Domestic Ambitions

A new, fun blog to stalk!

2009-08-20T13:12:00.006-04:00

Not a whole lot going on around here so I've not been posting. Sorry.

I'm working on another Phoebe bag, some baby blankets, and a few other things. I'll post pictures of that stuff next week though.

Freshman are beginning to invade Eastern Kentucky University this week! (If you don't know, EKU is where I work and also my alma mater)

Anyway, not much has been going on in my life, but there is all kinds of things going on in my friend Lindsey's life since moving to the Washington DC area.

She has created the cutest blog, Adventures of The Cookie Girl, and has been conducting a pretty cool cupcake "experiment". You should really go check her out! Especially since things around this place are pretty boring!

Actually, speaking of Lindsey just reminded me of this dress I made for her last year. I really wanted to try shirring. I wasn't real real happy with the way it turned out because I really couldn't get the fitting just right, but doesn't she just look adorable in it!

I would really like to make a child's dress this way. Just another thing on my long lists of "Things To Make".

If you haven't tried shirring before I recommend it. It's a lot of fun.

Threadbanger has a really good tutorial which is the one I followed. Tutorial here.

I just used regular cotton fabric for this dress.

Now go check out Lindsey's blog!

Patty Cake, Patty Cake

2009-08-11T14:43:00.016-04:00

I'm back!

Dad is doing great too! Just a little scare.

I've been thinking over the past couple of weeks about a Cupcake Bakery that I would love to open eventually.

I think if I ever get that chance, artwork by Everyday Is A Holiday is a must!

Aren't these just adorable!

I also really like these prints from
Catherine Holman's Pigment of Your Imagination.

You can go check out their etsy's stores to see many more prints!

Everyday Is A Holiday

Catherine Holman's Pigment of Your Imagination

Out of Touch

2009-08-05T15:36:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately, my dad is not feeling very well right now.

Because of that I will be out of town and with him while he is in the hospital.

I will be taking a blogging break until next week.

Thank you all for your nice comments!

I'm sure my dad will be fine and everything will get back to normal soon!

Attended and Unattended

2009-08-04T09:35:00.022-04:00

Saturday evening I got together with some friends that are moving to Washington DC.

Colin & Lindsey

I caught them while they were laughing. Which they do A LOT of when they are together!

Colin is the face behind the camera over at The Idea of Order.

They are big Disney fans so I really wanted to make them some special cupcakes.

Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Buttercream Icing and Sprinkles and fondant Mickey & Minnies!

More friends...

And this is what happens when you leave your camera unattended!

Public Service Annoucement (UPDATE)

2009-08-03T00:08:00.006-04:00

At 11:55 last night I became an official part of the Facebook community.

I'm very nervous about this new adventure.

I'm not sure I even know what I doing.

I appreciate the fact that makes some of you happy. I love you.
(Don't know if I love facebook yet though)

I really am very nervous.

Now if you will excuse me, I have some friends to find.

What if no one wants to be my friend?

I feel like I'm going through sorority recruitment all over again! Or trying to hang out with the cool kids.

Oh no, do I have to post a picture of myself? I don't have one of those. I'm always the one behind the camera. That is where I feel most safe!

...wanna be my friend?

UPDATE: I'M ADDICTED!

Don't Go Breaking My Heart (Update)

2009-08-02T20:04:00.004-04:00

I. Am. So. Bored.

And.

Lonely. Tonight.

I wish I had a reason to pull myself up from the couch. Sure I could do laundry or sew or bake something, but I really don't want to do any of that.

I actually considered setting up a facebook account for about 30 minutes and then I quickly came to my senses. Thank goodness! I know that excites and disappoints some of you!

I've played this song about 10 times today.

It helps the depression of a lonely Sunday evening.

Nevermind...I forgot how much TV I have to watch tonight! Not bored anymore!

Drop Dead Diva on Lifetime

HGTV Design Star

The Next Food Network Star

Phoebe Bag

2009-07-31T13:43:00.009-04:00

In this post a couple of weeks ago, I mentioned that I would really like to make the Phoebe bag from artsycraftybabe.

So last night that's exactly what I did!

There are still waaay to many mistakes and really this was just my "tester". I still need to sew around the top edge.

I used a goldish color for the lining and made a pocket out of the exterior fabric.

The back.

Overall I'm pretty pleased with it!

You can find the free pattern for this purse at artsycraftybabe's blog. She also has some really cute patterns for sale in her etsy shop!

Dido

2009-07-30T11:05:00.004-04:00

Life For Rent - Dido

Whatever happen to Dido?

And was I the only one that just loved her?

(Not sure what happen to the last video I posted!)

Folk Arts and Crafts

2009-07-30T09:24:00.014-04:00

A couple of weekends ago we went to the Berea Crafts Festival and I hadn't posted pictures from the day yet.

Berea has a new little restaurant, The Black Feather.

The decor is really cute, but food was just ok. Also, they don't have soda and I think thats just dumb. That actually makes me consider not eating there again. Maybe I'm dumb.

See my glass of water? Grrr. That usually wouldn't happen.

And here's the Berea Craft Festival. It really is a cute little festival.

Fun was had by all!

Who wouldn't at a crafts festival in the Folk Arts and Crafts Capitol of Kentucky?!

Oh my goodness, I just noticed on The Black Feather website they have organic sodas now! When I was there, the girl working told me all they had were "flavored syrups that you could add to something". Like what? Water? No thanks. Well, maybe they wised up a little!

Julie & Julia

2009-07-28T10:47:00.009-04:00

I can't remember the last time I was this excited for a movie!

I really hope it's everything I imagine it to be.

My heart actually beats fast every time I watch the trailer!

I can really relate to Julie in the beginning of this movie sometimes!

Really relate!

I just love Julia Child. I remember being a little moved when I visited Julia's kitchen at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. It was fascinating!

I have a feeling this is going to be a very emotional movie for me. Especially right now. I'm not sure if the timing of this movie is a good thing or a bad thing for me. I just feel like everyday is so routine and boring for me. I'm not doing what I love and I'm really not even sure I know what that is! I'm just in a frump. I usually do this about every 3 years. Sorry if you are one of my friends and you are having to hear this same pitty story again.

I joke with my friends sometimes when I'm feeling this way by saying "I can feel the wind start to blow." Just like how Vianne felt in Chocolat. My all time favorite movie.

I don't even think that many people liked the movie, including most everyone I know. This movie spoke to me so much for some reason. I've never seen a movie that I could watch 2 times in a row like this one. I almost know every line! I have actually watched it 2 times in one day and probably seen it a total of 25 times!

I want the night Julie & Julia comes out to be special. I just can't wait to see it!

And I THINK YOU SHOULD TOO! So there. Go see it. And if you see me there just overlook me. I might cry. A little.

Oh here we go again...this is going to be another Chocolat for me!

Lynn's Paradise Cafe

2009-07-27T10:31:00.021-04:00

Last weekend I had to chance to visit Lynn's Paradise Cafe in Louisville, KY.

If you're from Kentucky you may have heard of it or seen Lynn's Paradise Cafe on TV. It's been on several shows including Throwdown with Bobby Flay, which is where I first heard of it.

It really is an experience and the food is unbelievably good!
I had the Kentucky Farmhouse Scramble, which was part of the Throwdown with Bobby Flay.

I know...I took the time to underline that line in the picture and you can't even see it. Yay me!

Here's a better view.

Three fluffy eggs scrambled with Clifty Farms country ham, roasted red peppers, and Kenny's Farmhouse Jarlsberg Cheese (made in Austin, KY), then garnished with fried tobacco onions. Served with fried green tomatoes that are topped with Parmesan garlic mayonnaise and buttermilk biscuits with sorghum butter.

That made my mouth water just typing it.

Shauna, Shari's sister, had the Spinach Omelet which she claimed was equally delicious.

Thanks Shauna for taking us! And for allowing us to stay in your awesome house!

We had a great time at Lynn's. If you live remotely close to Louisville, KY, you should go to Lynn's Paradise Cafe as fast as possible!

I think it's a little pricey for breakfast, but so worth it!

Now I wanna call in sick to work tomorrow morning. ;)

It might be to obvious after this post though. They know me too well!

Have A Nice Weekend!

2009-07-24T08:35:00.001-04:00

Me at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Harrodsburg, KY. The most serene and pleasant place I have ever visited.

Look What I Can Do

2009-07-23T08:53:00.013-04:00

You have to say that like Stuart would on MADtv.

Anyway, Rolled Fondant class was so much fun last night!
(I'm a really big dork aren't I?)

I'm half-way happy with my cake.

It's not that I don't like it, I just wish the colors would have turned out a little different and there are quite a few mistakes. But hey, OK for my first time attempt though.

Here is my 1st fondant creation.

I really like our instructor for my cake decorating classes and everyone else in the class is so sweet and so much fun to work with. I think I'll miss them.

Here are the other cakes that were created last night. My pictures are a little blurry and I'm not sure why.

No orders at this time please!

Ha ha

It's Like Riding a Bike

2009-07-22T15:46:00.006-04:00

Look what I got yesterday!

Doesn't Shari look so much happier taking it for a spin? And she is still in work clothes!

I was really on it for like 7 minutes and I'm SORE today! No lie.

It kicked my butt! Literally. Seriously.

All my family and friends are laughing at the thought of me riding a bicycle!

Ha! Me too!

The tags are still on it because I haven't decided if I want to keep it yet.

Sweet Tooth

2009-07-21T16:31:00.009-04:00

I'm up to my eyeballs in frosting and fondant these days!

Right now I have two classes a week. Every Monday and Wednesday.

Shew! Lord help me!

Tonight I'm making Rolled Buttercream.

Tomorrow night I'm decorating my first cake with fondant.

I need a lot of luck and patience!

You Really Are Missin Somethin

2009-07-20T14:50:00.031-04:00

Can you tell I really like this pose?

My husband's family has a barn.

With horses and chickens. And usually several hundred goats.

I love love love visiting the barn!

Everyone there thinks it's pretty funny that I love taking pictures of everything because it's just so ordinary to them.

My little cousin, Maria, works at the barn at a regular basis. Much to her dismay.

While watching her huff and puff about having to feed the chickens, I told her she should feel lucky. "A lot of girls would love to do this", I said.

Her response was "Well, they AIN"T missin nothin."

She is a sweet girl.

Here are some more pics.

See me in the eyeball?! This is my grandfather-in-law, Lonnie...on a 5 gallon bucket in the middle of the yard. He is such a funny, adorable man. And I just love him to pieces.
He loves telling me what he has to eat in his freezer everytime I visit him. Usually he SAYS he has deer, opossum, goat, squirrel, raccoon, turkey, and anything else you could imagine. The only thing I don't believe he has is opossum.

Although I do know he has had it before.

Fruit Pizza

2009-07-13T12:07:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share this quick and easy dessert.

I'm sure you've had it before and maybe even made it.

It is one of my very favorites and I could devour the entire pizza! I would never of course! :)

As you can tell, I just threw the fruit on there. No pattern to it. I wasn't taking it anywhere besides my kitchen, so I really didn't care.

Make it because its so easy and so yummy.

Here is the recipe I use.

Fruit Pizza

1 roll of refrigerated sugar cookies (homemade if you want but who wants?)
1 8oz. cream cheese
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Fruit of your choice
(I used strawberries, grapes, bananas, and canned peaches) *See Side Note

Heat oven to 350. Press sugar cookie dough in round pizza pan to form the crust. Bake around 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Let crust cool completely!

Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. Spread over cooled cookie crust. Arrange fruit on top. Devour!

*Side note*
This was my first time using canned peaches. I don't think I will use them again and probably wouldn't recommend using them. Blueberries are really the best! I just didn't have any.

Seven Thursday Thoughts

2009-07-09T09:15:00.011-04:00

Seven is lucky...right?

Things on my mind:

1. I would really love to try out the new Phoebe bag tutorial that artsy-crafty babe just posted. I haven't sewn anything in forever! Actually let me rephrase that I haven't finished sewing anything in forever. I really need a new purse.

2. I wonder who is going home on So You Think You Can Dance tonight. Gosh, I love that show so much! It honestly makes my Wednesdays and Thursdays. Honestly.

3. This song makes me so happy. I play it all the time.

4. I also love this song. Just can't decide if she has the right intentions or not. Let ME know if YOU know. Actually don't. Just let me like it the way I HOPE she means it.

I thought about this song while watching the Micheal Jackson funeral. I was a little surprised by the strong Christian messages and praises to God. Sad that something like this is the only time that most of these celebrities would say such things on stage.

5. And also I really want my friend, The Idea of Order, to post more! He is an amazing photographer and needs to get with the program. Do me a favor and go check him out. Maybe he will feel pressured into posting more!

Others I wish would also get with the program and post more:

JKCuddles
Shu's Clues
The Newlywed Adventures

Grrr!

6. Why don't I just plant my own dill?! Everytime I want to make something with fresh dill, I have to get it from the grocery store like this!

How would I ever use this much dill before it got all nasty??!! I usually only need about 1/15 of this. One handful chopped. That's all.

Wanna know what I made with pictured dill and lemon? Pioneer Woman's Chicken Salad! It is so unbelievably good. You should make it today!

7. I'm excited I don't have to work tomorrow and I'm heading down to the Berea Craft Festival. If you are in the area, you should really attend! Actually if you haven't been to Berea, you should go any weekend.

After that, I'm heading home to those beautiful mountains that I love so much!

Wolf Spider: UPDATE!!!

2009-07-08T08:40:00.015-04:00

Oh my goodness!

Look what I captured last night!

A Wolf Spider carrying all her babies on her back!!!

See all those yellow bumps with little legs? Yep, those are baby wolf spiders!

And check out those eyes!

Pretty cool.

And creepy.

I don't think she was to fond of me last night. Most wildlife isn't after I've snapped 100 pictures of them!

Kinda like this wildlife creature...

Everything is all sweet and innocent at first and then attitudes quickly turn around picture #20!

UPDATE:

Momma spider was set free in the "wild". (Actually on EKU's campus in the Ravine) but close enough. Better than my house!

Dajuane, a guy I work with, helped me set her free!

Ahh the circle of life!

Seconds later this happened!

Can't do anything about mother nature!

I don't want my mason jar anymore though. Yuk!

Long post about Fungus

2009-07-07T16:37:00.000-04:00

For some odd reason I'm obsessed with fungus. I love finding different mushrooms.

Mom and I even went to the Mushroom Festival this year.

Look what I came across recently when taking a short stroll through the woods. All of these different mushrooms were actually all within 100 feet of each other. It was a shady, moist area.

All of these different types of mushrooms just fascinated me! (I know I'm a dork...please don't text me)

Also, while admiring the mushrooms I ran across this little guy.

See him in his little home in the tree?

Not sure if he was mad or maybe even feeling a little photogenic because he came out for a better picture!
There were also these beautiful little plants everywhere! Not sure what it is, but it was beautiful!
Pay attention next time you're roaming around the woods!

Of course I could have just got lucky and stumbled upon a tiny village of fairies!

BFF

2009-07-06T10:58:00.005-04:00

I had the chance to visit with some friends last Thursday.

I think I have the prettiest friends ever!

From left: Erin (prego), Misty, Donya, Jennifer (prego), and Shari. And me directly behind camera as usual.

I made the winning chocolate chip recipe from Omnomicon for them.

Erin really wasn't wanting me to snap her picture. Too bad! I did anyway! :)
She is so cute with her baby belly!

Both Jennifer and Erin are expecting BOYS! Sometime between the end of October and beginning of November! I'm just so excited! (and a little jealous. i'll admit it)

Donya already has an adorable (almost) 1-year-old little boy, Brody.

Misty is engaged and getting married next year.

And Shari...well you all know she's just wonderful. :)

I wish I would have snapped some more pictures. We're never all together at once.

Oh, I just love you girls. Thanks for sharing your lives with me!

Rest In Peace

2009-07-02T09:00:00.005-04:00

Monday morning one of my sorority sisters lost her battle with Melanoma and passed away. Farrah was only 32 years old and had two boys, ages 3 & 5. She is greatly missed and my prayers are with her family right now.

Today my heart is heavy. We will be attending the visitation and funeral this evening. I look forward to spending time with a lot of girls that I haven't seen in a while, but not under these circumstances. Farrah was also an ADPi advisor with me now. She was our Standards advisor and I am the Faculty advisor for our current ADPi chapter at EKU.

This has also got me thinking about my college sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, a lot here lately. I'm so thankful for the friendships I made and for ADPi in my life.

My sisters that are on Facebook have all set their profile picture to a violet. Since I refuse to participate in Facebook, I will post my violet for Farrah here.

We Live For Each Other.

Loyally,

Kristen

Link Love

2009-06-28T20:11:00.001-04:00

Did you know a lot of my favorite blogs that I usually try to check on a daily basis aren't even listed in my "Daily Inspiration" on the right?

It's true. They're not.

They have been my own little secret. Well, ok, most of them have like 25,000 people that check their blog daily.

Since I hate secrets, I thought today would be a good day to share some of them with you.

So here ya go! Enjoy!

How To Eat A Cupcake

V and Co.

Bakerella

Conversations With A Cupcake

Omnomicon

The Church Experiment by Steve Fuller

Nesting Place

The Blessed Nest

Jordan Ferney/ Oh Happy Day

Bye Bye Pie! This blog is so hillarious!

and last but certainly not least my favorite blog (next to cjane enjoy it of course! which is already listed in my "daily inspiration") is...

The Pioneer Woman I can't even tell you how much I love her blog! I'm sure you will too!

No kidding...if I haven't checked cjane enjoy it or The Pioneer Woman for a couple of days I start to get nervous or feel like I'm forgeting something.

Now that I have given you the links to all these wonderful blogs, you will certainly never have time to visit mine again!

I really hope not.

uvi598stdq

College classes can be fun!

2009-06-25T14:24:00.015-04:00

Well, cake decorating went ok on Tuesday. I guess.

My cake...Pretty boring.
My roses half-way cooperated. Only half-way.

Speaking of classes, Shari and I had a Soap Making class this week also.

For some reason that makes me giggle. Soap Making! Ha! If we worked as hard getting our masters as we do all these arts & crafts classes, I'm sure we would actually have one by now.

Anyway, it was lots of fun!

24 Hours later we had these bathing beauties...

Ha ha We work so hard at our studies!

Omnomicon Recipe Round-Robins

2009-06-24T17:50:00.000-04:00

I don't think I have shared with you one of my favorite food blogs, Omnomicon.

Well, Omnomicon has a thing called Recipe Round-Robins.

This is a short explanation from her blog:

Omnomicon: it has a monthly contest!
There are some recipes that everyone has a version of, and yet, we each insist that our own version is the best. I’m talking macaroni and cheese, oatmeal cookies, chicken soup . . . you know, those sorts of things. So with all those variations (some slight, some huge), which one should you pit against your own favourite? The aim of the Recipe Round-Robin is to determine just that.

I volunteered to be a "taste buddy". Basically meaning that she would submit some recipes to me to "test" and then submit my vote as a favorite.

This month was Chocolate-Chip Cookie recipes.

Now, I'm going to be truthful here. I have ALWAYS said that my favorite chocolate chip cookies are always made from the pre-made, refrigerated cookie dough from the grocery store. For some reason, I just don't like homemade chocolate chip cookies as much!

Boy, was I proven wrong!

I tested two recipes last week and I'm here to tell you they were the most delicious cookies!

I hate to tease you, but I'm not allowed to post the recipes here. Sorry.

I'm also not going to tell you which cookie got my vote. It was really hard because they were both so good!

Here are some pics though:

Shelia's Chocolate Chip Cookies
Friendly Choco-Chippers

My friends and co-workers enjoyed being my little taste buddies!

Good, good cookies! Mmmm...

Oh yeah, and you should go check out Omnomicon. You will love her photographs!

Ready for the pickin

2009-06-23T15:50:00.015-04:00

Have you ever had fresh, garden peas? If not, you are missing out!

Tastes nothing like canned or frozen peas. Nothing!

I love picking vegetables from my in-laws garden. It makes me feel so good.

I love the little flowers that are on pea plants. These probably have a name. Mmm...and I can't wait for the squash to be ready for the pickin!
These are beans... (also not ready for the pickin)
Look how pitiful Raven looks...all muddy and wet.
Poor thing...bath time shortly followed.

I can't wait for Jon and I to have a garden one day.

I want...
Peas
Tommy Toes
Squash
Broccoli
Brussel Sprouts
Beans
Zucchini
Cucumbers
Green Onions
Strawberries
Dill
Cilantro
Thyme
Rosemary

Just to name a few... :)

I'm off to Cake Decorating class again tonight. This time I must decorate an entire cake myself. Yeah, we'll see how that works out!

Dear Rose,

Please cooperate with me tonight. I get so frustrated when you just lay over to one side or completely fall apart on me. I promise that if you will be nice to me I will set you on top of the prettiest, yummiest cake. I won't even eat you.

Love, Kristen

Creative Nights

2009-06-18T15:37:00.020-04:00

This was Shari last night during So You Think You Can Dance.

When I'm cutting fabric I usually spread out on the dining room table.

Not Shari. The coffee table is her table of choice.

Well I guess last night she had no choice. See my quilt still on the dining room table in the background. (As well as Shari's new awesome gold purse that I'm so jealous over.)

Ha ha Don't you just love that gigantic picture of that girl in the background.
And how Shari uses her knee to hold down the rotary ruler! Not sure how many sewing experts would approve. What do they know anyway!

Look what all that cutting resulted in. She sewed a new valance for our living room and...

...new pillows! (Well, one for now. But others are on their way!)
Before... After... I, on the other hand,

made Sloppy Joes for dinner,

did some of this...

spray painted a small vanity, (pics to follow)

finished a load of laundry,

watched So You Think You Can Dance,

and did a whole lot of this...

That dog still cracks me up!

Ahh...now that's a good night!

I Love Cake

2009-06-17T17:00:00.005-04:00

Last night at Cake Decorating class I learned many things...

one being I can't make a rose.

See that one on my placemat? Only one of the night to turn out half decent.

O N L Y O N E out of 25! I need practice.

I love Cake Decorating class though. It's actually relaxing and therapeutic to me.

Except for making roses of course.

See you again next Tuesday night rose. I'll be ready for you.

This is my grocery store bag that I carry all my decorating supplies to class in. I picked this one up in NYC. If you don't have a grocery store bag yet and you are still using those plastic bags, I strongly encourage you to get one. Yeah, I know...good for environment and all that stuff, but I love mine because it's so much easier to carry. I'm not trying to fit 10 plastic handles in my hands or worrying about them breaking on me. (which has happened way to many times) This bag I just throw over my shoulder and go. I also have an adorable green one from Disney World that my friend Lindsey brought me back. I love it equally!

Kristen's Weekend Adventures

2009-06-15T17:06:00.016-04:00

Maybe I should rename this blog "Kristen's Weekend Adventures". I feel like that is all I post these days. Sorry.

A N Y W A Y...

had a great weekend! I did attend the Beer Cheese Festival in Winchester, KY and ate waaay to much beer cheese.

Beer cheese vendors (commercial and homemade) were set up in tents in one row down the middle of the street. After you paid $5 you received 3 tickets to vote for your favorite. Every tent gave a sample. Some with pretzels, others with crackers.

Shari and Easy joined me Saturday. They kept trying all the free samples.

For example...

Easy is on that darn phone again! Always on the phone! I think he was twittering most of the day!

Again..."Who me?"

I also got a lot of work done on my quilt. Still a work in progress. This is by far the biggest project I have ever attempted to complete!

Shew! It's A LOT OF WORK!!!!! Now if I can just get all this quilting done this week!

I have to admit though...I'm a copy cat!! I fell in love with this quilt that On a Whimm created using the Scrapdown Squares. She is the genius behind this design...not me! She is VERY creative and talented! I loved it so much that I couldn't get the design out of my head and it blocked any other design from entering in.

Thanks for the great design On a Whimm!

3 Thoughts

2009-06-11T16:48:00.005-04:00

I've been a little absent from my blog lately. oops! I've just had so many other things on my mind here lately. I've been working hard on finishing my scrap quilt this week. I'll be so happy when I can finally have it finished!

In this picture I was set-up at my in-laws house at about 2am trying to get all my pieces sewn together. I like to do a "chaining method" and then cut everything apart in the end. It makes it a lot easier and doesn't waste as much time or thread.

I also attended my second Cake Decorating Class on Tuesday night. I'm having so much fun. I forgot to take more pictures. Too busy practicing my piping skills I guess.

Skipping to another thought...

I have beer cheese on the brain! I've done so well on a diet that I began 2 weeks ago!

Now Winchester, KY up and decides to have a 1st annual
Beer Cheese Festival this Saturday.

LORD HELP ME!! I LOVE FESTIVALS SO MUCH and I also LOVE BEER CHEESE!!!

They are having a beer cheese Cook-Off for commercial and homemade vendors. You pay $5, taste all the samples, and then vote. I strongly believe my culinary expertise is needed for this. I think I will have to go and I will probably ingest enough cheese and crackers to completely override the dieting that I have been doing so good at! Always distractions I guess!

If you've never tasted Beer Cheese, I feel SOOOO sorry for you! God, it's good stuff!

One of my very favorite blogs, How To Eat A Cupcake, recently made Sam Adams Beer Bread "Cupcakes" w/ Beer Cheese "Frosting".

Yum Yum. You should check out her blog. LOVE IT! and you will too!

Photo from: How To Eat A Cupcake

Have a nice weekend!

See you on Monday! (10 pounds heavier)

Totota Prius and Ants

2009-06-09T09:09:00.012-04:00

I hate watching commercials.

However, I love this commercial so much!

This makes me want a Prius!

Speaking of nature, my home is under attack and I'm highly annoyed.

They are still mainly outside, but there are millions of them! There have only been a couple of times that they have come through the wall into the dining room.

Argg!

Mountain Dew

2009-06-05T09:48:00.003-04:00

I'm heading to Harlan Co. for the weekend.

What?? You want to see some more pictures of what Harlan Co. looks like??

Of course.

Well, here ya go. :)

These pictures were taken from one of our overlooks. My beautiful little cousin Maria was with me!

Ahh...the mountains.

Have a nice weekend!

"Organization can be fun!" quoted by Shari

2009-06-04T10:58:00.011-04:00

...whatever!

Look what got accomplished last night though!

My fabrics are usually everywhere!! No order what so ever.

Ahh...it feels so nice to have most of them organized by type and color. See all those mason jars? They are full of thread, pins, buttons, ribbon, and other sewing supplies.

Shari helped me conquer this mountain or it would have never happen.

I keep telling everyone that I don't have as much fabric as it seems like I do. They (including Shari) didn't believe me until now.

My fabric stash really isn't that bad! Of course, everything is neatly folded, so there is more there than what it looks like on the shelves.

I think part of my procrastinating on projects is because everything is usually so unorganized that it's overwhelming to find everything! Now if we can get the rest of the craft room organized...I can get my sewing on!

Remember the Scrapdown? Well, I finally dove into that project last night as well. See what happens when organization occurs in my life?

Shari laid out all the colorful Scrapdown squares and arranged them by color value. This was quite an undertaking. Dang it! I should have gotten some photos of her spread out on our living room floor.

Anyway, I finished cutting about 350 3"x3" squares in white muslin to go with the scrap squares for a quilt that I hope will be big enough to go on the bed in the craft room.

Hopefully this weekend I can get all of the pairs sewn together and pressed. Fingers crossed!

Hmm...maybe organization can be fun!

Nah...only when a good friend's help is involved!

Pfaltzgraff "Yorktown" Pattern

2009-06-04T10:29:00.000-04:00

I had another amazing find yesterday evening.

If you read this post, you know I am in serch of a certain pattern of dishes, "Yorktown" made by Pfaltzgraff. I love these. My mom gave them to me. I always keep my eyes peeled at flea markets, yard sales, etc. for these pieces.

Well anyway, I went to the Peddler's Mall yesterday after work. (Peddler's Mall is a cross between a flea market and antique store) And look what I found in the very first booth I encounterd!!!!!

Oh, the excitement!!! I had to buy 4 more plates, which I already had, because they were only sold all together. But I had to have the Salt & Pepper shakers and large bowl! All this for $13!!!

What a steal!

Chocolate Whoopie Pies

2009-06-03T08:55:00.008-04:00

This is probably the best sweet treat I have ever made. No lie. Ever.

And I've made A LOT of desserts.

Man, these are so incrediably good you'll wonder why you've never made them until now. And they are so easy.

Chocolate Whoopie Pies (recipe from Cook Books from Amish Kitchens: Cookies)
(I halfed this recipe. If you don't it makes about 4 dozen)
2 cups sugar
1 cup shortening
2 eggs
4 cups flour
1 cup baking cocoa
2 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. salt
1 cup sour milk (I used buttermilk)
2 tsp. baking soda
1 cup hot water

Whoopie Pie Filling
1 egg white, beaten
2 Tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup 10x sugar
(more ingredients listed in instructions)

1. Cream sugar and shortening. Add eggs.
2. Sift together flour, cocoa, and salt. Add alternately with sour milk. Add vanilla. Dissolve soda in hot water and add last. Mix well.
3. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto cookie sheet. Bake at 400 for 8-10 minutes.
4. Make sandwiches from 2 cookies filled with Whoopie Pie Filling.

To Make filling:
1. Mix everything well. Add one more cup 10x sugar and 3/4 cup shortening.

*Put filling in a ziploc bag, cut corner, and pipe a good amount into center of bottom cookie. Top with another cookie.

Store in container in refrigerator.

Great Saturday = Long Post

2009-06-02T10:51:00.026-04:00

I had another lovely summer weekend.

My friend, Easy and I went on an adventure Saturday to a central Kentucky town that we hadn't visited before, Midway, KY. It was nice. We used to go on little adventures all the time when we were college. It had been too long since we had a relaxing day exploring.

Midway was such a cute little town filled with antique stores, cute little boutiques, and quaint little cafes.

The little store below was wonderful. Easy found some old records of Dolly Parton and The Oak Ridge Boys with some tracks he had never heard before. And I found the most wonderful treasure.

Everywhere I go (antique stores, yard sales, flea markets, etsy, etc.) I look for a certain pattern. I have all the plates to this pattern. They are the plates I grew up with, passed down to me from mom. I really want everything else that goes to them. I was so excited to find this pitcher!!!! AND for only $10!!

Oh, if you could have seen my excitement. Easy witnessed it! Lucky he is!

This is where we were told to go eat by all the locals we asked, Darlin Jeans Apple Cobbler Cafe.

The locals were right. It was so charming and very good. I highly recommend it if visiting Midway.

I took one bite of my dinner and then realized I must include it in my blog because it was so unbelievably good. Grilled Chicken with a Vidalia Onion Vinaigrette, crispy fried onion rings, hot potato salad, and a glazed croissant. Yum!
Easy had their Hot Brown and said it was equally delicious!
We dove into the Chocolate Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream so fast I didn't get a picture!
Then we drove through more gorgeous horse farms and areas...

And ended up in Versailles...
Where we visited Boyd Orchards...
And I got a quart of the best smelling and sweetest strawberries ever!

You would think that Boyd Orchards could pull Easy away from that dingity dang phone! But, nope. ARGGG!!!! I hate that phone.

Who me??

Thanks Easy!! It was a great day!

Where we goin next??

Good food and Good times

2009-05-26T16:05:00.013-04:00

Just wanted to post some pictures of my wonderful weekend. We grilled out at our park, Kingdom Come State Park, and went to the Mountain Laurel Festival in Pineville, KY.

I really didn't want the weekend to end. We had such a great time!

Granny is usually in charge of the grilling.

I love these next two pictures because it shows my mom and granny's hands.

Can you tell we love our little doggies so much??!!! Well, we do! :) Shakira is the Boston Terrier (Mom's dog), Chico is the Chihuahua (Granny's dog), and Raven is the Schnauzer mix (My dog). They had as much fun as we did at the park.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-20T17:08:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day (Late)

2009-05-18T10:17:00.025-04:00

Just some pictures from Mother's Day that I've been meaning to post. I hate this picture of me. I looked cross-eyed or neck-less or maybe just dorky. This is my mom, me, and my granny.

I got these cute measuring cups for each of them from Pier 1. They look like teacups, but are actually 1/4 - 1 cup.

Of course, I didn't get any pictures of the 1 million pieces of homemade "Cranberry and Macadamia Nut Biscotti" that I made them. (and may I add... drizzled with White Chocolate) I'm not bragging or anything, but everyone loved them and have requested more. Maybe I'll get pictures because I'm making more for my husband's grandmother tonight. She knows how to make a girl feel good...request more of something I've made for her. :)

I swear, I know I'm a little bias, but do I not have the cutest mom and granny ever? They are so pretty and neither one looks their real age. They might kill me, but can you believe my mom is 51 and my granny is 71! Don't they look amazing! My mom runs in a different 5K every single weekend!

Now that I'm talking about it (mom, please forgive me) I felt that I needed to show some more pics of my mom. She has never had any face lifts, collagen, lipo, or any other surgeries of any kind. (I know people must think that sometimes.)

This is my beautiful mom...

No she doesn't wear fanny packs usually. She must have thought it would be ok since we were at the beach. Not ok.

No, she isn't crazy. This picture was from Halloween. She was a queen or princess or something.

I told you so.

Sorry to brag, but I'm so proud that she is my mom and really is my best friend. She is one of these women that is down-to-earth, and yet so elegant and poised. She's so funny and witty. She is so much more intelligent and talented that what she will give herself credit for.

She is such a wonderful woman and I still want to be just like her when I grow up.

Young Hearts Be Free Tonight

2009-05-15T09:38:00.003-04:00

I'm not sure why but, I'm in a Rod Stewart mood this morning.

If you need a little singing and dancing into your day, I encourage you to play ALL these videos.

Your day will be better...I promise.

Friends, Food, and "Idols"

2009-05-14T08:08:00.002-04:00

I had the chance to go to one of my favorite bakeries yesterday in Lexington, Caramanda's.

They have the best cupcakes! My friend, "Easy", came over to cook spaghetti for Shari and I.

They were celebrating Wednesday evening for American Idol and I was celebrating Wednesday because I really didn't have anything to do. (I love those evenings!)

Easy's spaghetti was superb and oh the cupcakes were equally delicious!

What a great evening with the most wonderful friends and a scrumptious dinner and dessert. Can't beat those times!

My cupcake of choice...A Teacake
Shari's cupcake of choice...Chocolate Explosion (And beverage of choice)

If you'll notice to the right, Easy had the same taste buds as Shari last night except he chose the Sprinkles Cupcake.

I think Simon looks disappointed in both of them and thinks it was a "wrong choice". ha ha

Shari's dog, Tippy, was just scared about the whole experience of last night. Or maybe just mad that "what's his name" was voted off American Idol.

I don't know. She doesn't talk much.

I Will Praise You In This Storm

2009-05-12T11:58:00.006-04:00

Check out the weather/tornado we had right here in Richmond last Friday night!
I did not take this photo and would credit the photographer if I can ever find out who captured this shot.

This is very close to many of my friends houses and about 3 or 4 miles away from me.

This tornado caused a lot of damage here and my heart breaks for those who lost their homes and for the 2 lives lost in the storm.

I know this song has many meanings, but this situation reminds me of these lyrics. I love this song so much.

This song starts at 2:10, but I encourage you to listen to every minute of it.

Where does your help come from? Man, I know where mine does, "the maker of Heaven and Earth". Where would I be without it?

Casting Crowns - Praise You In This Storm

I was sure by now God You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
“I’m with you”
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

Chorus:
I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can’t find You

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain“I’m with you”
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The maker of Heaven and Earth

The Black Bear Festival

2009-05-11T16:25:00.015-04:00

My hometown hosted our annual "Black Bear Festival" this weekend.

I LOVE FESTIVALS!!! For many reasons...food, music, crafts, and more food!

Did you know that my hometown of Cumberland is the Black Bear Capital of Kentucky? Bet ya didn't! Well, we are and they are out about about these weeks. This is when Momma Bear is venturing out of her cage with her babies. It is never a good time to be around the bears, but especially not right now. Momma Bear is very protective over her babies!

We had old fasioned "singing" in the park...Shakira enjoyed listening to the music...
This is one of the streets in my tiny little hometown of Cumberland. Population 2,291.
This is my Mom's beauty shop on this same little street...Julia's Hair Boutique.

Notice the Black Bears painted on the windows. :)

I was a great weekend!!!! I didn't get one single picture of actual, living bear!! Grrr...maybe next visit home.

Max Brenner and Rice to Riches

2009-05-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

I had two really cool dessert experiences while in NYC in March.

The first was Max Brenner. For me to say this place was good, would be the understatement of the year. Words cannot describe how amazing this place is.

The second place was Rice to Riches. Ok, I really don't like rice that much and especially not rice pudding, but this place was sooooo good. I fell in love with the store and all the hilarious signage.

Bathroom Shot...

Love It!!!!!

Oh no you didn't...

2009-05-07T09:25:00.009-04:00

Oh yes I did!

So, I finally got to make a cupcake recipe that I have been dying to try.

"Dark Chocolate Bacon Cupcake"

Yes...that's right. Bacon.

I just knew that I would love them and so would everyone else.

Not so much. I have had very different opinions. I thought they were pretty good, most thought they were very good, and then some hated them as in took one bite threw away the rest. I think they would have liked them more if I hadn't told them that bacon was in them. It's all a mind thing.

You can make your very own Dark Chocolate Bacon Cupcakes by going to No One Puts Cupcake in a Corner. This blog is by the Milwaukee Cupcake Queen. You should really check out everything else on her blog too!

I also got a life threatening injury while chopping the bacon. It hurt really, really bad.

Cinco de Mayo

2009-05-06T08:40:00.012-04:00

We had a good Cinco de Mayo! I hope you did too!

Dumb Race Betting and Good Treats

2009-05-05T16:47:00.009-04:00

Ok, so I really don't want to discuss the Derby.

Yes, I picked the winner, Mine That Bird, on my blog. And yes I bet money on the race.

However, my husband and I set a limit to how much we would bet. When starting to reach that limit, I decided to only bet on Summer Bird and Chocolate Candy. GRRRRRR!!!! What was I thinking!!???? You can't imagine how frustrated I was when Mine That Bird won. I mean, I was happy for the horse and all, but oh so frustrated with myself!!!

OK...no more about my dumb betting on the Kentucky Derby. Maybe next year!

If you love Rice Krispie Treats, you must go make these now!!!

They have come out with Caramel & Vanilla Marshmallows and they are delicious!!!

Ummm....Caramel & Vanilla Rice Krispie Treats...Can't beat um!

Oh yeah, I love Tuesdays!!! The Biggest Loser is on!!!

You better watch! I'm so sad that Kristen and Filipe are gone. I was really hoping one of them would win. I guess I'll be cheering on Mike now! Go Mike!

I guess I need to make some more sweet treats for tonight's show! What's wrong with me??

Kentucky Derby

2009-05-02T09:23:00.000-04:00

I love the Kentucky Derby! I am always so excited for this weekend.

I always get teary eyed when I watch the horses walk to their post while "My Old Kentucky Home" plays in the background. I really don't know why though. Something about seeing the horses walking so proudly, that song, and I guess all the excitement for the race, gets me everytime.

My Old Kentucky Home
Words and Music by: Stephen C. Foster

The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home
'Tis summer, the people are gay;
The corn top's ripe and the meadow's in the bloom,
While the birds make music all the day;
The young folks roll on the little cabin floor,
All merry, all happy, and bright,
By'n by hard times comes a-knocking at the door,
Then my old Kentucky home, good night!

Chorus

Weep no more, my lady,
Oh weep no more today!
We will sing one song for the old Kentucky home,
For the old Kentucky home far away.
They hunt no more for the 'possum and the coon,
On meadow, the hill and the shore,
They sing no more by the glimmer of the moon,
On the bench by that old cabin door;
The day goes by like a shadow o'er the heart,
With sorrow where all was delight;
The time has come when the people have to part,
Then my old Kentucky home, good night!

Chorus

The head must bow and the back will have to bend,
Wherever the people may go;
A few more days and the trouble all will endIn the field where sugar-canes may grow;
A few more days for to tote the weary load,
No matter, 'twill never be light,
A few more days till we totter on the road,
Then my old Kentucky home, good night!

Good Luck to all the horses!!

My Picks

2009-05-02T09:19:00.002-04:00

I usually change my mind about 4 times in the last 24 hours leading up to the race.

But, right now these are my picks. You know I don't know anything about the stats on each of the horses.

I'm way to intelligent to pick them on anything other that their name! :)

8 Mine That Bird

11 Chocolate Candy

17 Summer Bird

I guess it's pretty obvious why I like these names.

You can go here to view all of the contenders for the Kentucky Derby.

They flew the coop

2009-05-01T16:35:00.000-04:00

We just happen to be watching our little birds when they got up the courage to jump. Yipee!

I apologize for the videos. I might have been freaking out a little!!!!

Momma Bird just patiently watched.
Our little nest is empty now.

Too Much Work

2009-05-01T13:51:00.009-04:00

I made some treats last night for work today.

I'll post recipes later.

Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

The stuffing is made out of mayonnaise, bacon, green onions, parmesan cheese, and parsley.

Spinach Tortilla Rolls

They grow up so fast...

2009-04-30T15:27:00.004-04:00

I think I'm going to have Empty Nest Syndrome!!!!

:(

Shakira Shakira

2009-04-29T16:35:00.001-04:00

I babysat my little sister, Shakira, this weekend. She is the most wonderful Boston Terrier.

Thought I would share some pictures of her.

I dropped a cupcake and caught it with my hand. She got to help me clean it off.

These are the cupcakes by the way. Did you know Cold Stone has cupcakes now??

Please ignore the boxes in the background. We just moved in 2 weeks ago and still have some unpacking to do. :(

Here she is giving my mom high fives for a treat.

She nurses her babies. It's soooo strange and makes me gag a little to watch her. But she is really cute. And no she wasn't taken from her mom to soon!

SGA Banquet

2009-04-28T08:26:00.011-04:00

Last night was our SGA Banqet.

I received the most wonderful gift from the students I work with. A Williams-Sonoma apron with the SGA logo embroidered on it. I love it so much!!! I decided to put it on for pictures.

Here are a few snapshots from the evening.

Tidying the Nest

2009-04-28T08:10:00.012-04:00

I had a chance to catch our little birds and momma bird in action yesterday.

It's a little blurry because I was shooting through the window.

Sorry if they seem a little gross.

After she feeds them...she cleans up after them. :)

Gosh I love these little birds. I don't want them to leave!!!

WE HAVE BABIES!!!!

2009-04-27T09:12:00.012-04:00

I AM SOOO EXCITED!!!

This nest is in the corner of our porch.

I was over the moon Saturday morning when I walked outside and heard little chirps!

Concert Work

2009-04-24T10:24:00.014-04:00

We had a good time at the concert last night.

We were just exhausted by the end of the night. I didn't get to go home yesterday until 11pm. A 15 hour work day isn't exactly my ideal day.

Here are a few pictures from last night. I only got to take a few.

Good Times!

Having a Rockin Good Day!

2009-04-23T13:56:00.008-04:00

Tonight we (Student Government) are hosting our Spring Concert.

I am working "will call" for Ticketmaster tickets. It's going to be a crazy night...following a crazy day!

The following bands will be performing here at EKU tonight!

HinderTheory of a Deadman

Black Stone Cherry

The Veer Union

We've worked for months on getting this concert together. We sold out weeks ago! I sold 910 tickets from my desk in 3 days! I've also had my refrigerator stuffed full with items for their buses. Part of our contract says that we must provide specific items for their hospitality room and for restocking their buses. I've not been able to squeeze one more item in my frig. I'll be happy when all that's gone.

Maybe I'll have some good pictures to post tomorrow!

For now, here's what the STAFF T-shirts look like which I'm wearing today. Man, I love wearing T-shirts to work!

Hope you have a ROCKIN day too!

Shrinking hands phenomenon

2009-04-22T08:16:00.008-04:00

This is my best friend Shari.

She is positive her hands have shrank! ??

I have had to hear about this strange phenomenon for 2 days now!

She is so funny!

Shari and I had a wonderful evening yesterday. I made homemade guacamole, tacos, and the best little smores desserts ever. My friend JKCuddles let me borrow this book where I got the smores recipe. I love the whole book! We watched American Idol and The Biggest Loser.

BTW, I'm so upset that Kristen went home last night on the The Biggest Loser!!! She was my favorite and I really wanted her to win! Boo!

Isn't it odd that I always pig out while watching a weight lose show! Shows you my mentality! No wonder I look the way I do!!

Great Evening!

My Love

2009-04-21T09:28:00.003-04:00

I love my husband.

Thank you God for blessing me with the love of such a wonderful man.

I am so grateful for him.

Easter

2009-04-20T11:37:00.005-04:00

Pictures from Easter...

Jon, me, my mom, and Tom

My beautiful mom...

Family Picture with Raven

MY BIRTHDAY!

2009-04-15T16:19:00.014-04:00

TODAY IS MY BIRTHDAY!!

This is what my desk at work looks like.

I have the best co-workers and friends!!!

Check out that homemade birthday banner that JKCuddles made for me!!! Is she crafty or what?? Well, also very thoughtful. She also got me a Hobby Lobby gift card and cupcakes. Watch out Hobby Lobby...here comes Kristen!! :)

I received so many wonderful cards and presents that I didn't take pictures of, but here are a few.

I loved my gift from Sara. Look at this adorable bowl of goodies!

She got me this great book, Hello Cupcake! How cute! And a homemade card!!!

I got wonderful cards and chocolate. Nikki got me a really cute Vera Bradley change purse and Kentucky Silk pie! Do you see a trend here? Can you tell my friends are really the ones that make me fat! They know I love sweets though.

Today is a good day!

I have been on this earth for 29 years now!! Woo-Hoo!

Let's hear it for the last year in my twenties! It's going to be a great year!!! ...I know it!

Thank you to all my wonderful friends! I love you and you're the best!

Easter Cupcakes

2009-04-08T12:40:00.000-04:00

I made some Easter cupcakes for work today. I'm halfway pleased with them. This is the first time I have tried to make the icing smooth. I made mini and normal sized cupcakes.

They were lemon cake with vanilla icing. I piped icing into the middle for a little extra suprise!

Excuse the horrible lighting with the pictures. Apparently I live in a dungeon.

Candy Sushi

2009-04-08T12:33:00.002-04:00

A student at work, Jessica, made this adorable plate of candy sushi!

Looks like some hard work to me! Good job Jessica!

I wish I would have gotten a picture of her holding the plate because like the sushi, she is also adorable! :)

I love Saturdays!

2009-04-06T07:49:00.002-04:00

I had such a wonderful weekend!

We had such beautiful weather and now its raining, chilly, and expecting snow showers!

It was fun while it lasted!

Here is some pics from our hike at the Pinnacles in Berea, KY on Saturday.

If you haven't been to the Pinnacles you should really go. But, if you are as out of shape as me, I suggest getting all your affairs in order first. I thought I might die about 3 times!

It was all worth it just to watch Raven have so much fun!

Fooled Ya!

2009-04-03T13:03:00.001-04:00

I made these treats for April Fool's Day.

Mini Cheeseburgers and French Fries

NOT!! Ha Ha

These are cookies...

These are baked pound cake sticks sprinkled with sugar...

They were yummy yum!! And pretty cute if I do say so myself! ;)

That was the only April Fool's Day trick I pulled.

As you probably already figured...I'm not that good at tricks!

A "recipe"

2009-03-18T15:49:00.004-04:00

Since I still don't have NYC pictures to post, I thought I would post one of my favorite "recipes".

I put "recipe" in quotes because I don't really know if this is worthy of that title.

I make this all the time. I don't really like salsa or spicy foods at all, so I can make this and leave out the heat that usually comes with salsa.

The recipe:

1 can diced tomatoes
1 can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles
1 can black beans
1 can corn
2 tablespoons cumin (gradually add more to taste)
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 bag of Tostitos Scoops

Mix together! Yum! Yum!

I'm not kidding! This will be one of the best things you have ever ate!!

I promise.

Thank you Jennifer for this recipe several years ago!!!

Amazing Week

2009-03-16T14:06:00.010-04:00

My dang memory card isn't working!!!! I have a zillion pictures to post, but can't get to them yet. I'll have much more interesting pictures to follow.

In the meantime, here's some great pictures from working at God's Love We Deliver.

Anyone living in the NYC area or visiting there should really check into volunteering! I can't describe how amazing it was.

This was defiantly one of the best experiences of my life!

We worked our butts off too!!

I would be so thankful to finally make it through chopping 200 lbs. of potatoes only to watch the chef drop about 200 lbs. of hamburger meat in front of me to mix with ingredients for meatloaf, then only to realize after that I would need to chop about 100 lbs. of onions!

No kidding...this is how everyday, all day was.

I met the most amazing people.

One of the guys I volunteered with had an amazing story. He was from Somalia and has lived in NYC for 8 years. I asked him why he volunteered and he said that he felt a strong desire to give back to NYC because he felt so blessed to be there. Here is his story:

After his entire family was killed, (mother, father, brothers, & sisters) he escaped Somalia with nothing but the clothes on his back.

He came straight to NYC without knowing one word of English and no money. He came all alone. He said he didn't know where to go for help or how to even ask anyone.

Eventually he found some help. He made friends with a man that starting trying to teach him English. The man mentioned that he should learn to do something with his hands to help with his nervousness and extreme depression.

He learned how to cook and is now a chef for an upscale private elementary school in Brooklyn. He recently found out his mom is still alive in Africa, but is struggling with breast cancer.

He was a little nervous talking to me, but I could tell he really enjoyed it. I think he was probably in his early 30's.

Can you imagine??? Talk about courage. I can't imagine being able to survive that. And now thousands of people are benefiting from his contribution every day through God's Love We Deliver. He said the only thing he couldn't do was help deliver the food because it was way to emotional for him. He has been there...starving and helpless.

And...he feels the need to volunteer his time each week to "give back"?? Most people would feel so cheated and that the world owes him not vice versa.

Not this man. What an amazing person! My life may be better from meeting him.

I could have spent the entire day with him listening to his stories.

Amazing...truly.

2009-03-10T23:13:00.006-04:00

Just a few snapshots of NYC!

I'm having great time and can't wait to tell everyone more about it when I get back to Kentucky!

Thanks to all my friends for the text messages checking in on me!!!

On the Brooklyn Bridge...

Central Park...
Times Square...The great group of people I'm enjoying NYC with! (minus me, the photographer.)

To be continued...

Gods Love We Deliver

2009-03-06T17:00:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow morning I am heading to NYC for the entire week.

I am going with another co-worker and six EKU students to volunteer for Gods Love We Deliver. We will be working for them everyday from 8am - 4pm. I'm super excited about this experience. I'll be in a kitchen all day, which as most know I'm pretty cool with that.

From Gods Love We Deliver website:

God's Love We Deliver's mission is to improve the health and well-being of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other serious illnesses by alleviating hunger and malnutrition. We prepare and deliver nutritious, high-quality meals to people who, because of their illness, are unable to provide or prepare meals for themselves.
We also provide illness-specific nutrition education and counseling to our clients, families, care providers and other service organizations.

Please view this entire video to see more about the mission of Gods Love We Deliver.

I'm also pretty excited about the house that we will be staying in, The Menno House.

Top of my list of places to visit in NYC???

Max Brenner for sure!! Check out their menu!!!

I can't wait to report back about my week and show off great pics!!

Keep us in your prayers! I hope this experience is as amazing as I am anticipating!

Sweets

2009-03-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to post some recent sweets that I have enjoyed.

This is my mom's amazing homemade Coconut Cream Pie. Ummm...I'm lucky!!

I made these cupcakes twice this week. The second batch was better, just no pics of them. I got the idea from Omnomicon. You should really check her out! Amazing pictures!

Ok...maybe this isn't a sweet to eat, but sweet none the less. I made these for my friend Donya's baby boy, Brody. I need to research some more boy items to make!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

2009-03-02T20:03:00.002-05:00

This is what Google's nameplate looked like today:

"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." -Dr. Seuss

2009-03-02T17:06:00.015-05:00

PlushYou! featured an etsy store called Olive.

Man, I'm in love with their pillows! How cute are these?!!!

Also, Allsorts posted pictures of her "Creative Space".

I have never been more jealous of anyone in my life!!!!

Imagine all the creative possibilities in a space like this.
I'm in love with this "creative space"!!!!!!!!!!!!

All my dreams would come true with a room like this!!! Sigh...

Poppy Art

2009-02-27T09:51:00.005-05:00

I have had the sweetest correspondence from one of my fellow "Scrapdown" participants. She lives in the UK.

1st email:
Kristen - I am busy sewing but had to dash downstairs to thank you especially for the squares. they are particularly beautiful... especially the blue background/ bird and floral print. it is gorgeous! I don't suppose you remember where it came from?

I got the fabric she is referring to at Walmart over a year ago. It is now discontinued. Well, this had become my challenge. If she liked it so much, I was going to do everything I could to find some more for her. (I knew she would never be able to find it in the UK!) After many Walmart trips, my granny found it! In Harlan...who knew!

Photo by: Poppy Art

I sent 3 yards of above fabric on its way across the ocean. The second email was sent to everyone in the "Scrapdown".

2nd email:
...I just wanted to share Kristen's generosity... I mentioned that I loved the blue and bird background fabric she sent and asked her for info in case I could get hold of it here in the UK. In fact all of her fabrics were outstanding. She promptly sent her whole family off looking in their local walmarts for more of the same! Her grandmother found some and I received this in the post this morning. I am so touched and trying to think of something special in return. And my husband can't believe that a total stranger would do this. I can, however, as one other scrapdown member mentioned, she hasn't met a quilter she didn't like.

2nd email to me:
Kristen, I am really overwhelmed. Thanks so much for the fabric. there seems to be 3metres here! WOW. I am looking around for something special in exchange. And thank you to your grandmother, too.

She is so sweet and I was happy to find the fabric and send it to her. How cool!

You can check out her site and blog at Poppy Art. To follow her blog select Poppy Art Blog on left hand side of page.

I have loved this whole "Scrapdown" experience so much!

Breakfast of Champions

2009-02-27T08:29:00.004-05:00

I'm ashamed.

Only a little.

It's Friday and I just wasn't feeling my FiberOne breakfast.

Don't judge.

Did you know?

2009-02-24T14:28:00.005-05:00

Thank you Alex for leading me to this video!

Also, we decided to get our Mythbusters on today!

According to Mythbusters, if two phonebooks are put together page by page, they cannot be separated. (My explanation if this theory isn't that good) Go check it out at Mythbusters, for a better explanation.

It's true...you really can't separate the two phonebooks! (Not that we didn't believe Mythbusters!)

Why do they still print phonebooks anyway?

Cupcakes for Lilly

2009-02-22T18:20:00.007-05:00

I finally made it to JoAnn Fabrics yesterday to use some 50% coupons. I love those!

Anywho, I got this cute cupcake fabric and decided I would make yet another dress for Lilly. I loved the way it turned out! ...and I love cupcakes!

This week in the life of me!

2009-02-20T10:07:00.020-05:00

Things that made me happy this week:

1. Tuesday night I had a sewing class with Shari and JKCuddles. We had a lot of fun and made an apron. (pics later)

2. I ordered these from etsy! See this post.

3. I made these, but forgot to take photos...so no proof. They were so good! You should make these ASAP! Thanks to My Plum Pudding for recipe!

Photo by: My Plum Pudding

4. I caught up with a very good friend that I haven't spoken to in a long time.

5. I worked out on Monday. Well, walked on the threadmill, but that's working out to me.

6. I took a 4 hour nap on Thursday!

7. Shari made me laugh so hard I almost peed on myself! (I can't even remember why.)

8. I realized I have more people that care about me than I even realize. And most people do.

9. Sometimes you can trust people that you didn't think you could and vice-versa.

10. I get to have dinner and hang out with my great friend Aaron Back tonight!

Have a nice weekend!!

Does everyone know something I don't???

2009-02-18T17:02:00.002-05:00

This has been the weirdest day ever!!!!

(Keep in mind, while all of this is happening, I am answering a massive amount of emails, phone calls, and tons of people are streaming into the office for tickets, applications, questions, etc.)

8:00am: Get to work to find that office is 450 degrees hot!!!

8:15am: Find out my friend JKCuddles isn't here, hasn't called in, and can't get in touch with her. VERY unlike her. Very worried!!!

9:00am: JKCuddles answers her cellphone and is VERY sick!!! But, alive and otherwise ok. Shew! Out of necessary toiletries, so I will deliver on lunch.

9:15am: Get a call from another office where one of my best friends works asking if I had seen him. He is MISSING!! Like JKCuddles, isn't at work, hasn't called in, and can't get in touch with him. Shew!

Every 3 minutes for next hour call friend's phone repeatedly!

10:15am: Friend that I NEVER get to see and NEVER stops in my office...stops in my office. Crazy and Nice!

10:29am: Get wonderful email from friend that I also NEVER get to see or talk to. Sweet, supportive email that was very much appreciated and I was thankful for it!

11:00am: Answer my office phone to hear an old best friend's voice that I haven't talked to in 1 and a half years!!!!!!!! OMG!!!!!! I was shaking from head to toe! This made me so nervous for some reason. Well, I know why. We unfortunately hadn't talked because we ended our friendship on very bad terms. She is engaged and I am immensely happy for her.

11:30am: Realize that Student Body President is also MISSING!!! Worried about him TOO now. No return to my emails and phone calls.

(Why is everyone I see on a daily basis gone missing and everyone that I NEVER see or talk to is making contact with me today. Starting to make me worry that they may know something I don't!!!!)

11:30am: Get phone call from friend that is still missing that works in Library. He is in the HOSPITAL!!! Now, worried about him still. But, at least I know where he is. Make plans for trip to hospital after work.

12:00pm: Get phone call from Dad telling me he was thinking about me and loves me very much. Gosh, I adore him. He always knows somehow just when I need him most!

12:15pm: JKCuddles is feeling better and brings me lunch. Thank goodness! Have about 35 minutes of venting with her! ...and a Mighty Kids Meal from McD's.

1:00pm: Have to meet with someone and work to complete because my morning was crazy!

1:30pm: Find student body president. Get bad news that a close friends dad is VERY sick. My heart is aching and I feel extremely sad. Wish I could do something!

2:00pm: Things get pretty much back to normal.
1) Friend calls and is released from Hospital. No after work hospital trip.
2) Finally get stuff done that I have worked on all day.
3) Realize (just like everyday) how much I LOVE the students I work with!!!
4) Deep, deep thoughts. Happy ones mixed with very sad ones.
5) Realize it is still 450 degrees in my office!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ya know...I have heard fantastic news from friends today, normal news, and very very sad news. I have experienced many emotions today.

So many friends are in my prayers tonight. The ones that are on top of the world and the ones that feel like the world is crashing down around them. May they know God loves them and will take care of them.

I love them all so much and appreciate them in my life. Even if they have been on vacation for
1 and a half years or if they just became a part of my life less than a year ago!

OR they decided to go MIA for a couple of hours today!

Revelation 21:4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Sweet Lilly & Canisters

2009-02-17T10:41:00.000-05:00

Go here to see some very sweet pictures of Lilly. Am I a proud Aunt or what?? This is just a sampling of all the other adorable photos that Jessica Edwards took.

Ok...I have been looking for kitchen canisters forever!!! Like 2 years!! I really want something unique.

I found some on etsy.

Now I already know what you will probably think of these.

"U-G-L-Y!"

I know...I know. But they have some meaning to me. These are the same ones my mom has had in her kitchen since I was born!!

I'm used to them, they're comfy, and I kinda like the vintage look of them. I'm a little confused though. I have a question for my mom...

These are exactly like the ones in my mom's kitchen.

I also found these for a cheaper price on etsy. Are these the same...just in better shape???

I think my canister shopping may have come to a good ending.

I like them...they are "me"...they are comfy.

Absent

2009-02-16T10:32:00.000-05:00

I've been absent from my blog waayyyy to long! I've been away feeling a little 'down and out' here lately. The last few weeks have NOT been good. But, I'm back now and I have a TON of stuff to post about.

First of all, I made these adorable dresses for my niece Lilly. They're a little big right now, but will be perfect for her before summer.

I made these cupcakes for Valentine's Day for everyone in the office. They were pretty good. (Bragging just a litte :)) Red Velvet with Buttercream Icing!

Maybe my mom does read my blog! (See this post) Look what she sent me for Valentine's Day!!! Is she amazing or what??? I LOVE IT!!!!

I also made this pin at the last possible moment, so I would have something Valentine's Dayze to wear.

Lastly, two adorable homemade valentines from great friends at work! Thanks! You make my days better!

Ok...that's all for now. Have a nice Monday!

Ice can't stop the mailman!

2009-01-27T17:15:00.000-05:00

We're on a snow (ice) day here! Yay!!! I feel like I'm 12 years old on mornings like this.

I couldn't go back to sleep this morning, but then I took a nap and slept until noon! How nice!
In the middle of watching a movie and lounging on the couch, I heard the sound of a car. I knew it must be the mailman because 1) it was that time and 2) nobody else can get into their cars.

Because my driveway is a hill that goes around back, on nights that we might get bad weather, I have to park on the street in front of the mailboxes. This makes the mailman very angry and thus he won't stop to get out of the mail truck to deliver our mail. I quickly threw on my coat and slippers and, get this, chased him down in the pouring icy mix. I had to see what mail I had today. And guess what!!! More fabric squares.

Man, what a good day!!!

Thank you Leanne, Carolyn, and LouEllen!!!

LouEllen included the sweetest little letter with her fabric, which included a picture of her with her grandson. I just loved it!

Oh no! Just got a text message that there is no power in parts of Berea! I hope I keep mine!!! Say a prayer for me!

A "Scrapdown"

2009-01-26T20:45:00.000-05:00

Katy at Sycamore Stirrings has organized a "scrapdown" exchange, which I am excitedly participating in.

The swap involves sending 10, 3 inch squares to each person participating in the exchange. A total of 25 women signed up! Did you get that?? That means I cut 250 3"x3" squares this weekend. (10 squares for each one) I had a lot of fun doing it though.

I didn't get out of my pajamas all day on Saturday!!! Just cut and ironed all day. This was a great chance to get rid of a lot of the scraps that I had from other projects.

We will be constructing a charm quilt from our squares. Not to state the obvious, but I will be receiving 250 squares in the mail...10 each from 25 wonderful women. We had 3 oversees participates...Luxembourg, Germany...Tokyo, Japan...and the United Kingdom! I also sent squares to Washington, California, Virginia, Illinois, Oklahoma, Alabama, Minnesota, Colorado, Massachusetts, Utah, New Mexico, Delaware, and Idaho!

A charm quilt is one in which each fabric is used only once. You can see why a scrap exchange would be beneficial. That's a lot of different fabrics to make one quilt!

Can you imagine my excitement when I got home this evening and found these in my mailbox??!!! How lovely!! I couldn't wait to open each envelope.

4 down...21 to go!!!

I can't wait!!!

Thank you soooo much to E.L, Audrey, Maja, Kayce, and Carrie (who included the sweet note)!!! Happy Quilting!

Friday Thought

2009-01-23T11:11:00.000-05:00

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
Philippians 4:6

Pfaff in the house! (and at Sew-A-Lot)

2009-01-22T21:23:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago, I told you I was going to be purchasing something that would make you very jealous. Well, I don't know how jealous you will actually be, but you should be!

This is it!!!

It is the Pfaff Hobby 1142. This is by far the nicest machine that I have ever owned and one of the nicest that I have sewn on. I am so excited! Now because of the investment, I have to dedicate more time to using it!

If you would like to purchase a sewing machine, fabric, supplies, take classes, or meet some of the nicest women, you should definately go here! Sew-A-Lot is such a wonderful place! This is where I purchased my sewing machine and have gotten most of my fabrics. They offer many classes including Beginning Sewing, in case you are just getting started. I have taken two classes from them and can't wait to take more! I refer to the classes as my therapy sessions.

Everytime I pop in I'm greeted with the most friendly, helpful women. Sew-A-Lot is located in the Hamburg shopping area in Lexington, KY.

To Keep You Warm

2009-01-21T21:08:00.000-05:00

It has been colder than (insert your own word or phase here) outside! I made a few things to help keep warm.

I made 3 pairs of these hand warming gloves last weekend. They really do work and stay warm for a short period of time. They were sew easy to make also. I followed these simple instructions. It only took about 20 minutes to make each pair. Here is a picture of them turned inside out. (Please excuse my lousy photography skills in all pictures below!)

All you need is a cheap pair of gloves, felt, and rice. (Well, obviously a sewing machine, needle, and thread)

I also made a zillion of these handmade heating pillows. They only took about 10 minutes to make. Cut a piece of fabric the length you want your pillow and double the size you would like for the width to be.

Fold the fabric to make a small hem along the width of the fabric. (Do as I say, not as I do...wash and iron your fabric first!)

(And yes, I am cutting my fabric on my living room floor. I couldn't seem to pull myself away from the TV. I've got to get that TV hooked up in my sewing room!)

Fold the fabric in half (right sides together). Sew up bottom and side. Turn inside out.

Fill with rice and any fragrance you like about 2/3 full. I used dried lavender. Sew up your hemmed edge. Pop in the microwave until desired heat is reached. I heated for 1.5 minutes then turned pillow over and heated for another 1 minute. The pillow will sweat the first few times you microwave it, so place paper towels underneath it to soak up the moisture.

Viola! A new heating pillow to curl up with on chilly nights!

Buttercream Icing

2009-01-19T11:23:00.000-05:00

This post is for my mother. (So she doesn't have to write all of this down over the phone)

Buttercream Icing

1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening
1/2 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (clear, if you have it)
4 cups sifted confectioner's sugar (Sift before measuring)
2 tablespoons milk (maybe a tad more if you think it needs it)

Cream butter and shortening with mixer. Add vanilla extract.

Gradually add sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well on medium speed. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. When all sugar has been mixed in, icing will appear dry.

Add milk and beat at medium speed until light and fluffy.

Use immediately, or keep icing covered with a damp cloth until ready to use.

Yum! Yum! I wish I were there to lick the bowl!!!

Amish Friendship Bread

2009-01-16T15:06:00.000-05:00

Grrrr....I hate those chain letter things that someone gives you and then you must pass the same thing onto a zillion other people. But, I always hate saying no to people and hate the thought of throwing away food. So, I made Amish Friendship Bread last night. (Not to mention that anything that has the word Amish associated with it, I have to have.)

One of those gallon size bags full of yeast and other "secret" stuff (yeah right!) has been fermenting on my counter top for the past week. When I say it stunk, I mean it reeked! The first time I opened the bag I started gagging! Phew...it was bad. Last night I had to add a bunch of stuff to it and divide it up into 4 more bags. One bag I keep to myself and add even more "stuff" to the mix. This is my final product...Amish Friendship Bread. It turned out pretty good. It has the taste of french toast and texture of pumpkin bread. (In my opinion)

The paper I received said that "only the Amish know the starter"...yeah right! Google knows all secrets and answers. Even about the Amish.

Now I have to find 4 other willing recipients to give the "secret starter" bags. Grrr.... Interested????

By the way, to the friend that gave me this, I really am glad that you thought of me to give this to and I know what a big baby I am. Also, I don't want this to stop you from giving me other Amish stuff or ideas that you may come across. Just no more bread...please.

2009-01-15T21:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Dad!

I love you very much!!!

Love,

K T

Plain and Simple

2009-01-14T23:12:00.000-05:00

My friend Lindsey has made an interesting goal for herself this year. She has asked 12 people to recommend a book of their choosing for her to read. I was one of the 12 people that she asked.

Here is my choice...Plain and Simple.

Plain and Simple is a book that I read this summer. As the cover states it is about one woman's journey to the Amish. Now, if you know me well, you know I have a strong interest in the Amish as well as the Shakers...as well as MANY more things...I know, I know. I'm not really sure why this book captured my heart so much...after looking through it for a second time last night. I really contemplated my decision to choose this book over all the other wonderful books out there. Are you surprised...I over think all my decisions. But, I wasn't going to stress over it or even let myself become self-conscious over this. (Which I tend to do about everything)

Lindsey, this is the book I chose and I hope you enjoy it half as much as I did!

In keeping with the Amish, I decided that I would make her a Shoofly Pie for when I gave her the book. I've never made, tasted, or even seen Shoofly Pie before. I've heard and read about it in other Amish readings though. It is quite poplar in Pennsylvania. It turned out pretty good...probably not a favorite though. You need to like the taste of molasses to enjoy it, which I do. It is kinda like a coffee cake with a gooey molasses bottom. It gets it's name from the cooks having to continually "shoo" the flies away because the molasses attracted so many while the pies were cooling. Here is the recipe if you would like to try your hand at it.

I would also recommend listening to this while you bake.

Shoofly Pie
1 cup flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup shortening, chilled and diced
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup boiling water
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1/3 cup dark molasses
1 pie crust(9" size) unbaked
Cool Whip or some type of whipped cream
(I really recommend using a deep dish pie shell)

Preheat oven to 375.
In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar and shortening. With pastry blender or knives, combine ingredients together until the shortening resembles small beans. Set aside.

In another bowl, dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water. Add the corn syrup and molasses. Stir to blend. Pour filling in to the shell and sprinkle the crumb mixture over the top. (This layer will be thick)

Bake in the middle of the oven for 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to 350 and bake for 25-30 minutes more. The filling should be set even when it quivers when the pan is tapped. Do not overbake.

Serve with whipped cream.

I hope you enjoy!

This Ain't It

2009-01-13T11:40:00.001-05:00

In my last post I confessed my love for miniature food.

Let me clarify!

I only love miniature FAKE food. Not real food that I plan to eat and allow my taste buds the pleasure of consuming!

This is defiantly not what I meant!

These are the new 100 Calorie brownies by Little Debbie. What are they thinking?!! Is this just a tease or a huge mockery of the other 100 Calorie snacks?!! Shame on you Little Debbie! You shouldn’t have taken your name so literal!

Now Chiquita…that chick has it together! Their snack packs are wonderful. Already washed and cut fruit and veges with dip. Yummy and convenient! I have to admit I also think they are kinda cute! The folks at Hostess know what they are doing too!

I also tried the 100 Calorie Peanut Butter Wafers from Little Debbie.

They are whole-friggin-wheat!!! What??!!

I don’t want my PB Wafers to be whole wheat!! They were also less than satisfying!

Foodoholic

2009-01-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

As you may know I have a major obsession with food.

Everything about food!

I have a weird minor obsession with miniature food. (especially in jewelry form!)

Is that weird?!

I meet someone once that thought food in fake form was so gross and totally weirded her out. I can kinda understand and see why she felt that why. But not me! I love it! I know its a little kooky, but I can't help it. The only thing that keeps me from wearing the fake food is I know how abnormal and strange it is. One day though, I'm not going to care.

So if you run into me one day with cupcake earrings, a hamburger on a chain around my neck, or sushi on my rings, don't be surprised. And you know what, when I can finally start wearing culinary masterpieces I won't care what you think. But for now, I still do! I can dream though!

If you would like to waste a little time on this rainy Saturday, check out some of my favorites on Etsy. I just love food in miniature form too. It doesn't have to be jewelry.

DanzDzynes http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5087023 This stuff is actually scented! Can you believe that?! Sheer brilliance!

PetitPlat http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5831696

ShayAaron http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5093660

Umecraafts http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5332354

OneElf http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5035783 I actually already have something from here!

Roscata http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5968012

On another note, I love these prints! I would love to have them all for my sewing room. If any of my family (mom, husband, dad, etc.) is still reading this...hint, hint...wink,wink. You should check out all of her prints. They are great!

Dreamy Giraffe http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=50177&section_id=5688188

Shari, Sewing, & Casa

2009-01-09T11:32:00.000-05:00

It's a regular event! A fav event! I told you so already!

We will fight cold, rain, sleet, cougars, bears, or anything else that may stand in our way of Casa. Believe me, we fought the cold last night!

Ok, so there's the Shari and Casa part...and now for the sewing part of the evening. I have been dying to make Lilly a pillowcase dress. The problem is that I have no pattern, no instructions, and the biggest problem...no measurements.
Mary Jo O'Bradovich was very kind to give me a quick tutorial over the break on how she has been making them for her granddaughters. I really wish that she would have been part of the evening last night. I really needed her help. The dresses she has created are to die for! I was actually trying to measure Lilly's body last night by looking at pictures of her and attempting to measure by her size relation to objects in the pictures. Impossible!

The first one I made would only possibly fit her new Raggedy Ann doll. The second one I made turned out much better, but still a little too short. Oh well, I am proud to say I made a long pillowcase shirt. I think it will look great with cream tights. I love love love this fabric. I plan on trying to make another one this weekend...with a little more detail. Hmm, maybe a ruffle at the bottom. I already have several great fabric choices with matching ribbon.

Not just a stroll in the forest

2009-01-08T10:24:00.000-05:00

We decided to do a little exploring in the mountains last weekend. Well, what we thought was going to be a pleasant stroll through the forest actually turned into the "marathon runners" (mom and Tom) taking us on a hiking adventure that only the fittest of bodies could keep up with and actually enjoy. Raven (AKA The Grand Poopster) and Shakira had a blast though. (I know horrible nickname for Raven. You can blame the Mr. for that one) Here are some snapshots from our adventure. This is my granny's and other family members land in Letcher County.

Look at what we were hiking through for crying out loud! (Literally!)

I know it's hard to see, but look at The Grand Poopster's collar. I have starting sewing all of her collars instead of buying them. (Tutorial to follow later) This was her Christmas one, which I hate to admit she is still wearing because I haven't made a new one for her.

Look at this beautiful spot. This is where I dream of one day building a small 2 room cabin for me and the Mr. to enjoy the weekends! Wouldn't it be wonderful!

The Grand Poopster was seriously pooped! Excuse the ridiculous picture of me.

The Mr.'s birthday was on New Year's Eve. He loves ice cream cakes and I had full confidence in myself that I could make him a great one. I wasn't going to post pictures, but thought what the heck. It turned out VERY bad! The ice cream ran out each side and then froze! That is a plastic knife sticking through the middle to hold the three layers of cake and ice cream together. I made a delicious homemade buttercream icing. However, I could only put icing on the top because the whole thing was so fragile! (and it looks like a 3 year old done that!) It was a disaster! Oh well, it's the thought that counts. Right??

More from Christmas

2009-01-07T11:56:00.000-05:00

I thought I would post some pictures from Christmas! Hope you enjoy!

My mom was so proud of her fruitcake creation. I think that my Mom and Granny might be the only two people left in this world that enjoy fruitcake. Yuk! Gross! Someone else must like it because they continue to commercially produce it for our eating pleasure. I can't imagine this being pleasurable to eat! Oh well, good job Mom! You spent loads of time and way to much money to successfully create this 8th wonder of the world we know of as fruitcake!!!

On to something much more interesting. I made these snazzy new aprons for my mom and granny for Christmas. The photo really doesn't do them justice. I have to say I was quite pleased with them. Although I think a full apron that covers the bust is much more practical, but oh well, they can feel sassy in these aprons while baking! If you would like to feel sassy while you are cooking dinner, you can make one yourself by going here. My mom and granny preferred to not tie them in a bow like I wanted them too! ...Whatever.

I recently fell in love. Have I told you about it? I mean head-over-hills in love. Her name is Lilly and she is my niece. Here she is with my husband and my dad with the Raggedy Ann Doll I got her for Christmas. Every girl needs one ya know! She agrees!

Oh yeah,
FYI: This evening I am purchasing something very exciting! I can't wait to show it you! Prepare to be jealous!!!

I'm still here!

2009-01-06T10:46:00.000-05:00

So I finally get my blog up and running and then decide to go on a 2 week hiatus. Sorry! I really am going to do good about keeping this up. I plan on doing some backtracking for a little bit so I can post some of my Chritmas planning and holiday events.

My friend JKCuddles and I spent an entire weekend before Christmas baking goodies for the students we work with. I don't think we realized what an undertaking that would be. Here are some photos of the baking and the result. I thought they turned out great!

I have to give credit where credit is due so, we got the idea and package for the Krispy Treats from a great blog called Schlosser Designs. You should really check it out. She usually does a tutorial every Tuesday. Thanks to her!

I promise I will never go another 2 weeks without posting. I have some great recipes and projects to come!

A Ring & A Promise

2008-12-19T13:58:00.000-05:00

My beautiful & wonderful friend (also cousin), Cami, had a moment last Friday night that she will remember forever. The man she has decided to give her heart to asked a very important question..."Will you marry me?" Of course the answer was "Yes!" By the way, (not BTW), the ring is absolutely gorgeous!

I wish her so many wonderful times to follow. However, I say a prayer that she survives all the bridezilla, stressful moments that may arise in the months leading to the wedding date. It is certain that she will have difficult decisions to make, hurt someones feelings, question if its all worth it, spend far too much money, and question her sanity for not deciding to elope.

Do most brides have these horrific "pre-wedding" decisions to make? I know I sure did. It shouldn't be so complicated. Cami is actually trying to make her wedding small, intimate, and simple. This is actually harder to do than the opposite. Who do you not invite? What should you cut cost on? I pray that she remembers what is most important in all the planning. (And I'm not talking about the cake!)

Cami is such an amazing woman. One of those types that seems to just have everything together & taken care of. (always & usually early) Talk about domestic! She deserves everything she has ever dreamed of! I hope Brian realizes just how lucky he is to have captured the heart of such an amazing, beautiful (& domestic) woman! Congrats to you both!

I love you Cami!

Shari, Sewing, & Casa

2008-12-18T08:45:00.000-05:00

...Three things that make up a perfect evening for me! My friend Shari has recently been dabbling in some of my crafty addictions, including sewing. She even requested a new sewing machine for Christmas! Now if you know Shari, you know why this is UNBELIEVABLE! I surely thought I would see pigs flying outside my window before I would be seeking sewing advice or requesting to use her awesome new sewing machine. Anyway, after several hours of figuring out a pattern & cutting out all the trillion pieces, which I despise, we decided a trip to Casa Cafe was well deserved! (This is a regular thought for us!)

Ah, Casa with Shari is one of my most fav things! This is a time when a lot of stuff goes down...sharing hilarious experiences of the week, heart wrenching stories, serious decisions, deep thoughts, and all this while consuming enough tortilla chips and salsa to make our stomachs feel like they might explode! Part of our trips these days are missing one very important component though...our wonderful friend Jennifer, which now lives in Knoxville with her charming husband Jay. We still have the most wonderful times at Casa, but if Jenn were here the evening would truly be complete!

After eating far too much, we were back to the grindstone. (Well, Shari was. I couldn't miss The Biggest Loser) I'm very proud of Shari for her first homemade creation! Her sister is going to love her new handmade apron made with love, sweat, and almost tears by her little sister! That little area of my heart that has Shari's name on it is cheezin!

The beginning

2008-12-17T09:54:00.000-05:00

Here is to the beginning of a girl with ... Domestic Ambitions!!!