Hopscotch Studio

Its a nice day for a poem

2010-10-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ode to Lake Corinth

I've smiled seventy or eighty separate times this afternoon
just thinking about you
and the fun we use to have, and everything
literally everything about you
it feels good to remember you
and speak with you once again
I wish I was with you now

The Bistro Earns 4 Stars...

2010-09-23T20:55:00.000-07:00

Bistro 'tis French no more

Polly Campbell reviews the Bistro and earns 4 stars!

The Bistro Is Up and Running...

2010-08-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to drop you a little note to let you know that Chris' new project is now open! Ta-da! If you get a chance check out the new restaurant with Chef Chris Burns whipping up some wickedly good creations! The Bistro is on Vine street downtown across from the Westin near 4th Street. The food is American style bistro and local farmers fare. Last night I had the Brick Chicken with farro salad and sauce salmoriglio and the butter tart with candied crab apple and a quinelle of vanilla bean ice cream. I can't stop thinking about it! Also check out the event on the 20th (below.) Take care!

Menus: http://www.bistrojeanro.com/lunch

Become a fan on facebook! http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=276870&id=100000379366731#!/?ref=logo

Bad Day Solve All…

2010-08-11T01:05:00.000-07:00

The Bistro opened on Monday and I got a chance to eat there yesterday. Of course I am partial to the restaurant since my husband's the chef. However, it is easy because he is so talented! You will see from the below post I talked about butter tarts from Muskoka in Ontario. To my surprise there was a butter tart on the menu calling my name. Chris made his different than the ones in Canada and although I do love the Canadian tart, this one truly stole the show. The butter tart had a great almond flavor that was intoxicating and the pastry dough was so flaky and decadent. The tart was paired with candied crab apples that gave it a great sour pairing and then to the right was a small quenelle of vanilla bean ice-cream. It was spectacular and I am obsessed. It is in my opinion that this tart paired with a glass of wine may cure almost anything. On a bad day you will know where to find me. The photo is from one of the dishes that came out of the kitchen last night at The Bistro. Yum!

Lake of Bays…

2010-08-06T11:38:00.001-07:00

It's the last day of vacation and it's even more saddening that it is late in the day, 7:30 p.m. to be exact. However, as I watch Chris in the kitchen teaching Morgan how to maneuver a chef's knife in preparation for tonight's dinner, I smile. This vacation has been so many things. It has been relaxing, invigorating and productive. But the true beauty of this escape from the daily grind has been spending time with amazing people.

Let me give you a glimpse- Right now we are listening to the lovely lull of Amy Winehouse. I am typing from a room with a view, literally looking out onto the sparkling surface of Lake Muskoka. Chris and Morgan are helping with the prep for a dinner that Paul has created. We will be spoiled once again with amazing food- this time carnitas. My stomach growls as I am taken over by the scent of garlic and spices wafting through the cottage.

Wine is flowing, creativity is abundant and I can't get enough. It is literally overwhelming in a sickenly sweet way that makes you yearn for more. Like the last couple bites of an amazing meal when your stomach says no but your taste buds can't resist. That's Muskoka. But unlike the stomach ache you get after that gluttonous adventure, Muskoka is forgiving. There is always a jump into the deep waters to cure your over indulgent wine drinking or sun bathing to lift your spirits, breezy screened in porch naps and loveliness that is hard to describe.

The beauty and uniqueness of this place is neverendeding. Around every corner a new discovery. Oh, and did I mention the buttery tarts? Okay yes, let's talk about the buttery tarts, the peach cobbler, the jams- oh and scones! It's enough to send you over the edge. I literally think they bake in the soul of Muskoka right into those tiny tarts. How true, the Muskoka tagline "Once discovered, never forgotten."

Dream a Little Dream...

2010-06-28T17:54:00.001-07:00

Things that are on my mind, and maybe yours too. Daydreamin about…

Cabins
Camping
Hiking
Picnics
Fugazi
Sketching
Typography
Bad Religion
Lakes
Rock climbing
Painted Portraits
Motorcycles
Nautical themes
Butterscotch Sundaes
Captain Crunch Coated french Toast
Anthony bordains Book
Tarts
Summer Dresses
Vadar Pancakes
Popsicles
Candy Jewels
May Luk Ceramics
Colette Patterns
Posters

2010-06-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

The front yard project is rounding home. We are almost finished! We planted the below this weekend.

Verbena in Imagination
Gazania in Kiss Orange
Aurelia Gold
Blue Pacific Junipers
Weeping Cherry Tree
Echinacea

Petunia Hybrid in Much Picasso Pink
Chrysocephalum in Desert Flame
Laurentia in Starshine Blue
Dahlias in Deep Purple
Angelonia in Serena White
Dusty Millers
Chocomocha Chocolates Cosmos
French Dwarf marigolds in Safari Queen
Dianthus in Select Violet

We also kept the previous owners yellow daffodils as part of the garden. They are lovely. The next project is working on the back vegetable garden and deck then moving inside. I am currently planning for design inside the house and all of the room will get some color with paint. There has been a lot going on this week. I finished knitting my first scarf and started my second. Tried a bunch of new recipes this week and last (below). Most of all I have been daydreaming about all of the things mentioned below. Photos of all the projects coming this weekend! Enjoy the links.

Gocco Screen Printing

Asparagus Leek Soup
Furniture Makeovers

Three Letters: Wow

2010-05-31T19:05:00.000-07:00

Wow. Three letters that exactly define this weekend of utter chaos. I shouldn’t say chaos because it was quite productive. However, as I sit on my porch now reflecting while rain hits the newly dug yard I can only think of the word -wow.

We spend the last three days hauling 3 yards of dirt, trimming hedges, pulling tons and tons of weeds and tending to gardening boxes. We couldn’t have done it without the help of my in-laws, they are absolutely amazing. It is our effort to transform the front of our house with landscaping for the ultimate curb appeal. You must understand one of the best parts of our house in my opinion (although there are many) is the curb appeal. The house sits on a corner lot and has this amazing presence and soul. It’s not grandiose, not newly built, but we wouldn’t want it to be. The house has character as if it is its own entity, fulfilling our daily lives with comfort.

We love this house. I love how the sun light hits the porch in the morning casting a golden blanket over all the porches on the street. I love how the wood has marmalade color and how the layout flows throughout. I love that all who lived in this house cherished it and cared for it in a way that you can still feel in its energy. As we continue to work on the house and make it our own we respect it and only make improvements that wouldn’t change it originality and beauty.

It has been a journey. I’m sure you can remember it or are experiencing it now, owning your first home is quite the learning experience. There has been a lot of sweat, a lot of memories in the making, laughter and also some tears. Sometimes we feel we will never accomplish the goals we set when we first bought the house, those lofty aspirations. But that’s not important. What’s important is that as we continue to grow with this house and we are learning along the way. Sometimes we just sit back after a project whether small or large. Whether it’s hauling 3 yards of dirt with shovels and a wheelbarrow or painting a wall, we reflect on that day’s work and feel more at home. And after the past three days of extremely hard work I can sit on the porch and feel pride and joy once again, that this is our home.

Back Date Accordingly...

2010-05-19T18:52:00.000-07:00

I actually wrote this a couple weeks ago and in my exhaustion totally forgot to post. More to come soon!

It’s a Monday night as I listen to the tip tap of keys being punched producing somewhat random ideas and thoughts. The cats are both passed out lying flat on the hardwood floor like pancakes or small bear skin rugs. Their eyes open a slit to shoot a glance of disgust my way concerning the apparently annoying sounds coming from the keyboard. It’s nice to finally relax for the night with open windows and the cozy glow of the low lit lamp in the dining room.

The complete exhaustion comes from multiple projects preformed this weekend. Chris got together with our neighbors and friends Brian and Dolly to build garden boxes for the yard. I worked on sanding and painting two tables and also painted a chandelier with my friend Jodi. I made blackberry pound cake for our neighbor who had knee surgery. Laundry, some major closet organizing, goodwill donations, yard sale items, homework, neighborhood association work, thank you notes, etcetera. Needless to say after work today missed the neighborhood gardening workshop, made homemade meatloaf, artichokes and mashed potatoes, watched Up in the Air and now ready to totally collapse. Good Night!

(photo from All My Fav)

Chris’ garden box inspiration

My very Nantucket style blue table color inspiration (River's Edge by Behr)

Easy and delicious Blackberry pound cake (the blueberry version is good too!)

The best meatloaf recipe ever

Some inspiration for this week:

Ten Best Documentaries

Chocolate Letter Type

Apartment Therapy- the book!

Wildflower Seed Bombs

Great Furniture Transformation

100 purse and wallet tutorials

Collections from the Ocean
Inspiration from Pride and Prejudice

Paint Makeover

Color Palette Generator

How to make Homemade Ricotta
Keylime and Raspberry White Chocolate Parfaits

Finding fun new blogs

Library Card Invites- Love these!

Awesomeness: Printable CD Cases

2010-03-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

Really rad printable CD cases. Cool huh? Go print them now! Here and Here.

A Week in a Nutshell...

2010-03-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

My Week In A Nutshell:

InFrankfort at the capital again this week for the advocacy campaign.
Listened to Senator Jack Westwood speak
Saw Representative Arnold Simpson again
New class started this week (2 left!)
Applied for graduation
Created our neighborhood facebook page
Bought some killer fabric to sew market bags
Did bazillions of web updates
Made Chicken Buffalo Pasta (Thanks for the recipe Katie)
Reading the current issue of Inc. magazine
Read the Book How Sassy Changed My Life
Meetings, Meetings and more meetings- did I mention meetings?
Worked on mini grant application
Went vintage treasure hunting-twice
Tried to unsuccessfully convince myself I wasn't getting a cold
Listened to way too much Catpower

All while daydreaming about the below.

Apple Pie
Buttons, butterscotch, bicycles, Bon Iver
Cardigans, cupcakes, calico, community, cassettes
Dresses, Doodles
Emo
Fashion
Glam Rock, gingham
Honey
Illustrations
Jam
Kitchens
Lodges, Lasagna, Lime
Morrissey, Mac and Cheese,Motorcycles
Nail Polish, Notebooks
Office Supplies, Omelettes, Orange
Picnics, Punk, Pajamas, Paint Brushes, Pancakes
Quilts, Quiche
Rainy days, Roller Skating
Studios, Striped Socks, Slant 6
Train rides, Tap Dancers
Umbrellas
Volunteer work
Waffles, Wolves, Wallpaper
Yarn, Yoga
Zinnias

What's been going on?

2010-03-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

Only this fantastic stuff that is full of inspiration.

A Poster that will adorn my office.

Listening to She&Him especially Zooey Deschanel which you may recognize from the cotton commercial. Yep that's her.

Baking this pound cake except with blackberries and orange zest. Easy!
Hello stunning coat!

Diggin the fashion of Julian Louie
Cute vs. Gross Easter Idea
In the news: "After ill-considered Facebook promise, will sister name her baby 'Megatron'?"
Mick Jagger- Just because
The top ten mispronounced foodie words
Nutella snack drink, genius
d.i.y. cardigan project
Random awesomeness
See glass candy

Made this Chicken, Bacon, Ranch Mac and Cheese on Saturday

Organizational Geek, A Classic Black Jacket and Enough Links to Make You Loopy...

2010-01-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

So the weekend was super productive but not in the ways I had planned. I need to give up on all the planning I do. Really, it does seem to be a waste of time and who needs it? Wouldn’t that be nice? Unfortunately I am a planner and I am not sure I can stop, or even know how to stop. At least I am willing to admit it. I am one of those annoying types that is constantly writing notes, lists and planning projects. One of the things that bring me much joy is lined paper and a pen and my trusty post it notes. I know, it’s not attractive but it is true.

I did accomplish my cupcake task and baked three dozen piped, marshmallow icing topped beauties. Chris and I picked up sandwiches a Jersey Mikes; I forgot how much I absolutely love this place! I went vintage hunting and found a new black velvet jacket that I adore. Don’t you just love that look? I think a black jacket, jeans and a t-shirt is classic and timeless. I have been hunting for a black velvet jacket for quite sometime. While pursuing all of the discarded treasures I decided to check out the books and found a spine screaming the title O Pioneers! I had to have it since in last weeks post I was talking about how much I adored the Levis commercial with Walt Whitman’s poem O Pioneers! The book in fact does have an excerpt of the poem in the preface. Lots of fun links below- the peach pies in a jar look fabulous. Have fun!

A Great Black Velvet Jacket. Love the whole outfit.

Tagged by littleheather... by Aitana Reimóndez♥ featuring Dolce & Gabbana

Items in this set:
Willow Ruffled silk trapeze top, $440
Dolce & gabbana jackets, 888 GBP
Phi Stretch leather miniskirt, $1,005
Rupert Sanderson Paragon Black Patent, 520 GBP
Angel Jackson - Maya Clutch, 230 GBP

Salvatore Ferragamo Spring 2010 Campaign
Inspirations from The Incredible Mr. Fox (I want to see this movie) Did you see it?
Printable Valentine’s goodie bags
Free, well-designed fonts
Peach Pies in Tiny Jars
Wishing I could attend this conference
Sew cards and envelopes
The iPhone Inspired DIY Kitchen Touch Screen Project
How to make homemade English muffins!
I have been craving Gougères
Pet scarves? Not so sure about this.
A breakdown of the History Channel
More cute shoes paired with this bracelet? (Blue and Gold Bows Bracelet, J. W. Anderson)

Oh, how I love Chanel! (Mom, you know that black Chanel purse I gave you when I was in my 20's that I thought wasn't my style? Sigh.)

Victoria Beckham by Bethiesue08 featuring Christian Louboutin shoes

Items in this set:
Camilla and Marc Cutout mini dress NET-A-PORTER.COM, 770 EUR
Christian Louboutin High Satin Peep Toes with Knot, 535 GBP
Cupidz Clozet Vintage Chanel Handbags, Chanel Black Fabric Handbag, $695
Marni Brass chain-link flower necklace, $930
Chanel - Allure Sensuelle Parfum 7.5ml/0.25oz, $122

I need to watch this movie again- one of my favorites. I love this opening song.

Cat on a hot tin roof ORIGINAL trailer 1958. I cannot express how absolutely fabulous this movie is. Wicked good. R.I.P Paul Newman. Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman are so great in this. Okay- I am renting this again ASAP!

Do you have links I should add to my blog? An idea for a topic? A review, recipe or business you would like featured? Enter a comment below!

A Three Day Weekend, Planning for Video Tutes and Amazing Choreography...

2010-01-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

Okay, okay so the three day weekend is almost upon me and I have a lot I want to do. My damn oven- errgh. Chris has promised he will try to fix it by Sunday- I sure hope so. I have smores cupcakes to bake. If you know me and cupcakes you will understand I won’t let anything stop me in the quest for baking the best cupcake. I am a self proclaimed cupcake freak so don’t be surprised if I am knocking at your door begging you to use your oven. Lol.

I would also really like to make some homemade bagels again and post a little video tute. The bagels are really pretty easy and so worth the time involved. No really, I mean SO worth the time, they are amazingly delicious! If for some unforeseen reason the oven does not get fixed I have a backup plan for homemade pasta.

Hopefully projects will be accomplished this weekend. I might lock myself in one night with a bottle of nice red wine and the new sewing machine. Have you heard? I sat down at my new sewing machine to sew some curtains for our kitchen (out of Amy Butler fabric nonetheless) and I have no idea how to use the thing! My old sewing machine was a nice 80’s beginners sewing version with a lot of manual controls and brightly colored knobs that let you know where to operate things. This, very beautiful, but intimidating new machine has me completely baffled. Anyone up for helping me out with this problem- I am really at a loss. I think I might have to give in and get lessons on the new machine. Or maybe I will just break out old trusty from the basement and stitch up the curtains via the dusty but loyal beater I have grown to love. Or maybe I will just droll over all the cool links out in cyberspace and live vicariously through them. Lol. Have a great weekend!

How to learn something new everyday
Favorite kitchen gadgets of the year
Deep fried cupcakes on a stick- oh my
100 skills everyone should master

Make your own cough syrup: Elderberry
An amazingly pretty dress
Flat iron travel bag- how have I lived without this?
Green apple icecream
Some on the coolest invites I have ever seen

Did you see this? How in the world did they pull that off? And Oprah had no idea.

One of my favorite bands

Oh Pioneers!, A Broken Oven, and Much Inspiration...

2009-12-30T17:36:00.000-08:00

I am finally in a position to blog again after a (more than a couple) week hiatus. The past couple of weeks have been full of holiday cheer, parties galore and time with friends and family. It has been a hectic holiday season. My plans changed last minute, after buying bags of flour, bulk sugar and baking supplies, when our oven decided to cease working. So the past couple weeks I have been cooking via stove top or running cupcake batter to my neighbor's oven frantically. At least I branched out and tried some new recipes. January has brought extra stress and obligations. It just keeps getting busier and busier. I long for a day of book reading, baking or hanging out with my hubby. Sigh- soon enough. In the meantime below are some inspiration links and things I have found along the way the past couple weeks. I hope you enjoy them! Talk to you soon.

(Wreath Project)

(Stuffed Chicken- Great Dinner)

New Favorite Things and Inspiration:

Chocolate Covered Cinnamon bears
Reuben Dip (Needs baking- Thanks for the emergency oven Dolly!)
White Chicken Chili
Pastry Wrapped Chicken
Black Bean Spinach Enchiladas in Green Chile Cream Sauce- so good!
Food Inc.
Youth in Revolt
Creepy Kitten
Sleeping Nooks- I am seriously in love with these!
Mini grilled cheese sandwiches with shots of tomato soup ( a must at my next party!)
Fabric invitations
Breakfast Syrups and Elixirs- Have to try the Honey Baklava Syrup- yum!
Lovely saffron yellow apron
Embroidery Thread cards
Rodarte is coming to Target: I must have the leopard dress with bows in the back. Too cool.
Recycled magazine bows
Pretty felt pillow tute
DIY spice holders
Coco: 10 World-Leading Masters Choose 100 Contemporary Chefs
The Complete Stories of Flannery O'Conner
Print magazine celebrates 70 years

A video that could have just as easily sprung from 20 years ago or 20 years from now.

I am loving Scanner- dark and sexy sound

Love this Levis commercial: Probably because I love Walt Whitman

The Walt Whitman poem

Before and After...

2009-12-10T22:50:00.000-08:00

My poor blog, it has been so neglected. A gazillion things are going on right now but winter break and lots of blog goodness is coming your way. Soon I will be curled up on the couch with my trusty laptop and a cup o’ Joe sharing lots of new projects and goodies I have found. Take a look below at what I like to call, "things I don't have time for but wish I did projects." Talk to you soon!

Chocolate Covered Cinnamon Bears-Oh My!...

2009-11-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

We just returned home from a long needed vacation to the Smokey Mountains. Although vacation really was relaxing I am glad to be home. There is something about fall that makes me want to hide inside this cozy bungalow. Tonight I am making Chicken Lasagna, the cats are curled up in the big red reading chairs and I am sitting cozy on the couch blogging. Fall and winter in this home are really complimentary to all of the marmalade wood that adorns doorways and window frames. The light is warm and low, if only the fireplace would work (on the want list). I am writing Christmas lists, planning thanksgiving dinner, and looking for more projects than I can handle of course. Do you have project plans? If so let me know what they are or take a look at all of the lovely things below for some inspiration. Linkity-link!

Top of my list! This sweater was sold out at JCrew. This version uses a homemade embellishment with a tutorial to boot. This way you save 118.00 dollars.

Chocolate covered cinnamon bears. I have heard these are highly addictive. I am searching for a recipe!

Gingerbread houses

Turkey-Cranberry Strudel with Maple Roasted Butternut Squash- Thats a mouthful

Antler Candleholders

Party People Glass Markers

Gingerbread Cookie Cups

Gifts for Guys- Classic Goods for Modern Men

Winterize your home

How to stencil with freezer paper

Dollyween and The Firth's Haunted House...

2009-11-03T06:51:00.001-08:00

Halloween was fantastic this year! I can’t express with words how talented our friends are. I am inspired by all of their creations and in awe of their festiveness. I love being surrounded by creative people!

This year we decided to pass out candy with our friends and neighbors instead of setting up camp at our house. We brought coq au vin rosettes and sour cream apple pie, of course. Sorry I am stuck on these recipes, someone please send me a new recipe so I don’t keep making this one. I will have to put in my workout tape (the one in the back of the closet with the horrible techno music and bad 90’s fitness outfits) just to fight off the cream and butter! Don’t get me wrong it fabulous. Try it if you dare, I bet you will keep making it too.

Chris had the idea to dress like a crazy butcher. We already had the coat and the apron, my only mission was a large fake knife and fake blood. Note to self: Do not go shopping for anything Halloween related on Halloween. It was like a scavenger hunt but I succeeded. Don't you think the costume turned out scary?

We ventured up to the Firths house a couple times to enjoy their homemade haunted house. Their house was amazing! They really are such talented people. There were tables of “rotten food”, goo, ooze, creepy crawly things, and zombies. Just look at the scary photos, fantastic! I was so impressed -I love festive people! Hopefully Jodi and Brian will share some of their secrets to their creation with you. I think they should write a d.i.y. Halloween book, don’t you?

We passed out candy at Dolly’s house first. Dolly’s house was super spooky and all decked out for Halloween.

I also had an opportunity to chat with Shannon who is super creative. She makes the loveliest necklaces. Her company brown chicken brown cow is sure to be an upcoming blog topic if she will indulge me.

Onto planning for the next holiday! Below are some links to help with your planning.

Alicia is at it again, X-mas ornaments

printable note cards, floral

roasted pumpkin salad, yum

homemade butter, easy

turkeys from oreos, can we say detail oriented?

homemade gifts to sew

a yarn wreath- I must make these!

potluck take along, great idea

a soup report for the cold season

apple spiced cupcakes-cute alert!

recipe girl is cooking butternut squash

warm tones on your walls- pretty

listen to Hey Jude, or see it

glitter and gold holiday picks

cheese tasting kit anyone?

Normal as Blueberry Pie...

2009-10-16T00:43:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged for a while because I came down with an awful flu. I was looking forward to the weekend but instead I got days of sniffles, feverish delusions, loopy cold medications and too much bad cable television. Hold on- that somehow sounds fun, but I can assure you it wasn't. I did succeed with one of my weekend projects and made Coq au Vin Rosettes, on Friday. I strongly suggest trying this recipe when you want to splurge on calories-it is heavenly! I will definitely save this one for special occasions like birthdays and dinner parties -it is not an everyday type dish. I can't wait to feel better. I have a pattern pinned that I need to cut, some freelance projects that need tied up, and fantastic pumpkin carving plans. As always below is a bit of inspirations for us all: Fall is here! (Please ignore any misspellings, etc. I am still downing the Theraflu)

Nellie McKay is covering Doris Day

Victoriana Scarflette

ohhhh Cardigans

Posh Squash

Persephone Books

Butterscotch- This time with a kick

This is extremely wrong, which makes it oh so right- Carrot Cake Pancakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Spread

If you have not read a Homemade Life, I suggest you do

Or if you love the Confederacy of Dunces you will love the book Youth in Revolt- Soon to be a major motion picture

Mummy dogs

Smoked Paprika Pumpkin Seeds

Cath Kidsons Fall Collection

Nosferatu Shadow

Homemade Candy Corn?

Tricked Out Caramel Apples

Gross but cool- Halloween food

Its JUST Wallpaper...

2009-10-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

My indecisiveness can sometimes (okay most of the time) be annoying not only to my near and dear but also to myself. I finally narrowed down the wallpaper (I know, its JUST wallpaper right?) to a couple options. Let me know what you think!

Insert Witty Blog Title Here...

2009-09-09T18:30:00.000-07:00

I have endured another hectic week full of accomplishments and royal screw ups. We launched a website this week and can take a moment to reflect on its success and all of the hours we put into it. I only managed to put my foot in my mouth once this week and am happy to report that my clumsiness only resulted in one embarrassing trip in the parking lot at work. All in all the week was fantastic but I am glad to see the weekend around the bend.

Since the launch has happened I am refocusing to accomplish my next projects which have been put on the backburner and have been ominously looming about my dreams and subconscious. One of which is to start

the decorating projects in our home. One of my faults with this project is my relentless indecisiveness. I have probably viewed over 100 patterns of wallpaper for the dining room, finally made a decision but still haven’t taken the plunge to purchase it.

My other nemesis is the fact that I volunteer too much. As a coworker of mine said...” I would create a support group for people who volunteer too much but I am afraid I would volunteer to be its coordinator." I thought that was genius and very funny.

On another note: Did you see the premier of Community? It was wonderful. I heart Joel McHale and with Chevy Chase thrown into the mix it is a sure concoction to induce laughter.Enough rambling from me. You will have to excuse my brain for the moment it has not had time to recharge. My ramblings are the result of way to much coffee and pure delirium. Instead I will leave you with more lovely things. Get inspired! Or just have fun clicking on links, exploring, and thinking "Why didn’t I think of that!" Lol. Have a great weekend!

(Photo Courtesy of Craft )

Craving very pretty goat cheese and tomato tarts
Weird Dog Hat- Hilarious!
Woodland Fairy headband
Street Stlye from Portland- I loved the fashion there!My nephew would love this Fedora
VintageTextile Designs. Must have-drool
Shipping cupcakes in jars!
Foolproof Cheese Souffle
Alicia Paulson is talking about Fall
fonts
bookmarks
lists
lemon curd ice cream
stickers
the best apple pie ever- Seriously, the best apple pie ever!
embroidery
Underwater Photography- Trend alert, very popular lately
Olivet
A Campy Wedding
Armelle
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups
You are my fav JR
Frolic

I Wish I Would Have Thought of That...

2009-08-26T17:32:00.000-07:00

Have you ever said- “I wish I would have thought of that?” I often find myself thinking that. I am a self proclaimed "idea person" some of which are just plain horrible but some that have a fighting chance. My mind is in constant contemplation of things, random quirky thoughts. I view this talent as a privilege but many times people say, "Where in the world did that thought come from?" The truth of the matter is I don't know.

Just yesterday my brain was on overload and I randomly thought I would like to yell the word PINEAPPLE for no apparent reason. I chalk that up to my brain being exhausted from over thinking. (Note that part is not productive) Call it what you will. My husband, family and friends know it best as the Tess syndrome. Random thoughts that surface at god knows when, often starting in “What if… or what do you think about… (Insert some random thought about starting a business or creating some crazy new marketing scheme.) But I choose to view it as a gift; in fact there has been some good that has come out of it. I love to observe, absorb and search for interesting happenings and ideas. I pride myself on being an out of the box thinker and hope I can utilize this to better my community and do what I love. What do I love? The list is too long to mention. As you saw from the post of 75 lovely things I have interests in many areas (I had to limit myself to 75 or we would be here all day). This might explain my complete indecisiveness to a fault.

Excuse me I am rambling. My point is I like being an "idea" person. It allows me to help small businesses, non profs and projects in the community (especially on a budget) I guess the real project is to hone in on this weird talent. Can you say idea consultant, idea guru? Does that even exist? Hey! New idea. Lol.

Here are some of the people that made me say "I wish I would have thought about that!"

Rollasole- I must have a pair. Fantastic!
Animoto- The end of slideshows
Tastespotting- A community driven visual potluck- be warned extremely addictive!
Doors of Mainstrasse- Stoney, you are fabulous!
Design Dollars
The Wounded Artist Project
The Eyewriter
Truck Farm
Design Concept
Furniture for Cats
New Coffeecup- Hot Coffee. Cool Planet.
Pretty Neon
Clothing Company Selling Scraps

Blog Haters, My Favorite Bloggers and the Scary Publish Post Button...

2009-08-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to write something about the art of blogs. I love them- in fact I am quite obsessed over this style of writing. No ink to paper (although I like that too) just a key board banging away transcribing nonsensical thoughts, a flow of consciousness style of writing. My favorite part of blogs is that they tell a story- authenticity at its finest. It’s a story in a way that we wouldn’t otherwise tell it. The main problem with blogs is the myths that people create about them. There is an elephant in the room that we cannot ignore. Second thought, it’s not an elephant it is a huge scary blog hating monster! Many people shun blogs (can you imagine?) Those monsters are the people that don’t understand the beauty of them. Be warned- There are big ugly, harry, sharp tooth anti- blog monsters out there, in fact there are many. And this is what they say:

The big myth. “Blogs are pretentious, egotistical and only serve the writer.” Well you are part right about this one but mostly wrong. Blogs do in fact serve the writer in some means. Have you ever written just to write? It feels good right? Well I guess in that sense blog writers are self serving. But pretentious and egotistical are in fact myths. Actually blog posts do in fact highlight successes but can also illustrate signs of weakness. I am not afraid to write on many occasions about my faults, my idiosyncrasies’, my lack of grace and that’s okay. Blog postings are journal entries, and journaling is not about perfection.

The art of a blog is that misspellings are going to happen and grammatical problems will run rampant (I apologize to all of the English majors that are gasping at this very moment) but that’s okay. Although I do try to spell check and maybe sometimes check grammar, the art of a blog is just a haphazard emptying of the brain into cyberspace (and sometimes you get lucky and have a bit of reflection or a life lesson learned.) The keyboard works in a way like a dance that allows the writer to express thoughts faster than the hand can write. It’s sloppy, and true, it’s wild and authentic. So there will be mistakes let me reiterate- there will be mistakes! Please find it in your hearts to forgive me.

Blogs are about documenting ideas, thoughts and life. The beauty of blogs is tracking progress, finding new creative outlets. I have learned so many things about what I do and who I am simply by writing this blog. Every post gives me greater reflection of what I do and why. A bloggers worst nightmare it hitting the proverbial “big red button” and sending it out for all to see. The collection of fleeting words representing - our guts, our soul, truth floating in the digital sea. Many times we hit “submit” and have a voice tugging at our brain saying “should I have posted that?” It is raw and real and that is what makes it such an amazing medium. It does not in fact always make us look fantastic .So big, scary blog-hating monsters, I ask you- who is the egoist now?

I learn so many things from other blog writers as well. Whatever your interest, be assured, there is someone out there blogging about it. Thank you fellow bloggers- you inspiration and knowledge has been much appreciated. (See below for my favorite blog writers and links.)

Artsy People
A Cup of Coffee, My Dog, and Me
Abby Trys Again
Coquette
Design * Sponge
Happy Zombie
Oh Happy Day!
Orangette
Not Martha
twelve22
How About Orange
Bake and Shake
Bluebottles Art Craft and Design Blog
Bluelines
cupcakeshow.com
curiously crafty.
Making it Lovely
Sincerely Yours Kate

Higher Ed
Edu Guru
Squared Peg
Higher Ed Marketing

Fashion
Style Rookie
Fred Flare

75 Random Things...

2009-08-20T20:13:00.000-07:00

Things are again hectic this week. I have posts and photos to share as soon as I can sit down at my computer Sunday with a large cup of coffee and two lazy cats. For now I thought I would post 75 random lovely things. Inspiration is important to me since I am always looking for new ideas for design or projects. I get my best ideas from blogs but sometimes revert to writing a list of my favorite things which helps spur some creative thoughts. Below is a list with lots of links to click on if you are interested. What are your favorite things?

1. vintage buttons

- the ring pillow at our wedding adorned buttons from family member's. As I sewed them on I thought of each person and their contributions to our lives. Buttons for me, symbolize union and holding things together snugly. They also remind me of candy when stored in mason jars and are quite lovely in the studio as display pieces.
2. plastic horses
3. library books
4. old board games
5. school/office supplies
6. fortune teller machines
7. apricots and brie
8. quiche- Chris made the one pictured above. I like them even better for dinner rather than breakfast.
9. good cotton sheets
10. technology
11. holga cameras
12. weird, cool socks
13. marmalade
14. old movies - the African Queen, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Breakfast at Tiffany's are my top three
15. poetry
16. Skip James - there is something about this song, I could listen to it over and over again. In fact I have.
17. lakes
18. picnics
19. fashion
20. bollywood - I am not sure where my interest with Indian film came from, but I love it- especially the music.
21. strawberries
22. fabric
23. blogs
24. porches
25. tangerines
26.fireplaces
27. post secondary education
28. sewing notions
29. farmer’s market
30. old suitcases and this one I have been drooling over for years
31. naps
32. brownies - my favorite is the Rawley's recipe but the nutella addition is for my cousin Janice
33. girl bands
34. art museums
35. oragami
36. honey and Van Gogh
37. studios
38. plaid
39. flannel
40. paint brushes
41. quilts
42. old cars
43. paint swatches
44. cardigans
45. costume jewelry
46. shortbread
47. shampure
48. zip-up hoodies
49. a new box of crayons
50. painting
51. old concert tees - this brings back memories of sporting old Monsters of Rock Tees in middle school.
52. Iced coffee -a good iced coffee can make my day, I crave them all too often.
53. notebooks -notebooks are a bad obsession of mine. I buy them often which can pose a problem. I guess its the writer in me? My husband is good at using the ones I half fill so I don't feel too bad about all of the trees I am killing with my collection.
54. butterscotch -reminds me of Royal Tenenbaums
55. storms - Storms are great for sleep inducing qualities or just to observe.
56. attic bedrooms
57. polaroids - in photography school we did a project with Polaroid transfers, one of my favorite mediums.
58. vinyl records - I use to have such a large collection. I have paired it back immensely keeping only the ones I adore. I am always tempted to start collecting again but have to ground myself due to storage space.
59. cupcakes
60. guacamole
61. mason jars
62. sharpies - I carry fine point colored sharpies everywhere. My new favorite is the sharpie pen product that doesnt bleed through paper. Maybe something about permanency?
63. castile soap
64. extremely over sized sunglasses
65. dictionaries
66. fairy tales
67. mismatched vintage coffee cups
68. wine
69. olive bread
70. b&w photo booths
71. snail mail
72. swiss design
73. stickers -remember the 80's stickers? Bubble stickers, holograms, scratch and sniff.
74. postcards- I read the back of postcards in antique malls and buy them for their writing not the picture on the front.
75. lists

The Art of Doing Nothing...

2009-08-08T16:55:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had one of those weeks? I know you have. Here’s the setup- your week is so long and full of so many projects that you end up physically, emotionally, and mentally drained. It’s like watching the movie Fight Club in fast forward with extra internal narration. It has been one of those weeks...

I wake up Saturday morning exhausted, my brain can hardly function. The cats are looking at me with that pissed off glare that they haven’t been fed yet. I stumble down the stairs on to the day. I decide to make an executive decision- I am going to do nothing today. There I said it, I will do nothing. I will recuperate so I can be useful for the rest of the week. This decision however comes with consequence. I know you have heard it. It’s that annoying voice inside you head, synapse firing all too often, echoing “you can’t just sit there!” My brain becomes flooded with thoughts of household projects, a much needed grocery store visit, laundry, and a million other nagging items. Guilt sets in, but I ponder- when is the last time you actually had an opportunity to “take the day off?” So I revolted against the evil thoughts in my head that said those dreaded words- “you can’t just do nothing!” I literally said out loud, as if an affirmation, poo-poo on you thoughts. This is what my brain had been succumb to- mush. I just said poo poo on you- I was speaking in childhood adage. That was enough justification for me- I was going to take the day off. I highly suggest doing this when you can- the opportunity is rare so take it! I am officially letting myself off the hook- and that includes you too!

Ways to spend your day doing “nothing”:

- I Rented Sabrina. I am a huge Audrey Hepburn fan and I like to keep her in my repertoire of relaxing things to do. She is on my side in moments of panic. She is one of my go to gals. So here we are- Sabrina and I. Now if I would have only had the brain power to think of popcorn. Especially Cava’s recipe.

- Picked up Pride and Prejudice. You are probably asking.-“Why would I torture myself that way?”A classic never gets read in this household unless you just happen to have a day to pull it off the shelf and brush off the dust. I suggest wrapping yourself in a quilt and reading these dusters all day long. When else will you have time?

- Sleep, if you can. Cat naps are amazing but I am not very good at them. In fact I am not very good at sleeping at all. I recently learned a trick from my boss that works wonders. She uses the Julia Roberts method- (you can use any actor that works for you.) The point is to try to name as many movies as you can that that actor has been in. With Julia I have only gotten to 12 before I fall asleep. Works like a charm. Enough to keep your mind off of everything else but boring enough to fall asleep.

- Have a beach cocktail. I prefer a lake/cottage cocktail (Which are called Febreze’s- shout out to Connie and Paul) but whatever works for you is key. There is something about treating yourself to some vacation cocktail that makes you feel like you are in that moment of relaxation.
- Eat kid food. One of the best things is simplicity on days like these. So don’t fret in the kitchen. Whip up a simple grilled cheese or a peanut butter and jelly. These foodstuffs bring back memories of a simpler and more innocent time- and it’s worth the caloric intake.

I guess my point is (and maybe too many Febreze’s later) that when an opportunity presents itself take it- even if that opportunity is to do nothing at all.

Insert Quirky Blog Title Here...

2009-08-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since my last blog post. Writing can be a dear friend or your worst enemy. For me writing comes in spurts sometimes flowing so rapidly that the keyboard strokes seem to come faster than my thoughts- that great flow of consciousness art form. Other times I stare blankly at the screen until I finally wave the white flag and surrender. The past couple weeks have been eventful but the wordsmith section of my brain seemed to have an out to lunch sign hanging. I love this quote from Steve Martin, "Writer's block is a fancy term made up by whiners so they can have an excuse to drink alcohol." I finally got the creative juices running with some inspiration from the following:

Homemade Bagels: Anne made homemade bagels at the family reunion and I was intrigued. I found a great story about making bagels and a video. They were spectacular and pretty easy. You know the feeling- the feeling when you pull off some recipe (whether it’s difficult or not) that reaps great rewards- well this is one of them. Hint: I froze the extra bagels, they defrost wonderfully.

Comfort Food: is one of my favorite things to make. This turkey meatloaf recipe is a keeper- very moist and flavorful. I paired it with homemade mashed potatoes.

Traveling: I went to the eduWeb conference in Chicago (pool side photo above). I found out about all sorts of cool, dorky techie stuff.
Animoto
Google labs
Google Wave
html5

Oh and on a side note check out all my favs, where you will find the the Creme de La Creme of the Internet.

A trip to our local library. There is something about the library; I could spend hours roaming the shelves. I have been going to this library since I was eight and know where books are without having to get a call number. My goal at ten was to read one entire shelf- I succeeded at twenty five (only about 15 books, but whose counting). The shelf consisted of books on self sufficiency, organic gardening, goats, farming, etc. I check the shelf often to see if they have added anything new but for now I am safe. I sometimes have nightmares that they may add a book on tractor repair or an entire dusty paperweight volume on homemade irragation systems. Can you imagine? Here are the books and CD's I picked up:

Urban Eco Chic: How to live in an eco-friendly way without compromising on style
The Cluetrain Manifesto: The End of Business as Usual
Beyond Disruption: Changing the Rules in the Marketplace
Naked Conversations: How Blogs are Changing the Way Businesses Talk with Customers
Crafty Chica's Guide to Artful Sewing: Fabu-Low-Sew Projects for the Everyday Crafter
The Wild Girls

The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Decemberist, The Hazards of Love
Lucinda Williams, West
Fionna Apple, Extraordinary Machine

Wedding Planning Boot Camp and Homemade Cookbooks...

2009-07-16T10:18:00.000-07:00

For all of those who have been through the survival of planning a wedding I applaud you. It is one of the greatest feats to pull off without having a total mental, physical and emotional breakdown. For those who will be planning one in the future some words of wisdom- hold on tight it’s going to be a crazy ride.

Chris and I were engaged on January 1st of 2008. We decided to set a date in the late summer because we had grandiose visions of an outdoor wedding, bluegrass bands and lanterns with a cool breeze like those images you see in Living magazine. The main theme for the event was our combined love for food. Food is an important part of our lives it marks birthdays, good times with friends, celebrations and the like. In fact many times I cannot tell you what the weather was like, what the details of the day were but instead I recall memories by the food that was served. I will never forget our first date; it is ingrained in my memory with jalapeno chocolate ice-cream. It was everything you would expect cool, classic and sweet but then it hit you with a sense of pride, soul and a lasting impression. The ice cream was a representation of our conversation that night, our getting to know each other, and of my future husband’s personality. Each memory dog eared like a good cookbook, are the recipes for life. When food is the forefront of your scheme in planning a wedding it can be a challenge. For one most places will require you to use one of their suggested caterers. I view this as the proverbial pigeonhole and avoided all venues that required it. Chris and I instead decided that we would plan the whole menu and executed it ourselves with the help of friends (when I say ourselves I really mean my husband, my father, friends and a few hired staff).
The menu tuned out to be spectacular:

Eat, Drink, and Be Married
Menu

Squash Caponata
Grilled Corn Salsa with Delice de Bourgone
Smoked Roma Tomato Caesar Salad
Greg’s Asparagus with Basil Dressing
Portobello Galette with Pine Nuts and Avocado Mousse
Barbequed Cornish Hen Timbale
Duck Rillettes with Dried Fruit Compote
Chicken Farci with Goat Cheese and Buttermilk Fried Onion
Blackened Scallop Ceviche Shooter
Stuffed Squid Seaweed Salad
Smoked Salmon with Cucumber Salad
Lobster Bisque
Confit Pork Tenderloin with Mango Lemon Gelee
Merguez Pork Belly with Apple Squash Risotto
Lamb Bourgogne En Croute
Flank Steak with Red Pepper Ledna in Pita
Flank Steak Slider with Tomato Preserve and Blue Cheese
Wild Rice and Orzo Salad
Potato Gaufrette
Banana Nutella Marshmallow Fluff Sandwich
Baked Chicken Nugget Lollipops

Another word of advice for those of you how will endure the boot camp of planning a wedding- make sure you get to eat. I was adamant about eating at our wedding. How could I not all of the food was handpicked and prepared beautifully. We did eat however; I can’t tell you that I remember much of what I ate. It was mainly eat fast, chew, shallow regiment similar to those eating competitions you see on television except without the mess.

I do have memories in food from that day though. We decided to create a wedding cookbook as our guest favors. We joked “what do you get when you marry a graphic designer and a chef, a wedding cookbook.” We asked each of our guests to submit a recipe, a story, or memories of food. We (and when I say we this time I mean me) then compiled them all into a spiral bound book to give to our guests. For the past ten months I have been enjoying our wedding memories and those of friends and family by cooking the recipes held within those pages. For example, Chris’ Uncle Dan makes an amazing Corn salad with blue cheese, basil vinaigrette and cherry tomatoes. It was served at my bridal shower, our reception dinner and now at various cookouts this year. Or my Aunt Sharon who submitted a recipe for French 44 and sent us home with a homemade batch she had made herself. The French 44 has been brushed on Chris birthday cake, and in the glasses of many toasts shared with friends. The recipes in those pages remind us of family and friends in ways that reach far beyond memory, they entice us to remember and also create new experiences of the like. All of these recipes entice, inspire and will continue to live on in each recreation.

If you would like the instructions on how to create your own wedding cookbook email me at: wifeofthechef@gmail.com

Photography by Tine Hoffman at
TM Photography

Confessions of a Baker...

2009-07-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

I love a good birthday party. I have one cardinal rule when it comes to birthdays- there simply must be cake. Everyone must have a birthday cake, or pie, tray of bars, clafoutis or whatever one’s heart desires. It is important to have sugar at birthdays; it is reminiscence of our youth and well -hell, who doesn’t like picking their birthday dessert. Whatever butter filled, sugar buzz inducing delight you crave can be delivered on your birthday. You can eat it and not feel guilty- it’s like guilt free dessert day. Even as a guest you say things like “Oh no, I couldn’t possibly.” Quickly followed by “But since it’s so- and- so’s birthday, just a little piece.” This inevitably turns out to be a pretty big slice which you devour and sometimes even add the celebratory scoop of icecream to boot. And as long as it isn’t one of those creepy food coloring Crisco icing cakes with clowns and balloons it was all worth it.

My husbands’ desire for his own birthday dessert was not as passionate as mine was for him to choose one. I rifled through cookbooks, trekked my way through various blogs and sites, dug up old favorites in the great search for a dessert for Chris’ birthday. I tempted him with double chocolate espresso cake, bourbon pecan pie, key lime, coconut, studying his face for a gleam in the eye, any spark of interest. To my despair he responded with, “I’m just not really a dessert person.” Alright listen folks whether Chris is a dessert person or not (may I remind you dear husband of your addiction to your Mother's peanut butter bars mind you) it’s a birthday right? So finally, and I believe it was to appease me or stop my excessive questioning about the decision (I needed time to prepare of course), he finally chose a sour cream pound cake. This wasn’t just any old sour cream pound cake; it was a beauty a perfect salute to a summer birthday. It was three tiered with macerated strawberries between every layer, smoothly coated with a rich but lemony butter cream and then topped with additional strawberries once plated (recipe from bake me more). Chris also had the genius suggestion to brush the cake with homemade French 44 that my Aunt Sharon gave us.

My only fail with the cake was the icing. I had thought about that icing endeavor all day. How was I going to battle it, what was my game plan? It taunted me with two concerns (which inevitably were going to happen) the crumb would end up littering the outside of the icing and that the butter cream would plop about the sides giving it that undesirable caught in the rain effect. My husband came to the rescue to head off any crying fits or profuse cursing from the kitchen an hour before guests arrived and offered to ice his own birthday cake (Chris also took pastry classes in school). At first I was hesitant; I am a bit of a control freak in the kitchen with my projects. Not that I could do better but that I was determined to tackle the project. But in the end I accepted and the results were lovely. I am learning that we are a team and in a relationship you have to be willing to let go sometimes. At the end of the day I thought, "would my husband rather ice his own birthday cake (sorry honey) or witness cursing like a sailor and sobs coming from his OCD wife?" By letting go we could have our cake and eat it too.

No harm done, I still had the rest of the menu that I had planned and executed. Along the way I learned some great things too- it helps to have a chef around. I learned that I had cooked the hard boiled eggs wrong, the shells clinging for dear life as I fought to peel them off. I should grill corn in the oven instead of boiling it. When cooking, timing is everything. It was a great day in the kitchen and the menu was spectacular, if I do say so myself.

Curried Chutney Dip
Deviled Eggs Puttanesca Style
Apple Brined Chicken Grilled with Alabama White Sauce
Company Potatoes
Fruit Salad with Beautiful Blackberries
Corn Salad with Basil, Cherry Tomatoes, Blue Cheese and Basil
and of course the Infamous Sour Cream Pound Cake

June's Winner...

2009-07-02T06:15:00.000-07:00

June's giveaway has ended. The winner from the random number generator was the sixth post- Congratulations Blair!
Blair's comment was:

"At this point I'm planting more and more English Ivy, the only thing that will grow in my little court yard. I really like Four O'clocks though. Yesterday my mom and I went on New Port's East Row Garden Walk. A small wispy variant of Four O'clocks were featured in one garden. Purple flowers that open every day at four. "

The next giveaway is coming soon, so read often.

Being The Wife of a Chef...

2009-06-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

Where should I start ...

Oeufs en Cocotte or Filets de Poisson Bercy aux Champignons and Poulet Roti perhaps? To be honest with you I find it hard to decipher all of this, but I am intrigued. Mostly these are just fancy sounding french words that mean- really good food! At least that's my translation. I am so intrigued by my husbands' talent and craft.

The funny thing is that being A wife of the chef is wonderful but it can be deceiving to many. Read Wife Of The Chef by Courtney Febbroriello- she is very, very funny. She talks about the misperceptions in a witty way- such a great book. Below are a few myths we share in common:

myth#1. I do not spend endless hours in the gym. Truth be told I could probably use a few here and there (a FEW mind you) but that comes from my style of cooking and way too may iced coffees.

myth#2 I actually cook at home- yes I know, shocking right? In fact I love it. I am in some ways a " foodie"- although I somewhat loath that word- but yes its true. (see below)

#3 Hey Reality folks -we eat frozen pizza, ramen noodles, smoothered french fries, and good beer, just like the rest of the world- crazy right? We try not to- but really?

#5 Out kitchen is small , but we love it (one of the sacrifices to a 1920s bungalow). However it is currently overflowing with kitchen gadgets and appliances.

#6 I have been a vegetarian (well I do eat chicken now, what can I say?) for 16 years- thats not counting the new found chicken habit. And no, I will not succumb to duck liver, beef and any pork product cravings- yuck!

#7 My husbands favorite meals are things like homemade chicken pot pie, meatloaf, soups, stews and the like and I am happy to oblige.

Creepy Ceramic Druken Cat Lamp Character Soon To Be Mascot...

2009-06-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

Things I have become aware of this week:

1. Marzipan and Roux (our cats) are more human, obstinate, and smart that I was aware of. Their new talent is sleeping on the fireplace mantle among nice glass things- gravity folks.

2. Goldfish won at carnivals do not live very long (Poor Peanut Butter and Jelly.)

3. I find some amazing new feature to my new car each day I drive it- I love you Audi, you are
genius.

4. I care more about design than doing the dishes, mopping the floor, or working on the yard.

5. I do not; repeat, do not have a green thumb- Sorry Yarrow and things that are not weeds that I pull anyway.

After a long week of all of these lessons- well a girl can become exhausted. So I recieved Dr. Burns perscription for a long week- my mother law is fabulous! Really I am serious- I am so lucky. My friends ask often if I can share her and well I'm just not sure people. LOl. But I will share her prescription for a long week and misbehaved cats-

"Dr. Burns prescribes to stop at the store on the way home for a stouffers dinner that you love, like macaroni and cheese; a bottle of wine, a magazine and a squirt bottle. Come home, put on comfy shorts and top. Light a few scented candles and stay inside in the cool. Drink wine and read the magazine while your dinner cooks. Squirt the cats at appropriate moments. Find a good, boring movie or read a book of your choice and fall asleep by 9. Dream of Chicago and beach vacations. SLEEP LATE. "

Yes! Mac and Cheese, Kendall Jackson, Readymade or Domino and Breakfast at Tiffanys...now that will cure about anything.

Oh plus some links to read, that would be fun wouldn't it:

Free printable book plates
Jello Competition-Really?
Stuff for your home-Pier One Coupon
Summer Food-Horseradish Potato Salad
Why? Star Wars and Chipmunks
Burts Bees has been in Business for 25 years
Good Ol' Martha's At It Again-Chilled Fresh Pea and Buttermilk Soup
Hmm- Iced Tea Cupcakes? Might be good?
I must make these- Pillow Patch
I think I should have this or this- what color?
Emily is bloggin about strawberries from Sauvie Island Farms

Speaking of farms- go to Sunrock if you get a chance- I use to work there, excellent!
A whole new type of Potato Gun
Package Design
Loving 300 Love Letters (you have to click on the colors to read them- each color means something)

Photo Credit: (Deb Perelman/smittenkitchen.com)

Crazy Lamp Cat Needs Your Help- He Has No Name!

P.S.- Crazy Cat Lamp Character will soon be my blog mascot. There will be some fun advertsing and free stuff involving the mascot to promote hop scotch studios. The only problem is, he needs a name. Leave a comment here with suggested name ideas please. Thanks peeps!

Coffee on The Rocks...

2009-06-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

Friday at lunch I treated myself to an amazing iced coffee. I also swung by a thrift shop that is nearby during lunchtime and picked up a fabulously scary cat lamp. It is horrible and I love it. See!

(Don't worry chris this beautifuly tacky piece is staying in my office)This weekend will prove to be busy yet productive. I have big plans to make bagels for the first time. Still working on endless house projects and going to my favorite yard sale. I should have lots of fun pictures to post on Monday! For now I will leave you with thought of the day:

Why are french children utterly adorable. I must make this my future childrens second language (I can justify this because we are foodies-right? ;)

A Year of Mornings/ A Year of Evenings

Designer Lines Jewelry- Loving the Rabbit Necklace

Look at these hair adornments- droll here

Craving some Red Curry this week

Learn about Trajan “The Movie Font” Very Funny!!

I heart documentaries

Save Big Fancy Words

I bought the book Julie and Julia this weekend- soon to be a movie

My Obsession with Ink and Lead...

2009-06-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

I cleaned out my studio this weekend and discovered my sick obsession with pen, pencils and markers. I kid you not it is quite a collection. I have a plethora of colors and patterns. Heck- I bet half of the pens don't even work anymore. Will I ever recover? I could not bring myself to get rid of any of them and instead joined them all together as a collection- a sea of ink and lead. I shut the lid and back in the closet they went- we can all rest now. Maybe it’s connected with my love for writing. He's another poem from The Lake anthology I wrote last year. Also be sure to scroll down the page and check out the cool Links O' the Week.

It’s my bare foot on the robin egg colored chair that I remember
the chair leg gnarled by the canine’s of a grown pup
the color of the chair complements the yellowed wallpaper
Goldenrod
pigment made distinctive by age

I reach for a bag of flour
My limbs are no longer pasty white
Rather gingered by the sun
I pitch the bag of flour
From cabinet to counter
Its impact
Produces a plume of powder
That coats my hair, already fair from the sun

The kitchen is small and full of Lilliputian treasures
Souvenir eggcups from various states
Missing lonely singles to shakers one paired
Miscellaneous cookware
various vintage baking tools missing marks
That once measured
Knick knacks, baubles, delias and
Jettison Junk
Missing its mate
Absent of care

I am allowed to spend my time here if I choose
Spending my days experimenting with
Pink pancakes
Peanut butter and chocolate chip sandwiches
Puffy Dutch babies

Its silent in this place
and I feel
as if it is mine

I am not bothered
as I devour marmalade coated toast
Jam running sticky skinned
There is no sign of disgust
from family members
while smothering ketchup on scrambled eggs

that kitchen was part of what made me
who I am
a lover of color
a possessor of kitschy vintage baubles
a creator of baked goods and jams
an owner of furniture, worn and imperfect
a hostess amid oilcloth tablecloths and cast iron pans

a spender of time
alone in the kitchen
and a collector of those damn eggcups
that remember me fondly

Links
I heart Charlie Harper!
Tessellating lizard pavers- M.C. would love this.
Learn the Meaning of Life only 9.99
I love great packaging

Shoes in vending machines- It's like a dream come true!
Vivienne Westwood Heels

Ever wondered what Betsy Johnsons apartment looked like?

Pop Garden, Lack of A Green Thumb and A Giveaway...

2009-06-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

Note to Self: I do not have a green thumb.

I finally got around to doing some gardening. We planted a couple of flowers but need to pick up more for all of the beds.

The hostas the previous owner planted are doing extremely well. There is so much more to do to
the yard.

I love the orange and purple together.

Classic pink petunias

We are working on the back deck this weekend. It needs washed, dried, and treated. I picked out fabric for the pillows and cushions I am going to make for the new yellow rocking chairs. I think I will have some left over to also make napkins or a table runner. I have been yearning to use Heather Bailey's fabric for so long. Her Pop Garden collection matches the chairs and the theme perfectly.

(photo by Heather Bailey)

My laundry list of d.i.y projects keeps growing- I need to catch up. I have also made a pact with myself to post all of my etsy items this weekend! Hold me to it.

Now for the good stuff- I am posting my first giveaway! This is due to a couple reasons:

1. I love comments
2. I really needed to clean out my studio

No- really I have been planning on giving away some freebies every month. I especially want to give away items that I do product reviews on. So if you read last weeks blog you probably read my product review about Marshmallow body polish- well here is your opportunity to get it free (plus some other fun stuff)!

All you have to do is leave a comment after this post answering this question: "What is your favorite flower/tree/plant?" and type your name. My special random number generator will choose the lucky winner at the end on the month. Its that simple.

New Cupcake Liner Patterns, The History of Crayons and Lots O' Links...

2009-06-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

So much has been happing that I haven’t slowed down to download pictures yet! I will be posted some exciting new things in the departments of cooking, baking, gardening, and sewing very soon. Also keep your eye out for upcoming blog giveaways. I will be giving away new favorite products, crafting materials, stationary and all sorts of fun goodies to random lucky winners in upcoming weeks. For now here are some fun links!

New Baking Stuff
Two of my favorite things in one recipe: Coffee and Cupcakes
Tie Dye Candles for your Tie Dye Cake
Fabulous! Vintage Paisley pattern Cupcake Liners!! Oh Joy!
Oh! Or Woodland Mushroom Print
Mustache cookie cutter
Hungry Caterpillar Cupcakes
Dulce-de-Leche Cheesecake Squares
Strawberry Balsamic Ice Cream

Other Random Fun Stuff
Free Templates for Invitations and Cards
Love these creations by Matte Stephens
Greener grass design
Elsewares
A Visual History of Crayons
Wallpapered furniture
Make Homemade Butter
The Apron Book: Making, Wearing, and Sharing a Bit of Cloth and Comfort
Hours of fun stuff at MaryJane's Farm Girl Connection: Her books are also fabulous! Love this one!
Made from Scratch: Discovering the Pleasures of a Handmade Life
Why I need to Learn How To Knit
I Must Have This Headband or Figure Out How To make It

Product Reviews:
New lip balm: LypSyl Lip Balm made with pure Swedish beeswax, avocado, Shea butter, sunscreen and not tested on animals. Available at Walgreens.

Marshmallow Body Polish: Peach Seed and micro-beads gently exfoliate while Shea Butter moisturizes. This creamy, cleansing formula with extracts of Soybean and Marshmallow will leave skin super-smooth.

New Recipes, The Dreaded Painting Project and A Barrel of Links...

2009-05-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

I finally had an opportunity to try some new recipes. Wednesday night I made chicken breast stuffed with cream cheese, turkey bacon and scallions then wrapped in dough. I also made a raspberry, red onion, sunflower and organic mixed green salad (the green from the organic CSA), and asparagus. For dessert I baked THE BEST Sour Cream Apple Pie, which turned out so delicious. Props to the fabulous Alicia Paulson for posting this recipe- she knows how to pick them.

Trying to get back in the swing of things after a fabulous vacation with family. I am committed to finally painting the bathroom this weekend (the paint has sat in a corner for 3 weeks).

Things I would rather be doing this weekend:

Picking out Wallpaper
Downloading Free Stitch Fonts
Making Owl Cupcakes
Online Shopping at Built By Wendy while drinking Iced Coffee
Read the New Stitch Issue

Waste time by using Twitter on paper

Ode to Bjork by Buying This Dress
Research how to cut down on cat hair

Search for vintage Pyrex on Ebay

Look at Pretty Paper Cuttings

Make Hourglass Pillows for my porch
Make a dress from this pattern with Yellow fabric

Feed into my cupcake addiction

Plan my Next Cookout

Get more fabric

I Feel So Loved, Blog Awards and a Random Gnome...

2009-05-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite and talented peeps has given me a blog award! Thanks Nancy!

So, like all things in life, nothing is free...the rules of receiving this award are:

1) accept the award
2) post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his or her blog link.
3) pass the award to 5 other blogs that you enjoy following.

Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.
And here are my five:

The fabulous Nancy Dawson at Brideface- This woman works amazing magic, so talented. Plus she is a wizard with lashes. Fun read about makeup and her craft.

Posie Gets Cozy-The blog I have read for so many years that it comes up in coversation frequently.
Heres how it goes:
Me in regular conversation: "You should see the vinatge dishes Alicia just bought." or " You should see how big Clover Meadow is, that dog is so adorable."

My husband: "Now who is this?"

Me: Alicia from Posie Gets Cozy

My Husband: A blog? I thought you knew this person.

Me: uh, no. (feeling like total dork)

Sincerley Yours, Kate- amazing sewing projects from vintage patterns, great recipes and wonderful writing style. So fun to read.

Another favorite that I have been reading for quite a while- Not Martha
I love the how to make stuff section (especially pies baked in tiny jars- this thrills me to no end)

Jessica Jones from How About Orange
This graphic designer is fabulous. She even designs her own fabric (soon to be made into my kitchen curtain) She also lists lots of fun free downloads.

Road Trip, Great Food and Adventures with the Condits....

2009-05-25T16:39:00.001-07:00

So much happened this week! What an adventure...Chris, Susan, Gary and I went to SC- Hilton Head to be exact. We took a fabulous road trip to visit family- a reunion of sorts. Although it rained most of the time spending time with family was so wonderful. (All in one BIG house) We had a blast! I have to say this family is amazingly talented and so much fun. We cooked (menu to follow), Shopped, played board games, watched movies, shared music, stories and jokes, swam, built sand castles. Oh- there is so much to report. As always I will start with the food- it was amazing!

(Photo of Nick: I love taking photos of Nick, his comical poses crack me up- so fun.)

Menu:

Saturday- "The Great American Cookout": Burgers, Apple and Walnut Salad with Roquefort Dressing, Mango Curry Cheese Spread, Pecan Pineapple Cheese Spread, Bee Cheese, and Strawberry Shortcake.

Sunday- "A Taste of Cincinnati": Homemade Skyline Chili Four Ways and Various Flavors of Greaters Ice Cream with Sundae Toppings.

Monday- "Family Pig Roast": A Whole Roasted Pig, Roasted Chicken, Jan's Famous Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Biscuits and Sarah's Brownies.

Tuesday- "Grandmarj's Birthday Shindig": Pate, Hummus, Cheese Plate, Black Bean Salsa, Prosciutto Wrapped Dates with Smoked Cheddar, Gougères, and Homemade Carrot Birthday Cake.

Wednesday- "Fiesta Night": Carne Roja, Chicken Enchiladas, Homemade Guacamole, Black Beans and Rice with Cilantro and Lime, Margaritas and White Sangria.

Thursday- "A Taste of Cottage Life”: Chili Lime Marinated Tilapia, Mexican Rice, Succotash, Lime Cupcakes, Mojitos, Pate, Lemon and Dill Hummus with Spring Vegetables.

Friday: Pizza! And Smores Cupcakes.

Saturday- “Homage to Hilton Head”: Minestrone Soup with Strozzapreti, Seafood Cassoulet with Mussels, Shrimp, Chicken Sausage and Caramelized Fennel and Cherry tomato.

More to come…..!!!

And the List Goes On and On and On and On...

2009-05-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

My Productive Weekend:
Picked out paint for the bathroom (Behr Liberty)
Two trips to Home Depot, one trip to Jackson Florist
Five loads of laundry
Bought Palm Sander
Spring Cleaning in Kitchen and Foyer
Watered flower beds
Read First two chapters of Emerging Enterprise Law Book
etc., etc.,etc.

Which then spurred this to do list…
To Do:
Paint bathroom and Trim (White)
Plant wave petunias in stone wall pillars
Buy and hang ferns on front porch
Make Jane Market Bags
Refinish/Paint Buffett For back Patio (Either Saffron or Marigold, then distress) Project Inspiration Found Here
Build raised beds for Garden
Paint front railing and backyard gate
Pick out bedding for Spare Bedroom
Find A Glass pitcher For Sun Tea
Find Sewing Table

And then on to the fun to do list…
Buy Yellow Gerber Daisies
Bake Shortbread
Get A New Shade Of Chanel Nail polish
Download Selah Sue, Vetiver, Great Lake Swimmers and Timber Timbre from itunes
Make Tea Towels With Sublime Stitchery Black Apple Pattern

Reduce Reused Recycle Project
Read This Book
Drool over this Chair
Have Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream Mid Afternoon

Cupcakes, Presents from Japan and A New Recipe...

2009-05-07T07:31:00.000-07:00

The Cupcake Obsession Explained:
People have asked if I am obsessed with cupcakes and well the answer is simply –YES! I guess I go through phases with baking- picking favorite things to try to master and study. One year it was pies. I spent weekends learning techniques and trying tricks of the trade to achieve the perfect crust. For an entire year it was sugar cookies (you know the ones that look so beautiful on the cover of magazine that you could never accomplish- why do they torture us so?) I have an entire cabinet full of cookie cutters to prove it. And for the moment, it’s cupcakes. Maybe it’s that they remind me of the 50’s or that there are so many fun things you can do with the icing and flavor combinations. Whatever it is I love baking cupcakes, you may too. If you are obsessed like I am you should visit all thing cupcakes. And if you try the recipe below please leave a comment or a suggestion.

I Love Mail: A couple weeks ago I received a box of cupcake liners from Japan from my friend Molly. I cannot begin to describe the utter joy that these liners brought me. Look at them – they are fabulous! I happily got them out when making the lime cupcake recipe but couldn’t bring myself to use them yet. I still need time to admire them. Thanks Molly!

A New Recipe:
The Lime cupcakes for Cinco de Mayo turned out wonderful. I used the pink lemonade recipe and substituted Limeade for the concentrate. I also halved the butter in the icing and added cream cheese to give it some richness like a key lime pie effect. Since this was my first time playing with the recipe the frosting turned out very limey, enough to make your mouth pucker. I wrote the recipe below for less than I used but you may want to add little by little and taste as you go. (Recipe adapted from Cast Sugar's Pink Lemonade Cupcakes)

Ingredients:
1 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
Pinch salt
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/4 c. vegetable oil
2 egg whites
1/3 c. thawed frozen Limeade
1/4 c. buttermilk

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line muffin pan with liners.
In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, egg whites and lemonade concentrate. Alternately whisk in flour mixture and buttermilk, making three additions of flour mixture and two of buttermilk, beating until just smooth.

Scoop batter into liners (fill about three-fourths full). Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tops of cupcakes spring back when lightly touched. Let cool in pan on rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan and let cool completely on rack. Top cooled cupcakes with frosting (see below).

Lime Buttercream:
3 c. + 3 Tbsp. confectioner’s sugar
1/2 stick unsalted butter at room temperature1/4 cup cream cheese
1/8 tsp. salt
1-2 Tbsp. Limeade concentrate
Green food coloringLimes cut in slices (for decoration)

Add the butter, confectioner’s sugar, salt, lemon juice, and a few drops of food coloring to the stand mixer and mix on low using the paddle attachment until combined. Turn the speed to med-high until the buttercream is fluffy and uniformly pink. Pipe or spread onto cooled cupcakes.

ESP, Hidden Treasure, and Vintage Oddities...

2009-05-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

In the Go Green Department: We signed up for an organic produce program from a local farm in KY. Our first produce delivery should be here soon. Saturday we bought a composting bin from Hamilton County Yard Waste and Composting Management. It was a great deal and I can’t wait to start composting in preparation for our garden. I just bought Alicia Paulson’s pattern for the Jane Market Bag- really excited to start on those. I see fabric shopping in my future. I am also working on a litter control program for two elementary schools in Covington. Still working out logistics and researching best practices.

Spring Cleaning and Treasure: We spent the weekend doing some spring cleaning. I tackled reorganization of the closets and Chris cleaned out the basement. Since we moved into the house around planning the wedding we really haven’t unpacked all the boxes yet. Chris found an old recipe box in the basement from the original owner. I was ecstatic. It contained all sorts of great recipes from the 40’s- mainly baking. In fact the first recipe I looked at was for cupcakes- go figure! Many of them are Victory recipes. I am working on transcribing them and will post for all to enjoy. Cooking and Baking: Last Night I baked Lime cupcakes for Cinco de Mayo. I used the pink lemonade recipe and substituted limeade for lemonade concentrate. I also made Mexican Chicken Lasagna which I seem to make constantly. I really need to try some new recipes. I actually used the recipe because I could pre prep it and bake it the next day. I had a great night cooking, baking and listening to Cat Power.

Vintage and Oddities: I am sure you would like to know- Last week I bought the tackiest vintage beagle dog statue smothered in white pearlescent glaze. It is fabulous! I have started quite the collection on my desk. Why you ask? - Not sure, the stuff just makes me happy. Next hunt is for a large painting I can hang above my desk.

Linkage for the Week:

Orla Kiley at Target Again- I went to Target when her designs were release and the shelves were pretty bare, but she is back!

Part Invitation Idea- One of the most inventive invitations I have seen for a kid’s party.

More fabric

Vintage Wallpaper Books- I have been searching for one of these for so long- just think of the possibilities

Margarita Ice Pops and Strawberry Margarita Pie

Haute Couture- This is so funny I was just thinking about a necklace my friend Katie gave me in high school that would have matched my outfit today. It was an awesome silver snake charm of a purple cord (I think this might be in my keepsake box. I will have to look; I would love to wear it again.) Looks like my ESP with notcouture is working, this was the first entry I viewed.

Kelburn Castle Graffiti Art Project

F is for Fail- great typography video

Creative Fuel...

2009-04-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

Inspiration and New Favorite Things List

1. Mylie Shirtdress from Deila's- I love shirt dresses, they are so comfortable and versatile.

2. Phlox- We have purple in the back of the house but I am really smitten by this nice pink color for the side yard.

3. The New Dodge Challenger- Isn't she lovely? This is one of the best fusions of vintage meets modern I have seen in quite a while. Very impressive design and oh so lovely.

4. Cover Girl Lip Stain- I was curious about this one. Nancy Dawson (Brideface) recommended it as one of her top 5 beauty products. I just had to try it- result= fabulous and affordable! Warning, if you buy this product I think picking a lighter color than you would wear is important. I went a shade lighter with Flirty Nude and it matched by regular deeper colored lip stick once applied.

5. Adam Lambert- I cant help it I am in awe when he sings. I know, I know waste of time TV, and a bad show at that but hes got me hooked. Each week I am wowed even more. And did you see that sharkskin suit?

6. I loved Domino Magazine (I think they stopped publishing it?) I always loved to live vicariously through its glossy well groomed pages of perfectly designed rooms. Now its in book form!

7. CB2 Mercury Vases- I devoured a CB2 catalog last week and fell in love with these. Sleek, modern, and super affordable.

8. Anthro Bella Quilt- If your like me your obsessed with anything Anthropologie. This quilt is the perfect mix between bohemian and shabby chic.

9. Labradoodle-Cute and Smart!

10. Neko Case, Middle Cyclone- Do you like the Decemberists, the Fleet Foxes, Cat Power. Then you will love Neko Case's new album.

11. Twilight Jacket- Cop Bella’s style! Made by BB Dakota and sold at Fred Flare.

12. Twitter- have you joined yet? Its a lonely world tweeting by yourself.

Wild Youth, Phlox and The Great Search for the Perfect Pancake Recipe...

2009-04-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend was fantastic especially in the weather department. Friday Logan came over to spend the night and Chris led a game of freeze tag with Logan and the neighborhood kids. The neighbor and I decided to sneak up on the kids and spray them with the hose. They were all squealing and having so much fun. Logan even had to stop to give a speech, which I found hilarious. The kid was having so much fun that he loudly announced this, “It’s good to be free, it’s good to be wild, I Love my freedom!” I was rolling, really? It was fun watching all the kids at dusk playing like we did as kids- nostalgia! In the morning we all participated in the Great American Cleanup. Then I made a big breakfast, including pancakes which I only make if Logan comes over. I have been using the joy of cooking version for the recipe but am still in search of something better if anyone has suggestions.

Saturday afternoon we worked all day in the yard, literally hours. The exciting part of planning and planting is in effect now that the yard has been prepared. I am thinking more hostas, wave petunias, ferns, zinnias, snap dragons, roses, and phlox. Later that night we made two recipes from the wedding cookbook. One was Jan Palmers Baked Beans and the Mitsui Family’s company potato recipe. They were both wonderful and really simple and quick to make. We grilled out and enjoyed the newly cleaned yard and deck with Steve and Samara.

Sunday Chris and I went to look at cars. I quickly realized there are very few new cars that I like (I am a sucker for vintage instead). I did like the Dodge charger, Audi A4 and the Lancer. I am going to have to set aside my indecisive nature and chose one if I ever want to actually own a new car. Well Monday brings work and a neighborhood association meeting tonight- exciting stuff. Below are more links of interest for this week. I love links!!

Learn about Dogwood Trees and Make Dagwood Sandwiches
Bake Pies in Tiny Jars
Make Close Pins Magnets and Download a menu planner for the fridge
Join all the cool kids and order of Fred shirt or see Fred on you tube
Buy cool fabric at JCaroline Creative, or Spoonflower
Make your own Kitchen Curtains
Get Trash Tie hair accessories from Heather Bailey and Niveas New Tinted Lip Balm
Read Over The Moon and have a picnic of lemon cake while listening to Willie Nelson
Be a techie and Try augmented reality
Download Free Art to Frame
Dream about designer clothes after Viewing Cloak and Daggers designs

A Fender, Adventures in Cooking and Talking Trash...

2009-04-21T09:44:00.001-07:00

This weekend was my nephew Luke’s eleventh birthday. I love Luke’s personality and style. He loves to read, is excellent at taking things apart, and thankfully putting them back together, music and art. Plus he is the cutest thing (which he would hate that I said “cute,”) with his blonde indie rocker hair, black skull and crossbones slip-ons, worn in jeans- adorable! Chris decided to give Luke his Fender Stratocaster for his birthday, it was really sweet. We picked up some picks a cable and a Danelectro Honeytone Mini Amp. It was so much fun that next year: Logan= drums, love ya Sis!

Last night I made Mexican chicken lasagna; it is one of my favorite recipes! I can never find Chihuahua cheese so I substitute a little goat cheese instead to give it that richness. I also had some bananas in the freezer and had a chance to make some banana bread; I used this recipe and added toasted almonds and unsweetened coconut. My design life via etsy has been very slow lately due to a pro bono project. However, that does not stop me from looking at other artist creations. After I get some projects finished like paint on the house, traveling plans for the summer, final projects for class I will be back in the studio working diligently to post items to hop scotch studio.

Don't forget the Great American Cleanup is this Saturday! Click on the link to find the closest group near you. If you are volunteering in Covington I may see you there, I will be in multiple locations throughout the day!

In the meantime check out the links for the week:

Listen to Bon Iver or Neko Case
Rent Bollywood Films and Cook Indian Foood
Make a Tie Dye Cake
Visit Martha Vineyard's Fiber farm
Grow Microgreens on your windowsill
Download and print these vintage trim gift tags at doe-c-doe

*photo courtesy of Doe-c-Doe

True Confessions of a Betsy Johnson fan...

2009-03-27T06:39:00.000-07:00

Let’s talk fashion. I have always been draw to certain fabrics, patterns, textures and colors. The creative side of me can sometimes lend itself to create so pretty wild ensembles. In fact I am willing to admit- I am an insane Betsy Johnson fan, which just scares me. There are certain things I adore about clothes, a button up white cotton shirt; a colorful embroidered vintage purses, black china doll flats, worn in jeans, hobo bags, patterned scarves, eyelet, studded belts, a beaded clutch, a classic wool pea coat. Shopping for clothing in Cincinnati can be a bit challenging. Don’t get me wrong the vintage shops and random thrift shops hold a myriad of inexpensive treasures. It’s the lack of boutiques, shops, funky store fronts that I am missing. Thanks goodness for the beauty of online shopping. There is still something about Weekend trip where you roll out of bed, put on faded jeans, a tee and some flip flops- head to the local coffee shop (no Starbucks here) and scour the city for that perfect little black dress, or a great set of 80’s bangle bracelets. Let’s go shopping! Do you have suggestions or know of a shop in Cincinnati/NKY that I should visit? Let me know about it, post a comment here.

Shops I love

Saigon Market- China doll flats, favorite pattern rosesTrivets- Closed (multiple vintage tees, wish I still had them!)
Ladybug- Closed
Paisley Peacock- Closed
Green Parrot- Closed (Where I purchased a hot pink velvet 1960’s dress, that I was suppose to wear to prom)
Gap, Banana Republic Outlet Distribution Center (SALES: multiple pairs of jeans, leopard ballet flats, electric blue pumps, magenta suede ballet flats, cream colored pea coat, cream colored beaded clutch, -the list goes on and on)
Village Thrift (years of clothing and accessories, Some great vintage finds over the years. Recently a 1950’s floral dress with rhinestone beading, baby blue 1950-60’s cat eye sunglasses)Newport Antique Mall Basement- Closed (5 fabulous vintage handbags)

Fashion Finds I Have My Eye On

Shirt from Delias, Scarf from Anthropologie, Jeans from Alloy, Hat from Fred Flare, Sunglasses from Forever 21, Enid Collins Vintage Handbag from ebay.

I Never Was Cool...

2009-03-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

So I have this theory that you have to be a total dork to be cool. Or at least that’s what I claim. So hold onto your seats for total Dorkville. I can’t help it I am so deeply saddened I have to write about this tragedy. Kyle XY has been cancelled! I can barely even type those letters Cancelled. No more Mondays trying to figure out what the evil Latnok is up to. No more suspense and drama peppered with teenage angst. No more watching conundrums unfold as the quirky cast sips caffeine at The Rack. Does anyone have suggestions of a series to get hooked on next? :(

Watch it here

2009-03-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

Currently I am swamped by code. In fact my whole week has been building a website. Don’t get me wrong I love my job but sometimes figuring out problems with code can make you feel like you’re going to lose your mind. You see usually my weeks are filled with a balance of graphic design (that’s the art part), web design (that’s the techie stuff) and training (that’s the teaching people things). But this week there is a huge task at hand-so miles of code it is. Thank goodness for coffee! I think this weekend will involve studio time since my artistic side has been repressed this week by my technical side. I have a bazillion projects I would love to start. I have so many that I have become overwhelmed by which to do. I sometimes think if I joined a stitch and bitch group I would be more inclined to finish projects- but then again I probably would be consumed by the power of gab. My focus this week really needs to be on some line drawings (for a future project.) Do you have a creative side? Check out the projects below.

Fabric Scrap Memory Game
Tote Bag
Heart shaped paper clips
Paint Chip bookmarks
Paper Fortune Cookies
Candy Sushi

photo courtesy of How about Orange

A few of my favorite things...

2009-03-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

Realization:

I may be a walking WOM campaign without even knowing it. Maybe it’s my background in graphic design and my obsession with packaging. Maybe it is because I am an early adopter. I’m not sure but when I find a product I tell everyone about it. Sometimes people look at me strangely because I really do get giddy about certain products. So I have deiced to turn to another viral avenue and blog about them. Here are a couple:

Preserve: I love what this company does, stands for and creates. Preserve makes stylish, high performance, eco-friendly products for your home. I especially love their toothbrushes (now available at Target.)

Dr. Kirks Castile Soap: I use to have irrational fears that this company would stop making this soap. After a little research I found out that it is actually made in Hebron, KY- hooray to local support.

Sharpie: Oh my dear and beloved Sharpie how I obsessively collect you. Really no joke, I am a sharpie freak. They are all over our house. My favorites are the ultra fine point color pack collection and the new sharpie pen.I use sharpies for schools, work, art and even when I signed Elvis’ wall in Graceland.

Nivea: My grandmother used it and she looks fabulous so I jumped on the bandwagon. Although she swears they have changed their original formula. Probably so- hope it still works.

Smith’s Rosebud Salve: The best lip gloss. Also good for dry hands, cuticles and elbows.

Have a suggestion of something I should try? I love new products- let me know your favorite!

To Do Lists...

2009-03-10T08:08:00.000-07:00

It seems like I constantly have running to do lists. They are everywhere- scrolling list with a myriad of tasks at hand. In fact I even tend to rewrite lists and am constantly finding them while doing laundry or opening some random drawer. The problem is that most of the items on the list never seem to get completed. So for spring, I have decided to write a new to do list, one that involves items that I am highly motivated to do. An entire to do list devoted to fun. Have any ideas I can add to my list?

Things to Do:
Ride bikes to the Farmers Market
Make Fleur De Sal Caramels
Spend a whole day reading
Make Homemade Ice-cream
Good beer and friends playing music
Road Trip
Go shopping for Vintage
The Never-ending Search for the perfect buttermilk biscuit recipe
Make Marmalade
Spend time in the studio
Send Snail Mail
Paint
Watch Breakfast at Tiffany’s for the thousandth time
Buy something from Etsy
Learn how to stretch canvas
Eat Indian food
Buy flowers
Spend hours at the library
Go to the Coffeeshop
Read Blogs
Start Embroidery Project

Its about that time of year again where I am looking at books to compile my spring /summer reading list. Have you read something good lately, have a favorite book. Please send me suggestions!

Also- For those of you that want a solution to mutliple to do lists laying around the house visit Remeber the Milk and make your list digital. Now with a new iphone application!

Photo courtesy of Ceres Secrets

Aftermath of a Cold

2009-03-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

No matter how hard I tried to avoid it I got the dreaded cold that’s been going around. I filled by body with extra doses of vitamin C, zinc, orange juice, electrolytes- but to no avail. I am almost fully recovered and can’t wait to catch up on the week. It is as if I have been in some weird alternative world lately full of Vicks tissues, juice glasses and tons of Theraflu. I still need to post the photos from Olivia’s 1st birthday cupcakes topped with tiny orange and robin’s egg blue buttons. It was the first time I used my new vintage button candy molds- so much fun!

In other news, I am now the owner of a Crackberry, I mean Blackberry. Although I personally drool over the iphone the budget does seem to be agreeing with me. So I will navigate my way through learning how to operate this phone. I am intrigued by the fact that I can read blogs via mobile device- very dangerous. Speaking of blogs, I have been reading tons of them, more than usual (again scary.) So here are some of my favorite highlights.

Mast brother chocolate it so pretty (pictured above), love the packaging and the flavors look great too!

I love cupcake liners and obssess over the ones with patterns. This cupcake kit has designs in stripes and polka dots!

I dream of one day being surrounded by hundreds of drawers of lead type, typography and letterpress- hammerpress is one of the best.

Make japanese paper flowers at Curbly. I love the flowers made out of maps. Or learn how to make cold porcelain at curbly as well.

Whisker graphics has a free download to make mini file folders with a mod style design.

Organize

2009-03-02T09:31:00.000-08:00

This week has been full of crazy, hectic, hair pulling, mind draining events. I spent the early part of the week in Ashland, KY for training. Mid week presenting at meetings, late week doing homework, and the weekend cleaning and avoiding an evil cold. This past month has seemed to fly by and I am literally begging for spring. The good thing about this weekend is I did a lot of organizing. It seems like I can’t function without it! Looking ahead: plans to pick some paint colors for the house actually have time to work on etsy postings (there is stuff finished just not posted yet) and post pictures of last weekend’s baking adventures. There are also all sorts of fun house projects I am looking forward to (minus stripping wallpaper.) As spring rolls in this month I am looking forward to Findley Market, riding bikes, flowers shopping, gardening, the front porch swing, lunch on café sidewalks! I long for those days. In the meantime my organization efforts are paying off. Here are some of the solutions to life’s conundrums and chaos.

Inquiring minds want to know: How in the world do I fold a fitted sheet? Yes this excites me! There must be something seriously wrong.

Susan uses a desk calendar as a calendar for the refrigerator. I love this and we use it constantly. Simply tear off the month and hang on the frig with magnets.

Super inspired by closet organization at Making It Lovely. Hey, I never claimed to be cool!

New favorites on Etsy: I can never get enough of etsy. here are a few of my new favorite sellers and products.

AMY BUTLER LACEWORK Sassy Sling
Chocolate Bunny I Spy Bag
Into the Kitchen. Little-blocks and photographs

Photo courtesy of Nicole Balch from Make It Lovely

Cupcakes and Punk Rock...

2009-02-20T07:56:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite past times is spending time in the kitchen baking. I surround myself with tiny colored mise en place bowls filled with beautiful ingredients like superfine sugar and cage free eggs. Baking soundtracks are a standard must. The usual sounds are a scatting Billie Holiday, a lazy day Over The Rhine, or feeling pepped up on coffee Old Crow Medicine Show. There are special occasions where additional music is brought out. For example, certain desserts require their own special genre of music; cupcakes and punk, pies and opera, kitschy desserts and rockabilly. The next couple of weeks bring exciting weekends of baking; a first birthday party, a college bake sale, the fireman’s fish fry. I am looking forward to those hours in our cozy kitchen sipping coffee and creating loveliness out of bags of flour and clattering mixing bowls. There is no limit to baking and music parings- like a fine wine and food they can truly complement each other. Throughout life inspiration comes from experience: music, art, new food, books. Chris and I bounce ideas off each other constantly, whether it is his innovation in the kitchen or a design project I am working on we share inspiration. Here are a few of my personal favorite combinations: Pink Lemonade Cupcakes, Elvis Carmel Apples, Ben Harper Egg Noodle Kale Spinach and Fontina, Gillian Welch Lemon Lime Tart, Interpol Devils Food Cake, Raconteurs or Detroit Cobras Poached Eggs, The New York Times, Swiss Design Fleur De Sal Caramels , Adele Homemade Macaroni and Cheese, The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy Shrimp Bisque, Feist Or Bake the lovely cupcakes above: You can find the recipe at Cast Sugar Note to all avid bakers! If you have not visited the site Bake it Pretty you must. I just ordered the vintage button candy molds and am waiting with baited breath for the postman to deliver them. Every day after work I come home just hoping there is a lovely brown package waiting for me on the doorstep. You truly have to understand my obsession with vintage buttons to get this one. Regardless of my candy making rambling, you really should visit the site they have all sorts of fabulous treasures. (Photo courtesy of every little thing)

Two Lovely Visitors...

2009-02-16T05:52:00.000-08:00

I had two lovely visitors this weekend. Mom and Logan came over for a Valentine’s Day celebration.
Our adventures included: making sentences with vintage flash cards, organic juice boxes and fantastic (frozen) pizza, a coffee can containing a myriad of colored markers, large sketch pads, a zither harp and lots of fun.

Sunday morning Logan helped me make pancakes (recipe from Apples for Jam.) We made pancake faces out of blueberries, strawberries and a banana. Logan was going to use the bacon for a uni-brow (for some odd reason) but it disappeared off the plate into his mouth rather quickly.. Logan is a trip and has me laughing and in awe of his personality constantly. I regret not asking him to guest blog- I was having so much fun it didn’t occur to me. I will have to ask him in the future, he is quite the comedian.

I especially love this high fashion model pose at 8 a.m.

Hints of Spring...

2009-02-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

The weather today is fantastic. The air smells like spring or the beach and I am longing for vacation. I am swamped at work with web design and frustrating code. My mind is swarming but the open window next to my desk sends wafts of that spring smell through the air and I find peace. I can feel spring slowly on its way and yearn for the spring’s first blossom.

Tomorrow is my grandfather’s funeral. I am filled with sorrow, but heartwarming memories comfort me. He was a wonderful grandfather. We took constant visits to the Krohn and museums filled with statuesque columns. He built us sweet handmade furniture; a rocking horse, cradle and miniature dining room hutch that provided hours of imaginative play as children. Once he must have made over a thousand die cuts and scores while we assembled the paper version of the city of Oz. We had numerous picnics, hikes, paddle boat rides, and experiences in nature. I will never forget his genius to provide such loveliness.

Writings: I am applying again for a scholarship that I recieved last year. I just ran across last years work, rediscovering it is like writing it all over again.

Poem One:

At the lake
Toward nightfall
The water lays restless and somber
From a hard days work
The fishing lines are put away
The tin can’s motor finally cools
The sky flares with magenta fire,
Swelling from crimson fuel
Then falls listlessly
Calling to the end of the day

Early morning
Pickup trucks are sweating gasoline
Children are emerging from slumber
The night’s fire is nothing more than a smoldering ash
While the bacon beckons us in sizzling fervor
Dancing atop cast iron skillets
Signaling that
The comings and goings of a new day are upon us

Cooking Adventures: New recipes for: Mushroom, Rainbow Chard and Gruyere Lasagna, Homemade Lollipops, Chili Popcorn

Events: Reset at Cr ossroads,
Race Are We So Different at the Cincinnati Museum Center, Isn’t It Great To Be An Artist?Insider / Outsider Art from the Robert A. Lewis Collection
The Early Spring Floral Show at Krohn

Photo courtesy of Technicolor Kitchen

New and Improved...

2009-02-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

I am revolting against my old blog service (and it's quirky new interface) and joining relations with Blogger. I also decided to start a new blog with the creation of my etsy shop Hopscotch Studios. At etsy I will be selling all different kinds of handmade goodies and vintage items.
So let’s get to it…

Personal: Last night we had friends over for dinner and wine and I made (yet again) Chicken Tikka Masala, I seem to be obsessed with this recipe lately. (Side note: If you try this cut the salt in half.) It was so nice to have people over, its been a while. We chatted about the usual stuff and laughed- a lot. Later we busted out the board games and played Apples to Apples. One round was a collection of cards that Brian pointed out could have been a genre of film: poodle, leather, nine iron, black velvet, - oh I forget the rest, it was hilarious. This morning I am sitting in our family room, drinking coffee and listening to the (super fantastic) Avett Brothers. It is beautiful outside; the wind is swirling and whipping around the small peaks that hold windows in our bungalow home. The cats are sitting in an open window, free from their winter imprisonment. All is good in this cozy corner of the world.

A Couple Things To Mention: Our friend Jesse is going to be on the Late Show with David Letterman on the 10th. His band is Heartless Bastards, be sure to check it out.

The Bistro is doing a Nose to Tail dinner on the 23rd: 8 courses for $80.00 or 120.00 paired with wine. This is going to be fantastic! Limited seating, so make reservations now.

My etsy shop will be open tomorrow, running with a soft launch at first (still cranking away at projects.) Please stop by if you would be so kind, and check back often as new items are posted.

Inquiring Minds Want To Know:

What temperature should I set my wine cooler to?

How do I sew a french knot?

Can I make my own chandelier?

Soundtrack: Death Cab for Cutie, Pedro the Lion, Sebadoh, Avett Brothers, Gillian Welch, The National, Ray LaMontagne, Iron and Wine.

New Technology: Text any question for free! This is highly addictive and comes in very handy during trivia disputes. Text 242-242 (Cha Cha)

Reading Material: I am currently reading the 3rd book in the Twilight series, total guilty pleasure- no depth, all fluff. Highly entertaining. This is on my library list this week (oh the joy of requesting library books online and then picking them up when they are ready) My So-Call Freelance Life: How to Survive and Thrive as a Creative Professional for Hire

Quote of the Day: "It costs nothing to be honest, loyal and true."

Words to Live by: "You may say that I'm a dreamer, But I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us And the world will be as one" - John Lennon

Photo of Heartless Bastards Courtesy of: Muzzle of Bees