Philigry

Who Needs Frames?

2011-05-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but when the refrigerator gets loaded with pictures, schedules, menus and calenders, I go crazy. I can't see a darn thing, and instead of feeling like I know what is going on with school lunches and practices I feel like I do not know anything, about anything.

So, I frame a few pieces of art work- those get changed out every few months, I tape all lunch menus, practice schedules, and love notes from my children inside the pantry door. This way, I can actually see them instead of having eight pieces of paper share the same magnet.

And the pictures? Well today I put some right here on our hallway closet.

No frames or magnets needed.

I Still Knit

2011-05-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

It has been such a long time since I have shown any knitting. I am starting to get my groove back. It is just taking a while.

I have loved all the sweet, subtle comments on Ravelry and in my email box asking if I just quit knitting all together. My knitting needles are still here, just taking a small rest.

This Captain Hat was knit for my oldest son, although my youngest son wears it the most.

For some reason, Blogger is not letting me link or edit any posts-I am not sure why. The pattern is a free ravery download-The Captain's Hat.

I knit this up and ran out of yarn, so I did not get to do the button band which is probably my favorite part, but who can not love a hat you knit up in a day? I am not even sure about the yarn, all chocolate brown scraps from my stash. Mostly alpaca, maybe some wool in there too.

I am really in the mood to knit for my babes-I am off to search through my pattern books!

Spring Chores

2011-05-04T10:19:00.001-07:00

We don't do much in fall as far as outside chores go.

We don't rake, cut back the gardens, plant bulbs, or remove bulbs. I am usually too busy crafting, and never in the mood.

I save it all for the spring. I am so excited to get to it, so I figure that is the best time to tackle things like painting adirondack chairs, rake, mulch, prune, clean out the hen house, feed the plants, and stain the deck.

Oh, the deck.

Because we decided to paint it, it needs to be done. Every. Year.

Usually that just involves painting the floor of the deck, but this year the balusters really needed to be done.

We use white outdoor stain that has held up really well for the past seven years. No chipping or peeling. It's just that they were green, and black, kind of moldy looking. I opted to repaint them instead of cleaning them. I didn't want the chemicals to go in the garden that outlines the deck.

It was a lot of work, but I am so glad it is done.

Next on the list is to get some grapes and an herb garden planted, maybe another hydrangea patch.

What are your spring chores this year?

S'more Bars Recipe

2011-04-26T09:16:00.001-07:00

There is a wonderful bakery near us that sells the best cookies and bars. Jack always picks out a S'more bar that is so good.

I came up with a similar recipe that I knew my family would love. We are huge S'more fans.

First, I made my own marshmallows. They are so much better than the ones you buy in the store!

I used Ina's Toasted Coconut Marshmallow recipe (minus the coconut) and they were so much fun to make.

After that, I melted one stick of butter in a 9x13 pan at 350.

Next, mix in (with a fork) about 1 and 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, layer on top about 2 cups broken up Hershey's chocolate bars, stick back in the oven until chocolate melts.

Then, top with marshmallows and stick them under the broiler on low. Watch these very closely, in a few minutes you will have toasted marshmallows.

I melted more chocolate to put on the top.

I love these bars, but I can't wait to have the real thing!

Girls

2011-04-21T17:34:00.001-07:00

I brought home some new little girls the other day.

We are all so excited.

Well, almost all of us.

Dorothy,

and Blanche,

were not very impressed. Ahem.

And this sweet girl is taking a much needed rest.

That fox has been relentless. Our dog Eve, has either been sitting on the front porch, or right here by the front door keeping a watch over the chickens.

I am not kidding when I say she chased him (or her) away at least ten times yesterday, and three times today.

It makes her happy to have a job to do.

My Favorite Banana Recipe

2011-04-14T10:28:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share my favorite banana bread recipe with you. I usually make muffins. It is easier for the kids to just grab one and go play outside after school.

I love it because it is not soggy like some other recipes I have tried.

In my baked goods, I always use white-wholewheat flour (King Arthur)

Raw organic sugar

Organic butter

Our free-range eggs

Sea salt

Organic milk

We go through a lot of this stuff, and it makes me feel better that I can make it healthier for my family without changing the taste.

Fermented Banana Bread:

1 3/4 cups flour

2/3 cup sugar

2 teaspoons powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 Cup Fermented bananas (about 3 bananas)

1/3 cup butter

2 tablespoons milk

2 eggs

1/4 cup nuts or chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350

Mix together 1 CUP FLOUR (save the rest, you will use it later) sugar, powder and salt.

Add bananas, butter and milk. Beat on high for 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time and remaining flour. Mix until blended.

Fold in nuts and chocolate chips.

Bake about 30-35 minutes if making muffins, or 55 minutes if making bread (makes one loaf or a dozen muffins)

Inside/Outside

2011-04-08T11:12:00.001-07:00

This weekend I think you should, Run outside,

See what you can find.

Then, come inside.

Make these.

Recipe here.

You can thank me later....

I Need To Get Outside

2011-04-04T11:49:00.001-07:00

Winter has decided to linger here for a bit longer. All I want to do is get outside and rake, dig, play in the garden. Since you can't do any of that with snow on the ground, I painted something green. (Bay Leaf by Behr)

Now I am thinking that two upholstered chairs would look nice on each end of the table.

Maybe something with a green print, maybe black.

Maybe I am just spending too much time inside.

Come on Spring.

My Favorite Soup

2011-04-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share my favorite soup recipe with you. My sister made this for me one night and I had to have the recipe. Really simple. Really good. Here it goes. Chop up a big onion, about 6 potatoes, and 6 stalks of celery. Put in a big pot with about 2 inches of water-simmer for 20 minutes. Add a pint of heavy cream, one cup of milk and a package of cream cheese. Simmer for another 20 minutes. The cream cheese will be chunky. Once it warms up, it is easy to smash it against the side of the pot with a spoon to blend it into your soup. Add salt, pepper, and dill to taste.

It is even better the next day.

If you are in the mood, you can add some crumbled bacon on the top!

My Laundry Closet

2011-03-23T10:31:00.001-07:00

We don't have a laundry room in our home, and up until this weekend the washer and dryer were kept down in the basement.
Oh, and they were old. Really, really, old. I'm talkin' hand-me-down-free-for-the-taking-old.

And really, if you do a load of laundry a day, it is not fun to carry all the laundry down two flights of stairs, only to wash them and carry them back up two flights of stairs.
We have a big closet in the first floor bathroom. I ripped the doors off a few years ago to do this.
It is the perfect place for my new loves.

My husband cut the shelf that was already there in half and made two smaller shelves to store the detergent and other cleaning products.

SO, we may not have a laundry room, but I do love this laundry closet.

A friend even pointed out how nice it will be when the kids come in all muddy, and they can just strip down right there, and throw their clothes in the washer. I had never even thought about that! I feel so spoiled.

Is it strange that I have wiped them down everyday since we got them?

Bare

2011-03-21T09:56:00.001-07:00

I love the look of bare windows.
All of our bathrooms have windows that face the back of our house.
Nothing but trees to look at.
I have tried to hang curtains there, but I just hate how they block so much of the natural light. Even small roll-up shades hide enough light to make me rip them down a few days later.

I do like dressing them up a bit with fabric banners.

The above picture is one I made for our master bath, using twine and linen. I just glued the fabric to the twine.

Here is a tiny one I made for the kids bathroom window using white linen scraps.

I have something else to show today.....

I painted the buffet.

Thank you so much for all of your opinions.

I really could not decided what to do.

We already had the black paint, so I just went for it.

You know me though, I am sure it will be another color-by next Tuesday.

Eggs

2011-03-18T11:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday!
The winner of the Shabby Apple giveaway is Jessica, from The Swell Life!!
Have you seen her blog? So full of beautiful inspiration. You must go check it out.

It has been a long, dark winter for our little hens. They don't like walking in the snow, so they have not been outside their pen in about four months.
The fox visits every morning,very early and causes all kinds of ric-rac in the coop.
I don't think we have collected an egg since November.

Anna went to check on them yesterday, and came in to tell me that she needed the egg basket! We were all so excited to see that they were laying again.
(Egg basket purchased on Etsy).

Some things just never get old.

Opinions, Please

2011-03-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

So, I decided that I wanted to change a few things around in our house this year.
I already showed you the change in the kitchen, but have not yet shared the other rooms.

I sold my dining chairs, rugs and some lights on craigslist to make room for new.
The above picture is the dining room now, here is a before picture.

Here is a the living room now.
You can see a before picture here.
We decided to change the furniture around to make room for the buffet over there in front of the window.
We had it in the basement since we moved in because we didn't think we had room for it upstairs.
I bought it before we got married at a Flea Market for $100.

This is the other end of the living room.
I found the hutch on Uncle Henry's. I painted it black, added some new silver hardware and it looks like new.
Before picture here.

So, my question is this:

Should I paint this buffet?

I can not decide. It is already painted a yellowish color that I do like, but I want to do something different.

I was thinking black, like the hutch, or maybe a fern green? Gray is another color I have been debating.

Maybe even a light blue?

Things are pretty neutral around here, so almost anything would work.

Tell me what you think, and don't forget about that dress giveaway here.

Challah

2011-03-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to try a Challah Bread recipe for ages now.

I like a recipe that calls for just a few ingredients.
This one calls for 8 cups of flour. I used 4 cups of white unbleached flour, and four cups of whole wheat flour.

I nestled some fresh eggs from our hens and cooked them with the bread.
I highly recommend this.
A warm slice of this bread, with a cooked egg, a slice of cheddar, and a dash of salt is perfection!

Don't forget to sign up for the giveaway here.

The Shabby Apple

2011-03-08T15:27:00.000-08:00

The lovely ladies over at Shabby Apple contacted me about hosting a giveaway on my blog.

I was more than pleased.

They sell beautiful dresses for women and girls, and donate 5% of their net sales to women in India.

I loved everything so much, it was hard to pick, but I could not pass up this yellow number.

For a chance to win this beautiful dress, all you have to do is leave a comment.

For two chances to win, "like" Shabby Apple on facebook, and come back over and enter your name again.

For three chances to win, blog about this givaway with a link to this post, and post another comment letting me know.

Shabby Apple is also giving all of my readers a 10% discount on all of their purchases.

Just enter code: philigry10off

Good Luck, ladies!

I will announce the winner next Friday, March 18th.

Sometimes

2011-03-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, you have to make your own rainbows.

A Sunday Project

2011-03-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to do something different with our coat closet doors for a while now.
I love the look of interior barn doors, and thought it would be the perfect solution.
The hallway is very narrow, with no room for swinging doors.

I did my best with photos. It was almost impossible to get a shot with my camera in this tiny space.

The above picture is what the coat closet looked like before.

We purchased everything, including the new schoolhouse light, from Lowe's.

After installing the track, we measured the length we wanted and my husband made the doors.

We decided to install the end cap (that will keep the door from rolling off the track) down below.

Here is what it looks like on the bottom. The metal brackets keep the door from swinging open.

We really wanted one big door, but because of the wall space we had to make two doors. Otherwise we would not have access to about 14" of the closet.

This is the perfect solution if you have a space that does not have room for a swinging door, and a great space saver if you have a room where a door eats up a lot of space.

We thought about installing pocket doors in our bedroom, but I think we will be doing this instead!

If anyone has any questions about this project I will be happy to answer them in the comments section.

Real Life

2011-02-18T07:35:00.000-08:00

Hello there,

It was in about 40 this morning when I dropped Addison off at school.

It felt so nice and warm I had to open a window for a bit.

Anna is home sick and keeps fighting with Jack.

It is making my head hurt.

We are going out with friends this weekend and I am going to get a huge burger.

I want to paint something green.

My head is spinning with all the projects that I want to do.

I need to fold about ten loads of laundry.

I heart Coca-Cola.

We just ordered six fruit trees to plant this spring.

I am almost ready for winter to be over

Almost.

I should get off this computer and tend to my fighting kids.

Or fold laundry.

I am not sure which one sounds better.

Mappy

2011-02-11T06:41:00.001-08:00

I finished decorating Addison's room this week-a project that started last October.
First, I painted his walls Cottage White by Behr. It is my favorite shade of white. Not quite white, not quite ivory.

He loves geography, and already had a few maps in his room. A friend gave me an old Atlas and some maps she found from our local recycling barn, and I decided to take the map theme a bit further.
I secured them to the wall using blue painter's tape. I figure there will be no damage done if he wants to take them off.

Everything in his room is recycled.

The desk and bed were yard sale finds. I mixed my own paint for both pieces using Sunburst, by Behr and some white I had on hand.

The chest used to be mine, and that is what holds his toys.

I got some old wooden crates to create a bedside table. I think I paid $20 for all of them.

The dresser is an old one. My husband thinks his father used to use it when he was younger!

Addison came thrifting with me a few years ago, and loved that little clock. He thought it was so cool that you had to wind it up. The man at the booth gave it to him because he loved it so much!

His room is not always this neat, although he is a very tidy kid. He likes everything in it's place, which makes me very happy! I keep thinking his younger brother and sister will catch on, but so far it is not happening.

Enjoy the weekend!

Cheddar-Stuffed Crusty Loaves

2011-02-04T12:46:00.000-08:00

Oh yes!
You read the title right. I made you want the recipe, didn't it?

Growing up, the Schwan's man would come and knock at our door once a week. He knew that he would be greeted by a teenage girl, with a blank check. He also knew if he did not have any cheesy bread in his truck, he would be in trouble.
You know, I don't even think they sell it anymore.

My three sisters and I used to go through these loaves like water.

We would sit around the coffee table with M T.V. in the background, eating, talking about boys, sharing secrets, complaining, laughing. It was before we had real responsibilities. Before we knew what we wanted to be when we grew up.

My mom was always so nice to leave that blank check every week. She knew we needed our cheesy bread time together. I don't even know if she got to eat any of it.

She babysat for us this week, and after she left I noticed a recipe stuck to the fridge.

Cheddar-Stuffed Crusty Loaves- It was from the back of the King Arthur Flour bag.

Even if you have never made bread, you must give this a try!

Starter:

1 1/4 C King Arthur unbleached bread flour

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp instant yeast

1/2 cool water

Filling:

2 1/2 Cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated.

Dough:

All of the starter

1 to 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water

3 1/2 cups bread flour

1/2 tsp. instant yeast

To make starter:

Mix 1 1/4 cups flour, salt, and 1/2 cup water. The starter will be dry, add a bit more water so that it all comes together if you need to. Cover and let rest overnight at room temp. It will become bubbly.

To make dough:

Combine starter with water, salt, flour, and yeast. Knead by hand, using a mixer or in bread machine on dough cycle. Place dough in lightly greased bowl, cover let rise for an hour or so.

Pat and stretch dough to make a 9" x 12" rectangle.

Spritz with water, sprinkle grated cheese.

Starting with the long side, roll into a log, pinching the seam to seal.

Place seam side down on floured surface. Cover and let rise for another hour or so.

Preheat oven to 425. Cut into four small loaves, or two longer ones-I just made mine into a circle. Spritz top with water, and place on greased baking sheet. Bake for 25-35 minutes until golden brown.

After you try it, you will feel like this!

Happy weekend!

Granola

2011-02-03T08:52:00.000-08:00

We love granola. I made it for the first time the other day.

We are so lucky that my dad keeps us stocked with honey- from his own bees and maple syrup from his own trees!

I followed this recipe, and it was a hit.

I like the organic oats from the bulk section in the grocery store, and I did add some coconut after it was done baking.

It is so filling with fruit and yogurt and the kids love it in their lunch with some chocolate chips.

P.S. Some of you asked about the cake...

I did have a small piece on Thursday, and then I had a huge piece on Saturday.

For breakfast.

I ate it over the kitchen sink.

It was a bit out of control.

A Problem

2011-01-27T10:37:00.000-08:00

Ina Garten is my absolute favorite.
We were all watching her show the other night when she made this cake.
My daughter is a huge fan of coconut so she made me promise to make it.

I told her I would.
It has become a tradition that I make a cake, pie or cookies for the weekend and when it is gone, it is gone-until the next weekend.

This is the problem:
It is only Thursday.
Jack is taking a nap.
I am alone.
With this cake.

Just me....

and the cake.

Searching for Shells

2011-01-24T07:01:00.000-08:00

We are so lucky that we live on the coast.
I never really appreciated the ocean when I was little, but now I could never be away from it.

We visit the ocean every chance we get.
I think we were there almost everyday this summer.

We put some shelves up in our bathroom this weekend using some wood that has been in our garage for a few years now.

The perfect place to display all of our treasures.

Happy Monday.

Stay warm my friends!

One Thing Leads to Another

2011-01-18T11:41:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I took down the Christmas tree.

This always opens up a can of worms.

I decided to change around the furniture after that.

Then I thought I would repaint the entire downstairs.

Since I was in project mode, I decided to paint my cabinets white.

Something I have wanted to do for over three years now.

After showing my husband some of my inspiration photos, he finally decided to let me do it.

It has been a "discussion" in this house for a long, long time.

Layla, from The Lettered Cottage inspired me to take off a few doors and add some corbels.

This was the kitchen before.

When we got the cabinets they were already painted.

Since then, the color has been discontinued everywhere. They were starting to chip, and we want to have covered appliances someday.

My husband and I both wanted white cabinets when we were building this house. I have the pages in my inspiration books to prove it.

Somehow, we got side tracked by the Butternut cabinets, which I still love.

I just love the white more.

Guess what?

So does my husband.

Looking At Mirrors

2011-01-10T10:19:00.001-08:00

Hi.
Have I ever told you I have a thing for mirrors?
I love how they can make a space look bigger and brighter.
Almost all of the mirrors in our home are from thrift stores.
I just think they are better than a new one, don't you?

Thrifted ~ $15.
I love that old patina they get.

Thrifted ~ $4.
I was feeling cheap, and really talked the guy at the booth down on this one.

Thrifted ~ $75

I had to have her.

Thrifted ~ $35

Probably my favorite.

Thrifted ~ $35

This has a chip on the side, but that just makes it better.

Thrifted ~ $25.

I did paint this one white, and I added the decorative piece to the top.

I have been hunting for an oval one. If you see something you think I would like let me know, K?

Christmas Clutter

2011-01-03T10:36:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for everything that we are blessed with. We are surrounded by friends, family, and nice neighbors who drop by during the holiday season with everything from sweet treats to large remote control vehicles.
It is a great and exciting time for all, that is for sure!
Having three kids without a playroom can make it hard to find room for everything.
I am sure I am not the only one that gets really overwhelmed by Christmas clutter.

Each of the kids has their own room. Half of their toys go in their closet, and the other half stay out.

We rotate every month or so.
Sometime in the fall I have the kids go up to their room and fill a large bag full of toys to donate. We have been doing this for a few years now, and it is so nice to have room to put away all of their new things.

We do this for a few reasons:

It gives them a space to play in their room.

I do not like the way my kids act when there is too much stuff around. I think they get overwhelmed and are not sure how to deal with it.

The biggest reason is that I am a very compulsive organizer that enjoys things being in their place. It is really one of my hobbies, to be honest.

Don't think I am above showing off my Tupperware drawer or coat closet if you come over.

Anna's room got some extra love.

We painted it (cottage white by Behr) and moved her furniture around a bit.

What do you do to avoid Christmas clutter?

Making Bagels

2010-12-29T10:02:00.001-08:00

I love, love bagels and cream cheese. I could eat one for every meal of the day.
I went to college in Vermont, and there was the best bagel place near Killington that I would always stop at on my way home. I don't even remember the name, but they had every kind of bagel that you could think of. They tasted nothing like the bagels you buy in the grocery store, they were boiled or steamed and it made all the difference.

We make our own bagels, and they taste just like the bagels at that bagel place.
With just four ingredients, you can make your own too.

My favorite topping is sea salt, but the options are endless with these recipes.
I also use King Arthur white-whole wheat flour instead of white flour, and they are so good.
I know mine do not look like bagels. I don't like to take the time to make the hole in the center. The faster I can make them the better.
They do not last long.

Recipe for bread machine bagels here.
Recipe for bagels by hand here.
I guarantee if you try these, you will never buy bagels in the grocery store ever again!

Cashmere Slippers

2010-12-16T10:22:00.000-08:00

New slippers for Anna using an old cashmere sweater that Kim sent me.

She loves them.

So do I! I think I need some. I did my own thing for this pair, but I did find a tutorial here for you, if you are interested.

I used suede for the bottom that I had in my stash, but you could also use old jeans, or some felt.

A nice quick project for cold piggies!

This Year

2010-12-14T10:31:00.001-08:00

For those of you who know me in real life it is no surprise that Christmas starts in our house as soon as the kids take off their Halloween costumes.

We listen to Christmas music, put in the Christmas movies and start crafting and making gifts.
I do it because I love it, and it makes me very, very happy. It is when I am motivated and full of ideas and have more energy then I do right now-11 days before Christmas!

I also start early so I can take the few weeks before the Holiday to enjoy company, parties and Falalala Lifetime.
There are still always things that I don't get to, like getting more creative with wrapping gifts.
I finally did it this year.

These gifts are for all the ladies in my life.
I took vintage sheet music that a friend gave to me, some bows and tags from the Library sale and trimmings from my sewing basket.

I am so glad I made time to do this.

I have also always wanted to put a tree in our bedroom, but it never happens.

I found this sweet artificial tree at our local recycling barn last June!

My husband rolled his eyes at me as I was shoving it in the car between the kids while sweating to death.

It was so worth it!

My favorite things this season

2010-12-09T09:51:00.001-08:00

Pine cones

The large ones are from Joann's.

$4.99 for a large bag.

Peanut butter cups.

Recipe here.

Upcycled sweater wreath.

Tutorial here.

This one took about three women's medium sweaters.

White poinsettia is from Home Depot $3.99

Inspired

2010-12-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

Hi.
Well then, I guess I am back.
After posting about the Library sale (which was a huge, delicious success that I am still not over) I realized how much I miss this bloggy land. I have missed sharing stuff with other crazy crafting, baking, knitting, women.

Each morning I wake up and tell myself I am NOT going to craft. My back is feeling the effects of all I have been doing.
Like making these.
Oh, and these.
I can not even get into the cookie baking. My freezer is full, so if you are on the cookie list this, be prepared!

I saw this photo, and knew I had to make one.
An Advent Calender has been on my list since I have had kids. I wanted to do something really easy, but felt uninspired.
I just love to knock off Pottery Barn.

I had a canvas, painted it chocolate brown and cut 24 rectangles from card stock, wrote the number at the top and tacked the ornaments on using a pearl pin which I cut in half.

Instant gratification!

More....

2010-11-24T08:19:00.000-08:00

Still creating for the Library show.

Details in the post below.

Oh, and thanks so much for all the sugar.

You guys are really the best!

Treasures from the Library Attic

2010-11-19T16:37:00.000-08:00

Hey there-
I am not officially back, but I really wanted to stop by here to talk about something I am very excited to be a part of.
This year my local library asked me to help make some treats for the annual Guild of Artisan's Sale. We are making paper crafts made from recycled books and selling them to benefit the Bowdoinham Public Library.

Needless to say, I am hooked.
Below you will see a small sampling of things I have made for the sale. It is just a teaser though. There are many, many other talented volunteers who have made beautiful things!
If you live in the area I really hope you stop by.

Where: Bowdoinham Town Hall
When: Friday, December 3rd 6-8 p.m. & Saturday December 4th 10-4 p.m.

We hope to see you!!

Hi there

2010-05-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

I have been blogging for almost three years now.
Three years.
When I sat down to write my first post, I was terribly excited. I had started reading a few blogs, and after finding out what they were, and how to start one, I decided to try it.
I had gotten so many great ideas and fun inspiration, and I wanted to give some of that back.
I hope I have done that.
My life is a little different now than it was then.
My kids are getting older, we are getting busier.
I love blogging and I want to say goodbye while I still love it.
I know you all understand.
I really, really want you all to know how much you have touched my life.

Thanks for letting me share with you.

Stubborn

2010-05-19T10:11:00.000-07:00

Oh, there is so much inspiration out there.
I saw a vintage frame on the ceiling over a chandelier with vintage music in it on Internet last fall. I wish I could remember where I saw it, but I can't. A friend of mine recently saw it in a magazine too.
It was something I knew I had to do in Anna's room. A simple frame with vintage paper. Easy, right?
Wrong. First, I have spent the last six months trying to find the perfect vintage frame for the project, that was under ten dollars. Not an easy thing to do.
I finally found one this weekend.

Here it is, NOT above the chandelier.

I loved it, it was the right price, my husband went to put it up as soon as the paint on it was dry. We thought liquid nails would hold it up there.
We were wrong.
It came crashing down, pulled the chandelier down, broke all the bulbs and we spent an hour cleaning up all the glass that was sprinkled in my daughters room.
We were afraid to screw it into the ceiling because the frame would probably crack, and my husband informed me that you can not just screw something into a ceiling near lights.
I guess that makes sense.

The ceiling was a mess. We thought we could scrape everything off, then paint the whole darn ceiling.

Not something I wanted to do.
I really, really wanted a frame above that light.

Then I remembered that we had some leftover styrofoam moulding from our room!

That saved the day!

I was being really stubborn. I really loved this idea!

So, I guess the vintage frame will make a good chalkboard, right?

I got the vintage paper from Etsy, and stuck it on there with double stick tape.

Do any of you know a safe way to get a frame to stay up on a ceiling?

I want to do the same thing in our room.

Rules

2010-05-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Rule number one:

Check the local recycling barn every Saturday because you never know when you are going to find a perfect chandelier for your hallway.

Rule Number two:

Check your favorite Flea Market once a month because you never know when you are going to find the perfect map for your son's room. This is old and yellow and I loved the patina. It is a map the coast line of Maine ( where we live) and has all the beaches we visit on it.

Oh, and it was only $18 and that included the perfect frame!

Rule Number 3:

If you look for something long enough you will find it.

I have been looking for a large mirror for Anna's room and I found it this weekend for $25. I did add the decoration to the top and painted it white.

Rule number 4:

Never underestimate the power of spray paint.

We have been wanting to change out the brass doorknobs in our home since we moved here six years ago. Instead of spending a few hundred dollars to do that I got some oil-rubbed bronze spray paint at home depot for a few bucks.

I primed them first, then painted two coats. My husband was shocked! He did not think it was going to turn out this great! We are excited with the results.

We have two doors downstairs and we did purchase new knobs for those because they get a lot more use. I think the spray paint will hold up for the doors upstairs because they get a lot less use.

Do you have any shopping, thrifting, decorating rules? I would love to hear them!

Picture, Picture

2010-05-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

I started framing black and white pictures of the kids about three years ago. I wanted them to cover the whole hallway, but it stayed half done for a really long time.
We just finished it last night, and it feels good to have it done.

I purchased the frames from our local Big Lots for seven dollars each.

I get all of my black and white pictures from Mpix. So easy to do right from home on your computer and they are only $1.99 for an 8x10!

I am not the best photographer, and we have a really inexpensive camera, but capturing small moments with our kids is a passion for me and my husband.

Moments like this-

Hmmmm...

Maybe we should get a pool.

A Gift

2010-04-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

I have lived in Maine since 1982. I can honestly say that we have never had blooming trees in April.
The hydrangea is usually still asleep, and you never, never hear the sound of a lawn mower.

We are about three weeks ahead of schedule I would say.

An early spring.

I will take it.

Such a gift.

Brown

2010-04-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

I usually go for light. Light fabric, light colors, lots of windows. For some reason I have been dying to paint a room in our home brown.

I went with our bedroom because it is big, and has lots of windows. I thought it could handle the brown paint. I am so glad that I did it!
The paint is called Blanket Brown, by Behr.
I wanted to go darker but I knew it would be much darker in my room than it was on the paint card.
We also added crown moulding. Not wood, styrofoam. Recycled styrofoam. No nails to put in, no cutting corners either. My husband and I put this up Friday night. It took about three hours.
We ordered it from here, and we love it! We will be doing all the bathrooms next!

Hello

2010-04-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

Hi there.
I just wanted to stop in to say I will be away from my blog for a bit.
We are knee deep in projects and it is Spring vacation next week.

Our front yard is a mess right now. We are adding dirt, a french drain, and some grass to stop the flooding in our yard. While we were at it, we decided to add a path from the porch to the driveway.

While you are knee deep in mud, why not paint your bedroom too? Not just any color, how about a light chocolate brown. Milk chocolate, if you will. This messy painter is determined to learn how to paint well.
So in the next few weeks, we will be very busy, but I will return with some finished projects to show you.

I also have to say thank you. Thank you for coming to visit me all the time. I know I tend to jump around from thing to thing over here.

Talk to you in a few weeks~

I like a nice Chandy.....

2010-04-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

Chandelier that is.
When we first talked about moving out of our first home, we wanted to buy an old farm house. Something with a lot of character, that we could fix up.
We quickly changed our mind after seeing what was out there, and all the time and money that we would have to spend to get an older home the way we wanted it.
We decided to build a new home instead and part of me was crushed. I love old things.
I think one of the best ways to give a home some character is the lighting.

We just put this small light above our kitchen sink.
It used to be in Jack's room, which used to be the guest room. I thought it was cute in there when he was a baby, but now that is he older, I thought it was too feminine.
I love it here. We bought the light at Lowes about five years ago. It is hung where a recessed light used to be, but we found a kit at Home Depot that allows you to hang a chandelier in it's place for about ten dollars.

I got our dining room light at the Brimfield Flea Market, in Brimfield, Mass. I found it before the foundation was poured!

I got these two living room lights from Lowes. I removed some of the crystals and painted them ivory to match the dining room light.

I found this light at Brimfield also. I think it was around forty dollars! It hangs at the bottom of our stairs.

This one hangs above our bathtub. Those aren't lights, just candles. It does not get used very much, but I love the way it looks. These are a lot cheaper and easier to install, but still gives you a nice effect.

We just installed this new light in Addison's room a few weeks ago. It is from Home Depot. I love that it is very neutral and can go in any room in the house.

This is Jack's new light. He calls it his "boy" light. It was also purchased from Home Depot.

Anna's light was installed in this room before she was born. I got it at Lowes about five years ago, but I am sure they still have similar ones.

To hide the chain I cut a long strip of muslin or linen and wrap it around the chain and tuck in the end. A friend gave me the idea, and I was so excited. It is so much cheaper than buying those chain covers.

We buy about two new lights a year to replace the generic ones that were put in when we moved here. I am running out of space to put new lights, and to tell you the truth my husband is very happy about that!

Painting

2010-04-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

Last week I painted two bathrooms, and the front door.
I really should not paint. I am that messy painter.
You know, the one that steps off the ladder right into the paint tray.

The painter that falls into a freshly painted wall.
The one with paint all over her hair.
You know the type.

My husband can not even be in the same room with me when I paint.

It is dreadful.

(Top three photos are Bermuda Sand by Behr)

I had paint all over my knees but I was wearing long pants.

Hmmm.

Don't ever ask me to help you paint.

You will regret it.

(Lichen by Behr- it looks really pink on my computer, but it is a true linen color)

I have never painted this door a color before.

You know me, with all the white.

I am still getting used to it. It might be chocolate brown in a few weeks.

What do you think?

(Sunburst by Behr)

Pickadilly

2010-04-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

I finished the lace trim for Pickadilly yesterday and couldn't wait to sew it on!

I do love this pattern and could not stop thinking about when I first saw it.

I wanted to be a little less boring with my color choices. I was thinking mustard yellow and brown at first. Maybe grey and green.

What can I say? I love tan, ivory, grey, black, brown. Always go for what you like. I am just a neutral kind of gal.

Details:

Pattern: Pickadilly from Flint Knits

Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold Silky wool in grey, 4 hanks

Mods: Short sleeves, I didn't do buttons all the way down, and I did the lace down both sides of the front instead just one. I also omitted the lace on the sleeves and around the bottom hem.

Have a good weekend!

Distracted...

2010-03-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have been very distracted lately and I have not been knitting at the regular pace.
Well, my regular pace anyway.
I started Pickadilly about six weeks ago. I thought I would be done in a few weeks, but I am still knitting, and knitting, and knitting.

I started the lace trim a few days ago.
The body is done.
I blocked it and added buttons.
I am almost there.

I have been spending every free second spring cleaning, painting bathrooms, mulching, raking, making curtains.
You know, the usual crazy nesting type of stuff.
I always get the urge this time of year.

This picture has nothing to do with this post.

I just love my chickens- and their eggs. So much.

Happy Monday~

Linen

2010-03-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

I am constantly changing things around in my house. I love to decorate. I love the change.
I try to keep it inexpensive since I do it so much.
I thought I would go to the fabric store and get some Muslin to make new curtains.
Yes, muslin is perfect.
It is less than two dollars a yard, and comes in a few different shades.
Muslin is a great choice.

Then I saw the linen......
I never buy linen. Not the real linen anyway.
Sometimes doing the thing that you want to do, but never do is fun.

I'm not even sorry.

Chickens

2010-03-22T17:21:00.001-07:00

Dear Chickens,

Thanks for the eggs,

And the entertainment,

Oh, and you new guys,

don't be afraid to dream big~

O.K.

Flowers or Puff Ball Monster Heads?

2010-03-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

I have been neglecting my knitting needles.
I can not stop making these tissue paper flowers. After seeing these at Dreamy Whites, I knew I had to make some for Anna's room.

She had the perfect corner, above her rocking chair. Pretty magical, don't you think? They are super easy, and cheap. I bet you already have everything you need. You can see how to make them here.

Addison was pretty taken with them. He wanted some for his room too. I try to be careful with what I say to the kids as far as things they like. If my son wants flowers in his room, that is fine with me.

Anna told him that they were flowers, and he could NOT have them in his room.

He snapped right back and informed her they were NOT flowers. They were puff ball monster heads. You know, like those guys on Sesame Street.

I picked up some red and blue tissue paper today. I want to surprise him when he gets home from school.

I hope he likes them.

Oh, by the way, if you are ever a guest in our house, Addison's bedroom is also our guest room. This will be the first thing you see when you wake up in the morning......

Hope you don't mind.

Fair Weather Jacket

2010-03-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

I love this Fair Weather Jacket pattern from Indietutes. I wanted to make it for Anna right away. It is so her.

The original pattern has a hood, but I really wanted an oversized collar instead.

I also changed the buttons around a bit.

While we both love it, I am not crazy about the fabric I got.
It is a cotton twill from Joann's which was not the best choice. It is really hard to get all the wrinkles out and after washing the fabric I noticed there are some lighter lines through it.

Maybe if I wash it again they will go away?

This was really fun to make. It is complete with inside pockets and a cute lining.

You can get the pattern by visiting Indietutes. She has a lovely blog with lots of great ideas. Link on over to her Etsy shop, and you can get the pattern there.

Junk

2010-03-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

It is Friday. I love Friday.
This weekend I want to eat cake. Carrot Cake. Just me and a fork. I don't want to share.

Can you tell I already got a head start? I have been craving sweets like crazy all week, and sometimes you just have to give in.
I get some comments about all the junk I eat. To be honest though, I really only blog about the junk. Not the healthy stuff. The junk is so much more fun.
I really don't eat it all the time. Sometimes. There is not any type of food that I could give up. Not cheese, not sugar, not carbs, butter, or dairy. I love meat, especially the red stuff. Rare please.
I admire people who do give up certain things, but I never will.
I just don't want to.

I also exercise. I have since I was 14. Not everyday, not for very long but I do it.
I love it. It makes me feel great. It lets me eat sugar and cheese, meat and dairy, so I do it. I will always do it.

This cake is so darn good.

No recipe to share, just a mix from a box, frosting from the can.

Frosting that almost did not make it on this cake.

Home

2010-03-08T10:10:00.000-08:00

Where we love is home,

Home that our feet may leave,

but not our hearts.~

Oliver Wendell Holmes

More Clothes for Anna

2010-03-05T10:15:00.000-08:00

I had not touched my sewing machine for about four months, until last week. I don't know why, but I was not in the mood to sew all winter. Lately though, I have been in the mood to sew for Anna. It is just too fun to sew for a little girl who loves all the same fabric and patterns that I do.
Besides, I found a fabulous new blog with some great projects.

I made this top for her using the Oh Suzanna pattern, you can find it here. I love it! A quick easy way to recycle an old shirt.

The pants are from the Britches and Bloomers pattern. I have made about fifty pairs of these. It is the only pants pattern that I own.

I have plans for making a lot more clothes for the kids, including some golf shorts with pockets, requested by Addison. I want to try this tutorial for the pockets because they look so cool! I think my boys will love them.

Also, I am in the mood to quilt again. I am thinking something with vintage sheets for us to take to the beach. There will be more clothes for Anna, including a spring jacket.

My goal is to get all of the sewing projects I have in my head done, before it is time to garden and play in the flower beds. I just hope I don't lose my momentum!

Dreaming in Spring

2010-03-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

I ordered more chickens today. I am just as excited as I was almost a year ago when we ordered them for the first time.
They will be here soon.
Six Frizzles, and four Silkies.
We can not wait.
It looks like Maine is getting an early spring this year, and I am thankful.
This morning we went out to check on our girls. It is so nice that they can walk around the yard now.

Stepping outside in the sunshine, grabbing a few fresh eggs and going right back inside to cook them is such a luxury. So darn good.

I have been growing herbs on the window sill for over a month now. They are doing so well, I think I will continue to do so all year long.

I have been thinking, our chickens are older now, sure to wander into the vegetable and flower gardens this year. It is more important us to let them free range whenever we can, rather than have a show garden. I have read a lot on line, and the consensus seems to be that you can not do both.

Any thoughts? I would love to still be able to do both. I am thinking that we will grow herbs on our deck in big urns, instead of flowers. Maybe different varieties of lettuce too. Won't that look pretty in a big white urn? I think some of those upside down tomato things too. We have a few spots where the chickens can not get to them.

If you own, or have owned chickens and have a garden, I would love some tips, ideas, thoughts...anything.

New Dress

2010-02-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

You know a catalogue is good when your daughter takes it from the pile of mail and you don't see it for a few days because she won't let it out of her hot little hand.
I finally got to look at the Garnet Hill Kids book yesterday while eating breakfast. She was right there, talking my ear off about the things she had circled. Seventy four dollar silver, strappy sandals included.
Really, I have no idea where she gets it.

One thing that was circled was this corsage dress. I knew I could make it. Up to the fabric closet she went. I was not surprised by her choice at all. Freshcut, by Heather Bailey. One of my favorites, too.

The hat is something I made a few years ago. It is the Blue Sky hat, by Amy Butler. You can buy the pattern here.

As for the dress, I took some notes while making it because I knew there would be more. I would not really call this a tutorial, but I think there is enough information here so that you could make one if you are interested. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Corsage Dress Notes:

You will need about two yards of fabric, depending on size you are making

1" elastic

sewing machine

sewing needle and thread

piece of scrap fabric for flower

iron

straight pins (if you wish, but I am too lazy to pin)

safety pin

Measure recipient across the chest, and figure out the length you want your dress.

Multiply chest measurement by three, then add a half inch.

Example: Anna's chest is 22"x 3=66" add half inch for seam, 66.5"

Measure to desired length, then add five inches to that number.

Cut your piece of fabric out.

Across top of fabric, fold down 1/2" press, then fold down 3.5" and press.

Sew along bottom of fold, then again about 2" up to create casing for elastic.

Attach a safety pin to end of elastic and guide it through casing. Scrunch up fabric around elastic until you like the way it looks, and sew side opening, using 1/2" seam making sure to catch elastic.

Fold bottom hem one half inch, press, then another half inch, press and sew.

Flower:

Cut a piece of fabric about 5" by 23". Fold with wrong sides together and twist. Put a safety pin in on end to hold the twist. Begin rolling the fabric in, to create a circle. Hand sew back of flower, until secure and pin to dress.

Straps:

Cut a piece of fabric 4.5" by 20". Fold in half, lengthwise with right sides facing, and sew leaving a space to turn right side out. Sew hole closed and press strap.

Cut in half and hand sew straps on the front on the dress, by attaching them on inside through the first layer of fabric. Make sure you do not catch the elastic.

Pikkuveli

2010-02-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

I loved this pattern as soon as I saw it. I had to make it for one of my boys.

I originally thought Jack would get it. He doesn't seem to mind my knits, and is too young to care a lot about what he wears.

I had some eco wool leftover from a few projects that I wanted to use up. I am sure my gauge was way off, because this ended up being way too big to fit Jack, who is three. It fits my son Addison, who is six but wears a size 7 youth.

Can you believe that the same boy who would not wear anything hand knit for the longest time, is wearing this today AT SCHOOL?! He has worn it everyday since it Friday. That makes me very, very happy.

This was one of those patterns I could not put down because I wanted to see what it was going to look like. It is brilliant!

Details:

Pattern: Pikkuveli

Yarn: Cascade Eco Wool

Mods: I used size 10 needles, and Eco wool is not a worsted weight yarn. I would call it heavy worsted. Because of this I cast on for a size 4 and probably ended up with a size 7.

Really, it works out great. Addison can wear it this year, maybe even this fall, then Jack can wear it after that.

My Weakness

2010-02-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

What is your weakness? I am not talking yarn, fabric, wine, or handbags. I am talking food. Mine is chocolate. With peanut butter in the middle. Oh yum.
How much of your weakness have you eaten?
A lot?
Me too.
In fact when I was pregnant with Jack, I would buy Peanut Butter cups weekly. The big bag, with the big Peanut Butter cups in them. Mama did not share either. Addison was only two, and Anna was one, so it was really easy to sneak them into the cart without them noticing.
I think my husband got in trouble a few times for digging into the stash.
Don't men know that you do not touch a pregnant woman's food stash?

Anyway, I have no idea how many of these I ate during that time, but I do know the scale said I gained 75 big ones!
I blame it on my weakness.

There is a healthier homemade version out there though. I made some with the kids yesterday and I did share.
You can find the recipe here.
It only makes one dozen, so do what I did and double it.

You know you want to!

Another Scarf

2010-02-16T10:40:00.000-08:00

Hello there! We have a winner from my give-away. The scarf goes to Allison, from In a Nutshell.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by that day.

I have another scarf to show you.
I love this one. The yarn was a gift from my sister. She spins it, dyes it, heck sometimes she even shaves the sheep!
The yarn I used to make the scarf is 100% Alpaca and it is so delicious!
She has an Etsy shop here with more goodies if you are interested.

Details:
Pattern: Men's Cashmere Scarf from Last-Minute Knitted Gifts.
Yarn: Home spun alpaca from 44 Clovers
Mods: I used size 15 needles and knit it shorter.

It's Here

2010-02-11T10:24:00.000-08:00

The Christina pattern is now available as a free download.

You can find it on Ravelry, under Christina Sweater. Christina is knit up with worsted weight wool, (I used Cascade 220) and available in sizes 30"-50" bust.

At the risk of sounding like I am accepting an Oscar, there are a few people who made this possible for me.

My talented sister-in-law, Elizabeth who turned my email into something very, very pretty.

And Hilary, for reading and answering my panic emails, and giving me oodles of encouragement and support.

This is my first pattern, and has not been tested, or edited by anyone other than me. If you have questions, problems, or comments please let me know and I will do my best to help you.

Happy knitting!

Christina Sweater

2010-02-10T09:55:00.000-08:00

My Christina Sweater is done. I am very happy with the finished result. It did not come out exactly as I had planned, but I kind of expected that.

I have been working really hard these past few weeks, writing up a pattern. I wrote the pattern for mine before I started it. I am so thankful that I only had to make a few adjustments.

This sweater is knit from the top down with very little seaming.

It has an attached I-cord on the front and purl ridge hems at the bottom, collar, and sleeves, for a finished look. Little extra details like that go a long way.

The pattern will be available as a free download in the next few weeks, in sizes 30"-50".

More details later!

Do you know?

2010-02-08T08:56:00.000-08:00

Do you know how hard it is to take a picture of yourself wearing a scarf?

I always wear a scarf or cowl. Always. I like this springy one. I made it with some Denyse Schmidt fabric and some linen.

In order to see the scarf, I had to stand on my toes, which makes for a blurry picture.

And here, I am standing on a stool with my bum on the doorknob. Not so comfortable. Too far away. Oh, and I think I forgot to turn on the light.

Okay, maybe this one is not so bad....

I even asked my four year old daughter to take a picture for me, but she wanted to be in the picture instead.

Boy, that was hard.

This scarf is for you, Well, one of you anyway.

Just leave a comment, nothing fancy. A hello will do.

Happy Monday.

Christina

2010-02-04T10:04:00.001-08:00

About a year and a half ago, I was watching Friends and Christina Applegate was guest starring. She was wearing this fantastic sweater, and I wanted it. Bad. I had just completed knitting my first successful sweater, and thought I could knit hers as well.

I even went out and bought some yarn.
Then I lost my nerve.
I heard the voice. You know what I mean. The voice that tells you when something is going to be too hard, and you can not possibly do it.
So, I knit something else.

I still have not forgotten about that sweater, so I decided to ignore the voice, and give it a go anyway. So, I am knitting that sweater for myself, and writing a pattern to share with you.

You can see a very tiny picture of the sweater here. This was all I could find.

I also want to thank Hilary for all of her support and encouragement. I don't know what I would do without my knitting sisters!

For a Moment

2010-02-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I planted some bulbs inside.
For a moment, I was digging in my flowerbeds.

Last week, I cut some rosemary to make rosemary potatoes.
For a moment, I was in the vegetable garden. Basket in one hand, scissors in the other.

An hour ago, the sun was in my eyes while we were having lunch.

For a moment, I was sitting on the deck at my favorite restaurant, eating fried clams, and feeling salty mist on my face.

We still have a while to wait before the real thing comes along.

So for now-

I will take the moments.

Again

2010-01-28T17:06:00.001-08:00

I knit Francis....again.

I am so glad I have a sweater that I will wear all the time. If a sweater doesn't fit, or I don't wear it I can not let the yarn just sit in my closet untouched. It makes me sad. It was so worth all the ripping!

Details:

Pattern: Francis revisited

Yarn: Debbie Bliss Donegal Chunky Tweed, 9 skeins

Mods: Long sleeves, 2x2 ribbed collar.

This is a must knit! If you haven't made this one yet, you will not be sorry.

Orange

2010-01-26T10:02:00.001-08:00

This is kind of an orange post.
I wanted to share a great salsa recipe with you.
Of course it is easier to make in the summer with local, fresh veggies, especially if you have a garden. I do make it in the winter too because we love it. Fresh salsa is so much better than anything else out there.
My kids eat a ton of it, such a good way to get them to eat lots of vegetables.

Salsa Cruda

10 tomatoes (plum)
4 scallions
2 Jalapeno peppers ( be sure to wear gloves when chopping )
4 Tablespoons cilantro
4 tsp. fresh lime juice
1 tsp. salt

Chop all ingredients, combine and refrigerate.

Here is something else orange. A sweater blocking on my bedroom floor. This is the third time I have knit with this yarn.
First I tried this. As much as loved it, it grew and grew, so I frogged it.
Next I knit this. Loved this one too, but I knew I was going to have the same problem. If there is one thing I can not stand is having a sweater fall off my shoulders.
The third time is a charm, right?
Modeled pictures and more details coming soon.
This one will be a keeper, for sure~!

Resolution

2010-01-22T10:06:00.000-08:00

New Years Resolution number one:
Stop eating all of the kids leftovers,

So I can eat more whoppie pie cakes.
(Recipe here-to make a cake just put batter in a pie dish and bake, then cut in half and add frosting).

And this mint dessert type of stuff.

Recipe here.

That sounds like an even swap, doesn't it?

DOESN'T IT!!!?????

Quick

2010-01-19T10:24:00.000-08:00

I got the urge the last week to make myself something fast, and satisfying. I wanted something with short sleeves because I hate shoving my arms into coats this time of year with a long sleeve sweater. I decided to sit down and try making up my own pattern. Something simple. Simple, with a big collar.

I like the way it came out, okay. I do wish the collar was bigger, and I should have done less increases to the front, but other than that, it is a keeper. I used Lion Brand Quick and Thick yarn, just over three skeins. This yarn makes me nostalgic. It is the first yarn I bought two years ago when I was learning how to knit. I made myself a scarf. Just a scarf, but I was so proud.

I get a lot of emails asking me where to start, if you want to learn how to knit. The best advice I can give is visit your local yarn store and grab a book with the knitting basics. It is also a great place to go and ask for help, or sign up for a class. I think the hardest part about knitting is reading patterns. Once you can do that, you are golden! Remember, there are only two stitches in knitting. Knitting and purling. It is really easier than it looks.

Knitting is something I love. Something I do almost everyday, and I will continue to do as long as my hands allow. I know this is a very simple, basic pattern, but designing is something I see more of in my future. It is just too much fun!!

Paperdolls

2010-01-14T10:31:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to knit something for Anna for quite sometime now. One night we went on Ravelry together, and I tried to talk her into a few sweaters I was in love with. She did not like any of them. Not one.

Then we saw this one. The paperdoll sweater. I tried to contain my excitement and not say anything, hoping she would see it and think she had picked it out.

Well, it worked. She fell in love with the "dolly sweater."

It is a tad big for her because the smallest size is a six, and she is a four. A very tiny, skinny four. I don't mind though, that just means she will be able to wear it for two or three years instead of one.

I had the lovely green and brown yarn in my stash. Renee sent it to me a while ago and I had every intention of making a pair of socks, but I had to have it for this sweater instead. Had to.

We went to the yarn store and she picked out the pink for the dolls. It was so much fun.

Details:

Pattern: Paperdolls, by Katie Davis

Yarn: One ball of socken wolle in green, one ball of cascade heritage in hot pink, one ball of knitpicks gloss in brown.

No mods, this pattern is written beautifully. It was so much fun to see it come together. It is seamless, and comes in adult sizes too!

I Heart Dairy

2010-01-12T09:51:00.001-08:00

This time of year all I think about is cooking. It is all I want to do.
Have you ever made Blue Cheese dressing? So good on wings, celery, sometimes I even dip my pizza in it. Yum!
This is by far my favorite recipe, and I have tried lots!
I cup mayo
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup parsley ( I have used dry and fresh, but tend to like the dry better for this)
1-2 tbs. lemon juice, or red wine vinegar
1 tsp minced garlic
6 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
salt and black pepper to taste
mix all ingredients and add 4 oz. of crumbled blue cheese.

Jack tried some for the first time the other day. He ate about half a bag of celery with it! He calls it " the sauce."

We had a dinner party this weekend and I made a chocolate cheesecake with ganache. To die for!!

Here is the recipe for that one, because I know you want to make that too!

5 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, grated or chopped- I just used chocolate chips.

24 oz. cream cheese, softened

1 cup sugar

2 tbs. unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 tsp. salt

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla

Graham cracker crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

2/3 cup finely chopped almonds

2 tbs. sugar

4 tbs butter, melted ( I used about 8 tbs. because my mixture looked dry)

Ganache:

1/4 cup plus 1 tbs heavy cream

3.5 oz. semi-sweet chocolate grated or chopped

To make crust:

Preheat oven to 350. In a medium bowl stir graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and almonds, then stir in butter. Press into the bottom of a of an 8 inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside. Reduce oven to 325.

In a double boiler melt chocolate.

Beat cream cheese with electric mixer on medium until smooth. In a small bowl combine sugar, cocoa and salt. Add to cream cheese, beat in eggs, vanilla and melted chocolate. Pour into crust and bake for 45 minutes or until sides are puffy, but middle is still very soft.

Cool for 20 minutes, then run a sharp knife along the sides. Let cool completely in pan. Cover with plastic wrap and chill at least two hours.

Remove sides of pan and transfer onto serving plate.

To make ganache:

In a saucepan, bring heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate until melted. Se aside for 20 minutes, until thickened. Pour over cheesecake and spread.

Enjoy!!

Moorland Cardigan

2010-01-08T10:22:00.000-08:00

I finished this one sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I saw a picture of a sweater in this color blue, and had to have one for myself.

It is knit with two strands of DK weight yarn held together, on size 10 needles. I know it is kind of boring and basic, but I think that is the kind of clothing I like best.

It does run small. I knit the 39" which was the smallest size and I wish I had knit the next size up. Considering I usually make sweaters for me in a size 36" I thought this would have some positive ease and be a little larger on me.

I also ran out of yarn, so I wasn't able to do long sleeves or pockets.

I used Elsebeth Lavold's silky wool. This is by far my favorite yarn. It has a lovely drape, and it never pills! I knit my Lady Sweater out of the same yarn, a year and a half ago, and it still looks brand new.

The Details:

Pattern: Moorland Cardigan from Classic Elite Autumn, Book One.

Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold, silky wool, 8 skeins, holding two strands of yarn together.

Mods: No pockets, and sleeve tabs with buttons.

Size: 39"

Francis

2010-01-06T09:25:00.000-08:00

Oh Francis!
I love this pattern. Not only is it free, it is quick, easy, and you can make changes to the pattern that will totally change the look of it.

This was the knit that I worked on in the car during the Holidays. I know I always say this, but I am going to make another one! Really soon. I think with long sleeves this time.

Details:

Pattern: Francis

Yarn: Cascade Eco wool, in gray-brown, less than 2 skeins.

Mods: I did extra increases at the hip because I wanted it a little longer. 2x2 rib instead of seed stitch, and I knit the collar straight with no increases.

Things are going to be really knitty here for a while. I hope you don't mind. I have lots to show!

Our Christmas Vacation

2010-01-04T09:53:00.000-08:00

It always goes too fast, doesn't it? I have to tell you that I hate getting back "into it." The whole routine thing. That means it is really over. I think it is harder on me than it is on the kids.

I remember the year I was twelve. My Dad was driving us home from basketball practice on a cold day in January. It was almost dark outside and it seemed like there were more Christmas lights on than I had remembered the day before. I though for a second, maybe just a second, that it had all been a dream. Christmas, I mean. Maybe it had not come yet. Maybe this was the best part, right now. The anticipation, and the excitement of before Christmas.
I closed my eyes and decided that if the next house we passed had their Christmas lights on, that it had not come yet. I knew of course that it had, but thought maybe I would get lucky.

I always thought I would grow out of this sort of silly thing. Being so sad after Christmas, but I haven't.

We did so much these past few weeks. There was lots of playing in the snow, gathering with friends and family. Lots of eating, and so much baking. Knitting and movies, tea and long talks. Crazy, happy cousins running about.

Cleaning out, and starting fresh. Plans for the future.

Relaxing. Napping.

Did I mention the eating?

Even thought there are no more cookies to deliver, or gifts to exchange, Christmas music on the radio, or a pretty tree in my living room,

The thing that makes this time of year so special to me, to so many of us, is that it only comes once a year, and stays for a short time.

It is meant to be savored.

And missed.

Savor

2009-12-17T10:28:00.000-08:00

Nine days. Can you believe it? Nine days. I keep thinking to myself that I still have three weeks, but I don't. Nobody does. Nine days...okay, I won't say it anymore.

I am planning to savor every moment. We have snow here, it is cold and brisk. There are lots of decorations in our town. Addison will be home from school for two weeks, starting tomorrow at 3:30. Life is really good.
Next week we are going to wrap presents, deliver cookies and gifts, visit friends and neighbors, read Christmas stories, visit our favorite donut shop, and do crafts at the library. I can't wait.
I will be back here next year, and I can't wait to see what 2010 will be like.
See you then.
Have a good one!

Crafty

2009-12-14T09:55:00.000-08:00

We took a long weekend and went to visit our friends, who live in New York. We had lots of crafts and eating planned. We did both. Maybe a little more eating to tell you the truth.

We made these felted acorns. Won't they be great attached to gift, or a jar of cookies? You can find a tutorial here.

I had plans to make more of these little elves but I was exhausted after making this one. I don't enjoy cutting out little shapes of fabric. He is kind of cute though.

We made lots and lots of these cookie clay ornaments. You can find the recipe here, and see more pictures of them here.

Go ahead, get your craft on. You know you want to!

Today

2009-12-06T16:19:00.000-08:00

We are feeling,

Thankful,

Better,

Festive,

Grateful.

We decked our halls.

Have you decked yours?

Down and Out

2009-12-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

I guess we all just down. Down with H1N1. Everyone in the house is asleep right now and I am trying to enjoy the quiet, but I just can't. I am lucky. I seem to have only a touch of it. Everyone else has had a fever since Sunday. Addison got it first and has been hit the hardest. Anna threw up in our bed last night, everyone one of the kids has had a horrible bloody nose, that has dripped through the house, a cough that will not quit, a need for something all of the time. Which is fine of course. I am happy to be the one that is able to provide, but today I feel like it is all I can do, to not burst into tears.
I am worried about my family, about Addison missing so much school, about all of the things that I want to get done before Christmas.
Okay, enough of that. Deep sigh. Let's talk about something yummy.

See that book? I got it at the library book sale for a dollar. The binder even cracked a little when I opened it. I don't think it had ever been used.

The first thing I made was this yummy Wild and Brown Rice Salad. It was so good, I have made it three times already.

This time I added some leftover corn on the cob. SO good.

Stay well my friends. And thanks. For everything.

The Snowdrop Sweater

2009-11-30T10:07:00.001-08:00

The Snowdrop sweater is one of those patterns I saw, bought, and cast on for right away. I started on Saturday evening and was seaming it up on Tuesday night.

I used some big, black, vintage buttons from my stash. I love the fit of this one. It looks great unbuttoned too.

The Details:

Pattern: Snowdrop Sweater Jacket by Woolly Mammoth Knits.

Yarn: Lion Brand Fisherman's wool, three strands held together.

Mod: I knit the collar different. I wanted something shorter and knit the button band all the way up.

The pattern says that it is a fitted sweater. I usually knit size 34 or 26, but decided on the 38 just to be safe. Before doing a wet block I could not even button it, which made me nervous. After the block it was a perfect fit!

All Year Long

2009-11-20T09:53:00.000-08:00

So, I try to start knitting things for Christmas gifts sometime around the 4th of July. That way, I don't get so overwhelmed when I realize I have a zillion things to do and my Thanksgiving Turkey has not even digested.

Plus, I have a nephew, Abel who has a birthday a week before Christmas, and a niece who has a birthday on Christmas.
I finished this sweater for my nephew last night and had it blocking on the kitchen counter this morning. You don't even want to know what my six year old son said this morning when he walked by it.
Okay, I will tell you. He said," Oh, poor Abel."
Really, there are no words.

The pattern is the Scrap Cardigan and I adore it. You must be a Ravelry member to see it though.
It is free and you can use up all of your scraps and come up with a sweet little sweater.
I did knit the collar in a 2x2 rib for six rows, instead of garter stitch for 12, and I carried the button band all the way up to the collar.

Of course there is Toast to make for all of the fashionable ladies in your life. Something you can knit in a day or so is the best.

And cowls. Who doesn't need one of these? I love them peeking out of a coat, or with a long sleeve shirt. I wear cowls around the house all the time. They are so comfortable and warm and you don't have to worry about them getting stuck in the washing machine, oven, or dragged through a poopy diaper. Not that any of things have ever happened to me. Ahem.

What are you making for Christmas?

Fireside

2009-11-18T09:54:00.000-08:00

I finally finished this knitting project. I started way back in March and it feels so good to be done with it. I could not get into it, but I got over that and knit the second side, back and two sleeves in two weeks. Once I got going it was a lot easier to read my stitches and memorize the cable pattern.

I have wanted this sweater since I saw the movie, The Holiday three years ago. I was not a knitter at the time, nor did I ever think I would be. I have to say, that this pattern is written exactly like the one Cameron Diaz wears in the movie. It is a little bit boxy, a little bit A-line, a little bit cropped. I made no adjustments to the pattern, even thought this is not the most flattering shape on me.

After doing a wet block, it grew, and grew, and grew. I thought I had ruined it because it got so stretched out. Thanks to a very good Friend, I was able to save it. I sent Leslie a very desperate email, and she came to the rescue.

Pop it in the dryer, check on it every few minutes. It worked! I will never forget that advice.

The Details:

Pattern: Fireside, by Amber Allison

Yarn: Cascade Eco Wool in white, about 2.5 skeins

Mods: None

I hear needles clicking...

Did you cast on already?

The One Hour Cardi.

2009-11-16T10:15:00.000-08:00

Not really one hour. This one took me more like two and a half hours, but it is still considered fast, right?

I saw this beautiful sweater, wrap, kind of thing in J. Jill and thought I could find a pattern, or make one without a pattern. After all, it is just a very long rectangle with two holes for the sleeves.

I ended up finding the exact pattern, and picked up some Jersey Knit fabric at Joann's that was half off. I started out making the longest option but decided to make the shortest option after trying it on a few times.

I made this just over a week ago and I have already worn it about five times. I love it. It is comfortable, and went together really well.

The holes for the arms were too small for the sleeves, so I cut them out a bit bigger than the pattern lines. Probably a half inch total. The sleeves ended up fitting perfect.

The pattern is at my neighbors house now. She is making one for herself to wear for yoga. Gotta love that!

Eggs and Toast

2009-11-12T09:44:00.000-08:00

Oh, this is what I have been waiting for. For seven months, to be exact.
Fresh eggs. It is like Christmas everyday around here lately. We check the coop several times a day. Sometimes I sneak out by myself. There is something about opening up that door and seeing a beautiful blue-green egg laying in the hay.

I have been saving these clear egg cartons for a few weeks. I want to make some labels to go into the top of them and give eggs as Christmas presents this year.

We will be keeping lots of eggshells, that is for sure.

Oh, and Toast. Not the kind you eat, the kind you knit.

Another great Christmas gift that you can make in no time. Have some worsted weight warn?

Go ahead, cast on.

The pattern is here, and it is a good one.

For Daddy

2009-11-09T10:20:00.000-08:00

Frank was away this past weekend, and I really wanted to make a special quilt for him and put it away for Christmas.

I got some fabric markers, muslin, fabric for the sashing, and cut out 12x13 squares and let the kids draw whatever they wanted.

We made it for Daddy, but I wanted it for myself too.
I wanted to have it so I could always remember this time.

A time when they always draw people with a smiley face.

A time when balloons and flowers are the best thing going.

A time when dogs can be green, and have six legs.

A time when their imaginations run faster than their drawing,

They softly tell a story while coloring,

And it doesn't matter if you stay in the lines.

So, a little quilt to save this moment in time.

I can't wait to see his face Christmas morning.

Gettin' His Rooster On

2009-11-05T10:44:00.000-08:00

You know, sometimes you don't plan something, but then it happens.
Sometimes you get something that you didn't know you wanted.

We did not want a rooster. I heard they may be rough towards the kids, and cause a ruckus in the hen house.

When we bought 19 chickens this spring, they were all supposed to be hens. Sometimes though, a Rooster gets thrown into the mix. We love our rooster, and we just can't get rid of him.

These past two weeks, Herbert Burger has really been acting like a rooster.

He crows every morning, and has been sassing the girls.

You can tell he thinks he is very important as he struts around the yard.

To tell you the truth, I think he has a crush on me.

This morning, his crow was different.
I woke up to the sound of Herbert Burger, and as I opened my eyes, I saw the first snowfall of the year.

We peeked in to say good morning to them, and Addison spotted the first egg!

The first egg.

The first snowfall.

This day is so good.

Georgie

2009-11-01T09:21:00.000-08:00

Georgie is finally done! I am so excited to move on to something else, but I am also happy to finally be wearing it.

I finished the knitting late on Friday night and started the seaming on Saturday morning, worked on it again during nap time, and finished it last night after trick or treating while my husband went to get some much needed Thai food.

I love the pattern, but I hated knitting and seaming with cotton. Is it me or is cotton not as forgiving as wool? This was my first time seaming with it, and I thought it looked awful to be honest. I blocked it and thought that would help, but it didn't.

I decided to rip out the hood seam and the arm seams which were awful. I did them over and the second time around wasn't much better. I decided to stop focusing on it and just enjoy the new sweater.

I am sure after time I won't even notice some of the Frankenstein stitching.

I hope.

The hood in the back is oversized, to say the least. I wanted to do something with all the extra fabric, so I put a button under the collar so I could wear it closed sometimes. I saw that someone else on Ravelry did the same thing with a pin and that looks amazing.

The Details:

Pattern: Georgie, from Breeze by Kim Hargreaves.

Yarn: Knitpicks Organic Cotton, sport weight, 12 balls. I have to say that this yarn broke a lot while seaming. I blocked the sweater by putting it on the hand wash cycle in the machine, and the yarn broke in two places and left a huge run. I was able to fix it, but I wasn't pleased.

I does look and feel great after blocking though.

Size: 36

Mods: Nothing, except for the added button.

Tips on seaming with cotton? Please share.

In The Kitchen

2009-10-28T09:41:00.001-07:00

It was Frank's birthday the other day, so I spent most of the morning in the kitchen baking away. I made enchilada cassserole, it is his favorite and I make it for him every year.

I also made him his favorite cake. Hot Fudge Pudding Cake that is. I have probably made 100 of these. They are so quick and easy, and I bet you have all the ingredients in your pantry right now. It is perfect for a chilly fall evening.
The picture does not do it justice. It is gooey and delicious on the inside.

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake:

1 1/4 sugar, divided
1 C. flour
1/2 C. cocoa
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 C. milk
1/3 C. butter
1 1/2 tsp.vanilla
1/2 C. brown sugar
1 1/4 C. hot tap water

Heat oven to 350.
Combine 3/4 C. sugar, flour, 1/4 cocoa, baking powder and salt.
Melt butter.
Add milk, butter and vanilla, beat until smooth. Pour into 9" square pan.
Combine 1/2 C. sugar, brown sugar, 1/4 C. cocoa. Sprinkle evenly over top of batter. Pour hot water over top.
DO NOT STIR
Bake 35-40 minutes.
Spoon into dishes with whipped cream.
Makes 8 servings.

I have doubled this recipe many times when we have company. It works like a dream.

I also made Black Beans and Rice to go with dinner. I got this recipe from my sister, and I love it. It is healthy, filling and feeds about 50 people. Seriously.

7 cups cooked black beans
3 tablespoons Olive Oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chopped onions
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander seeds
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup chopped carrots
1 medium green pepper, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 cup tomato juice or orange juice
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
6 cups cooked brown rice
hot sauce
sour cream

Drain the cooked beans and reserve the liquid.
In a large skillet, saute the onions, garlic, and spices in the oil until onions are translucent. Add carrots and saute for 3 or 4 minutes. Add green peppers and saute for 5 minutes more. Add salt, pepper, parsley, juice, and tomatoes and simmer until the vegetables are tender.
Combine the drained black beans with the vegetable mixture. Puree 2 to 3 cups of the bean-vegetable mixture in the blender with enough reserved liquid, (or stock or water) to make a smooth puree. Stir the puree into the beans and simmer for 10 minutes. Taste for salt.
Serve the beans on hot rice and top with hot sauce and a dollop of sour cream.

I had the leftovers for lunch today with salsa on a flour tortilla. Yum!

On a Knitty note, the lovely ladies at Team Knit featured my Amanda Sweater on their blog. So much knitting inspiration over there.

Go take a look!

Naughty Gnomes

2009-10-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Being the horrible mother that I am, I made the boys try on their costumes this morning so I could get some pictures and blog about it.
I secretly had visions of taking them out in the woods to get really sweet pictures, but well, I will take what I can get.
How can they be so excited about a costume, then not feel like trying it on?
Addison has been talking about this garden gnome costume for almost a year now. He always has a plan very early, and sticks to it. Next year he is going to be Santa.
Naturally Jack wants to be the same thing as his brother, which makes it easy.
I know that won't last long though.

It was so hard to get a good picture of my naughty gnomes, and I took 30 of them this morning. Theses were the best of the bunch.
I am going to get some blush so they can have rosy cheeks, and a rosy nose. They are going to wear black pants and tuck them into their rain boots. So gnomey, don't you think?

These costumes were so easy and fast to make. I got the red felt, beard fabric and blue fleece for Joann's. I think everything cost $25 and I have some fabric left over. I made a cone for the hat and sewed down the back seam.

For the beard I just cut a triangle, cut slits across the top about an inch apart and folded it over a piece of twine and sewed it with a zig-zag stitch. The twine ends are tied at the top of their head to keep their beards on.

I used a shirt pattern that I already had for the jackets. Since it was fleece, I did not do any hemming. Very easy. I tied it together with a piece of twine.

I never used to like Halloween until I had kids. Now I just love it.

What do you do on Halloween?

Knit, Knit

2009-10-21T09:52:00.001-07:00

I have been carrying Georgie around like a security blanket since August. It is taking a while. I know it will be worth it though. This is one of those sweaters I will wear with my pajamas, as well as on a date with my husband.
It is a lot of knitting. The sweater is long, with a hood, and knit on size five needles. I am almost done with the second side. Then I just have the sleeves. Oh, the sleeves.
You know how that goes, right? You think they are going to be fast but they are not.

I want to hurry up with this one. Not just so I can wear it though.

There are some evil knits out there calling my name. They just won't leave me alone. Can't they see my needles are already taken?
Let me tempt you too.

I love Anise. I have loved it since last fall, and almost bought the book, but I stopped myself. Now, it is a free pattern. Is that a sign or what? We were meant to be together. I think I will use this yarn.

And of course, Norah Gaughan. Her patterns are delicious. I love this one. It is simple garter stitch but I need a basic cardigan like this. I need it. I am thinking in a nice dark shade of pink.

My neighbor is knitting Devon, in all black. It is fab. I am not even embarrassed to say I am going to copy her. This sweater reminds me of this sweater Anne Hathaway wore in The Devil Wears Prada.

I love this Gathered Cardi. In a nice charcoal gray with a long sleeve shirt under it. Oh, it is divine. I have a big vintage button that will be perfect.

So, there is my knit, knit list.
For now anyway.

Oh, of course my Fireside sweater is coming along very slowly. I have not worked on it since July. One side is almost done, but that is it. I want this sweater so bad, but I can not get into it. I keep hoping something will magically happen and it will knit itself.
You never know....

Bittersweet

2009-10-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we took down Jack's crib. The same crib that we put up over six years ago for Addison and has been used ever since. It was so sad for me, but so exciting for him and I kept telling myself that is what it was really about. Seeing him grow and reach a new milestone. Not to mention he was over the moon that night.

I wanted the room to really feel like his. We painted it a nice shade of linen. The name is Pebbled Courtyard, by Behr and I made him a pillowcase and duvet cover out of some great fabric I got here.

The table and headboard were yard sale finds that I painted Cottage White (also by Behr) and distressed. I also added fabric to the headboard.

I found some vintage flashcards on Etsy and framed them.

The dresser was a $35.00 find. I liked it so much better than his old one so I grabbed it. I also put vinyl initials on the wall that I love. After I ordered them Frank told me you were supposed to put the last initial in the middle, not the first one. Oh well. I still love it.

I think he does too.

Sleep tight, my sweet.

Garnet Hill Wannabe

2009-10-15T10:02:00.001-07:00

So, do any of you drool over the Garnet Hill catalogue? Good. I am not alone. I actually just got one yesterday. My first one ever. Holy Moly.
This picture inspired my outfit today. I have to tell you I have not worn tights in seven years! Unless Spanx count, but I doubt it.

Check out this Advent Calender! How cute is that? I decided this would be the year that I make one.
I never thought I would want a Flannel shirt/tunic type of a thing, but I do now.
The Boots? I can't even talk about them.
How about a Sweater Dress with leggings? Hello, how comfortable does that look?
All the Knits are delicious, and the jewelry? Well, just go take a look.
These shoes kept me up last night, and as soon as they are 90% off they will be mine. In a size 9. You know, just in case you were wondering.

On another note, here is the latest picture of the girls. Well, the girls and our Rooster, Herbert Burger. Can you see him over there in the corner? We are down to eight chickens. We went from twenty to eight. I am feeling so guilty. I really want to have free range chickens. We have a fox that we can not catch so I guess they will be free range some of the time. If you have any advice I would love to hear it!

Sometimes I watch Movies Just for the Knits

2009-10-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have always loved hats, just not on my head. I don't know why I don't really look good in them. I decided to get over it though. Especially after dragging my husband to see Love Happens. I wanted to see Jennifer Aniston's wardrobe-I just didn't tell him that part. She was wearing the best hat in the movie and she had it in every color. I knew Ravelry would have a great pattern, probably exactly like it. Of course they did, of course!
I started this hat in ivory, but didn't like it. Brown was perfect!

I do like the hat better on Jennifer Aniston, but it is okay on me too, I guess.
Addison doesn't seem to think so. He told me that it was okay if I wore it around the house, but not while I was dropping him off at school.
" You look so embarrassing!"
My kids are starting to give me a knitting complex.

The Details:
Pattern: Felicity
Yarn: Cascade Tweed, 1/2 of a skein
Mods: The pattern says to use a size five needle, then change to a seven. I used the seven all the way around.
I started this hat in a light color but could see my hair line through the knitting because it is fitted around the head. I highly recommend a darker color.
Also, a wet block gave it just the right amount of slouch.

Bella Mittens

2009-10-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

How do you take a good picture of mittens anyway?
I still don't know.

I have been wanting to make these mittens since last spring. I decided I really needed them this winter. Especially for driving. Gloves just don't keep my hands warm enough anymore.

The Details:

Pattern: Bella Mittens- another free pattern!

Yarn: Paton's Merino in gray, two strands held together.

Needle: Size 10- the pattern calls for size 8, but the 10's worked out well for me.

This is a great, fall project. I want to knit myself the hand warmers too...maybe next year!

Feeling Domestic

2009-10-06T09:47:00.001-07:00

I am making Chili.

My neighbor told me to add cilantro, lime zest and lime juice to sour cream and put that on top. Yum!
Don't forget the cheese and tortilla chips.

I am wanting for my Bella mittens to dry. I love that pattern.

I am putting out more pumpkins.

I cast one for Felicity last night. It is time I start wearing hats.

I love being Domestic. Some days more than others. I used to dream about being home to hang laundry out on the line and bake when I had a real job. I hated the traveling that I had to do. Hated the long hours too.

Some people understood, some thought I was crazy to want to stay home all day and play house.

I hope that whatever you do all day, you love it and you are where you want to be.

If They Were Yarn.....

2009-10-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

If Addison were yarn, he would be wool.

Worsted weight.
Merino.
The yarn that is reliable, dependable, and sturdy with that delicious smell. Warm, but not too scratchy. You always know what you are going to get with worsted weight wool, but it still makes you so excited each time you purchase a new color.

It blocks well, and doesn't pill too much.

It is the kind of yarn you never want to run out of.

If Anna were yarn, she would be Mohair.

Feathery, wispy and light.

Glamorous and a bit sassy.

Always in fashion, and let's face it, a little hard to work with.

But so worth it.

If Jack were yarn, he would be chunky cashmere.

It looks big and tough on the outside, but you can't help yourself.

You just want to squeeze it all the time.

It is soft and squishy, smooth as butter.

Like getting a big hug all day long.

You know, sometimes when I find a great knitting pattern I run up to see if I have anything that will work in my stash. I did this the other day and while I was pulling out the yarn I said " Come to Mama."

Is that strange?

On second thought....

Don't answer that.

A Garden Theme for Halloween

2009-09-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

It is the last day of September. Wow. It is time for me to get busy on the Halloween Costumes for the kids. Last year around Christmas, Addison decided he wanted to be a garden gnome this year. I am so happy that he has not changed his mind. Naturally Jack wants to be the same so that makes it easy.
Anna has a mind of her own. She wanted to be Bat Girl. She saw a costume complete with tall black boots, a shredded leather skirt and a sexy mask. Um, no.

I finally talked her in to a Princess costume. A Garden Princess costume. She decided that would be fun, especially after I mentioned a special hydrangea crown that we could make together.
I wanted to make it quick, before she changed her mind and wanted to be something else.
She did that last year. I bought a ton of pink tulle for her princess costume, but decided she wanted to be a clown like her brothers instead.

I started it last night, while she was in bed. I thought I could creep in there and do some measurements. It is so much easier for me to sew when they are asleep.

I woke her up right away. She asked me what I was doing and I told her nothing although I was wrapped in tulle and tripping all over the place. Geez, this stuff is hard to work with.

On my way out she said, " Oh, that must be for my Pincess (princess) Garden dress."

I told her it was, and she could try it on in the morning.

"But, Mom? Please do not knit any part of my costume, okay?"

Point taken.

The Reasons

2009-09-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Racing matchbox cars,
Marbles,
Ice Cream Cones,
Twirling.

Starry nights,
Fireflies,
Summer Breezes,
Falling Leaves,
Snowdrifts.

The Sound of Little Feet,
Boots lined up at the Door,
A Sleepy Dog,
Waving Good-Bye,
Hugging Hello.

The Smell of Hydrangea,

Blowing Dandelions,

Hot Cider,

Cold Lemonade,

Icy Popsicles,

Warm Cookies,

Saturday Night Pizza.

Morning Coffee,

Late Night Wine,

Halloween Costumes,

Watching Bike Races,

Dancing,

Laughing.

Nervous Teenage Boys,

Holding Hands,

First Kisses,

Graduation Parties,

Family Pictures.

Knitting,

Daydreaming,

Reading,

Catching Raindrops,

Relaxing.

Waiting,

Visiting With Friends,

Shaking Hands,

Straightening Anna's Veil,

Rocking my Grandchildren.

So, If you need me, I will be here.

For the rest of my life.....

Thrifty

2009-09-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

I have a passion for a lot of things. I love to decorate, sew, knit, and bake. I go through stages where I get very passionate about one of these things, and it is all I want to do in my spare time. My husband calls it obsession, but I call it passion.
Besides, I could say the same thing about him and those golf clubs, but that is for another post.

With it feeling a lot like fall around here, I have been into decorating and thrifting. The budget is always tight with three kids and one income, but I wanted to show you some great things I have found. You know, you can really transform anything with paint and fabric. If you can't sew, I bet you know someone who can, or would be willing to teach you.

This is one of my favorites. I got it for $20 at a local Flea Market. It was black, which I liked but I wanted it to be white. I sanded and painted it, then made a muslin cushion for it. I think the key is to keep things neutral so they can be moved from room to room. I certainly do that a lot.

I love decorating with things you can find outside this time of year. Bittersweet and white pumpkins are some of my favorites. If you keep a white pumpkin inside and don't carve it, it will last forever. I love them under a Christmas tree too!

I spotted this old latter at another flea market. I love the finish on it. You can display magazines, books or towels on these, or chop them in half and hang them on your kitchen ceiling for a great pot rack.

I found this old footstool at a junk shop for $5.00! It needed some work, but I love those old wooden legs. The frame was in great shape. I just tore off the old fabric, stapled some new batting down and made a slipcover for it using burlap I had in my stash.

Because our downstairs is one big open space, the decorating usually flows in every room. Once I start in the living room, the "decorating fever" spreads into the dining room. I made new slipcovers for our chairs. I have done this a few times and I hope this is the last. At least for a while. I find that they get so worn out, and the ties always fall off.

I think I did it right this time. I made them with this great fabric I found here for $3.00 a yard. It is a great home decor weight. I made them reversible so I think they will be stronger and won't fray in the wash. I also omitted the ties. I had them all cut out and ready to go but then realized this style stays on the chair so nice that I did not even need them.

I love to get things secondhand. It can be a great way to save money, and great way to recycle!

Well, toodles for now.

I have a front porch to decorate......

A Sweater Vacation

2009-09-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have two sweaters on the needles right now, and it is driving me crazy.
I think maybe it is called sweater burnout.

Anna got a new winter coat from Target the other day. I thought she needed a beanie for it.
Red and brown. Perfect.

It is so cute, but I was hoping for more slouch. I think the pattern I followed was just a bit too small for her. Maybe next time more increases, and a few more inches before I start the decreases?

The Details:

Pattern: Child's Play Beret-psst, it's free!

Size: Largest

Yarn: Scraps from my stash, I have no idea what it is really. The red is cotton, and the brown may be some kind of alpaca.

Bribe for photo shoot: New toenail polish. She picked glitter.

Progress

2009-09-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

The front porch is coming along.

I am smitten.

In love is more like it.

You know how it takes a while to get used to new things in your home? It usually takes me a good two weeks.

Not this time.

I feel like this has always been here.

Oh, the knitting that will happen on that porch.

Those of you who know me realize I already have the furniture painted, and the pumpkins ready, right?

Can you tell I am excited?

P.S. Can you see Anna in the window? She is supposed to be napping. She has done that everyday this week. She is supposed to be sleeping, but is "watching the guys" instead. Ahem.

I think I may have my hands full in about nine years......

Framing Ferns

2009-09-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love ferns?
I sure do.
We have so many of them in out in our woods. Some are almost as tall as I am. Before the frost hits us and they wilt, I wanted to save some.

I framed these and put them over our bed.
I loved them so much. I made some more for the shop.

So glad I was able to preserve a bit of summer.

Boy, it just went too fast this year.

Turn A Coat Into A bag: Tutorial

2009-09-16T10:42:00.001-07:00

Okay, here goes nothing. I am not good at explaining things, I am good at showing them. I hope you can get through this tutorial with these pictures and my directions, but if not leave your question in the comment section and I will answer in the comments as well.

What you will need:
An old leather, suede, or tweed coat. The blazer type works best, but any kind will do. If you choose one with the big elastic at the bottom simply cut it off before you get started. Also if your coat has a zipper or snaps, cut those off too.

A leather needle. I got mine from Joann's. If you coat feels thin, or you are using tweed, a denim needle should do.

Fabric for the lining.

Four extra large grommets, with grommet tool. You can get these at Joann's.

A buckle, or button- optional.

Scissors

Matching thread.

First lay out your coat so the two front opening panels are together wrong sides facing. If your coat has pockets, these make great outside pockets for your bag.
Cut straight across the jacket, a few inches under the sleeves. You will see where the extra fabric under the arm starts to get a little bunchy if you try to straighten it out. Cut just under that part for a straighter cut.

You should have something that looks like this. This is the outside of your bag.

My coat was curved at the two front corners. If this is the case, simply use the curved edge as a pattern and cut the other two sides to match the curved edge.

Then cut out all of the lining that you can to make it easier on your machine.

Take your lining fabric and using the outside of your bag as a pattern, cut out two pieces for your liner.

Next we are going to cut out the strap. If you have extra fabric under the arm you can cut there, or use a sleeve. Make sure you use the whole length of the coat. If you cut thorough the sleeve cut through both so you end up with one long strip, starting at the end of one sleeve going all the way to the end of the next one. This part may come out wonky. That is okay, just square it up by folding in half with wrong sides together.

Now, it is time to sew your bag together. With right sides together pin in place with raw top edges meeting. The suede I used was pretty tough and hard to cut. I didn't even try to sew through all the layers. You can see I went just outside all the layers, using about 1/2" seam.

Turn your bag right side out.

Do the same with the lining fabric, but do not sew up the bottom! This will be your opening to pull your bag through after you sew the two pieces together.

This is the time to add a buckle, like I did here, a button loop or a flap. Simply cut out what you would like and sew wrong sides together.

Now, we will sew the pieces together. If you have added a buckle or flap, fold the outside of your purse in half and finger press. Do the same with your flap or buckle. Match the two lines in place and pin right sides facing.

Turn your liner inside out and the outside of your bag right side out. Put the right side of the bag inside your liner.

Sew all the way around the top raw edges of the bag, using 1/2 inch seam.

Then pull the right side of your bag through the hole in the lining. like so.

Sew up the rest of the lining.

At this time you can add a top stitch all the way around your bag if you would like.

Next you will need to follow the directions on the back of your grommets. You can place these however you want. It will depend on the placement of your outside pockets if you have them. I used two in the front, and two in the back.

Make sure you measure and make a mark where you want them so they will be even.

Take your strap and sew it wrong sides together.

Weave it through your grommets, then sew two raw edges together. Hide the seam by pulling that part of the strap inside the bag.

There you have it. I hope this does help some of you.

Remember ask questions in the comments and I will answer you there.

If you make one, I would love, love to see it!

You Guessed it.....

2009-09-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Yes! A porch of course. We started the prep work this weekend, and the building will start tomorrow. Eight sharp!
I can not wait.
So, the winner of the bracelet is Beki. I will sent it out this week.

There has also been a ruckus in the hen house. This is only half the problem. There is still a fox out there. We have lost seven of the girls. Can you believe that the fox can get into the trap, eat the food and escape? Keep your fingers crossed. Maybe tonight will be the night that we catch him. We can not lose anymore chickens.

I will also have that tutorial I have been talking about, later in the week.

Go check and see if you have an old suede, leather or tweed coat that you don't wear anymore. We can turn it into something pretty cool.