the secret life of linnea

Wintery Update

2009-02-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

On this winter morning I am......
- updating my blog for the first time in too long
- "Watching" the cub's favorite bear (he is very particular about the supervision of his bear)
- Worrying about someone more important to me than I can describe
- Loving that the temperature is on it's way up to a beautiful 75 degrees
- Thinking about all of the unpacking that I have to do and wondering for the sake of my children if the gene that makes me such a crappy unpacker is hereditary
- Enjoying the little "beep beeps" of our newest extremely cute and messy family members Jack & Sally the Zebra Finches
- Vowing to become more regular around here
- Remembering how much I love lists
- Excited to start cutting fabric for this and that
- Ending this list with a winter photo
a project now finished, the cub and my oldest and sister off in the distance

My First "Tutorial"

2008-11-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

The Spouse is working out of town for a few weeks. While he is gone I am responsible for; buying a house/ moving/ trying not too go crazy/ keeping the children alive. I love tutorials on other blogs and have been wanting to do one of my own. While this is not the beautiful crafty tutorial I was dreaming of I figure I will help the other women who find themselves in my situation. Here it goes, my first tutorial.....

What to do when you spill a bag of about 100 marbles all over the kitchen floor for the second time
1) Cry, the sloppier and more ridiculous the more effective.
2) Curse, pull out all of the stops, come on you can do it, it is interesting how many nasty things one can call a shitload of marbles.
3) Clean up (the marbles and yourself)resist the urge to throw the bag in the garbage.
4) Take a picture of them on the counter, you must document this breakdown for future reference. (spill a few marbles, point, focus, click)
5) Wait for a friend to bring Greek Food (Greek can be replaced by the fattening foreign food of your choice)
6) Knit, chat and laugh with friends. Fiber, embarrassing stories, trashy mags always heal.
7) Blog.
This tutorial is best used when the kids are sleeping, if they are awake omit the steps you find inappropriate (probably 1-6)

OCMS

2008-11-07T21:27:00.000-08:00

The Husband and I went away alone for the FIRST time ever since kids (5 years!) It was only for a night but it's a start and so enjoyable. We went to Hollywood for The Old Crow Medicine Show concert. It was amazing!!! They are already one of my favorite bands so I may be a little bias but I am telling you that they are the most incredible band that I have ever seen live. The musical talent on that stage was stunning. At the end of the show they were joined on stage by Jacob Dylan and Gillian Welch, (both magnificent artists) I didn't believe there was anything that could have made it more perfect until that moment! I am telling you if they are coming to your city (or a nearby one and you need a night away with the significant other) go see them and bring your dancing shoes ( I know you have a pair). Yes I am bossing you all around, you will thank me later! If you are not a fan you will be. I swear I do not work for them, I just love them!
We stayed in a hotel with chairs like the one below. I have sort of a thing for chairs, some would call it a sickness but I just REALLY like chairs! There could have been beds of nails but that chair and I would have loved the place.
The next day we walked around Hollywood together, bought some new music, talked, held hands, went to a museum, took a few pictures, put an offer in on a house and remembered who we were together.

A day of hope..

2008-11-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

Today brings me hope for the future of our country for my children and yours

Belated

2008-11-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

Months ago Blake let me know that all he wanted to be for Halloween is a Mariachi Singer. For purely selfish reasons I have tried to steer him in another direction (have you tried to find a pattern for a Traje de Charro for a 5 year old??) It turned out to be a lot less annoying that I thought, I only had to scrap one jacket. The boys had a great time earning their body weight in candy. Christmas gifts are in the making now and the Thanksgiving Tofurkey will be on order this week, how quickly this year is coming to an end. I hope you all had a Happy Halloween and you manage to find something creative to do with a childs weight in candy, any ideas??

Recovering

2008-10-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

With my needles to keep me company I am spending the weekend healing from some awful wisdom teeth extractions. The weather outside is perfect for an evening walk but I just don't think my face which is a little reminiscent of Quagmire can take it. It is strange how I can miss my boys even though I have been in the same house with them for the past 3 days. Heal body Heal!

On the bright side:
1)The projects on my needles are slowly but surely turning into wearable objects
2)The fall like weather is perfect for soup and mashed potatoes
3)Less than a month until a weekend away with the husband (so excited)
4)My hat matches one of my couches, very important requirement in selecting a yarn.
5)Election day and change are just around the corner.

Home

2008-10-07T23:31:00.000-07:00

The weather was perfect, the water sparkling, the trees huge and plenty. We enjoyed each other, nature, the excitement of being away from home, coming back to our room and the bed being made, exploring a new place. Lake Tahoe is one of the most amazingly beautiful places I have ever been. There is nothing like discovering nature's wonders with awe side by side with the ones you love most.
We have returned to reality with many pictures, memories, a few new books and the longing for more days filled with nature, peace and relaxation.

On our way

2008-09-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

We are leaving this morning on our long awaited, much needed and anticipated vacation. For the past week we have been having these conversations.. "Cubby, what do you want for dinner?" "Go on vacation for dinner?" and "Do they have homeschooling on vacation? Who will feed my sleeping buddies?" "Can we paint on vacation?" As I am taking a little break from the mad rush of packing, counting underwear, pants, blankies, knight shields (can't leave town without them) and sleeping buddies I am thinking how relaxing it would be to only have the stresses of 2 and 4 year olds right before a vacation. If the only planning I had to do was to make sure I had enough blue crayons and there would be mac and cheese where we are going. But instead I wait until the morning of to realize how much is left to do and then get on the computer instead. It makes it more of an adventure though, especially when I get there and realize I only brought my self shirts or no shoes. Lets just say packing practical items is not my strong point.
Now we count down the hours and then we are off. I have packed extra needles and yarn because of course I will finish the sweater I have on my needles right now. Even on vacation my hands can't be still.
Here we come lake, trees, fresh air, long bike rides, late dinners, nature walks, relaxation, adventure, mountains and treasured memories.

Summer Lovin'

2008-08-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time and I miss my blog so! We have had the worst luck with computers the past month, sadly losing a lot of pictures. I am going a little bit nutty without a computer but my mom is so kindly sharing with me (thanks mom) On the other hand I am getting a lot of knitting done. My needles are feeling very loved these days. Family and friends get ready for some hand-knits this holiday season! Although it is about 70 here even in fall I am going to be bundled up if it kills me!
Our summer has been so wonderful I am sad to see it come to an end. There is never enough summer for me, I always miss it when it is gone. Over the summer we have....
Discovered the Trolley

Spent so much precious time with my mom

and niece

met the sweetest Turkey who would make everyone go out and buy a Tofurkey this Thanksgiving

and just enjoyed every ray of sunshine, every sweaty nose, icepop, warm hug, splash and fuzzy feeling that the summer brought.

3X a day?

2008-07-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

Our Veggie Lady, (the woman from our wonderful CSA whose name I know not)gave me the best "recipe" when I admitted I had not the slightest clue of a good way to use our Kale. Now I am not sure if I could ever eat it another way. Here is the "recipe" it is very precise so follow it with caution it can be tricky. Actually I am not sure if this is even what she meant but it is what I did and it came out YUM!
The Perfect Summer Salad.....

-A couple of bunches of Kale
-1 Lemon
-Olive Oil
-Feta Cheese
-Pine Nuts
-1 Onion (I like sweet)

1) Slice onions and Saute in olive oil,
2) Add pine nuts, cook a couple more mins.
3) Crumble Feta Cheese and mix in
4) Squeeze Lemon in, stir and take off heat
5) Pour it all on your rinsed Kale in your favorite pretty bowl
6) toss
7) EAT
8) Love it
9)Thank me and I will in turn thank the "Veggie Lady"

Tuesday=Thrifted

2008-07-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

Oh splendid garage sales, how I do love you so! I had been so garage sale deprived living in the sad town where garage sales were few and far between. Now I have sooooo many to choose from. Our house now has so much more room than the last and God know I can not stand an empty space so I have begun the task of filling them, I feel it is my duty. It could become dangerous but how can I be expected to stop when I find deals and beauties like these.

I could live in this chair, I think it is the most comfortable piece of furniture I own.

I got two of these chairs ($20) and this table ($3) last weekend, what a perfect morning! The chairs or so soft I find my self petting them when ever I am within arms reach.

EWWW

2008-07-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

It has been a while, I have missed it. Here is my "This Is" for this weeks hosted by Three Buttons. Juddie chose this weeks theme.
This is what gives me goose bumps....
Seahorses, I know "they are just little sea creatures" NO!NO!NO! They have you all fooled! There is something unnatural and weird about them. I do not enjoy looking at, thinking or hearing about them. They creep me out, there is something so unnatural about them. This picture may not be on here long, it is small yet I may not be able to stand it.

Cotton Balls. I can not stand to touch them and if I were to rub one between my fingers there is a good possibility I would hurl.

USB finds

2008-07-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

Somehow during the move my treasured USB cable to my favorite camera was lost! Not just moving lost where you don't find it for weeks but LOST lost. I have never missed a cord so much or at all for that matter but I am cheap and held out hope it would magically show up in one of these half unpacked rooms. I couldn't take it anymore and ordered one, what a happy mail day it was when that package arrived! Here are some pictures that were released from the confides of my memory card....

I love this carnival game (as much as one can love carnival games)It is the least of all evils and pretty if you really look at it.
A strange surprise, I forgot about taking this picture.
It is bright but captures one of those 4 year boy moments where the weirder you are the better. I love those moments.

A beautiful window in historic Old Town, I think I will be painting some windows soon.

Cub and his well loved but not by him Big Bird. As much as I love having toddler sized stuffies in the house I said no to this one at a local rummage sale. His heart was so "broken" that a good intentioned worker took pity on him and gave it to him. He tugged it behind him for days and has not touched it since. It was true love while it lasted though. Now that I have that out of my system I can start all over with a fresh memory card and see what happens. I have actually finished a few projects lately and am starting a few new ones. I can't wait to post about them soon!

New (to us) house

2008-07-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

We moved! We are so happy to to be in a city that we love in a big very old house with
doorknobs like this and

windows like this

I even have my very own little sewing room, now if that is not something to make me love a house nothing is. More pictures of the house will come when I actually unpack. The beautiful weather, having my mom live a stones throw away (our backyards our connected by a gate) and so many things to do unpacking has taken a backseat to fun. Living out of boxes and bags for a while is fine with us for now, it makes it feel like vacation.

Little Softies, me and the toys

2008-05-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

4 Fabric markers +1 old curtain + 4 year old creative mind = Sew much fun

A house for my home

2008-05-21T22:16:00.000-07:00

I found this at a garage sale not to long ago. I was so excited I could have clapped, I somehow managed to keep my composure. I fell in love with it at once! There was an adorable old man who was having the garage sale. He was a guy after my own heart, collecting everything and not knowing what to do with it all. He explained to me that an artist named Louis made this in the 70's when she was very famous in the town of La Mesa, Ca. He told me they were friends and she made that for him, he also had a sketch book of hers somewhere amongst his stuff that he wanted to give to me (heart beating quickly here) Unfortunately I he was unable to find it and I was royally bummed but so happy to have this little treasure. It is dusty but loved. Everything in the house is a paper cutting except for a little white mouse on the top floor watching the kids play dress up. I can not wait to find the perfect place for this house in our home!

Tagged

2008-05-18T22:35:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by Sophie Hurray, my first tag!
Rules
1. Link to the person that tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs.
5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website
Six random useless facts about me. Ok, here we go

1) I have worked as a florist, a dog groomer, a child photographer, in a preschool, at a dry cleaner, even in a bar in Mexico, the only job I loved was a photographer. Overall though I hate actual jobs.
2) Before I had kids, I never wanted kids, I was going to travel the world. I now can not imagine my world without them.
3) I am going through a creative rut. I am convinced it is my house and moving will solve this problem. My house and I just don't vibe.
4) My favorite colors are brown and yellow, together, alone, I just love them.
5) My dream is to have Alpacas. I have even googled "Alpaca feet" I was very curious as to what the bottom of their feet look like. I did not find any good pictures. The next time I see an alpaca I will get a good look.
6) I love cereal nothing fancy or sugary. I could eat it every meal, I don't but I could. We have cereal for dinner every Thursday.

I made this shirt a couple of weeks ago. I love this fabric, I bought just enough for the shirt and when I went back it was gone. I have no idea who makes it, any ideas?? The pattern is Built By Wendy 3835. So simple so fast. Next time I will make the elastic on the sleeves and neckline a little looser and account for the fact my right arm is a tad bit bigger than my left (I never realized this and have become slightly paranoid about it) My goal is to make a couple more this week. I have not been making anything and am feeling a little frustrated with my self. I am in a creative funk.
The house I so wanted in this post is not going to be ours. We found out it will probably not be anyones. We knew it was a fixer but after we found everything out sadly realized it is more of a goner. The soil around the entire house is contaminated due to the awful previous owner and an illegal septic tank, ew. The poor house is literally falling apart and will probably be gone soon. It is so sad that such a neat house will never be lived in. I am glad we found everything before we got too invested in but it was still disappointing. We are trying to rent our house out now and what happens after that is up in the air. We are contemplating a BIG move to Austin. I have never even been there. We just kind of chose it. I have never lived anywhere but San Diego. The thought of moving makes me want to vomit but it might be a good thing for once. I think a change would be exciting. I think exploring a new city as a family will be an adventure and maybe that is what we need. Any Austin fans out there who can help convince me? Anyone want to rent my house?

Forest Friends

2008-05-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

We had our Cub's much anticipated Forest Friends Party at the lake last weekend. The kids had a blast, the weather completely cooperated and it was perfect. This is not to say that I was not totally stressed out leading up to the party or the fact that I may or may not have thrown a vegan chocolate cake that I made on the kitchen floor out of frustration only to call my mom and beg her to bring a new one the day of the party. Once we got to our site it was relaxing and of course I forgot about the torture I put myself through before hand.

Cubby decided he was going to wear his playsuit I made with a little persuasion from our buddy chocolate. He looks so darling though the bribery was more than worth it.

The kids decorated Forest Fairy hats that I sewed up from the Bend The Rules Sewing pattern with silk flowers and leaves. In Blake's case, "I just want one red feather sticking out of the top of my hat." They also decorated oatmeal boxes for drums.

They ran around freely sometimes with Owl Masks I printed, laminated and cute out from here.

Daddy discovered that the grass was full of ladybugs.

Cubby banged on his new drum (and has not stopped since). He even humored me by wearing his birthday crown for a few shots.

My baby is so soon to turn 2. Today was his last day as an official 1 year old but tomorrow it is an entirely different story. Tomorrow he will be TWO! I am hanging on to 1 as long as I can so if anyone is wondering my youngest son is 1. I am saying it as long as I possibly can. Hanging on to every second of todddlerhood that I can. Tomorrow I will face the reality but for now I am going to hang out here in the land of denial where all of us moms go the day before our babies get a little older.

This is.. an update

2008-04-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have been a naughty lazy blogger as of late. I really don't have much of an excuse except for life and we all know how that goes. Our computer is on the fritz so I am lucky if it stays on long enough to read a post let alone write one.

This is what we have been up to...

-Enjoying every ray of sunshine possible , soaking in spring, staying outside until dinner, catching ladybugs

-Preparing for the 2nd birthday party for the Cub. I made him this outfit (oliver + s playsuit in brown linen) and crown for his gala. The oliver + s pattern was so simple and it is so cute, I sure wish they had more boy patterns! The only thing is, he will not wear or let me get near him with either one. He sees them and states in a very nonchalant way "Don't wanna" this is usually followed by me convincing him how awesome the outfit is all the while him believing one word I say. I have decided to embroider a tiny owl on it and give it a go because he loves owls. I also have some beyond cute acorn buttons that have yet to be sewn on so heres hoping that the final product will be a little more enticing to his particular sense of style.

This is the house that I am hoping and praying with all of my being that we are able to buy. There are some stipulations to the sale and some problems that we do not know the full extent of. I am hell bent and determined to do everything in my power to make it ours. We walked (without permission but it is empty) and fell in love. It had such great energy and I have always wanted a yellow house so it must be fate! Some positive house buying vibes sent my way would be much appreciated.

I have been reading these books:
(Homeschooling : take a deep breath--you can do this! by Terrie Lynn Bittner. The well-adjusted child : the social benefits of homeschooling by Rachel Gathercole.Teach your own : the John Holt book of homeschooling / John Holt, Patrick Farenga.)
and seriously considering homeschooling, it feels right. Today at the park we met another homeschooling family who invited us to an event next week, it will be nice to talk to other women who have been doing it for a while. I never thought I would be a homeschooler but it really feels like it is what is right for us. We will see! Any other book or resource suggestions would be great!

I missed last weeks "this is" chosen by Dees from Daisy in Lala Land so here it is..
This is my unconditional, passionately loved and favorite book... I have changed my mind a few times since I knew what the topic was, it is really hard for me to choose I have so many favorites but here is one that makes me cry everytime I read it and I think I will always be able to relate to it now that I am a mother it is a heart felt book and the story behind the book is so moving also.

Love you Forever

I also love, Oh The Places You'll go and Everything is Illuminated but if I listed those that would be more than one.
I have been tagged coming next along with some fun birthday goodies found on etsy!

This is my latest discovery

2008-04-21T13:15:00.000-07:00

I am loving this Built by Wendy pattern, it is so easy and cute! I have had it sitting in my drawer for a while and just finally got to it. I sure wish I would have got to it sooner so I could have an entire collection by now but I am getting started. Knit Owl chose this "this is" weeks theme. I have been so sick for a couple for weeks now and was so happy to feel better just in time for Earth Day, one of my favorite days of the year. The festival was Earthy as always and there is nothing better than a good drum circle...

My little Cub is turning 2 soon and getting ready for his Woodland Friends party is taking up most of my crafty free time. He is oh so excited yelling "Owl Party, Yea" every time anything about a birthday is mentioned. I must admit I am getting a little excited my self! The beginning of the invitations ...

First Sewing Project

2008-04-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Cutting

The needle

Stuffing

The product and pride (both his and mine)
We had such fun making this little pachyderm together. He wants to sew everything now, time to set up his own sewing basket. I can't wait to see the things he creates!

This is..

2008-04-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

my Knick Knack/Jewelery Box or boxes I should say.....

a peek, my favorite bird necklace, pasta bracelet made in preschool, and other lovelies that I rarely wear.

The newest edition, a thrifted bird container. I can't wait to fill it up!

Thanks Anastasia for choosing this weeks "This is".

One day I will do this post on time!

I am working on it!

2008-04-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

I have a few works in progress. I get bored with things before I finish, start five new things and never finish any of them. I always have something to do though. This is some evidence of my crafting ADD. 1) a pocket for a sling bag I am working on from my own pattern 2) a blanket from Stitch n Bitch I am knitting and have been knitting a little (very little) at a time since I was pregnant with the Cub, I may finish it by his 2nd birthday. 3) Day of the week dish towels, I am not loving the way she is coming out, my beginning embroidery is not doing her cuteness any justice. Not pictured, I have started Built by Wendy 3835 and Simplicity 3507. I also have some fabric waiting for me to cut it up to be a quilt, I am dying to work on this Cathedral Window Quilt with instructions on Hyenas in Petticoats. Some day I will finish everything and not know what to do with my evenings, right?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-02T22:50:00.000-07:00

This is...

2008-03-31T07:46:00.001-07:00

the contents of my handbag

Ok, I have a lot of stuff in here and I just cleaned it out last week!
Bulletin from the Craft Mafia Spring Line up, gray kids socks,wallet, sunglasses (mine and kids), point & shoot camera in it's new case, OLD WEEZER pin, Artista Muerta card, yellow ducky, 2 softies my 4 year old made, bracelet from my mom, coins, car, tweezers, vegetarian meatball recipe, banana hand cleaner, buttons, gift card for restaurants, postcard for a patchwork show, note/sketch pad, package of wildflower seeds, a loose piece of old gum, a Hello Kitty pin(have no idea where this came from), Uncle Milton's ant farm club official membership card (it's not official without a card!), pen, pencil, outlet cover?, Quilt Craft Sew Festival coupon, bookmark from charinacharina, there was a purple bunny but it got snagged by little hands before I could even snap a picture.
Iris + Lilly picked this weeks this is. I always wonder what people keep in their bags and always imagine it is a lot more interesting than what I have. Now I will be able to find out!

Yesterday I had a girly day with my buddies and went to The North Park Craft Mafia Spring Line up. Where I asked a very tall man to take a picture for me. It must be hard being so tall. My husband is very tall and people ask him things that short people would never be asked so I felt like I was in the club via marriage and my request was not too obnoxious.
It was so crowded and there were so many talented women. I am doing a super thrifty no spendy month otherwise I could have spent a lot of money in there. This was a true test of my saving because there is nowhere I would rather spend my money than in a room full of local women artists. It is so inspiring to be around so many things that were created by hand. I wanted to come home on this inspiration high and start on a project but instead I watched kids splash in the tub with daddy, put them to bed and laid on the couch with a case of craft show fatigue.

This is....

2008-03-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

My demon, fear. I have over the years acquired a lot of fears. They cause me a lot of anxiety and stop me from doing things that I think I would do otherwise. I am trying with all of my might to get rid of many of these fears and not let them control my life. I figure maybe I can trick them into thinking I am not afraid and they will go away, kind of like an opossum playing dead. I have been getting a lot better in conquering this demon and at times it returns with full strength backed by an army of germs, death, failure and separation. I just have to remember I am strong and if I can't control it not to worry about it.
I don't have an image to go with this week if I could have taken a picture of the deadly seahorse I would have, seahorses are one of my fears( the most ridiculous one).
They are creepy.
Thanks to Drewzel for this weeks thought provoking topic.

On a totally unrelated note, I made these wide leg pants from Amy Butler's In Stitches. This book is so great! Sorry about the wrinkles, I finished them late last night and they were just begging to be worn to bed and then for the most part of the day. I think I am going to make myself a pair of these a day! There is nothing like wearing a new pair of jammies every night especially when they are this comfy.

I was having a little sneaky relaxing minute when the boys found me. My 4 year old took this picture with my SLR camera that weighs about as much as he does. He saw my lounging in bed and looked confused, "What are you doing? Can I take your picture?"
"Relaxing and sure"
Relaxing over, jumping started.

Bug Day

2008-03-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

Eastery Goodness

2008-03-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty great Easter aside from some funky family stuff, what are families for though?
I love how magical holidays are to the kids. Blake was very interested in the Easter Bunny and how he got in the house and fit in in the tent to hide a basket. I always wonder how convincing I am answering these questions right off of the top of my head. I need some kind of reference book. This is such a great age, it is going to be sad when he questions magic and what I tell him. Blake wanted me to take this picture of him with his "favorite Easter present"Craft Sticks! I love this boy! Craft Sticks were his favorite. The answer may have changed if I ask now but it brings me pride that at one point he loved Craft Sticks enough to ask me to take a picture of him with them. Cubs loved his owl books, one of which was Little Hoot
It is such a cute book and the illustrations are wonderful! We have checked this out at the library and he was very sad to return it, now it is his forever. That little guy just loves owls!

I made this apron for my sister for Easter. I really wanted to snag it for my self but I gave it up. I tried to get her to take a picture in it but apparently her animal print shirt did not match the spring floral so here is me in her apron. I was having a weird bra day so please excuse that, at least now I know, it is amazing what a picture will reveal.

Now on to some new projects, I would really like to make myself a couple of summer outfits. I am going to use some patterns from Sew U and try a couple of my own. I don't have any patterns for tops though. Does anyone have any patterns they love?

2008-03-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

Hope your Easter was a big fun mess!

Pay it Forward Exchange

2008-03-21T14:21:00.000-07:00

I found out about this fun exchange on Who Put Me In This Minivan and followed it here to Meg's blog where I was lucky enough to get in. I am excited to see what she is going to make and excited to send something out myself so here it goes, this is how it works.....
“I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this Paying It Forward exchange. I don’t know what that gift will be yet and you may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it within 365 days, which is my promise! The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog. (if you have one)”

Hurry Hurry!

Spring, Bowls and Bottoms

2008-03-18T08:13:00.000-07:00

Spring is here! I am not a cold weather person at all. Hopefully this sunny season will bring some energy along with it's warmth. I have felt like such a slug this winter. I am ready to play outside, garden, camp, walk in the evenings and soon enough swim!
We spent this lovely spring morning in the backyard. "Can I be naked? It is so warm!" My 4 year old asks me "Me too" says my niece, Cubby is soon to follow in this naked enjoyment of the sun. It has been a long time since Blake has played naked and I thought he was done with it as he has been rather modest lately. He even changes with the door closed or in the bathroom when he has company. I am not sure at what age I became aware of my nudity but I know it was older than 4. We put so much importance, sexuality and shame on nudity in this country and I am trying to teach my children how normal and natural bodies are and let them be comfortable with themselves. Obviously there are rules to this naked play, like in the backyard or house only and we had a good talk about how our bodies are ours only but after that pure freedom!
About 10 minutes into playing in the yard the big kids run screaming "Cubby pooped on the slide" and yep there it is right there at the top of the slide and Cubs is at the bottom singing "Poopoo in the potty" We are potty training and while it was not in a diaper it was not exactly where I was hoping it would be. It was hard not to laugh, his potty dance is just so cute and he was pretty proud of his creative placement. Sorry about the poop post, but I am sure many of you understand, Poop happens and sometimes it is on the slide.
Other than cleaning poop off of the slide I have been trying to finish up some Easter gifts. Easter is sneaking up on me this year, I am usually pretty prepared. There is a really cute tutorial on Bitter Betty's blog on how to "Pimp your bunny" since i am not really doing any candy except a chocolate bunny for each of them I figure it might as well be super cute. I plan on making them Wee Bunnies too but we will see I might be a Wee too late (sorry, cheesy I know)
I am very excited about Easter though it is one of my favorites along with Christmas and Earth Day.

The bowls up top are my Thrifted Tuesday find and I love love love them! They are perfect spring bowls, I wish I could carry them with me like an accessory. I am sure I could figure something out it probably would not be too functional though and I am all about functionality these days, functionality and spring.

Edited to add: You can also see my bowls on Hyena In Petticoats who runs Thrifted Tuesday! I am so proud that she put them on there, she always has the most amazing thrifted goods and check out her Nongs!

This is....

2008-03-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

This weeks theme is "What I create" chosen by Betty the Geek

I made this Amy Butler Messenger Bag with some fun Alexander Henry fabric.
I feel like a better title would be "This is what I made" I think creating comes more from within. I am creating my life, happiness and memories. I did not want to get too deep here though, it is St. Patrick's Day after all. So I am sticking with my bag.
It was a labor of love! It was a complicated pattern for my first one. I set it aside for a long time while I worked on a lot of other projects and came back to it the other night and finished it rather quickly. Once I got a better understanding of patterns it was not too challenging but it was kicking my ass when I first started for sure! I do love it now. I am going to have to find some stuff to message now that I have a messenger bag. I figure I can carry my photography portfolio in it once I get it together. I need to find a good binder for it.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-12T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hoots hanging in the living room

This is....

2008-03-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

Looking out my front door

I joined the "This Is" meme that Angela from Three Buttons started. This week's topic was chosen by Brook e. They both have very inspiring blogs!
The view from my front door is not nearly as exciting as many of the other posters, there are some great shots out there. The plant was a little aloe plant from my grandma when we first moved in a year and a half ago that has taken over my front porch. I can't wait to give it and us a new home which will hopefully happen sometime in the near future.
We have a meeting with a Realtor in a couple weeks to come and see about putting our house on the market. I am so excited! I am sending out so many positive real estate vibes and hoping we will sell fast, I am talking a week and find a new perfect home the next day! Hopeful much?

Pretty in Pink

2008-03-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

I finished my first dress yesterday for my niece! It is certainly not perfect but I am a little proud that it can at least fit on a human body, this is more than I was expecting from my first (non pajama) garment. The hem is not super straight but besides that everything is pretty right on. I will just say that the hem was just a creative decision! It is from Simplicity 7454 circa 1967. I just love this short simple style on little girls.

Sewing for boys is so much harder or should I say finding things to sew for boys. I have spotted a few patterns that I would like to try including the Favorite Things Hooded Jacket .
A few months ago I bought a couple of 40s vintage patterns but I think I need a little more practice before I tackle them, they are for coats, maybe I will have it down before next winter comes along.
That is not a super fancy soft focus editing technique on the bottom of the picture above it is smudge in the perfect shape of a teeny tiny finger, I wonder where that could have come from?

Hero's Hose

2008-03-05T22:12:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

Thrifted Tuesday

2008-03-05T21:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know it is Wednesday but we can pretend.

I have been wanting one of these for my kids for so long! They sell the new version at Toys R Us which I avoid at all costs and I wanted an old one. I am so happy we found one at an antique shop yesterday (thanks Holly!)! I don't think I will ever get tired of hearing RowRowRow your Boat or explaining where London is and why they have a bridge.

These are my FAVORITE find!! I am so in love with these silhouettes that I found. If you did a silhouette of Zac and I on any given evening that is exactly what it would look like, heels and all. I can't wait to get them a little cleaned up and put them somewhere so I can see them all of the time. They are so great, I wish I knew where they came from. This brings me to my project for the next week as if I need another one. Silhouettes of everyone in the family including the Zero (puppy). I found this tutorial in the oddest place. I think I will cut them out of paper and not paint them though.

These are my I wish I could have bought those items but budget restrictions didn't allow it. Damn Budget!

Little Chief Stove..

Adorable Topsy Turvy Doll! I want to bring her home and love her. Her face is very inspiring though. I am always trying to get new ideas on doll faces.

There was a set of Amish Pyrex mixing bowls that I have been coveting at this particular antique shop that I wish I had the cash for. If it was meant to be we will one day reunite.

Don't forget me lovely Pyrex bowls, you are forever in my heart and hopefully one day in my cupboard.

Blue+Black

2008-03-03T07:44:00.001-08:00

Color+Color Flickr Group

2008-02-28T13:18:00.001-08:00

My house is in total disarray and it is
driving me crazy! Obviously not crazy enough to do too much about it.
 Blake went to school today wearing one yellow soccer
sock and one black soccer sock both pulled up all of the way which on his
little legs comes up to the top of his leg where his underwear would
be if he were wearing any. He is not a fan of this particular under garment.
Oh and he is wearing shorts so it is super
awesome because you get the full effect of his socks!
He wanted to wear one of his game socks and one practice sock
so when he ran around and played with balls at school he would be
getting equal practice for both games and practices when the season starts
again.  I love ideas like this!  Cubby is walking around begging for
"Elmo Mobeeee"  "elmo movie" and milk.  I dont know what makes this
child think I am going to let him veg out on tv while nursing him.
TV time is seriously limited around here but he
is very persistent in thinking he is going to change my mind!
I guess that is his ultimate dream though elmo and mama milk, does it get any
better than that?  Oh, he is also pointing to Zero who is in his crate
saying"EEEEEEEWWWWWWWW, PooPoo!!!" because Zero has a dog bone that
looks like poop and he thinks he is eating it. I love how
my kids crack me up everyday.  Is there anything funnier
than the things our kids do and say say?
Jerry Seinfelds got nothing on my kids!

Our thrift store is
open today so I am excited about going to check that out and drop some
junk off.  I am really trying to thin out our possessions.  So far so good.
I am attempting to be ruthless in this project.
I get so attatched and emotional to things and I really wish I didnt.
"Aw remember when Blake played with this (plastic piece of junk toy that
is broken and he has not picked up in 2 years)
he looked so cute, that was suck a fun day.  I can't get rid of it"
"One time Cubby played with this and then that night he took his first
steps and I think he might have walked past it.  I should keep it."
I am trying to keep my self from that inner and sometimes outward dialog.
I just need to remember how good it feels to give and how great it feels to be
able to clean up in a reasonable amount of time.
Yesterday Zac and I took our first together bike ride.  Blake was playing
at a friends so we put Cubby in a seat on Zac's bike and
I went around the neighborhood.  We live in a very "hilly" area and I got a
little too confident on the way down not thinking
at all about the fact that we were eventually going to have to return to our
house at the top of the hiils.  I did not realize what a big hills they are.
I walk up these all of the time but WOW is biking up them harder!
I thought I might die, literally slide off of my bike and die right there.
I give it up to these kids zooming around here on their bikes like it is nothing.
I don't know how they do it.  This was clear a reminder that I am not a kid anymore.
Ah, to be young and able to ride your bike up a hill without thoughts of who will
raise your children when you never make it up.

Thats a big Chicken!

2008-02-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

This is an idea that had been stewing in my head for a while and I finally got it out! I had wanted to make a barn for Cubby since I donated the annoying plastic one that he rarely played with. I wanted something he could drag around the house with out banging into everything.

I made this one that I love and so does he! He can carry it around the house and even in the car. A little set farmers are in the works. I am no working on a special take along house and some creatures for Blake.

Blake was a gosling in the play Charlotte's Web this weekend. All he had to do was walk across the stage with Mama Goose, stop and wave. How that little walk made me fill with pride, only a mom! Could a gosling be any cuter?
We are dealing with a serious case of the "Mine" around here with Cubby! I am so happy that he is talking more but that is the last word I want to hear! I am not sure where it came from but I sure wish it would go back. What do you even do about that?

There are some days......

2008-02-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I went to the Swap Meet with my 3 favorite friends Michelle, Holly and Desiree. The Swap Meet is pretty close to heaven for me. How are there not huge parking lots where you can rummage through other peoples "junk" on every block? I love the hunt especially on a sunny day with girlfriends and no kids! I was proud of how I avoided temptation while we were there but afterward I felt regret creeping on about the things I didn't get such as a set of little girl and boy bells, mixing bowls, more aprons, a white owl, an awesome quilt, umbrellas for the kids and a few other things that I do not need but I sure want! I did however get these great things that I love... a brass donkey, a family of owls (I could not just get one) a bag with pears on it (behind the Owltons), 2 aprons and 5 little porcelain chickens who are camera shy. After hours of shopping we were in much need of some Thai Food. I am always in need of Thai Food by the way. It was so relaxing to shop and eat with adults especially ones that I love so much although at the end of most weeks I will take whatever adults I can get, mail lady, gas station worker, librarian, random person jogging down the road, border patrol.
Anyway, after my girly time Zach and I went and bought new bikes, our Valentine's presents to each other. We were so excited, jumping around the parking lot like little kids getting their first bikes. We have yet to ride them together and wont be able to until Cubby figures out how to ride on the handle bars or we get him a seat whichever comes first.

Michelle's pretty coconut ice cream.

2008-02-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

I have been working on little projects here and there trying to avoid finishing my Amy Butler Messenger bag. I hate cutting and I need to re-cut the strap so it the the plague of sewing project that I am avoiding at all costs with made up projects. I made this little chirp bird for Cubby because in a puppy tragic accident his favorite little owl was decapitated and then ingested. Although he likes his bird it is not a sufficient replacement. I guess nothing can replace the love a boy can have for his owl. I have made a couple of aprons (below) for the boys which are not totally finished but what ever is when I am working on it? It was my fist embroidery idea/ attempt. I really had no idea what I doing I just drew it on and went for it. I have since checked out a book from my beloved library and ordered this pattern for some dish towels. We will see how it goes. I just like to have a project that I can work on while on the couch. My poor knitting needles are feeling neglected at the moment. I guess I could finish the scarf I am working on but finishing is not really my style when it comes to knitting, I am more of a starter.

We made the yummiest chocolate chip cookies yesterday! Mr. Larry joined me, Mr. Larry is Blake's alter ego who is very helpful. He stops by almost on a daily basis and asks if I need help cooking or cleaning. He asks a lot of questions about Blake, forgets my name a lot, talks about how hard it is being old, and tells me tales of his childhood. He is very good company and who doesn't love a guest that loves to clean things with a spray bottle? He is a good old chap.
I am not sure where I got the idea to add in sour cream and vanilla soy milk to the cookies but it was such a great idea wherever it came from! I didn't think to add a little more flour though so they came out a little more like chocolate chip cookie chips but they still taste great. Cubby perfect saying "cookie dough" but said "EEEWWW" every time I tried to get him to taste it. He like to stir though. I love cooking with the kids, oops, I mean Mr. Larry and the Cub!

Nature's "Goodies"

2008-02-18T19:48:00.000-08:00

What lovely family day. I just love these days when we stay home and enjoy each other. After a day of riding bikes, playing out side and long naps, we took the best walk this evening before dinner. The boys brought buckets to collect their "goodies" The best kind too, nature's goodies. We found acorns Blake and I found each one cuter than the last. Cubby found sticks to fit in his buckets, he was very particular about which ones were deserving of going in his bucket.
As we were walking I was thinking about how these days of long walks and finding wonder in everything are numbered. One day Cub won't point out every tree to me with pride. Blake will not think sticks and acorns are the best things in life. How sad it will be when taking a late afternoon walk with mom dad and the dog will not be appealing in anyway. It reminds me that I need to take in everything and pray I remember the sweetness of these days when my little boys want nothing more than to hold hands and walk in the woods. Each morning they are a day older and a little bit closer to being grown up. Some nights I just lay there and try and rehash the little things that happened the things that just slip by without a second thought and are gone forever. So I will continue to harass my family with my camera and watch them with tears in my eyes. I will try to enjoy every minute, relax, watch my beautiful boys grow and love them with every bit of my soul no matter how much it hurts sometimes.

puree and paper

2008-02-17T20:53:00.000-08:00

I have been cooking from my new favorite cook book Deceptively Delicious! This is my carrot puree for the peanut butter and jelly muffins. The kids were not too fond of them but they are crazy because they were good! So far we have tried the "fried cheese" sticks and tonight Mac & Cheese both with cauliflower puree both were awesome and new favs of the boys. Jessica Seinfeld has the right idea here. I want to slip veggies in everything they eat and drink. I wonder if they would catch on? I could inject it into their tubes of toothpaste, just a thought. Moms and non-veggie lovers, get this book, check it out from the library whatever you have to do! eat your veggies, yum.

My first snowman has a chili for a nose! I loved him, I wish he could have stayed longer but he had to make some appearances so I understand, he was a rambling man. I never knew what work snowmen were! My first attempt was all wrong as my neighbor from New York informed me. I thought I could make a huge pile of snow and kind of sculpt my new man out of it. Boy was I totally wrong! I am not sure if that was a totally stupid assumption or just a Southern Californian idea probably a little bit of both or a lot of one, you decide. After my lesson we made a super snowman who Blake was too grumpy to name.

Last night I finished this amazing book. I have never read anything like it before it is so different and hilarious. I want Oskar to come and stay at my house, I want to make him some vegan cookies and have a little chat. I am going to be bummed to return this one to the library but I have requested Everything is Illuminated. I love the movie! I need more Johnathan Safran Foer books immediately. Zach and I were surprised to learn how young he is, maybe he wants to be my friend?
I started reading The Five People you Meet in Heaven I am halfway through and loving it. I want to know who I am going to meet in heaven. It is so thought provoking book already.
Read it, read it now!

Valentine Handmades

2008-02-15T11:23:00.000-08:00

My favorite Valentine's Day picture, it fills me with love.

Hearts for Blake's friends at school

Cake Balls, a recipe that I think was created by the devil because they are so sinfully yummy. I made mine with strawberry cake and white chocolate. They are actually white and not yellow like the picture. I should have made sure to give them all away because I had cake balls for lunch yesterday. Healthy, right?

Acorns will adorn my waist

2008-02-14T20:25:00.000-08:00

Before the craziness that is a snow storm we made it to the local thrift store to "find some good stuff" to quote Blake and we picked up..

an acorn belt because who does not need an acorn belt?

Oh, vintage books for the kids. Right for the kids... I think I will love them as much if not more than they will. I love to touch the pages of old books. And the cups, I love my new cups! Yes those are birds! I never want to sip tea out of a cup with out birds on it again! As Zach so sweetly asked me when I brought home a thrifted owl figurine "What do you think this is a freaking aviary?"
Simply, I wish.

red coat white snow

2008-02-14T20:13:00.000-08:00

Could Cubby's red coat be anymore perfect for snow pictures? I had that in mind when I bought it.

After some convincing and a promise of a Grover movie and a fancy Valentine's Day dinner of cereal I got the boys to come outside. Layers and layers later we made it out! Blake wanted to wear a scarf more than anything in the world so I wrapped a scarf around him nice a snug. Apparently it was a little too snug because less than a minute later he was "choking so bad from his too tight scarf" It took some tweeking but now he "loves wearing scarves." This snow is so beautiful being from Southern California snow is something of a myth to us. The highway to our house is closed so Zach is stuck in town so this is going to be as romantic of a Valentine's day as I make it for myself. Overall it has been a good day; we ate cake balls, gave flowers to some thankful teachers, taught Cubs to say "Happy Va-en-tines" danced a lot, played in the snow, visited friends, bought books, got a kite, gave lots of kisses, played in the snow and had cereal for dinner!
Happy Valentine's Day!

Burrrrr

2008-02-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

Blake's handknit hat. (I think I forgot to sew in the top)

It was supposed to stop raining at noon! It did stop raining and start snowing! We are NOT used to snow. The first sign of flakes, screaming, jumping, jackets, hats, outside. Cubby was less than thrilled that his butt was covered in snow the first time down the slide. We lasted all of 5 minutes. 2 hours later and it is still coming down. I am itching to go out but the wind is fierce and the fire is warm.