Artist. Bookworm. Chef. Traveler. Writer.

Sassy Salsa

2011-03-27T23:44:00.000-04:00

I have been trying salsa recipes until I found something scrumptious. Now more than a year later I am getting a bit closer. I enjoy the picante style you can find at Mexican restaurants most, but there is a fresh style at our local grocer I love as well. Both have quite the wonderful bite.

found via Google search: salsa

Today I went (sort of) by the ones I found in the Joy of Cooking, which noted that the onions should be rinsed. I used 8 Roma tomatoes, cut each in half, took out the guts, and heated the oven to 400. Topped each with olive oil, lemon juice, and Pampered Chef's Chili Lime seasoning. Those were roasted until the tops began to brown.

Next I started on half of a purple onion that was diced in the food processor until small and then placed in cold water. I chopped one leek the same way and tossed in with the onions in cold water. Then chopped two celery stalks and about 5-6 garlic cloves and put them in a separate bowl.

I added the juice from two limes, 2 tablespoons of grape seed oil, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/8 cup chopped cilantro leaves. Those were mixed and allowed to set as I got out the tomatoes and began to chop those up finely as well.

Once the onions and leeks were drained and squeezed, I added them to the bowl as well with a few dashes of red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. After stirring well and tried a quick bite, I knew I needed more tomatoes and had none! On to the pantry: I found a lovely can of diced tomatoes with jalapenos! Score! Those were processed a bit more and then mixed well with the salsa.


Sonja's Sassy Salsa

We have enjoyed quite a bit tonight and have plenty left over for many nights to come! I'm guessing I will need to get more chips soon.

Manwich Night

2011-03-26T23:44:00.000-04:00

There have been so many delicious dinners over the past few months, that I should not have neglected my posting of each them! Last night had been a winner of all winners! I decided to make roasted chicken with roasted potatoes. Got ready and opened the chicken to sniff a putrid smell - absolutely awful!

What is a gal to do?

found via Google search: cartoon stress

Come up with something new! We had plenty of leftover whole wheat buns from the delicious bacon cheeseburgers on Monday evening (a pregnant lady needs her protein!) so I went for Manwiches. Not a fan myself considering the sloppy mess - uck! But I didn't leave myself any options with ground turkey, ground beef, four cheese Italian sausage and the salad fixings. I have been tired of meatballs since we had a whole week's worth of Italian delicacies including lasagna, pizza, and spaghetti.

found via Google search: sloppy joe

Manwiches (some call them sloppy joes) it was! I copied the first recipe I found on the internet and quickly got to the kitchen. What? No green peppers? No mustard? No celery seed or onion powder? Guess it was time to improvise (nothing new here).

I used part ground turkey and part ground beef for the meat. After it was cooked and chopped up I set it aside. Tossed in melted butter with a 1/4 chopped onion, one chopped celery stalk, and about 5 chopped garlic cloves. Let that cook while I grabbed the ketchup, tomato paste, jalapeno mild sauce, and a can of tomato sauce. Those went in next.

Now to season it up: chili powder, cocoa powder, cumin, and a few large dashes of paprika. Added some fresh lemon juice (half). Then let it simmer and tossed in the ground meat. That simmered on medium high to get the sauce boiled down and thickened.

I used the rest of the melted butter, bit of the chopped garlic (I did a whole head), basil, parsley, cajun seasoning, fresh lemon juice (the other half of the lemon), and tossed boiled red potatoes that were cut into halves then fourths. Let those cook in the oven at 500 degrees while my Manwich simmered.


found via Google search: roasted potatoes

The buns were toasted whole wheat, which contain loads of fiber for our baby-to-be!

All in all, a fabulous dinner with plenty of leftovers for lunch the following day! And boy were those leftovers worth EVERY SINGLE BITE!!! I say try your own manwich recipe with what is in your cabinets today!

Now I need to try my own enchilada sauce...hmmm I can taste it already!

A Quote Today

2011-02-07T14:36:00.002-05:00

"Imagination is more important than knowledge."
-Albert Einstein

Easy for him to say - he was a genius after all!

365 Thank Yous

2011-02-06T23:33:00.000-05:00

A recent read by John Kralik, an attorney from California, was an inspiring tale to appreciate the small things in life. It shows that when you do appreciate the small things, good will come your way. Much like karma, or the power of three. "365 Thank Yous" will make you want to do better, even if it is just writing a thank you note when you receive a gift, or some sort of gratitude from the most inconspicuous places, like your local barista or sandwich shop. For me, it will be the staff at the downtown Graziano's, they are always cheerful and polite (having the best pizza helps as well!).

On a separate note, the pregnancy is going very well, as are my ideas to stay fashionable with a big ole' belly! The joy of knowing our child is already kicking and will begin to grow even more rapidly than it already has! 10 more weeks until we find out the sex and can really begin to plan the nursery, among a million other things (like safety). Of course, we have a cruise the following week that we have to plan for, nothing can really overshadow this pregnancy and the love we share enjoying it.

Quote

2011-01-31T11:23:00.000-05:00

A few quotes that I like quite well:

"Obsession gives you something to do besides having your heart shattered by disappointment, conflict, loss."
-Geneen Roth

"Your life is nota dress rehearsal - this is it! It's show time!"
- Denise Austin

You never know when you need a quote to get you through the day!

Yumminess!

2011-01-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

The past few months have flown by from all the business! The holidays are always fun but the relaxation that follows is what I love the most. Besides cooking and keeping up with current events, my husband and I visited the emergency room during the wee hours of the morning on Christmas Eve. All in all, we're expecting a little one in late August/early September!

It came as quite a surprise considering we had a "ten-year plan!" Life never leaves room for much planning on our parts, just gotta take it as it comes! Becoming pregnant puts a new spin on life, you take more time doing things, appreciate the feel-good moments, and you begin watching your food in-take slightly more. This has sprung to life my vow to swear off chemicals, whether it is in the food I eat, or the soap and lotion that go on my skin. Before this I never realized that your skin soaks up 60% of the crap you put on your skin. In summation, if the ingredient is not something I would use while I cook, then it doesn't need to be in my skin care regime, packaged or fresh foods, lotions, soaps, make-up, or even baby wipes or clothing! The list is outrageous but everyone can take small steps to a better, more fresh routine.

One of my first steps was to read a few books, cook up my own lotion and soap, take care at the grocery store to put things back on the shelf that has a funky ingredient list. USA Today reported earlier this month that many chemicals and toxins were found in more than 200 women! Now think what those carcinogens are doing to an unborn fetus! If it isn't good for your baby, it more than likely is not good for you either.

Right now I am enjoying a lovely homemade smoothie! I used frozen strawberries, peaches, and mangoes with fresh strawberries and organic pineapple juice. Blend until smooth and I have this yummy sweet yet tart smoothie that will help baby and I! Maybe next time I will use fresh kiwi and blueberries...

searching for the perfect reading spot

2010-11-27T01:52:00.000-05:00

It isn't always easy finding just the right spot to plop down and open a book. Sometimes we have to rework a place we've used for quite a long while. Rather that is adding a blanket during the winter, or a pillow in the evenings, a little adjustment can make all the difference.

For me, right now, it is a comfy quilt and a spot in front of our furnace vent. Every now and again I get a burst of hot air that I can capture under my quilt. All the while taking in Stephen King's Hearts in Atlantis or Jerry Oppenheimer's Front Row.

Many people that know me well know that I spend many of my workday lunches at the library. It is a place I have known since I was a child and each time I am there it brings a sense of tranquility to my soul. The smell of the stairwell, the second floor nooks to review books, the oversize section on the balcony, areas I like to hide as if I have stepped back to my childhood.

I actually wish that I had taken the time to go to the library today (but I do have plenty to read already). I hope everyone is enjoying their Thanksgiving break and taking some time to relax and reminisce.

Stephen King "On Writing"

2010-11-24T06:32:00.000-05:00

Until On Writing, I have never read a Stephen King book. I know it is nearly impossible to believe, maybe not to some, but I have gone more than twenty-five and a half years reading hundreds upon hundreds of books, not one has been Mr. King's.

Now - I am addicted. He is a fabulous writer. His imagination is wild and On Writing showcases how his stories materialize onto paper. He is honest, direct, and above all, he is extremely smart. After I closed this book for the last time, I came to the conclusion, and I am being bold here, that Stephen King is the epitome of all writers, past, present, and beyond.

I love how King enjoys writing about his three children and his wife. He holds Tabitha, his wife, to a high degree and sees her, and only her, as his audience. He loves being married and he loves being a father. His gratitude for them is loving and makes you appreciate his work even more.

Here are a few of my fav snippets (it isn't easy to keep it short, it may need a second post):

"Fiction writers, present company included, don’t understand very much abotu what they do - not why it works when it’s good, not why it doesn’t when it’s bad. I figured the shorter the book, the less the bullshit."
"...my attempt to show how one writer was formed. Not how one writer was made; I don’t believe writers can be made, either by circumstances or by self-will...The equipment comes with the original package."
"...good story ideas seem to come quite literally from nowhere, sailing at you right out of the empty sky: two previously unrelated ideas come together and make something new under the sun. Your job isn’t to find these ideas but to recognize them when they show up."
"It’s worked. Our marriage has outlasted all of the world’s leaders except for Castro, and if we keep talking, arguing, making love, and dancing to the Ramones, it’ll probably keep working."
"And whenever I see a first novel dedicated to a wife (or husband), I smile and think, There’s someone who knows. Writing is a lonely job. Having someone who believes in you makes a lot of difference. They don’t have to make speeches. Just believing is usually enough."
"Remember that the basic rule of vocabulary is use the first word that comes to your mind, if it is appropriate and colorful. If you hesitate and cogitate, you will come up with another word - but it probably won’t be as good as your first one, or as close to what you really mean."
"...sometimes even a monster is no monster. Sometimes it’s beautiful and we fall in love with all that story, more than any film or TV program could ever hope to provide. Even after a thousand pages we don’t want to leave the world the writer has made for us, or the make-believe people who live there. You wouldn’t leave after two thousand pages, if there were two thousand."
"In both writing and sleeping, we learn to be physically still at the same time. We are encouraging our minds to unlock form the the humdrum rational thinking of our daytime lives."
"You learn best by reading a lot and writing a lot. The most valuable lessons of all are the ones you teach yourself."
"Writing is magic, as much the water of life as any other creative one. The water is free. So drink.
Drink and be filled up."

The last quote was a realization for me. I have been waiting to create some sort of television-inspired magic for years. All this time it's right at my fingertips, leading up to my brain, where you walk up, down, and all around a million stairs until you reach imagination. No, Figment is not there, but lots of other things are hanging around. Ones screaming to be released.

That is right now, and later. Tomorrow I will arrive at the library for one of King's earlier novels, maybe the one about gunslinger, or something from that collection. Or I could finish one of the other thirty books I already have from the library...

Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T10:31:00.009-05:00

     This is a time of year everyone loves. There isn't one reason not to love the rich foods and family conversations. Reviewing the year and enjoying those we often do not see. That is, if your family isn't complicated. Mine happens to be. I usually try to find a way out of Thanksgiving considering Christmas is just around the corner. It did not work! This year is especially busy with my family at 2 pm, my husband's family at 7 pm, then Saturday another gathering in Monroe county, which is a bit further than Greenbrier county, but just as luscious with landscapes.

     Fortunately, we have a wonderful excuse: Socrates. He must not be left alone for a very long time, it is never good for a dog to be in his cage for extended periods.

     This year there are many reasons to give thanks: new baby in the family, another pregnancy, our newlywed status, A is in town, extra days off work (lots of time to read)!

     Of course, there are those that enjoy the early morning of Black Friday. Not me. I like staying in bed until real late, avoiding holiday shoppers, and staying away from crowds. Especially when the air is tense and people can be crabby from hunger and disappointment. Screw that! I will get my rest and finish a book (or two).

My favorite memories from this year.

Spending time at the camp (it is were Bri proposed!).

Greenbrier River

The camp

Marrying my best friend:

He is so lovely as he sleeps

Our bands

Then there is always one wonderful little girl we never get enough of! This is one of my favorite pictures from my bridal shower. Mom spent most of her time taking photos of people eating - not appealing at all.

The best thing (besides getting married). Brian's birthday cake. His face said it all.

Pizza cookie cake!

It has been a fabulous year!

Honeymoon at Atlantis

2010-11-23T07:38:00.064-05:00

Once we left The Greenbrier, we went home to exchange our luggage, do some laundry, and visit our lovely boy, Socrates. We left after a few hours to catch a plane to Orlando, where we stayed one quick night. We had to wake up the next morning to catch a flight to Nassau, Bahamas, for our stay at Atlantis!

From the beach our first night

At the front entrance

Inside the main lobby

Large ball of marble floating

We had such a lovely time walking around and taking in all the details of this resort. They were really able to capture everything a lost island would have. Most importantly, The Dig. This was our second time visiting Atlantis, but we had free reign since we were guests rather than passing through during a cruise stop. The first time we seen The Dig was in 2008 during February on a Carnival cruise. What we did not know until our honeymoon was that The Dig goes all the way around an aquarium and leads into a gift shop and restaurant. It was a special surprise one evening we spent marveling the scenery.

Looks like a lost city to me

Lion fish, one of our favs


An old deep-sea diving uniform - a bit scary looking actually

One room had several walkways, with four corners, each corner had one of these helmets and a seat. Well I couldn't let a moment pass without trying one one! I'll admit: I did nearly fall!

An oddity of sorts you can find at Atlantis

Waking up in the morning on an island is breathtaking. The sun illuminates the sky and the wind blows heartily, you hear seagulls and waves crashing. You are at peace with yourself and your new husband - at least I was!

From our balcony

One of our favorite things were the water slides, there are dozens, bareback and tubing, for everyone of all ages. Yet, my favorite time was the quiet nights walking and exploring.

An interesting palm

No swimming at night - but very tempting

Moon lights your way to the sea

We were able to try out the casino too. Not much luck other than a few dollars on the slots. The scenery was unavoidable.

Domed ceiling

Nautical ceiling

Shipped ceiling

One of our favorite restaurants at the resort is the Mesa Grill, by Bobby Flay, and it has the best margaritas EVER! The secret: pure lime juice, freshly squeezed. The walk is long if you stay where we did, the opposite side. Nothing was going to stop us from using our complimentary coupon for two margaritas at the Mesa!

One long corridor heading to Mesa

The entrance

Our exit

A gorgeous pond

Unfortunately, after only four days we had to head back to Orlando. This is one more place we will visit again and again...and again.

Sunrise goodbye

Work Day Evenings

2010-11-22T20:44:00.000-05:00

Since our engagement and marriage, I have had several folks comment on how marriage is awful. A sanctuary they want no part of. Well, that is all fine and dandy for you. But I love it. Absolutely love it. I get to come home every day (as before we were married) to the man I love and the dog I adore. I can relax, chat, make and enjoy dinner, play, read, write, watch TV, laugh, cuddle...the list goes on. Being married is wonderful and it is meaningful.

I have told people from day one that I am one lucky girl. My husband is absolutely wonderful and we are a splendid match. This is our first Thanksgiving as a married couple and it will be exciting! This will also be our first Christmas together as husband and wife. Actually, we're trying no to start decorating right this minute.

Blessed be to all. Enjoy your life and live it passionately. When things go wrong, remember they only get better.

The Karl Lagerfeld Diet

2010-11-22T08:09:00.081-05:00

Karl Lagerfeld is an insightful, multi-talented character. I say character because I have never seen a celebrity quite like him. I recently completed his book from 2002 The Karl Lagerfeld Diet. It is a memoir of sorts from his days of dieting with Dr. Jean-Claude Houdret's help.

He lost 92 pounds, that is something to recollect.

Dr. Jean-Claude Houdret invented the Spoonlight program. It helped to transform Karl into the slim man that he maintains today.

He has faith in himself, he knows he can do anything he wants. Many people put down his viewpoints on dieting, but they are direct and it got him where he is today. Here is a photo of Mr. Lagerfeld before his diet:

Hard to believe, I know

There is a significant difference, to say the least. Here a few of my fav snippets from his book:

"If you attach no importance to weight problems, if not being able to wear new, trendy small-sized clothes does not cause you any regret, this book is not for you." - KL

"Above all you must be convinced of your ability to succeed. There is no hurry. You have no deadline for a new life!" - KL

"At first your closest friends (or loves) should not even know that you have decided to make yourself over. You will have plenty of time to discuss it later but, to begin with, it must be a secret pact with yourself." - KL

"There comes a moment in life when the idea of youth and beauty has to give way to style and elegance." - KL

"Start your diet during a period of optimism and happiness. You will have to detach yourself form your physical being for a period of time and you will need to regard your social environment as unimportant." - KL

"One fine morning I woke up and decided that I was no longer happy with my physique. I had gotten along fine with being overweight and had no health problems, but I suddenly wanted to dress differently, to wear clothes designed by Hedi Slimae, who used to work for Saint Laurent and now creates the Dior Homme collections." - KL

"I would never have thought it possible to achieve this result without feeling the least bit tired. Today, however, I work better than ever and I am never tired. I have seven undisturbed hours of sleep a night - without using sleeping pills." - KL

"It was myself I was no longer satisfied with. I was starting to say to myself, “You work in fashion and fashion means change. If you don’t like your image, you only have to change it. It’s not a matter of going back to what you used to be.” So it was for totally superficial reasons that I got started on this diet." - KL

"It doesn’t bother me that I am getting old and wrinkled. I don’t want to be young and cute, but there is a certain attitude that I like, which my father still had at the age of ninety. That’s not to say I won't change my mind, but if that does happen, it will mean that the spirit has commanded the flesh to go there." - KL

"I started my treatment in the same way you approach religion, with faith and determination but without any qualms." - KL

I did not include any from Dr. Jean-Claude Houdret. He was very informative on health issues and why this program will work. He also hits notes about plastic surgery and how it is not the answer.

This is a good read, fresh compared to most diet books, but most will not take him serious considering Lagerfeld's view is very fashionable, and America's disdain for France. I have to say that I enjoy and commend Lagerfeld on his way of life. If that makes me the least bit superficial, which is does, then so be it. Or maybe, that is just confidence taking over for a brief moment.

Sunday Potato Soup

2010-11-22T05:10:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful day, a day to sit back, relax, and read until my eyes hurt. It was also a day to make a lovely breakfast. Well, it is actually lunch in our house! We had lovely fried potatoes, bacon, homemade biscuits, and scrumptious gravy. For dinner (or lunch, depending on your viewpoint) I made a fast and yummy potato soup.

Romanian Potato Soup (Not mine...but similar visually)

Nothing can quite compare to a spicy soup on a lazy day. Spicy only because my hand shakes too much cayenne from its container. Thanksgiving is only a few days away and keeping meals light is a must. Preparation is key. As is fasting after the meal!

I decided to chop up two medium potatoes. I grabbed one large carrot and peeled it. Once peeled, I peeled thin discs from the carrot and set it aside. Crunching approximately eight good-sized cloves of garlic and cutting those up roughly before tossing it in one can of simmering chicken broth (99% fat-free, no MSG, low sodium).

Tossing everything in the pot, along with two more cans of chicken broth and the water I kept the potatoes in. Everything may now boil for a long while. Bri wanted noodles, so I found a bit of Wacky Mac.

I should let you know I would have added celery and onions but I haven't gone to the store yet (I know, what am I waiting for? It is Thanksgiving in a few days!), so everything we had available went into the pot.

My next step was adding parsley, cayenne, thyme, basil, rosemary, Himalayan salt, and freshly ground pepper. Did I mention I added loads of parsley? Because that is exactly what I do when I make soup. Once the pot was ready, I added the colorful Wacky Mac and a half of a can of chicken broth. My last step includes the second half of the chicken broth. I toss in a package of country gravy mix, whip it around and toss it in the soup. It needed a second pack but it maintained a nice thickness that went well with the soup.

You know the soup is good when your husband goes back for seconds. Then I save the rest for lunch this week. It is amazing that the price of lunch has gone from $4 each day - five years ago - to approximately $6 per day, in my personal experience. Therefore, I need to buy less lunch and eat more leftovers. Really, I'm the winner in this situation.

Maybe Frog Soup next Sunday?

The Honeymoon

2010-11-21T09:28:00.001-05:00

I just realized that with all the excitement of receiving our GORGEOUS wedding photos, I have forgotten about the honeymoon. This wondrous event began once we left Campelot and arrived at The Greenbrier! A historic place that has seen many celebrities and presidents. This place is something from a fairy tale. As if you're Cinderella visiting a castle, not your Prince's castle, but one of equal standards. Honestly, we could have spent our entire two weeks there and still never have left. Ever. That must show how much we adore our home state.

The design and decor are impeccable. The staff unbelievingly friendly.

We stayed mesmerized, start to finish.

The Greenbrier is located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. It is very well hidden amongst our Appalachian mountains. One of the greatest aspects of the resort is the bunker. We were able to take a tour with the most gracious of guides and learned more than we could have imagined. If you get a chance, go!

The sulphur spring

Hebe, the goddess of youth

Beautiful and clean

Impeccable gardening

Taking a walk at night

I wish we would have taken more photos of the interior of The Greenbrier. Do a quick search on Google Images and take a look. You will fall in love with the way it transports you to another era. It is designed after the original decorator, Dorothy Draper, by Carleton Varney. His taste is exquisite, as is his talent.

This is one place we will visit again, and again.

Nina Garcia's Look Book

2010-11-20T21:11:00.007-05:00

I recently finished Nina Garcia's wonderfully illustrated Look Book. She informs women what is suitable to wear on every single occasion possible! Her book is complete with quotes from everyone, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Crawford, and even that Al Gore man.

Knowing Nina's background is a must, being the fashion director of Marie Claire magazine and a regular judge on Project Runway, Nina knows (maybe more than anyone else is the business) what she is talking about and it would be wise for all to follow her sage advice.

Here are some of my fav snippets:

The key to style success is knowing what the essence is, and knowing how to effortlessly communication in the language of fashion. - Nina Garcia

If men can run the world, why can’t they stop wearing neckties? How intelligent is it to start the day by tying a little noose around your neck? - Linda Ellerbee

Take your work seriously, but never yourself. - Margot Fonteyn

Insecurity is a terrible fashion faux pas. - Nina Garcia

I buy expensive suits. They just look cheap on me. - Warren Buffett

The basic elements of any business woman’s wardrobe should rely on this trio: simple casual suits, tailored dresses, and good separates. - Edith Head

I can’t stress enough the importance of keeping your look relevant; fashion is cyclical and you’ve got to be aware of trends without becoming a slave to them. - Nina Garcia

I never go out unless I look like Joan Crawford the movie star. If you want to see the girl next door, go next door. - Joan Crawford

No, not one of my quotes are about what to wear and where to wear it, that is why you should go grab the book. Whether you get it from Amazon or your local library, it will not be a waste of your time!

Our Wedding

2010-11-18T11:30:00.000-05:00

Brian and I decided to tie the know on September 14, 2010. We were lucky that the weather coorperated on our special day. The winds were high and sun shone through the canopy of the trees. We were blessed with family and friends to help us through the day and all the work the camp required weekends before.

Thank you to everyone. I love you all very much.

Leslie Tucker of Winding Hill Photography did our photographs and we could not have asked for a sweeter, more talented lady! Thank you Leslie, we are so thankful for your hard work!

Finding Inspiration

2010-02-09T20:24:00.000-05:00

I always love to watch the videos pertaining to sewing, but I especially like it when it is snappy and something refurbished. That is why I am sharing this video found on sew-whats.new.com. Check it out!

Slip Stitch

2009-11-16T23:09:00.002-05:00

While I have been working on my current project, I found that I desperately need a better tutorial for the slip stitch. I found this on google:

How to Sew - The Slip Stitch

Alas!

2009-11-01T22:50:00.000-05:00

My pledge for the Wardrobe Refashion is over. Yes, I could have gone for another term, or even lifetime. I would rather do it on my own, allowing it to be a part of myself, rather than for a certain pledge or society. Also, I never did any refashions during the pledge and I feel bad because I was hoping to have an interesting post. Allwell! Time to post away on this blog. Although, I will refer back to the blog often for all the details from other members, they do some really great things with old clothes.

Renovations!

2009-11-01T22:41:00.000-05:00

I started reading Generation T: Beyond Fashion last week and became instantly inspired. I grabbed a few shirts and started snipping away. The first shirt was an old fav and I started with the first idea in the book: a cute halter gathered at the front breastbone. Off went the right sleeve. Then an angle cut to remove the collar and left sleeve, as shown below.

This was a no sew project and went super fast - I should search for more to make in this style.

A reminder for next time, the shirt should be a bit more lose to leave room for more gathering on the front.

Next, I started to slice up a shirt from Forever XXI. I loved it but the collar choked me and the arms now look better after being sliced off.

I made a vertical mark six inches from the folded edge. Then horizontal marks every 3/4" starting at the bottom, leaving 1" at the top. I was lucky enough to have patience during this or it could have been disastrous (like bye bye forefinger).

It is so innocent in the front and then BAM, here's the back. I need to fix the spacing in the center of the braids, but it was a test and turned out well, so I am proud.

It is a simple braid to do, just start at the bottom, bring the second layer under the first, then bring the third through the loop made with the second, etc. You really must go all the way to the top to get it to look right. At first, I wanted it to stop about four inches from the top but noticed it needed that curve at the shoulders to give it a bit of pizazz.

Debate: Wardrobe Refashion

2009-10-27T11:30:00.000-04:00

My 3 months is almost complete - 4 more days! I did not, technically, break any of the rules considering any new clothes were bought by Bri and not me. I do not even think I accomplished a single refashion! Should I rejoin? I am not sure considering it is winter and I have *needs* for over-the-knee boots. I did snatch a snazzy light pink sheen crocodile motorcycle jacket from consignment. Not that it was consignment price! LOL! Still counts as a safe buy though.

I guess I have 4 days to decide but I know my mind is already made - no more! I can save money and make my clothes without having to take a pledge. I will still promote Wardrobe Refashion because I love the idea and think it is great for many people I know!

Finally...a dream come true!

2009-10-24T22:35:00.000-04:00

I thoroughly enjoyed the Disney Magic cruise. Since we did not have enough of Mickey and Minnie we ventured to Disneyworld for the day! My only complaint is the lack of princess constumes and the like for adults...we want to be princesses too!

Finally! Although, once instead, it is still quite a trek.

Relaxing before choosing first place to explore.

Swiss Family Robinson

View from top.

Haunted Mansion

Tom Sawyer's Island

Playing on Tom's bridge.

Thunder Mountain

Splash Mountain!

First time in jail! Dumbo does not want his ears tugged!

Castle at night.

More colors on the castle.

I'm ready to return!

St. Maarten

2009-10-23T22:58:00.000-04:00

Fresh idea alert: Next cruise will need to last longer than 7 days. It just was not enough!

Mountainous.

Beautiful homes.

Peaceful living.

Water is immaculate. The island Saba is in the far back.

Road to the Courthouse.

Some of the tallest palms I have seen.

Seashells found.

Now I need a project to memorialize these.

Landscapes

2009-10-23T22:50:00.000-04:00

One of the most relaxing views I have had the luck to enjoy was at Castaway Cay.

Meet Serenity Beach. No kids allowed.

Onset of storm.

Rain. Folks still in the water during lightning. Not a good idea.

It gets worse.

The storm continues.

They finally closed the beach.

A brief moment of clear skies.

Leaving Castaway Cay, the sky is nothing but calm.

I love to cruise.

Time Just Flies

2009-10-22T23:16:00.002-04:00

I must admit that Disney really knows how to cruise. I wish I was still there. Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay or on the verandah of our spacious cabin.

I really cannot believe it has been more than two weeks passing since our return. I have just uploaded photos and have a million things to do with souvenirs and etc. Then there is the fabric store, which I have not ignored. Nor have I completed the business plan. Another story, another day.

The days on the cruise were just as beautiful as the nights.

We seen quite a few storms, including thunder and lightning.

It was mostly beautiful.

The Virgin Islands were quite nice too!

St. Maarten

St. Thomas

A bit of wildlife also!

Then there was the ship itself. Immaculate piece of art. Something astounding around every corner.

Still, the sea was the best.

We took soooooo many photos, more than a thousand. No way to share them all. Besides many are private and very special. I still have not mentioned the best part of the trip! Mickey and Minnie!!! Although I lean toward Minnie a bit more!

Time...

2009-10-19T11:34:00.000-04:00

Time does fly by. Whether you are having fun or not. It has been a long while since my last post, and unfortunately, this one is going to be anything much either.

I have lots to do. Work. Fabric store. Homework. I've cleaned all weekend and now need a few days to just rest. I still have more than a thousand photos to upload from out last vacay on the Disney cruise. My relationship has gotten stronger over the past month. I once winced at the thought of separation, unfulfilled expectations, but those are a hazy memory now that we have found our common ground. Love like ours can last a lifetime, if we allow it to happen.

Have a beautiful day.

Weekend

2009-09-04T13:32:00.001-04:00

Goin' to Myrtle Beach at the Sandcastle...again.

Whoop! Whoop!

2 Months

2009-08-17T16:43:00.003-04:00

And counting...

"I pledge that I will refashion, renovate, recycle preloved items for myself for the term of my contract. I pledge that I shall create and craft items of clothing for myself with my own hands in fabric, yarn or other medium for the term of my contract."

You can do it too!

Sign up here!

I actually haven't shopped for ready wear for quite a while - nearly a month now! I have been consumed by wanna-be-wifely duties and a need to craft craft craft!!!

What have I done?

Nothing.

As always.

Missing : (

2009-08-11T19:44:00.003-04:00

I logged into my blogspot this evening, after being on it all afternoon, and my blogroll is completely gone! I am not sure what happened...it's just gone. For some reason it still shows to the right, but it isn't on my dashboard : (

Now I shall go searching for my blogs all over again...

Morsin' It

2009-07-26T15:54:00.003-04:00

Here are what the morsbags I have completed look like. Smaller than what I want, but they work!

www.morsbags.com

Ideas

2009-07-26T15:40:00.004-04:00

I have a few different projects going on. I completed 12 morsbags that will be used for tie dying. I have a cute Domestic Diva apron that reminds me of mom. Also found stretch needles and a few different fun remnant fabrics. A stretch gold lame, cotton pinks, and lastly a sheer deep maroon with gold edging.

Below are three sari panels and a lamp that will be used towards my Asian theme for our bedroom. The panels will be sewn together (the black sari will be in the middle) and used as a canopy. The lamp goes with the paper lanterns I would like.

A few different fun Asian inspired fabrics, like the below by Alexander Henry.

A simple mood board in the works for our bedroom.

Pollution

2009-07-26T15:24:00.003-04:00

This is disgusting.

Template Cut Out

2009-07-08T22:39:00.007-04:00

I hope everyone has taken time out to view Morsbags and realize the dangers we have all been causing. So now, I'm doing a tad bit to help also.

Below are photos of the template I made from poster boards from work. It was either I take 'em or they go in the trash! Recycling is 100x better.

I used my bf's work blade to cut out the board. Styrofoam got everywhere and the edges are not the best, but they will work!

Below is a pile of donated cloth from G. I'm thinking of practicing with the white cotton sheet and then giving them to Maddie for her birthday to tie dye and hand out...that is if she wants to. I remember tie dying at 4-H camp and how badly I wanted to do four or five extra shirts, instead I had only brought one.

Socs Swinging

2009-07-07T23:52:00.002-04:00

Hehe...he is so funny trying to balance on the swing.

Morsbags

2009-07-07T23:34:00.003-04:00

I've joined. I'd love your help. www.morsbag.com

Announcement

"Charleston, WV joined the growing number of towns across the US and UK with it’s own bag making group this week.

The group aims to make cotton shopping bags in order to reduce the number of plastic carrier bags used and then thrown away in Charleston. Each year, US and UK citizens use over 300 carrier bags each, most of which end up in landfill or as potential choking hazard for wildlife in the area.

The group (or pod as they are known) is part of a global network, founded in January of this year by Claire Morsman, who was becoming increasing outraged at the number of wild animals harmed by plastic bags after mistaking them for food. With over 250 pods worldwide, and the number growing each week, the Charleston members are in good company.

Sonja, who set up the local pod, says “making Morsbags is a really fun way to help improve the world in which we live. When we give the bags away free to shoppers, the surprise on their faces more than makes up for the hard work put in to each one. It’s also a very social thing – we meet [details of meeting time] and sew the bags while chatting and having a glass of wine.”

If you want to join in or set up your own pod, visit www.morsbags.com for more details (non-sewers are also welcome to help with making bags and handing them out to shoppers). If you have any cotton fabric (old duvets, curtains or cotton offcuts) which you could donate, let Sonja know."

Check out www.morsbags.com for more details and facts.

Itty Bitties

2009-07-07T23:15:00.008-04:00

photo of first of three serged seams and the pattern I used

a better view of the three seams I completed on the serger
neither picture really does justice for the lace...but they never do

I decided to whip up my first pair of thongs! The pattern is McCall's DIY line M5651, which offers a wide variety in one package. I used a lovely light mauve stretch lace from Sew Sassy and used an old dress (I'll never mend it anyhow) for the lining. You can't really see the coverstitching (unless you click on the picture) in the photo below but that's okay, 'cause it's pretty bad! You can easily see that I used a black lining - but who cares, they still provide the same...err...function? Even though I began practicing on my Brother 2340cv Saturday, it wasn't time enough to use on a pair of panties!

Fabric Addiction

2009-07-06T10:31:00.004-04:00

So the above are two additional fabrics I have bought and probably, honestly, completely do not need...well okay, yes I do! I wish I had my mood board to show you my inspiration but I will have to do that later. Yes, the two fabrics are completely opposite but they each have thier own duty. The top, leafy fabric is our choice for cushions on the swing. I may even add covered buttons, although they feel something awful when my spine lays across them.

The second is going to be the fabric I use to make chair cushions and a tablecloth (maybe napkins and/or placemats - maybe even use both fabrics) for my one-day-soon-to-purchase-outdoor-table-and-chair-patio-set. I bought a few bottles of waterproofer to make sure the fabric stays top notch and doe not mildew - because I WILL forget to bring them in on rainy days...and maybe winter time!

Another addition will be Chinese (...or are they Japanese?) lanterns. A few bamboo rugs (via those cheap wet bamboo mats from Dollar General) will help separate areas. Lastly, I would like to add a grill and an outside fire pit...but we have to choose one or the other and I would prefer the fire pit! Since it is just too much to put on our small back porch!

Polka Dot Dress

2009-06-28T21:15:00.005-04:00

I finally got up and went to the sewing room this evening. It has been a long time coming. Also, I am about to receive a glorious gift from my wonderful neighbor. I meant to walk over and pick the 1961 sewing machine yesterday, but alas house duties called. I have almost completed all of my tasks. Accouting class begins tomorrow. I am ready.

Anyhow - I finished my first knit dress! I went over all the serged seams, yet again!

There was quite a bit to change from the original pattern:
The side seams,
The armholes,
The draping in the front, and finally,
The midsection seams.

The project took approximately 25 minutes total! I wonder which knit I will choose to work with next? I know I want to try a different pattern, there were just too many complications and readjustments with this one.

More of Memorial Weekend

2009-05-28T00:23:00.004-04:00

Sitting on a fallen sycamore.

A millipede.

Before pressing these spider worts.

Click on the picture to see the pregnant spider.

A beautiful yellow flower.

Our Wonderful Weekend

2009-05-26T18:01:00.006-04:00

"Uh-oh! Better stay on land!"

We took so many pictures of Socs that we kind of forgot about "Us" photos. And we took so many photos, that it is really hard to choose which to post. Here are a few to start!

Upon our arrival - Socrates already knew the way to go!

Chasing sticks in the river!

And bringing them back!

Trying to get his own stick!

Learning to stay in the canoe.

Taking a nap.

Catching some water.

He was tired the night before we left, he refused to do anymore walking!

And...

2009-05-26T13:28:00.004-04:00

I am back...here...doing office stuff.

I definitely do NOT like being behind a desk...yet again.

Wish I could be home viewing the scenery...or back to Greenbrier County!

I could run out of here right now without a moment's hesitation!

And hopefully no one would notice!

Yet, alas, I shall be here until I am old...

Then there is the homework, the housework, the gardening, the tired dog we ran rampant all weekend, and my loving darling.

Duties call!

Instant Drama

2009-05-14T20:59:00.006-04:00

I was finally able to put up my vinyl wall decals this evening. I really like how the yellow and white pops on the purple walls. These pictures do not do the decals justice. When you are actually standing in the room, there is more of a bohemian/wilderness/fantasy effect.

As you can see below, I extended the decals down the right wall to appear like falling leaves. There is one single tiny dragonfly hovering just above where the mother can keep watch...or at least that is what I was thinking about when I placed them there.

The decals are super easy to apply. I received two separate instructions, from two separate sellers. The first mentioned using Fantastic on the walls and then applying the decals. I do not think so! That is a very powerful chemical that could damage the paint, so I did not even try. The second seller simply said to wipe down with a dry cloth. I did neither and obtained perfection.

The photo below appears more brown than violet. And the glare from the fan is awful. My next project to improve my sewing room is going to be the lighting issues. Ott-lites at that! One central glaring light is an awful choice for a room for hobbies. Well, it is actually bad in every room since the glare is on the tv and wall hangings.

Here is the overall effect of the new decals. Sure click the picture and view the details of the dragonflies and leaves! Also, just put up some new inspo. I'm digging the bright colors with animal prints and white dresses.

The Final Decision

2009-05-10T22:55:00.003-04:00

Well...B & I have decided on the curtain fabric. We'll add a set of sheers behind the paisley, hanging about half way down the cotton fabric. Granny helped us decide by commenting on the way the fabric matched the designs to the marble on the floor. I'll also use black out lining to avoid any fading in the curtains. Would not want to spend all this time and money for faded curtains!

Curtains

2009-05-10T22:44:00.003-04:00

I decided to cut the tabs off the Walmart curtains to make tie backs. I still need to find two good limbs to use as rods, but there is still much time. Especially since I still have a load of ironing and botanical leaf printing to complete.

The ends need to be hemmed, but that is for a much later time. Might use a catchstitch.

Itty Bitty

2009-05-10T22:32:00.005-04:00

This is the dress I am working on for AC. I finished basting the lining to the fashion tonight. I will work on gathering and attaching the skirt to the bodice tomorrow. This dress will have five small buttons on as a closure and shoulder straps that tie at the top of the shoulder. I am thinking about adding lining and netting to the straps, for better wear & tear, draping, and thickness. I'm doing the size four, since it's the largest on the pattern. I have found that I really enjoy basting and sewing by hand. I cannot wait to try a hand picked zipper. Soon.

The picture above shows more true colors of the fabric I am using.

He thought...

2009-05-10T22:27:00.004-04:00

...we would not find him!

Room

2009-05-10T21:59:00.005-04:00

What a dream room...for me!

I love being in here.

I still need to take a picture of my antique French Renaissance style chair I grabbed at Goodwill.

My Prince

2009-05-10T21:51:00.003-04:00

Socs decided to run off Friday afternoon. Thank goodness he is back home with us! I'm not really sure what I would have done if we never found him again. A million worries have left my shoulders and I haven't let him out of my sight all weekend!

Curtain Choices

2009-04-28T00:24:00.006-04:00

I have found a few samples that I adore from fabrics.com for the curtains in my almost-nearly-there-renovated kitchen. Each are drapery weight, giving a good amount of privacy.

I really like the design in the swatch above. There is a good amount of each black and white in the pattern.

I am not keen on the paisley print, but you just never know.

This one may be a tad dark, I could always choose two prints, one for each window. Since one window gets a good amount of light during dinner cook time.

I really, really, really like this print. Almost like Harlequin feel, which would suit the teal walls and stainless steel accents.

Shanda Kydd

2009-04-27T22:14:00.003-04:00

I have found some wonderful Shanda Kydd wallpapers I would like to use for the front of my dresser. (Yes, I know, I am always changing around my plans.) Unfortunately, rolls are packaged double and you must buy both...what an awful way to do business.

But whatever.

I have decided to decoupage fabric or paper to the front instead. Or go with my original plan of painter's tape and Valspar.

Although, I do really like the geometric pattern...

Botanical Textures

2009-04-27T20:10:00.006-04:00

I have decided to take 100% cotton curtains, in yellow, and add some botanical textures (thank you Martha!) I haven't decided what plant I want to use as the print...or where I can grab some fabric paint that is priced lower than what I've found. Also, I would like something that has branches, although the ivy I found would be wonderful. From the photo above, you can see the ivy is the darkest and has the most wonderful veins that would look great on a stamping project.
The largest leaf in the far back would be wonderful, except I am not sure that it would cooperate covered in paint. The other plants will be used as a test for pressing and framing.

Now I need to visit Greenbrier County for the curtain rods!

Explosive Colors

2009-04-27T18:19:00.004-04:00

I love color. Everything about it. Give me white and I'll give it a new face. Black is too dark for my eyes to see, but as an accent, it always adds a touch of sophistication.

There are not enough colors in this world for me. Mother Nature provides the palette and Lowe's gives me the match!

This is part inspiration for my room and I looove how the yellow accents the purple...perfection!

The picture below is beautiful. Reminds me of the Caribbeans...and how I need to be there!

This picture, and JoLena, is where I am getting my inspiration for my almost-renovated kitchen. Almost, in our house, means it will be done within a year...or so.

I have the wall color (it's tad lighter) and I plan to decorate the windows in a black & white jacquard, or similar black & white print. The marble flooring is already a wonderful black with white veins and the granite is a verde essence.

And I will add a few botanical pictures from Greenbrier for a gallery wall above my kitchen/stove area.

Such a yummy day!

2009-04-24T13:42:00.001-04:00

Hmmm...the Bahamas!

I am counting down the minutes until I may leave and go play in the sunshine!

50% Complete

2009-04-23T23:15:00.003-04:00

Well...two of the four shelves are up...and I'm lovin' it! The picture above isn't the greatest, but all is well. I love the purple with the green and the copper. The picture really washes out the true colors, since the wall has a wonderful blue undertone to it.

Oh, and my inspo cork is up on the wall too. I guess it is time to break out the sewing machine and get to those curtains I promised B months, months, and months ago!

No really...

2009-04-23T20:22:00.003-04:00

Those white glowing things are lamps. Found it on Etsy. Paper. No glue. No pins. They stick together by their shape. I, personally, do not get it.

Another Article

2009-04-23T20:15:00.002-04:00

You should also take a look here. The article explains how a woman is beginning to help change the face of fashion, by renovating and personalizing what is already in your wardrobe!

A Story That Should Be Read

2009-04-23T14:29:00.002-04:00

Over at Bag Snob they have a very heart-warming story, yes it is about handbags, but this has a bit of a different twist.

Read it here.

Etsy.com

2009-04-21T23:10:00.007-04:00

Etsy will always yield interesting results. Tonight it was housewares.

Fierce! Aarrrghhh!

a New Addiction

2009-04-19T20:58:00.003-04:00

Who can blame me for choosing copper hardware over brass, antique anything, or silver / nickel? (Nah, that is not dust.)

It is sooooooo pretty! You can see below, how I placed everything in a box and then began spraying. The paint is a beautiful metallic, although the paint is marked easily. I'm not even sure I can part with the box now that it is coated as well!

But like I said, touch-ups will be necessary! ...and soon.

Staples

2009-04-19T20:55:00.003-04:00

Sooo many staples!

Now that all the layers are ripped off, I can concentrate on perfecting the frame.

In white. With a hint of blue.

Yak!

2009-04-17T14:32:00.002-04:00

My parents would love this...I simply hate it!

(From: http://habituallychic.blogspot.com/)

VB

2009-04-12T01:16:00.006-04:00

Victoria Beckham is a style icon. She sees where fashion is going and is the first to show it off. She is so wonderful and chic that is shows through her new line. A very inspiration set, if I do say so myself.

From People.com:

""Dresses are very signature to me, I have always dressed in a very feminine, ladylike manner," Beckham said in a statement. Every style, including this silk pencil dress with a chiffon mirror-embroidered top, comes with a rose-gold back zipper and a removable corset-like inner waistband for improved posture."

From People.com:
""I didn't want to make this challenging," Beckham told WWD. "I want it to be sexy and flattering, but in a way women will find sexy." Showing off a woman's shape in her collection of pencil dresses, Beckham gives this one a sexy V-cut front and broad shoulders for a dramatic but classic shape."

Some inspiration...

2009-04-12T01:08:00.005-04:00

\I am enjoying the looking of studs. Lots of them. I love the zebra fabrics. Maybe that is why I could not resist the green zebra from Fabrics.com.

First Steps: Bench Reupholstering

2009-04-12T00:31:00.006-04:00

So...the brown velvet bench in my sewing room has to be brightened. And to give you a good idea on what I'm looking for, I have found this picture from Better Home + Garden:

So, I am going to have a lot of work ahead of me. And if I can only get every single staple out of this bench, I may be able to make some sort of progress. I should keep all the staples I pull and count them...it would be in the hundreds!

This is the top layer underneath the bench. The person who did the last upholstery job used a stiff netting material. You can see the areas where the old stuffing is falling through the webbing.

Here, I finally removed the first layer and all the staples with it. This is the part where I flip the bench on its side and rip off the faux welting (which was glued on, a method I may have to consider over handstitiching).

This is after the faux welting was ripped off (and saved for future reference) and also after I took out additional staples and almost ready to rip off the cushion...until I found even more staples!

Here I have flipped it back over onto the legs. I tried taking off the top layer but the buttons are threaded to the bottom of the bench and past the webbing.

Well..tomorrow I take back some veneer shelving. Apparently, it is not a good idea to spray paint anything with a veneer coating...I thought it was a good idea. Instead, B will help me cut shelves to my wanting. And it really is for the better, since Lowe's only carried the veneer style in four foot and three foot lengths. I plan to have two 5' x 12" and two 3'x12". Luckily, it is okay to spray paint metal.

That is the old dresser we are moving out tomorrow!

Spring...where are you?

2009-04-12T00:23:00.004-04:00

I love Spring. I love the beginning of a season full of flowers. I love the end of winter and the beginning of something new. What I do not love, is the fact that Mr. Winter keeps crawling back. Reminding us that he is never far away.

And there is always a picture that the sun tries to ruin. Although, I think this is my fav pic out of all of them. The colors are lovely and the background very bright.

The Details

2009-04-08T21:51:00.001-04:00

So...after much trouble with my computer (not really, but any trouble is annoying) I have finally added the details in my sewing room. There is (as always) much left to do in the room...like adding the sewing machine! Haha. Anyway, first is a picture of my personal items atop my dresser.

The statue is a gift from B's G, when she gave us the bookcases in this room.

To the right of that, is a dragonfly picture holder. It focuses on my two fav guys and a pic from my much much much younger days!

Here you can see a letter organizer I found at Home Goods. I put it on its side for a nice look and added my paint cards I grabbed from Lowe's. Gotta love Valspar!
And then there is my decade old tape dispenser.

This is a nice shot of my side table from Home Goods. You can see how it is nice and clear, no clutter, just the way it should be!

Here you can see the avian scroll on the vases from Pier 1 Imports. I still cannot believe the price I got them!
And then the copper tart burner with mandarin orange (a nice refreshing scent).

And one of my fav pieces! The copper switch plate. I actually had a dimmer knob in place of this switch. Unfortunately, you cannot use the good green light bulbs with a dimmer.
Then there was the fact that the knob on the dimmer broke and my fingers were becoming sore from the twisting of a piece of metal. Anyhow, my point is, I have this AWESOME copper plate!

So, what do you think? I looooove it! This weekend I will begin my first reupholstering project. I am not sure when the great giraffe print fabric and green zebra print fabric will come in, but I have a lot of sanding ahead of me! Of course, I am also waiting for my shelf brackets I ordered on Ace Hardware's storefront on Amazon.

Then there is the McCall's pattern I found to make magazine holders. Of course, I could always just cover a cereal box!

The Unveiling

2009-04-07T22:50:00.007-04:00

So...my room is not complete. But it is getting closer everyday!

I'll start from the beginning. Don't be too shocked. You will understand why I was so overwhelmed with anything.

AHHHH!!!!! I know what you mean! LOL!

And then there is the during. I moved ALL of that junk out and made room for B to paint. And slather on the "fruity" color he did! (His word, not mine.)

Next, I had to decide where everything was to go! That was the hardest part since many things can get in your way, things you would never consider in the first place. Like, let's just say, for example, the air vent. It is hard to find the perfect desk to fit in the perfect spot in the right color at a good price. Asking for too much? Well, my walls are purple!

So, I did one better. I rearranged what I currently own. So the nice new sewing desk comes much, much, much later! As you can see, there is a lot of wall space to work with!

Above, is the farthest wall. On the very back wall, I will be placing my bulletin board...I think.

And the bookshelves are much neater. I love the green magazine holder. I did find this one at Home Goods, but the rest I will make with green zebra fabric.

The bookshelves are on each side of the window. And my dresser is underneath the window.

And here is my fav spot. A nice area to lounge and relax with a book and/or embroidery. To the left, you can see my Home Goods side table. On the bottom shelf is my radio clock with an iPod player. I wanted it close to my "lounge" area. Hmmm...how happy I am with this room!

It is time for me to make snickerdoodles and go to sleep. I need lots of rest to tackle my closet and the mess of baskets in the basement...[groan].

MY room...

2009-04-07T11:12:00.006-04:00

I took all kinds of beautiful pictures last night (finding out that the sport selection on my Olympus is the best for any photo) of my sewing room, but alas, I was too tired to upload them.

Maybe tonight.

The walls are gorgeous. And the little green vase I imagined happen to appear at Pier 1 Imports last night in the form of a clearance with his two brothers. I added a radio clock that plays my iPod Touch and soon will have to add basket after basket of material and projects. If only the clutter could diminish into thin air!

A nice scent of mandarin orange tart from Yankee Candle gives it a nice ambience.

B mounted my TV/Computer monitor to the wall above my desk. My next task is to tackle the pigsty I call a closet and to hang my bulletin board. I have decided to give up my other cork board since hanging something metal is quite a feat. Hopefully I get my shelf brackets soon.

Tonight: closet, spray painting hardware, and maybe, just maybe, those rechid curtains for our bedroom!!!

*I just had an epiphany!!! I need a carpet bag like Mary Poppins, that will hold an endless array of junk!

Work, work, work...and no time to play!

2009-04-06T13:47:00.006-04:00

B and I have been working feverishly to complete my sewing room! Actually, I have not worked nearly as much as he (although moving piles of junk after piles of junk was not easy!).

The walls are purple (mid-purple hue, lighter than a violet and darker than a lavender) and the room has the layout I want (which improves the flow ten fold).

My bookshelves have been cleared to house fewer books (by taking more than 100 to storage) and more decorative items (magazine holder, vases, etc.).

My bench has all baskets cleared away and I have added a lovely light sage leather sueded ottoman, outlined in antique brass studs. A few brocade satin pillows will raise the comfort level. The bench is currently dark and mucky. I will paint the dark walnut wood white with a blue hint and cover the brown velvet with a lovely light yellow pattern..something like this I found one from fabric.com:

And I will be adding two 5 foot shelves and two 3 foot shelves, which will be painted a light green color with these brackets:

I found copper spray paint at Michaels today and will make sure all of my hardware, including the above brackets, light switches, vents, etc., will be copper.

I would like to add a small headboard behind my bench to give it a couch type of feel...but we'll see.

Soon I will post a few before and after photos, along with the green items I have added to the room. There is still a very very very long way to go!

The Art of Conversation

2009-04-03T09:39:00.004-04:00

by Catherine Blyth is a book that I would suggest to everyone. Seriously. Blythe clearly explains the neglected pleasures of conversation and the many problems in today's social agenda. I certainly picked up many good tips and ideas. I'll have to post my notes later on the quotes I liked the most from Blythe's book. Knowing the ins and outs and the history of conversation can teach wonders. The main point to remember in any conversation: Do not embarrass the other party(ies). I have noticed that many times people decide to mock or become rude to others within a conversation and it causes much frustration and disrespect.

For now, here are some quickies to remember:

"Being deferentially friendly is the definitely maybe of getting along, and entails contradictions, since manners are asymmetrical and often what is polite for speakers to imply would be rude for listeners to say."

"Rudeness (ignoring people) X Rudeness (being too direct) = Rudeness^2

Escalation rudeness is a logical outcome, but politeness is surely wiser, and safer."

On page 62, Blythe gives a quote from Civile Conversation by Stefano Guazzo:

"Keepe the mouth more shut, and the ears more open...In companie [ye] shall get the good will and favour of others, as well by giving eare courteously, as by speaking pleasantly. For wee think, they thinke wel of us, which are attentive to our talke."

If only people would realize that you should wait until a person is finished speaking before you begin to speak or ask questions.

Furthermore, Blythe lists for practice six tasks:
Hearing messages
Understanding
Remembering
Interpreting
Evaluating
Responding

And if you think that you are being polite by saying small things like, "I see," or "That's fine." Think again. Blythe tells us "here follow some false friends, which appear to hold out comfort but, like a cross wielded at a vampire, aim to drive others' woes away." And here they are:

Saying "Poor you!" could imply "Victim again - do we detect a pattern here?"

Also, if you say, "I can see why you feel that way." It could come across as, "Are you, perchance, being unreasonable."

Furthermore, saying, "That must have been hard," could imply "but note my use of the past tense: Move on."

Even saying, "That's hilarious," could invoke, "I don't get it."

Needless to say, we all need to work on our conversation tactics and reading this book could be the first step.

"Another day another dollar...

2009-03-30T11:40:00.004-04:00

...is the reality of my mentality, otherwise don't even bother. You see my father was a wise old man, always creatin a plan for me to conquer this land, he said I am what I am, so be the best that I can, and if them others don't like it, then why should I give a damn (huh)?"

I still cannot believe that Lisa "Left Eye" Lopez is gone. Yes it has been many years, but she was always a role model to me.

My birthday has passed and I am officially 24...and I HATE it. I want to be 19..20..22..anything but a mere year from 25!

Our Columbus trip went off without a hitch and became very relaxing. We went to the Easton Mall, Polaris Fashion Place, Melting Pot, Rag-O-Rama, Sew to Speak, Patty Cake, Columbus Museum of Art, and many other places. I did not do the amount of shopping I had expected, which is good since there are still things I am looking for to go into my sewing room renovation (I'll get to that in another post).

Off to work...

Why, Yes! I am wearing GREEN!

2009-03-17T11:49:00.004-04:00

I did decide to wear my green Ann Taylor sweater with green Bandolini shoes (nice gold buckle also) to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. After all, I am partly Irish somewhere along my heritage.

I cannot wait to get my Steve Madden shipment today! I have two cute pair of sandals, one in cognac suede and the other in python!! YAY! Maybe I can find a bangin' club in Columbus to rock 'em all night long!

Too bad Wholly Craft isn't accepting handbags right now. I could really use the confidence to get out there and sell those babies!

Oh my!

2009-03-16T10:45:00.004-04:00

There are a mere 5 days until I am 24...eeek! That is okay, I am still young and vivacious! I'll be leaving for Columbus early Friday morning and hope to get to JoAnn's by the time they open their doors at 10 AM. Not that I need anything else from that store! I just want to see a Jo Ann's Superstore! Then I will be at the Easton Mall and will have some yummy food from Max & Erma's (by B's request). Hopefully, we will have time to get to the hotel and check out Frankling Conservatory before the dusk! Then we can have a nice dinner and go back to the hotel to find a hoppin' club, to dance my booty off until the wee morning hours!

More Relflections...now in bronze!

2009-03-08T22:03:00.009-04:00

This purse may not have taken 9 1/2 hours but the results are ever more gorgeous than the last! It is made from bronze metallic goat skin and faux camel croc and is accented with silver eyelets, silver swivel hooks, dark brown ribbon, and finally an antiqued wooden handle. I say this because the eyelets are how I want, the handles are wonderful, and the lining is perfect. I did not put any pockets on the inside of this Bronze Reflection but it is giving me inspo to quickly make another!

I learned a lot while sewing this one, including the rules of sewing goatskin. I am lucky to have previously purchased a walking foot for my Kenmore but it did take awhile to figure how to put it on!

The picture below is what my purse looked like before I added the additional eyelets and switched to the smaller handles. I'd like to add an additional inch to each side, to better fit with the ten inch bamboo handles below.

This is the finished product!!!! I am ever so happy with my hard work!
And of course the woven label!

18 Days

2009-03-03T09:47:00.006-05:00

On the 21st of March I will be 24. That is one year from being 25. 25 is a fourth of a century. In one year and eighteen days I will be one-fourth of a century old - better than half a century...I guess.

To celebrate another year of living Brian and I will be traveling to Columbus to visit several places: Sew 2 Speak, Pattycake, Tip Top, Northstar, Easton Mall, Jo-Ann Superstore, Shadowbox, Stitching Post, Museum of Art (Egyptian Treasures exhibition), and the Franklin Park Conservatory...to name a few! I have a room waiting for us in Clintonville and many things on my list! I will be taking Friday off from work (woohoo!!) and traveling in the morning - at least I hope I wake up early enough to travel in the morning.

Unfortunately, the Pattern Review contest I entered failed...for me. I entered my listing at 11:33 P.M. EST but the listing never appeared on the voting list. I'm not sure what had happened - I did contact the administrator and have yet to hear a word. All that hard work - 9 1/2 hours on Saturday - wasted. Gone. Forever. I am past being angry and my feels are only hurt - I guess now is the time to write some poetry and call it a day.

Congo Reflections

2009-03-01T19:13:00.005-05:00

I looove this canvas. Luckily, I have plenty more to use on smaller versions of this Burda 8503 pattern.

I made this bag on Saturday...it took all day long. I'm not happy with the chain strap and have a lion charm and an elephant charm to add. I'd like to change some features on the lining and etc.

The bag is just too large for everyday use and a smaller version with the same 7/16" eyelets will be more urban chic. I only wish I could find more! I will make a similar pattern half the size and go from there. I want to add an antique brass zipper for future versions on the inside pocket. The straps I haven't figured out yet. Since I will make it less than half the size of this pattern, then I could go for a bamboo handle. I think that would add more to the congo-ness of the purse.
I had to finish it yesterday to add to Pattern Review's handbag contest. I hope I do well, I'm not sure when voting starts...or even ends. I just hope I do well!

The Collection

2009-02-20T13:32:00.003-05:00

Okay...so I feel bad about my earlier post...Gioia Diliberto did an extravagent job researching Chanel, her 1919 collection, and Paris after the war that she was able to bring together an imaginative tale about a seamstress and her career under Mademoiselle Chanel. It is a beautiful story with a pleasing ending. From the main character's humdrum beginnings to her fright with illnesses and the missing Chanel toiles. It is a relaxing read that would serve beneficial for enlightenment.

Enjoy!

currently...

2009-02-19T14:25:00.003-05:00

Here are two sites I am loving right now:

http://www.wekillyou.net/

http://magdasayeg.com/style/style-1.htm

Also, I am currently reading The Collection by Gioia Diliberto and so far it is pretty good...pretty much. It isn't a book that I'm not able to put down - since I place it to the side often.

Michael Kors

2009-02-18T15:05:00.002-05:00

Bag Snob posted this picture today:

Isn't it wonderful!!!

The Sixth in Sixth

2009-02-17T14:43:00.005-05:00

Go to your pictures folder, pick the 6th folder, then choose the 6th picture and blog about it. I decided to do mine while here at work and I only have 5 folders! So I just picked the 6th picture that was in the first folder...I'll do another when I get home!

So here it is:

This is actually a photo taken at work by our manager by my desk. Across from me is my co-worker, Christa and we are going through some handmade jewelry that I was selling at the time. I prefer sewing over jewelry making though. My back and neck would hurt so much by the time I hit the sack, I could barely move in the morning!

I'll post another once I get home!

Purse Inspo

2009-02-12T19:57:00.008-05:00

Here are some GREAT purses I would die for!!! But I can make my own - so I don't have to!

More Inspo from Style.com

2009-02-12T19:49:00.006-05:00

More beautiful dresses to cause inspiration...time to draw!

Bloodsucking Fiends

2009-02-10T15:40:00.003-05:00

Christopher Moore is one of the best writers ever! He is hysterical with satiracal words combining to make great, hard-to-put-down stories. I have read "The Lamb," which is a story about Jesus and his best friend Bif getting into trouble during their young teenage years (since Jesus cannot do harm he needs Bif to do it for him).

"Bloodsucking Fiends" takes us through a red-headed 24-year-old woman's life as she is bitten and left to learn about the life of a vampire on her. A story filled with love, humor, and suspense - I could NOT ask for more!

I highly recommend this book for anyone enjoying a good novel that will make you giggle everytime you turn the page. Now, on to my next Christopher Moore story!!!

HA!

2009-02-09T02:16:00.005-05:00

I did it! Yes I did it! I feel like Henry Higgins right now!

Anyhow, I have spent the last several hours figuring how to fix the waistband (fold forward, iron, iron, sew, complete!) and I DID IT!

Therefore, I got to complete the hem with a rolled hem on the serger (it is a tad crooked - but not that noticable!). And tada!

DAMNIT!!!

2009-02-08T22:12:00.002-05:00

So there I am cutting out the waisband facing, ironing, sewing, taking out stitches, sewing, taking out stitches, sew some more, fix some more stitches, and iron once again. I finally trim the seam down to about 1/4'' with my new stainless steel bent curved scissors, so sharp. I even pricked my finger with them. Then I iron one last time...WTF? How did that happen? No it can't be! No! No! No! Yes, I am an idiot. I did it. I sewed the waistband grosgrain facing on backwards (no the grosgrain had not yet been added). Demolished - my work of months of thinking, pondering, researching, waiting, thinking, cutting, sewing, ironing, pondering, moments of laziness, photographing - all of it - DOWN THE DRAIN.

I'll have to post pictures later. Although you are not able to tell the difference between the right and wrong sides. So it isn't worth my time. Or yours.

There is no way to fix it. Only wishing that I used more of brain. I can work on a one seam skirt pattern and lay it on the skirt and cut away. I have no extra, it took it all since it was a full circle pattern. I spent over an hour laying the fabric on one layer so that all four pieces of the skirt would fit...just enough.

Damn. Damn. Damn.

Research and Design

2009-02-08T20:08:00.002-05:00

Simon Seivewright introduces the most basic elements of designing fashion in Research and Design. This book is really great at explaing the main elements of design. He reviews inspiration and research and how to go about it to get what you want. What you want to accomplish is setting-up a mood board and collages. I will have to post my notes and what I have learned from this book at a later date. There are many interviews with several fashion designers, which the best part of the book! You can get inside a designer's mind and find what techniques they use to get the most out of their collections. The photos and the layout of this book is great and makes everything easy to understand. I will definately read this book over and over again.

Inspo from Burda

2009-02-08T20:04:00.003-05:00

Here are two items I adore from the Burda Fashion website. Of course, I am still on selecting the perfect details from all of the white dresses I can!

weekend

2009-02-08T19:33:00.004-05:00

I cannot believe the weekend is almost over! And I wish I had not slept my Saturday away! I also messed up some of my assignments for class - whoops! We did pick-up a coffee maker by Mr. Coffee at Lowe's. It is real snazzy in stainless steel with a delay, brew strength, immediately brewing and all kinds of nice things. So now I've been running around the house hyped-up and ready to clean...so I have accomplished quite a bit!

I also received my teflon shoe Saturday. Susan Veblen (teacher for patternreview.com) recommended the thing for ironing everything without ever worrying about messing up the fabrics. I haven't tried yet - or completed the curtains or dress or skirt and on on on on...

Don't mind the clutter upon clutter upon needless clutter. The polka dot pattern jersey is the dress-in-the-ever-so-slowly-making..of course I started my skirt months before.

The photo above is of my inspiration board for projects I have in mind for the present. My inspiration notebook is growing rapidly everyday.

Below is a picture from Vanity Fair of Reese Witherspoon in one of my most favorite dresses of ALL TIME!!! I love the way the bustier is split at the top and the vertical opposite black and white draped beautifully over her curves with the over-sized Texan style earrings.

I'll have to post pictures of the Sew Sassy order I received along with the great strech lace from Denver Fabrics and some sari panels I received from the classifieds on Pattern Review.

RTW Inspo

2009-02-04T22:32:00.005-05:00

Here are some items from Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Miu Miu. Once again, thanks to instyle.com.

Inspo

2009-02-04T22:15:00.005-05:00

I was carousing this afternoon for some inspiration. The haute couture spring lines are gorgeous! There are so many grays, whites, and creams. I've been keeping an eye out for details to add to a white dress I'm dying to put together (right after all the other ones!). I really enjoyed Saab and Valentino's collections. All of the photos shown here are from instyle.com.

It was nice to see lots of draping and feminine details. I am loving the flowers, soft colors, layers and the gorgeous emerald coat! I also love the sheers in black and white with the corset lines and lace detailing.

Hmmmm...

2009-02-04T10:56:00.000-05:00

I wish it were a snow day! I could be at home in bed with B. Getting ready to make us a yummy breakfast with bacon, waffles, potatoes, and scrambled eggs.

Hmmm....

It's been a nice weekend

2009-02-01T19:19:00.004-05:00

I picked mom up this morning and she brought this along with her:

It has been a breeze to work with! And I was able to fix my knit dress within seconds! I still used the four colors shown above on the black and white jersey but the stitches are so perfect, so gorgeous.

You can see the different colored loopers in green and blue. The top stitches are in yellow and red. The machine even comes with an elastic foot and blind hem foot. For an easy rolled hem, there is a special plate to use with either 2 threads, 3 threads, or 4 threads. The cleanliest of all the choices is 2-thread...who cares!! THIS MACHINE IS GREAT! I love how it makes a clean cut and the stitches go straight to the edge. The picture above is actually a side seam on the jersey dress. I made a small hole during some reconstruction techniques and am waiting for glue to dry before I finish it.

I guess I could always go finish my skirt or begin steaming my grosgrain ribbon in place.

I ordered three colors of stretch lace from Denver Fabrics. I am waiting for an orange, a purple and a turquoise. I can't wait to see the different things I can do with this machine. I would like to make corsets and other fun lingerie.

Of course there is always the hats and purses and gloves.

and dresses...

Designer Bead Embroirdery by Kenneth King

2009-01-29T22:56:00.003-05:00

Kenneth King has written a wonderful book describing in great detail how to add beading and sequins to your clothing. The book has MANY templates and VERY clear instructions. This book is a great book to have on hand for reference.

A book review

2009-01-29T22:50:00.002-05:00

"The Dressmaker" is a novel written by Elizabeth Birkelund Oberbeck about a man who falls in love with a woman engaged. The plot takes place in today's time, Paris and the story follows Claude from his first meeting with Valentine until the time he is fighting her husband and way beyond. Claude Raynaud is a wedding gown designer and lives outside of Paris in a town called Senlis. He has an estranged wife who returns one day. He becomes famous. The book goes on forever about a whole bunch of nothing. It would been nice if Oberbeck could have given more explanation on how Claude would stalk and watch Valentine - or anything more interesting than this time waster!

Hmph.

2009-01-28T09:55:00.004-05:00

It isn't another snow day - although it should be! We're expecting an ice/snow storm by noon. So we'll see if we have to leave early or not today.

Hoppo Bumpo's blog is hosting a seam-along for a few weeks. This week is the french seam. The damn french seam. The faux french seam I can deal with. The real thing is misunderstood.

Although I have never actually tried the french seam, it is majorly confusing to me. It must be so overwhelming that I've never dared to try. Tonight I plan to try! I will sit down with a fresh seam and try to figure how the french seams steps work.

Next week Hoppo is working is going to do the hong kong seam finish - which I plan to practice too!

I also need to finish my purse and curtains...

Snow Day

2009-01-27T19:10:00.008-05:00

This is the first snow day I've had at my current employment...of course this is the worst winter we've had since I've started working there. Anyhow I took advantage by not going back to sleep, making breakfast, going to the store (4WD baby!), cleaning, completing homework, and doing research on inspiration to conceptualization in fashion design. I found a great article while searching on Google. Type in "architectural inspiration fashion design" and you may get this.

I decided to check out a project I started early last year, which was a yellow and navy over the shoulder handbag. I don't know why I went from cutting right into sewing the lining with the fabric since the lining was an inch off on the bottom and right edge. What WAS I THINKING?!?

So I started on this faux croc, which is in the same pattern as the yellow and navy suede:

So you can see in the above that I am using vinyl with binder clips trapping a strip to cover the raw edges. It is a test garment, of course, the sewing is a bit off. But I did (without knowing) center the "crocodile" back on the pattern. I love the look of this purse - it's so ... sexy. I had to take out the stitches because the vinyl is hard to match in the curves of the armholes. So I'm not finished yet, but I am SO close.

I still need to complete the other pair of curtains for the bedroom and iron both sets.

Now I'm doing research on armors and more articles on using inspiration for fashion designing. I would like to purchase this book from Amazon. It would be really helpful in understanding the steps that go into fashion inspiration.

My Weekend

2009-01-26T09:41:00.003-05:00

Surprise! Surprise! I had a productive weekend!

I began by completing all my homework.

Then I moved on to making brownie cupcakes with oreos in the middle and on top. And they were heart-shaped!

I think it was Friday, no Thursday night, that I made meatballs and had those over at B's Granny's, matched perfectly with her spaghetti! YUM! YUM!

Anyhow, B and I woke on Sunday to a productive afternoon. Yes, we do wake up at one in the afternoon. We cleaned, I organized, I sewed. Yes, I got one set of panels completed for my bedroom curtains. I also began completing my tan embroirdered full circle skirt (click here). I inserted the zipper and completed the back seam. I do need to finish the seam to protect it from raveling and add the waistband and do the one inch hem.

I'll be posting photos this evening!

Go me!

Michelle Obama

2009-01-21T16:41:00.003-05:00

I'm sorry to every stylista out there that loves the First Lady's style but the dress she wore during the inauguration was hideous. I hated the color and I wasn't sure about the style of the coat with an overlay of lace. Also, the high neck with a large diamond necklace lying over it was just too much. I just did NOT like it.

The color was just hideous - that is one color that no woman should wear!

Another day - after another...

2009-01-21T16:04:00.002-05:00

There must be a strange moon out for the past couple of days because I have NOT been myself. Feelings of loneliness have been setting into my bones and making my temperment erratic. Just ask my boyfriend - he can tell you! LOL!

So I have come to the conclusion that I need to make some softies. And I plan to do this for a number of reasons:

1. Practice at handsewing
2. Practice at sewing - anything!
3. Gifts for Easter 09
4. Freedom from boredom
5. Because they are so damn cute!

I have been super lazy and no I haven't organized anything. I'm still behind on everything in Literature.

It is amazing that one of the things I am best at (reading and writing) is the class I do the worst at. I just need to try harder.

So which softie am I to make first? I was thinking an elephant or maybe a a donkey - then there is this super cute pattern for a Scottie dog...oh how I adore little Scotties. Only in pictures and play things, I don't actually like small dogs. Which is why I have a pit bull terrier named Socrates.

Artist. Bookworm. Chef. Traveler. Writer.

Sassy Salsa

Manwich Night

A Quote Today

365 Thank Yous

Quote

Yumminess!

searching for the perfect reading spot

Stephen King "On Writing"

Thanksgiving

Honeymoon at Atlantis

Work Day Evenings

The Karl Lagerfeld Diet

Sunday Potato Soup

The Honeymoon

Nina Garcia's Look Book

Our Wedding

Finding Inspiration

Slip Stitch

Alas!

Renovations!

Debate: Wardrobe Refashion

Finally...a dream come true!

St. Maarten

Landscapes

Time Just Flies

Time...

Weekend

2 Months

Blogroll

Missing : (

Morsin' It

Ideas

Pollution

Template Cut Out

Socs Swinging

Morsbags

Itty Bitties

Fabric Addiction

Polka Dot Dress

More of Memorial Weekend

Our Wonderful Weekend

And...

Instant Drama

The Final Decision

Curtains

Itty Bitty

He thought...

Room

My Prince

Curtain Choices

Shanda Kydd

Botanical Textures

Explosive Colors

Such a yummy day!

50% Complete

No really...

Another Article

A Story That Should Be Read

Etsy.com

a New Addiction

Staples

Yak!

VB

Some inspiration...

First Steps: Bench Reupholstering

Spring...where are you?

The Details

The Unveiling

MY room...

Work, work, work...and no time to play!

The Art of Conversation

"Another day another dollar...

Why, Yes! I am wearing GREEN!

Oh my!

More Relflections...now in bronze!

18 Days

Congo Reflections

The Collection

currently...