up early before the kids are awake and head to the donut shop. A few days after they left to go home Kate and Aunt Amy found this picture in a magazine. I found it yesterday attached with this note hanging above her bed.

Freshly Picked

2009-06-05T21:15:00.000-07:00

Last week I took the kids to pick strawberries at the strawberry fields with Kate's Daisy Troop. The kids had a great time picking while I had a great time eating. They were juicy and oh so sweet!

I helped myself to several handfuls until I noticed Jack standing awfully close to the row of strawberries with his pants down. Yes I know, thanks to me Jack thinks anything green, brown or near a tree is free game. It's embarrassing to admit my child has no potty boundaries and so while I suggest this outing with your kiddies I highly recommend you wash before you eat!

What to do with all that berry goodness...
make this of course. Recipe by marthastewart.com

Just a Little Home Sick

2009-05-30T18:40:00.000-07:00

Last night I stumbled in and out of sleep. Mostly out. My brain spun tirelessly as I tried desperately to think of nothing. The room was silent except for the hum of the ceiling fan, which became my focus. I find that thinking of one thing with all the brain power I can muster usually does the trick to shut it off completely. And so I focused on the hum and the soft breeze on my face hoping my mind would wander off to sleep. I took in a few deep breaths slowly and exhaled even slower. It wasn't long before I was drifting, not to sleep but to home.

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There is something powerful that can occur to your senses in the moments just before sleep when your brain begins to play tricks with you. It's in these moments that your mind can pull out dormant memories from the depths. This time I was not taken back to any specific memory or moment but as the breeze whirled through the room I could smell the crisp mountain air of home like it was a freshly baked apple pie pulled right from the oven. As I breathed deeper trying to heighten the clean crisp smell my heart jumped and my stomached ached a little and I felt a bit home sick.
The feeling must have lasted only a short while because before long I was carried off to sleep and back to my not so shabby reality of sun soaked days and the lovey smell of ocean breezes.

Ahhh reality.

8 years ago today

2009-05-14T15:12:00.000-07:00

It was 8 years ago today Thomas was born at 10:18 pm in Boston Massachusetts. And I have to say it was the best day of my life. I have loved all of my births but there was something particularly special about the first. I have enjoyed many things in my life but the experience of bringing babies into this world tops it all. It's an experience so amazing and magical. I loved Thomas before I held him in my arms but I had no idea my love for this perfect little creature would run so deep.

8 things I love about Thomas. (Excuse my bragging.)

1. He's socially and environmental conscious. (Well at least 100 times more than I was as a kid.) He's into recycling and he liked collecting the cans and bottles in the neighborhood until a neighbor kid told him he was technically stealing money from the city. He asked me the other day what kind of gas mileage my car gets. I told him it wasn't that great so he suggested we get a smart car like Uncle Trent. I reminded him that Uncle Trent doesn't have kids to schlep around. Several months ago I told him that he needed to take a shower more than once a week especially now that he was starting to sweat and stink like an older kid. He responded by telling me that he was helping to save water. Good one.

2. He's decisive. He is the easiest kid to take shopping. He's all about the get in and get out. He knows what he wants and is completely satisfied with the stores selection. There no looking around or wanting to check out one more store. He's a dream especially if your in a hurry.

3. He's frugal. The other day while at Target he was trying to convince me to the get the cheaper rugs for the kitchen. Although I appreciated his frugality I also told him that in some cases it's better to buy nicer. (I couldn't believe I was actually having this conversation with my 8 year old.)

4. He's smart.

5. He's low maintenance. He's good with whatever I buy him. (I hope that last forever.) Dads hair cuts and fingernail grooming is good enough for him.

6. He's creative. I love that Thomas knows how to play creatively. He and his buddy Ben put on these funny little skits and make Kate and Madelyn watch them over an over again. There's always a little mess in my house but it the kind of mess that makes me happy.

7. He's motivated. I've never have to ask him to do his homework. Luckily for me his just one of those kids that likes to do his best at everything he does. He's not lacking in the self- confidence department.

8. He still kinda likes to snuggle. The day of snuggling and thinking his mom is the best thing ever has almost come to an end which is why for now I'm loving every chance I get.

Good Enough To Drink

2009-05-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

I love tomatoes! They are my favorite veggie/fruit, whatever they are. I eat them just about everyday. Fortunately I live in a land that produces them plentifully. I love any variety, size or color, but my favorite are the ones that are home grown. There is nothing better than tomatoes straight from the backyard.
My family garden growing up always included several hearty vines of tomatoes. Nearly every dinner from summer to early fall included a plate full of sliced tomatoes. I think that's when my love affair began...somewhere around age 5.
Naturally I also love a really good marinara sauce. I love the sauces that have a nice rich tomato flavor complemented by just a few other key ingredients like fresh garlic and basil. I like making my own but I don't always have the time or find myself without the fresh ingredients. So I have been on a hunt for nearly my entire married life to find a really good marinara sauce that comes in a jar. Over the years I have tired a sizable variety with several making the pretty good list, but I've found nothing with that yummy fresh homemade taste until now.... drum roll

I am ecstatic to announce the winner of my 10 year long search for the best jarred marinara sauce.

And the winner is.... Amy's Premium Organic Mariana Sauce.

It's so good you could drink it.

Run Eat Sleep Repeat

2009-05-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago I ran the Los Angeles Ragnar Rely Race with my friend Jenny and her family. The race started at 9:00 am Friday morning in Santa Barbara and ended 25 hours 10 minutes and 47 second later in Dana Point. That's over 160 miles. Our team was named the Mike and Ikes'. Get it, one Mike and 11 Ikes.

How is works. Well to put it in a nut shell you Run, Eat, Sleep Repeat three times. Although we didn't do much sleeping. I would say it's more like Run, Eat, Chat, Complain, Laugh, Pee, Snooze, Chat, Eat Repeat three times. We also managed to squeeze in a movie on our way through Malibu. Jenny and I took in our pillows to make ourselves a bit more comfy, which was probably a little WT for Malibu but we didn't care.

Each team member ran three legs ranging from 3 to 10 miles. The total of my three legs was 18 miles. Each team piled into two vehicles. The first car dropped off the first runner, drove ahead a few miles, honking and cheering as they zoomed past the runner on their way to the next exchange point where the next runner was was waiting and so on. We did this leapfrogging pattern throughout the day into the night and into the next day until we crossed the finish line around 2:30 pm on Saturday.

This is me warming up for my big 4 miler! (I include this picture because I'm not feeling particularly strong these days. I've let myself go a bit. I haven't picked up any kind of weight besides Jack and my groceries in months. The photo by the way is generous and cropped in all the right places. I'm hoping years from now I will look back and think I should have complained less and cared less! Who know I may even say, "Damn. You looked pretty good for not feeling so strong.")

It was a little lonely on the trail. It wasn't often you saw another runner. It looks like I'm on running on the wrong side of the fence. I thought the other side looked safer myself.

Jenny was lucky enough to have one of her runs along the very scenic Pacific Coast Highway in daylight might I add.

My beach run on the other hand was at 1 am in the morning in total darkness.

Yeppy we made it to the finish line. Now lets go home and sleep.

Anyone up for next year?