A Winding Road

snow and lots of it

2012-02-04T19:15:00.000-08:00

Um so yeah, Colorado gets a lot of snow. Wow. The Denver area got hit with a blizzard and I was in awe at how the snow just kept coming and coming...and coming. I took the kids out and I wasn't quite sure what to do with all of it. So I dug a path. That's it. So imaginative I know. Thankfully Daddy came out and built a huge tunnel/fort thing and saved the day.

sea of plaid

2012-02-03T17:21:00.000-08:00

There's a blizzard outside so since we are stuck inside we might as well pile up the cushions and jump around. It's amazing how much fun there is to be had with big (very plaid) couch cushions and not that a blizzard makes for an excuse to have a messy, loud, chaotic living room...that happens constantly.

sprinkle man

2012-02-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

My son loves him some sprinkles.

Here's a nice little Rolled Sugar Cookie recipe from the Fannie Farmer Cookbook

Rolled Sugar Cookies

Soften and whip:
2 sticks (one cup) of butter

Add:
1 cup of sugar, whip

Add:
two eggs, 1 tbl. vanilla, mix well

Add and mix dry ingredients:
1 tsp salt
3 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda

Preheat 350 oven, spray cookies sheets with Pam.
Roll out cookie dough on floured wax paper, 1/8 inch thick. Cut out and carefully transfer to baking sheets.
Bake for 5-7 minutes, and then watch them until the edges just start to brown.

our new home

2012-02-01T11:29:00.000-08:00

We moved to Colorado about 5 months ago from Maryland. I can't believe it's been that long. We moved from a charming old house into a rental townhouse and well, there are some pros and cons let's just say. Don't worry, the location makes up for the cons. Though our old home on the east coast was a bit more charming we're doing our best with our new home...though still dreaming of buying one some day soon...

We're settling in ...

Pillows and Gid's feet on the couch with a handmade blanket that was a cinch to crochet. Violet's beloved owl Handmade by Amy. Little corner in Gideon's room with fabric frames.

Violet's dresses and bunting in the reflection Handmade by Amy. Violet's adorable feet and favorite pillow.

Gideon unable to make a serious face with beloved Mr. Bear. Our mess by the front door. Kitchen table with Gid's favorite puzzles and handmade napkin holder. Goodwill dish set :)

Tall bookshelf turned on its side to block staircase rails so little ones don't fall through. Cement truck pic found at Goodwill. Violet wearing tutu and being adorable.

Sausage and French Toast Casserole

2012-02-01T07:04:00.000-08:00

I found this little gem tucked in a little corner of the web. It was easy to make and soooo delicious. It's pretty sweet so I left off the 1/2 cup of syrup at the end and just let everyone drizzle on a desired amount to their own serving.

Sausage and French Toast Casserole

Makes: 6 Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes

Batter:

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 envelopes Fleischmann's® RapidRise Yeast
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup very warm milk (120° to 130°F)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1 egg

Topping:
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
3 eggs
2 tablespoons milk
6 pre-cooked sausage patties
3/4 cup pancake syrup, divided

Directions:
Mix batter ingredients together in a pre-sprayed 8 X 8-inch baking dish. Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Beat together eggs and milk in a separate bowl.

Top batter evenly with cinnamon sugar and sausage patties. Pour egg mixture over top. Drizzle with 1/4 cup of syrup.

Bake by placing in a cold oven; set temperature to 350°F. Bake for 30 minutes or until done. Drizzle remaining 1/2 cup syrup over top and serve.

Print this recipe

Crochet - Infinity Scarf

2012-01-31T11:53:00.000-08:00

I love this free pattern for an infinity scarf. I seriously made 3 in one night. One for my sister-in-law, one for my niece and one for me. It's sooo simple and instantly gratifying.

Glazed Pork Loin with Brussels Sprouts & Sweet Potatoes

2012-01-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

This recipe is awesome. Rachel Ray's recipes don't usually appeal to me but this one turned out great and I've made it 3 times already. I love simple one pot meals!

Recipe is here.

source

magnet men

2012-01-27T10:27:00.000-08:00

I just happened to have a 75 count pack of craft sticks and magnet tape. Don't ask. I had my 3 year old color them into dudes, stick on magnets and put them on the fridge. I love them. I smile every time I get into the fridge (which is pretty often).

bumble bag

2012-01-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

I'm sick and a little bored so I used some scrap fabric to make a little tote for myself. It did not occur to me until the very last few stitches that it reminds me of a bumble bee. Oh well, I'm still gonna rock it.

busy, busy

2012-01-12T05:32:00.000-08:00

My brother and I have collaborated on a project that I'm very excited about. We're working very hard to launch it by Valentine's Day. We're creating a collection of beautifully illustrated paper goods and handmade gifts inspired by the Colorado Rockies. We have a fantastic line of wedding invitations in the works. I cant' wait! Here's a sneak peek...

Diaper Bag

2011-12-20T12:01:00.000-08:00

This was a custom order I just finished and I think it turned out lovely. It made me want to have another baby so I could carry a cute diaper bag around. Just kidding.

gingerbread dudes

2011-12-18T06:39:00.000-08:00

My son and I made these funny little guys. Gingerbread men are so cute but they make me giggle a little, I don't know why, maybe because they are edible people, not really sure. I used this recipe (although I had to add a lot more flour so I could roll it out) and we cut up raisins for the eyes and buttons. When they were done we ate a few, let them sit out and get stale, stuck hooks in them and then put them on the tree.

cold trees and warm knees

2011-12-16T15:32:00.000-08:00

Since we live in Colorado now I had visions of my family going deep into a mountain forest and cutting down a huge tree and dragging it home but since my kids are only 3 and 17 mos. and it's been crazy cold we opted for a tree lot. It was a very charming tree lot I must say and we drove up a winding mountain road to get there so I think it still counted. Counted as what? I'm not really sure. Where's the handmadeness in all this you ask? Well two minutes before we were out the door I cut the feet and the crotch part (I just said crotch) off a pair of stockings that were too small for Violet and put them on her legs. She rocked them.

Very Simple Crochet Blanket

2011-11-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

I have not been posting much mainly because it's taking me a while to get into the swing of things in my new home/town/state/side of the country and I'm not rushing things. I did however manage to finish my throw that I started oh, last winter I think. I love how it turned out. I'm a beginner crocheter and I'm not very good with patterns so I just kind of did what I wanted and it turned out nice I think.

I used Lion Brand's Wool-Ease Thick & Quick yarn with a 10mm hook. I started with the white and crocheted a chain as long as another throw I had and then single crocheted until the skein was gone and then singled crocheted an oatmeal color until that was gone and then white again, etc., etc. until the throw was as long as I wanted. It took 8 skeins of yarn and a little more white for the border.

Refashioned Leg Warmers / Boot Socks

2011-09-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

I cut the sleeves off a perfectly good sweater to make these boot socks / leg warmer things. I think they look pretty and super cozy so I'm off to the thrift store to buy a million more perfectly good sweaters to cut up. And where did I get my super cool vintage snow boots you ask? (I love them) Well Etsy of course, via Rogue Retro.


My legs look kinda weird.

lemon rosemary chicken bake

2011-09-16T05:41:00.000-07:00

You may have seen this recipe floating around Pinterest, well I finally tried it and it is AMAZING. I don't suggest leaving out the wine because it makes it's own sauce that is so delicious I licked my plate. No I didn't, but seriously.
( I just plopped some small red skinned potatoes in there instead of cutting up those big ones. )

Picture and Recipe from Sparkling Ink

Now I live in Colorado

2011-09-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

My little family of four traveled from Maryland to Colorado and what a journey it was. I flew with the kids and my husband drove a huge Uhaul truck. I think later I will create a post with tips on flying with kids because I survived a flight with a 3 year old and a 15 month old therefore I'm an expert on the subject :) It's difficult to be so far from friends and family but this beautiful state is definitely making it easier on us!
While I continue to get settled here's a few Colorado crafters I love, enjoy!

By Elk

Vintage Renewal

Make It and Love It

Ocracoke Island

2011-08-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

Took a much needed vacation without the kids. It was amazing. We've been to Ocracoke Island, NC many, many times but this was a bittersweet trip because it may have been our last since we're moving out west and all. Goodbye Ocracoke, you were so good to us.

(I made a bracelet at the bead shop. I put a starfish on it because I'm feeling all sappy and sentimental about leaving the east coast. It was fun.)

My Personal Style?

2011-08-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

I have no idea how I would describe my personal style right now. "Clueless and Comfortable" maybe? I enjoy a personal style blog now and then though. Okay more like daily, but they are so fun! Here are a few I like...

Calivintage

Kendi Everyday (she's hilarious)

Girl and Closet

What I Wore

My package arrived!

2011-08-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

Amy made me some beautiful bunting and with the scraps made the cutest stuffed owl I've ever seen. I've been wanting to collect some handmade things for my new house in Colorado and when I got this in the mail today I cried. It was just so pretty and perfect and my life has been feeling oh so not perfect as we're preparing for this big move. Everything is so upside down right now. So thank you Amy for providing an oasis in the desert for me today!

Colorado or Bust!

2011-08-02T04:01:00.000-07:00

We're moving from the east coast to Colorado so I'm kinda tied up at the moment to say the least! I will be closing my Etsy shop for a couple months but there's still a few bags left, so grab them by the end of the week! Oh and if you've done a big move with small children any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Happy Birthday Gideon

2011-08-01T08:02:00.000-07:00

My baby boy turned 3. Has it seriously been three years already? We had a big party with a Yo Gabba Gabba theme. I love Yo Gabba Gabba, like way more than my son does. We had ice cream cones, silly cake, water balloons and a homemade Brobee Pinata. I made it out of a paper bag because I was too lazy to handle the paper mache business. It worked great. (okay, it did involve a bit of stabbing) The cake was inspired by these pictures and there are great (and free) Yo Gabba Gabba printables here if you're interested.

Day with Eve

2011-07-27T06:21:00.000-07:00

My niece came over. She said she was hoping I would do crafts with her. My heart fluttered.
I had her paint on fabric with puffy paint. She's really good with a puffy paint bottle. When it dried I made it into a pillow. Easy and fun craft for kids.

Then we made a reversible tote bag. She picked the fabric. She has good taste.
I may make a tutorial for this because it's super easy and fast.

Barrettes for Violet!

2011-07-19T06:53:00.000-07:00

For some reason making pretty barrettes for little Violet has solidified the fact that I have a girl. It was a special time and they turned out just as I imagined, which rarely happens. I followed this tutorial for the rose barrette but the pattern provided was a little big, more for an older girl so I copied the pattern and made it smaller, to fit a smaller barrette.

Girly bunting!

2011-07-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited because I just ordered pretty bunting from Amy of Little White Schoolhouse for my little girl's room! My family is relocating to Colorado (whenever we sell our house) so I'm trying to collect some cute handmade things to fill my new house with. I'm hoping this will help with my transition :) Amy has an Etsy shop filled with beautiful handmade-ness and thankfully for me she does custom orders! I'm sending her my fabric choices, scroll down to see the fabric I chose...

Scalloped Bunting Handmade by Amy

Scallped Bunting Handmade by Amy

Here are my fabric choices - I can't wait to see how it turns out!

new shoulder bags

2011-07-12T04:02:00.000-07:00

I'm really happy with these new shoulder bags. I LOVE the fabric, especially those raindrops, like I wanna lick them. I think it is very important to have a front pocket in a bag to throw phones, keys, a dirty wet wipe or whatever in. These have that. So we're good. And they are for sale. So we're good.

Giveaway! - ending Friday 7/15 at midnight...

2011-07-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Craft Buds is giving away one of my bags and have written up a nice little bit about what I'm doing so go on over there and check it out.....

bubble recipe

2011-07-07T04:28:00.000-07:00

Just in case you didn't know, if you run out of the bubble liquid stuff you can make your own. This is how I make it.

1/2 cup dish soap
2 cups water
2 tbsps sugar (thickener)
dab of food coloring for the fun of it

weekend sprucing

2011-07-04T03:58:00.000-07:00

I did a few things to brighten up the porch this weekend including painting my old wicker bright yellow....and I mean BRIGHT. I like it. I think. Yeah, I like it.

I cut up my Target tablecloth to make pillows. It wasn't in the plan, but I really like how they look.

Bags, bags and more bags

2011-07-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

I'm making bags for the etsy shop. Yup. That's what I'm doing.

Children's books needed in Haiti...

2011-06-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

Friends from Fond Baptiste, Haiti sent this letter.....

I am writing to inform you friends that we want to start an official book club/ library in the mountains. There are many Fond Baptiste children of many different ages but there is no library. We have already started collecting books so if you want to help let us know.

We would prefer children books with lots of pictures (for ages 5-18). It would be nice if they could be in French or creole but not limited to either. If they are in English we would love for them to have many pictures. French books may be bought online(amazon) or if you have a friends in Montreal, Canada they may be able to get some for you.

Thank you friends and God bless.
Roberteau and Carolyn

If you would like to help you can leave me a comment and I will give you an address to send books to.

homemade labels

2011-06-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

I finally made labels to sew on my bags and I did it the cheapest way possible because that's how I role. I spent $7 for iron-on transfer paper. I like the way they turned out, nice and simple, I think that may be the key when using this method. I ironed my design on to scrap fabric, cut them out and then folded the edges down.

There's a lot of neat ideas for making your own labels on the cheap, here's a few I liked...

300 Labels for $20
Hand Stamped Labels
Labels Using Ink Jet Fabric sheets
Iron-on Transfer Labels

fun list

2011-06-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

I felt like making a list of some things I like...

1. contortionist crochet cuff
2. their music
3. yellow leather clutch
4. paper ships
5. organic necklace
6. man punching bear
7. mini lemon poppy seed cakes with raspberry curd filling
8. her book
9. her watercolor ship
10. Captain Jack Sparrow apron
11. her clothes
12. bell & boo cushions

Curvy Clutch

2011-06-13T04:44:00.000-07:00

This Keyka Lou clutch pattern is perfect. I had a lot of fun making her.

elastic cord + beads = magic

2011-06-08T16:22:00.000-07:00

When my friend walked through my door with a giant box of beads and other jewelry making paraphernalia I knew I was in for a good time.

I grabbed the elastic cord, strung some cool beads, tied a knot, and voila - I had cute jewelry. I just love instant gratification.

Slow Cooker Spicy Italian Beef

2011-06-08T05:02:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Goodness. I may have mentioned before that the crock pot and I don't get along, but this beef turned out so good I could slap somebody. The recipe comes from Mrs. Bettie Rocker. She knows what's up.

Slow Cooker Spicy Italian Beef
Printable Version

Ingredients
1 boneless beef chuck roast (3 to 4 pounds)
1 jar (12 ounces) pepperocini (I just used the jarred hot pepper rings)
1 can (14.5 ounces) beef broth
1 bottle (12 ounces) of your favorite beer
1 onion, minced
2 tablespoons dried Italian seasoning
Sliced mozzarella or provolone cheese
Sliced French bread or buns

Directions
1. Trim fat from beef and discard. Cut beef to fit in slow cooker if necessary, leaving in as many large pieces as possible.

2. Drain pepperocini and add to slow cooker with broth, beer, onion and herbs. Do not stir. Cover and cook on low 8 to 10 hours.

3. Remove beef from cooker and shred with two forks. Return shredded beef to cooking liquid and stir. Serve on bread topped with cheese. Put juices in a bowl and dip!

p.s. I stuck the sandwich under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese and get it nice and toasty.

Hoop Handle Handbag

2011-06-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

I love this bag! I can't wait to make more. I'm still working on the pattern but it's definitely getting there. There are a few tutorials, like this one, for these types of bags floating around the web if you're interested in making one. They come together quickly (and they're very forgiving :)

2011-06-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I fantasize about designing t-shirts. I don't really have time for that but a year or so ago I did these designs and I still think they're hilarious. I really love them. Maybe because they are images of me, my dad, my son and my brothers, maybe it's the word peanut, or maybe it's because I know my Dad tipped that bike a minute after he got going, I don't know, but they make me giggle.

My Sweet Violet

2011-06-05T12:34:00.000-07:00

Playing with graphics from maybemej. Lots of free fun stuff there.

Tote for Teacher

2011-06-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

Custom bag for my friend's son's teacher. Teachers really deserve nice gifts so I hope she likes it :)

Fabric Covered Button Earrings

2011-06-03T03:20:00.000-07:00

I made earrings. I love them. I'm going to make one million pairs because they take like 3 minutes. To make these all you need is a covered button kit, earring posts (beading section of craft store), super glue and fabric scraps. There's a nice little tutorial here.

Conflicted Tote

2011-05-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

This tote is conflicted I think. I'm not too sure about the design of this one. Too much going on I think. Oh well, it's cute enough.

Flourless Chocolate Beet Cake

2011-05-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give my kids a treat today and I found this recipe for a cake made with root vegetables, no kidding. And no kidding, it was delicious. And no kidding, even my husband liked it. And no kidding I think it could even be fancy for a party or something. Okay, I'm done.

Nugget approved.

Flourless Chocolate Beet Cake
From Just Braise

4 ounces bittersweet chocolate
6 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 egg, separated plus 2 egg whites
pinch of salt
1-1/2 cups grated (cooked) beets plus 2 tablespoons cooking juice
1/4 cup cocoa powder

1) Preheat the oven to 375F. Butter an 8-inch cake pan, line it with parchment paper and butter the parchment paper.
2) In a double boiler set over medium heat, melt the chocolate and butter.
3) With an electric mixer, begin beating egg whites with a pinch of salt and the beet juice. As whites build, add the sugar, egg yolk and zest into the chocolate mixture, stirring to incorporate evenly. Add grated beets to the chocolate and incorporate.
4) Gently fold in the egg whites and cocoa powder until just combined. Pour into the buttered cake pan and bake 25 minutes in the center of the oven.
5) Cake is ready when a toothpick comes out clean on the sides, but slightly wet in the middle. Remove
from the oven and let cool 5 minutes. Invert the cake on a plate and refrigerate 30 minutes before serving.

Recipes for the week

2011-05-23T04:43:00.000-07:00

Okay here are some recipes I'm going to try this week. I'm super excited. My poor husband, we rarely have the same thing twice because I love trying recipes. He's learned to accept this about me because he loves me more than food. I dare you to try them with me, it could be fun.

Sea Salt Baked Potatoes with Dressing and Arugula

Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Quesadillas

Breadcrumb Crusted Zucchini with Rainbow Chard

Grilled Ribeye Steak with Onion-Blue Cheese Sauce

Random

2011-05-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

Today is a lazy Saturday and I'm loving it. I'm just kind of meandering through the day, la la-ing along. My son caught his first toad today which was pretty awesome but a little worrisome. I suddenly had visions of finding dried up toads in his jeans pockets. I've heard boys do that.
As I was hanging out by my blog it occurred to me that I may not have a single photo of me on it. Not a big deal, but I know sometimes it's nice to see the face once in a while. Here's my face but good luck trying to see past that adorableness on the left there.

Nautical and Nice

2011-05-20T17:55:00.000-07:00

So am I the only one who loves this fabric? I think it's crazy cute and yes, I have succumbed to the nautical theme love that's happening these days. Bring on the boats, fish, crabs, whatever. Bring it.

Baby's First Cake

2011-05-15T06:21:00.000-07:00

My sweet Violet turned 1. It was the quickest year of my life and I'm terrified that the years to come will go just as quick. I just love the baby days. We celebrated with family and food, including cake which turned out nothing like I planned (nothing ever does), but it was girly and that's really all that matters. After almost 3 years of all boy stuff I am so excited to be girling things up.

Violet Abigail, photo by Jesonis Photography

Purple Linen

2011-05-14T05:02:00.000-07:00

I'm definitely going to make more bags with linen. It looks great and I feel all light and summery when I carry it. It's always nice to feel light :)

I'm not scared of the B-Sprout - a simple recipe

2011-05-11T11:11:00.002-07:00

I've always been intimidated by brussels sprouts but I had them at this super cool garden cafe my hubby took me to for my birthday and they were so delicious I would have given up a plate of chocolate chip cookies for those sprouts...maybe. Anyway, I found this very easy recipe on my favorite healthy recipe blog that turned out fantastic! Try it. Seriously. Try it.

Golden-Crusted Brussels Sprouts

24 small brussels sprouts
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for rubbing
fine-grain sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated cheese of your choice (I left out the cheese and they were still delicious!)

Wash the brussels sprouts well. Trim the stem ends and remove any raggy outer leaves. Cut in half from stem to top and gently rub each half with olive oil, keeping it intact (or if you are lazy just toss them in a bowl with a glug of olive oil).

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat. Don't overheat the skillet, or the outsides of the brussels sprouts will cook too quickly. Place the brussels sprouts in the pan flat side down (single-layer), sprinkle with a couple pinches of salt, cover, and cook for roughly 5 minutes; the bottoms of the sprouts should only show a hint of browning. Cut into or taste one of the sprouts to gauge whether they're tender throughout. If not, cover and cook for a few more minutes.

Once just tender, uncover, turn up the heat, and cook until the flat sides are deep brown and caramelized. Use a metal spatula to toss them once or twice to get some browning on the rounded side. Season with more salt, a few grinds of pepper, and a dusting of grated cheese. While you might be able to get away with keeping a platter of these warm in the oven for a few minutes, they are exponentially tastier if popped in your mouth immediately.

Cause I would want to know...

2011-05-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

Some days I'm a size 12 and this shirt dress I got from H&M is flattering and inexpensive. (I think it was under $20). You know, just in case you were looking.

Buttercup bag on video

2011-05-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

My friend made a little video for a final project in a class he is taking. It features a bag I made and my lovely sister. Watch it. Love it.

"This is my final project for Guerrilla Video 2. I would like to extend my thanks to Carlyn Newitt for her help and Jessica Kenenske for featuring her handmade bag. Her company, A Winding Road, is currently selling handcrafted bags, totes and purses, to raise funds for a medical facility in Fond Baptiste Haiti. Please take time to visit her site and continue to remember Haiti in your prayers."

Ima Mom

2011-05-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

I'm a mother. My life is fun, messy, wonderful, stinky, beautiful, chaotic, hilarious, scary and blessed.

Gotta Love Ticking Stripe

2011-05-07T05:32:00.000-07:00

This shoulder bag is made with navy ticking stripe and lined with bright yellow fabric. I love this bag but am willing to part with it for a greater cause :)

Art Love

2011-05-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

I am crazy about The Mincing Mockingbird right now. Like if I don't get one I won't last the day. You absolutely have to check out their shop, look at the prints and promise me you will read the titles. They are hilarious.

My favorite shoes

2011-05-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

I realize my standards are low and I'm cheap, etc. but these have always been my very favorite type of shoe. I got my first pair in high school and have loved them ever since. They are like going barefoot but you can still step on rocks and stuff. And they look cute with everything. I love them. They have them 2 for $20 at Urban Outfitters. (I still think that's expensive)

Springtime Tote

2011-05-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

I used Heather Bailey's Nicey Jane fabric. I love her stuff. It makes me happy. Ruffles also make me happy. They didn't always. But I need them in my life right now.

This tote is for sale in my shop. All proceeds go to Mountain of Hope clinic in Haiti.

Which would you choose?

2011-04-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

I would like to treat myself to a pair of summer shoes but I cannot make a decision. I've narrowed my choices down to these six. I know, ridiculous. Which pair should I get? I need help because clearly I cannot make a decision on my own.

1. Urban Outfitters 2. Charlotte Russe 3. Target 4. Old Navy 5. Francesca's 6. Francesca's

Grab a cookie while I open up a little...

2011-04-26T07:15:00.000-07:00

So I've had to change my diet drastically because I have postpartum depression anxiety. I can't believe I just typed that out loud. My second child was born a year ago and I'm still struggling with this. It has taken me a very long time to face this fact but now that I have, I can finally get a grip on it and stop feeling like I'm going crazy. I decided to not go the drug route because I know that if I take something that will immediately make me feel better I won't get to the bigger issue of taking care of myself. I have neglected myself for quite some time now. I know it's hard to focus on yourself when you have tiny nuggets running around but I have found out the hard way that it is very necessary (duh). I mean I could have, at the very least, taken the time to EAT SOMETHING. But don't get me wrong, I know I would still have hormonal issues even if I was eating better but I know I haven't been helping things. So for about a month now I have been making sure to eat what's going to help my body and not hurt it anymore....and to just eat. period. And seriously, after 3 days of eating healthy I felt like a different person. Seriously. I really had no idea how much food affected me.

But...I can't give up cookies so here's my recipe for a healthy cookie that does the trick.

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies Printable Version

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Splenda (or 6 packets)
1/2 cup canola oil
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 teaspoons water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 white flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup old fashion rolled oats
1/2 cup (or more) chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix oil, honey, Splenda until creamy. Combine with egg, vanilla, and salt, blend. Mix flour, baking soda, and old fashion rolled oats. Stir in chocolate chips. Spoon onto greased cookie sheets. Bake for about 7 minutes and then check so see if they're starting to brown on top. Take them out as soon as they start browning and let them sit for about 10 minutes to finish cooking.

Makes about 2 dozen.

Ruffle Cakes

2011-04-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

Are these not two of the most beautiful cakes you've ever seen? I'd like to keep one on my nightstand next to my bed and not eat it. Just look at it. Forever.

Then I thought I would make one for Violet's 1st birthday coming up. Just kidding. I'll probably order cupcakes from Acme.

[ Maisie Fantaisie and Magpies Bakery ]

My purpose.

2011-04-21T10:45:00.000-07:00

Slouchy Bags

2011-04-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: These are both sold.

A couple new handmade spring/summer bags. If you would like to purchase one, all proceeds will go to help the Mountain of Hope clinic in Fond Baptiste, Haiti.

Bird Tote

2011-04-20T04:40:00.000-07:00

Cute, simple tote for carrying the essentials. I definitely prefer a huge bag where I can throw all of my life in and then loose it all, but I was inspired by a good friend who carries around her wallet and keys and phone in her hands everywhere she goes because she hates carrying a shoulder bag. This bag fits a little more then a wallet, keys and phone but it's still small enough to not be annoying. Plus it's pretty :)

Rice Krispie Treats 'n Peeps

2011-04-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

We had fun making these. We have tummy aches. That's edible grass there. Who knew there was edible grass??

Curry Chicken Thighs

2011-04-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

This recipe is out of this world delicious, I mean, truly ridiculish.
I found the original recipe on Sparkrecipes.com but changed it so much that I'm calling it my own :) and proud of it. This knocked our socks off. And it's EASY!

Curry Chicken Thighs Printable Version

6 chicken thighs (or more) - I used skinless/boneless
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. yellow mustard
1 tsp salt
1 Tbsp red curry paste

This serves 4 but there was enough sauce to add more thighs if you need to.

Directions
Melt butter on stove top then add the rest of the ingredients except chicken. Stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat, roll chicken in sauce and put in baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over chicken. Bake uncovered @ 375 for an hour.

I served these over fresh baby spinach with a baked potato and sauteed zucchini.

Linking this recipe up with the parties on my side bar..

Ministry Beginning in Haiti

2011-04-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

Here's some info on the ministry I'm supporting.
Visit my shop if you would like to purchase a tote to help this mission.

Buttercup bag

2011-04-10T06:51:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned how much I love the Buttercup Bag pattern? And have I mentioned how much I love yellow and gray together?

Hope for Haiti

2011-04-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

I opened an Etsy shop to sell my bags in the hopes of raising money for Montagne de l'espoir (mountain of hope) medical clinic in Fond Baptiste, Haiti. Click here to read Roberteau's incredible and inspiring story and how God is using him to care for the physical and spiritual needs of those who visit his clinic in the mountains of Fond Baptiste.

Strawberry Tote

2011-03-28T05:55:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for strawberry prints. They're so adorable, like I wanna lick them. I made this bag imagining my little Violet toting around her beloved bear, you know, when she can walk and stuff.

Fabric Love

2011-03-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

Fabric I'm loving right now....


Oscar Poppies in Mediterranean Castle Flags in Yellow The Owl and the Pussycat in Plum Raindrops in Yellow Leafy Stripe in Dove Old Town in Turquoise

Glasses Cozy

2011-03-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

My new glasses inspired me to make this and I thought since it was really easy I would tell you how to make this.

Cut two pieces of felt, 6 1/2 inches wide (my case is pretty snug so if your glasses are large you may want to increase the size. ) One color for the inside and one for the outside of the case. I rounded the corners with a spool of thread - not necessary but I like the rounded edge look.

Cut out some leafy felt shapes and arrange them on the right side of the outer square, keeping in mind the square will be folded to create the case so the leaf design must fit on just the one half. After you arrange them in a way that makes you happy, glue them on with fabric glue. When the glue dries give each leaf a couple hand stitches.

Lay the outer square on top of the inner square and sew close to the edge all the way around, then fold the whole thing in half, right sides together, making sure your leaf design is where you want it to be and sew down the side and bottom of the case, leaving a nice size gap at the top to slide your glasses in.

Turn it right side out and you're done! Easy peasy.

Violet

2011-03-17T05:52:00.000-07:00

My little girl. I love her.

Houndstooth Fun

2011-03-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

This bag is from the famous Buttercup pattern, but of course I added a ruffle. I bought the enlarged version of the pattern and the size is perfect! I really like how this turned out, I think it's me. Too bad it's not for me.

Sausage, Kale & Potato Soup (Zuppa Toscana)

2011-03-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

I have made this a few times and my family devours it. It is super delicious. My favorite soup ever (so far). I discovered a similar dish here and have changed it a bit to make it less creamy and more...I don't know....brothy (that's a word right?)

Zuppa Toscana

Ingredients:
3 cans (14oz. each) Chicken Broth
1 Cup Milk
1/2 stick of Butter (melted)
Red Pepper Flakes (To Taste)
Pepper (To Taste)
1 small Onion, diced, sauteed or 1 Tablespoon minced onion
4-5 cups Chopped Kale
3 - 4 Potatoes Scrubbed And Cut Into Slices Or Small Chunks (Skins Left On) (I usually use baby yukon golds)
1 pound Mild Italian Sausage (just brown and chop up like you would ground beef)

Directions:
Put everything except for potatoes together in a large crockpot and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add potatoes the last hour (if you add them too soon they will get soggy).

Printable Version

Totally Turquoise

2011-03-12T05:10:00.000-08:00

This tote is very turquoise and I'm not sure how I feel about that. It's almost spring though so it should be okay. The bag turned out way bigger than I planned. I really should just follow a pattern or make a pattern or something that makes sense because I just make them as I go and then wonder why they don't look like what I imagined. Silly me.

Gotta love the ruffle though.

Gideon

2011-03-12T04:16:00.000-08:00

My son. I love him.

Reversible Dress

2011-03-08T11:59:00.000-08:00

I'm participating in a 'Dress a Girl Around the World' sew-a-long this week organized by Little Big Girl Studio. I used the pattern provided by Vanessa, which was great but then I used the instructions for a reversible dress I found here. The fabric I used is so thin it was almost sheer so the dress is still very lightweight. Two dresses in one is awesome.

Lots and lots of prayers for the girl this dress finds. Bless her Lord!

Ruffle Pocket Tote No. 2

2011-03-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

This turned out really cutesie - it's even lined with polka-dot fabric which pushes the cuteness factor over the edge a bit. I was going to make it a made-for-a-little-girl bag but then I could totally see myself carrying it so...I'm not sure what that means...I'm immature? I'm cute? Who knows. All I do know is that ruffles rule and I'm putting them on everything.

Ruffle Pocket Tote

2011-03-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

This tote was fun to make. It's definitely simple but the ruffle just gives it a little something don't you think? Plus the ruffle part is a double pocket so you know, that rocks.

Thinking Spring

2011-03-04T03:53:00.000-08:00

Want one?

Dress a girl around the world

2011-03-01T06:17:00.000-08:00

Thinking about sewing instead of actually sewing

2011-01-26T07:16:00.000-08:00

I did this sketch a while ago and I've been dreaming about designing some dolls that look just like her. I just can't imagine how I would do the hair. Any ideas?

Praline Cookies

2011-01-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

These cookies are scrumptiouslyumptious. They have nuts and I've never been a fan of a cookie with nuts but these are so good I didn't mind at all. I did make some without though and they are still really, really tasty! I found the recipe over at The Girl Who Ate Everything and I didn't change a thing. (She has much better pictures of these tasty morsels though if you wanna check them out.)

Heather’s World Famous Praline Cookies
by Heather Walker

2 cups browned butter
2 cups brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped pecans (reserve 1/3 cup for sprinkling on frosted cookies)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Place butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat stirring occasionally for 5-8 minutes or until deep brown with small flecks. Butter will melt, bubble, foam and then turn a deep brown, from the bottom up. Be careful at this point, it can burn quite easily once it has turned brown. Remove from heat. Take out ½ cup and set aside for frosting.

Beat slightly cooled remaining butter with brown sugar until it isn’t hot anymore. Add eggs, vanilla, soda, powder and salt. Beat thoroughly. Add flour and 2/3 cup chopped pecans.

Bake at 350 for about 10 minutes depending on size of cookie you scoop out. Small ones are better because this is a VERY rich cookie. Combine frosting ingredients and beat well. Spread over cooled cookies and sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top. Makes 4-5 dozen.

Frosting:
½ cup reserved brown butter
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup hot water

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Frosting is thick but you can add a tad more hot water to make it spreadable if you need to.

Want to learn how to crochet?

2011-01-21T05:39:00.001-08:00

I highly recommend this book if you are interested in learning to crochet. I know, it's a kid's book but it's great for beginners and has fun/cute/easy projects for kids of all ages. I really love it!

Scarf

2011-01-21T05:24:00.000-08:00

I've been busy so I haven't been too crafty lately however it is simple and quick to whip up a scarf so I've been doing that...a lot. It's very satisfying.

I love you closet.

2011-01-08T08:22:00.000-08:00

I was so inspired by this post that I spent the evening organizing my wardrobe. (my house is almost 200 years old so we don't have closets...that's how they did back then.)
I just want to open it, gaze upon it's glory, then shut it only to open it again. Please let my organizing inspire you. It does not happen often.

Don't you love the dip happening there.

And so a new chapter begins...

2011-01-01T06:17:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-26T06:32:00.001-08:00

Hope you're enjoying the holiday as much as I am!

Cowl Scarf with Ties

2010-12-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hand crocheted cowl scarf / neck warmer for sale in my shop.

Linking up with the Link Parties on my sidebar...

Gift Ideas

2010-12-10T09:44:00.001-08:00

For Poppies at Play Craft Contest...

Everyone loves food right? This bread is simple to bake but really, really yummy and makes a nice presentation. You could include the recipe on a cute recipe card tied with a bow around the bread. Sweet.

Braided Sweet Bread

Makes 2 loaves

1/4 cup water
1 1/2 cups warm milk
1 package dry yeast
4 tablespoons margarine, melted
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
4 1/2 cups flour (use more to knead)
1 beaten egg

1. Mix together water, warm milk, and yeast.
2. Add melted margarine, sugar, salt and flour.
3. Knead dough, place in bowl, cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Divide dough into 6 parts.
5. Shape dough into 6 long pieces (length of baking sheet).
6. On baking sheet, braid 3 of the pieces together like you would hair, then braid remaining 3 pieces together.
7. Cover and let raise 1 more hour.
8. Brush beaten egg on top and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

Coffee Filter Wreath

2010-12-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

I know there's a million of these floating around in the web but here is further proof that these coffee filter wreaths turn out pretty darn cute.

There's a tutorial here. I used the natural filters and stuck them to a paper plate that I cut a hole in cause I'm cheap like that.

Four Stockings

2010-12-04T07:22:00.000-08:00

I made new stockings this year and it just hit me when they were hung that we're a family of four. I can't really express how warm and fuzzy this makes me feel. It took us a very long time to have our first little nugget and then we got another!!! This Christmas will be very special and full :)

Anyway, here's my four homemade stockings, I plan to eventually embroider names on them, but who knows when I'll get around to that. I basically made these like I would make a bag, sticking the lining inside, sewing the tops together and then rolling the cuff down. Very simple sewing.

I'm joining the great linky parties on my side bar...

I'm so in love with the mobius scarf

2010-11-21T19:30:00.000-08:00

I made another. I'm smitten. These are so practical, comfy, warm and cute and I just love that.

I'm joining the great linky parties on my side bar...

Mobius Twist Scarf

2010-11-16T09:02:00.000-08:00

I'm so in love with these Mobius Cowl Scarves. I used a pattern I found here, but I doubled the length and made it thinner. I'll be making a ton more of these! If you are a beginner crocheter or knitter (like me) this is a great project. Here's a couple other cute ones I would love to try.

Cornflower Blue Tide Pool Knitted Scarf
Purl Bee Knitted Mobius Cowl

I'm linking this up with the great linky parties on my side bar.

Tangy Glazed Pork = True Love

2010-11-13T05:04:00.000-08:00

This recipe is by Ann Voskamp who's blog I absolutely love and read daily. Her recipe and other great recipes are found in The Spirit of Food cook book.

I made this the other night and it was the most delicious pork loin I have ever tasted...and it was easy! I only used a 1.5 lb. Hormel pork tenderloin so I cut the recipe in half and only cooked it for about an hour. Trust me, it's goooood.

There's a printable version of the recipe over at The Church Cook.

Tangy Glazed Pork
Recipe of Ann Voskamp

Serves 8

Meat

2 teaspoon rubbed sage
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cloves of garlic crushed (I used freshly minced garlic since 12 loins needed to be cooked)
1 (5 pound) boneless pork loin or pork roast of choice

Sauce

1 cup sugar
2 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 cup water
4 tablespoons soy sauce

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Bring your pork to almost room temperature before baking.

In a bowl, mix sage, salt, pepper, and garlic, thoroughly and then rub all over the pork roast. Cook in an uncovered roasting pan on the middle oven rack for approximately 3 hours or until a meat thermometer reads at least 150 degrees F.

For the sauce, combine sugar, cornstarch, vinegar, water, and soy sauce in a small saucepan and place on low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce begins to bubble and slightly thicken.

Then remove from heat and brush the roast with glaze 3 or 4 times during the last 1/2 hour of cooking. Pour remaining sauce over the roast and serve.

My Personal Note: For Pork loin or tenderloin, cook until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F. (25 to 45 depending on the size). Cover loosely with foil and let rest 30 minutes before slicing.

10 second snood

2010-11-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

...or whatever these scarves are called...cowl scarf, tube scarf, infinity scarf, round scarf, - I've been looking for a not-so-bulky mustard one with no luck so I made one in about....10 seconds, or however long it took me to cut the bottom of a t-shirt off. I just love instant gratification.

To be a little more technical, I went to Goodwill, found a men's t-shirt in the color I wanted, then cut the width of it from armpit to armpit so I was left with a big tube. I then cut off the hem at the bottom so both ends would do that little roll thing that cotton jersey so wonderfully does and then wrapped it around my neck!

houndstooth ruffle tote

2010-10-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

Still on a ruffle kick. They're a lot easier to make than I thought. There's a nice ruffle tutorial at A Pretty Cool Life.

Linking up with the great linky parties found on my side bar...

Ruffle Bag

2010-10-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a little (it's actually quite large) tote I whipped up (actually it took quite a bit longer than I expected) with some cute rufflage. I love that ruffles are so in right now because I'm a girl.

Linking up with the great linky parties found on my side bar...

Cheese Fondue Recipe

2010-09-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

This is freaking delicious. I don't know what else to say about it. It tastes just like the Melting Pot's. Our favorite dippers are bread (of course), apples, cauliflower, broccoli and a big ol' spoon. I'm sure you could dip just about anything in there and it would taste good.

Cheese Fondue

12 ounces beer
12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (I would recommend a good quality cheese, but I have used the Acme brand bagged stuff and it was still awesome)
1/4 cup flour
1 TBSP worcestershire sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Mix cheese with flour in a bowl.
2. Heat beer in fondue pot until steaming.
3. Add Worcestershire, garlic, mustard and pepper; mix well.
4. Add cheese/flour mixture and stir until melted.

baby leggins

2010-09-14T08:19:00.000-07:00

or pants, whatever you want to call them. I'm in love with striped baby legs. I have a lot of striped boy shirts and some miscellaneous baby panties or bloomers whatever you want to call them so I decided to make something of them. Here's what I did...

I started with a boy's long sleeved shirt (size 9 months) and baby girl panties or bloomers, whatever you wanna call them. (size 6-9 months)

I cut the sleeves off the shirt right along the top seams.

Then I pinned the sleeves to the bloomer's leg openings, lining right side seam of the sleeve to right side seam of the crouch of the bloomers (this is very hard to explain).

Then I just stitched along the elastic of the bloomers and VIOLA! Totally cute (and easy) leggings!

Easiest cake I ever made

2010-08-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

Somebody sniffed me out.

This cake was FANTASTIC. It seriously takes 5 minutes to throw together but it comes out so fancy and delicious. Thanks Laura for sharing this wonderful recipe!

Go make this cake, eat it, then make another one for a fancy occasion.

Almond Cake

Ingredients:
* 3/4 cups of butter
* 1 1/2 cups of sugar
* 2 eggs
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 1 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
* 1 1/2 cups of flour

Topping:
* 1 Tbsp sugar
* 3/4 cup of SLICED almonds

Directions
* Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
* Melt butter.
* Pour melted butter in a bowl and stir in sugar. Stir it.
* Add eggs.
* Stir till creamy.
* Add all other ingredients (but not the topping ingredients!).
* Grease bottom and sides of pan. I used a 9 inch pan- springform might work best.
* Spread the batter in the pan.
* Sprinkle the almonds over the top then sprinkle on the sugar.
* Bake for 40 mins.