Now and Again

Fridge Pickles

2011-09-03T11:04:00.000-05:00

These are the pickles that have launched a thousand ships, or at least a couple of impetuous car trips to find dill. Luckily, our garden is busting with the stuff so J decided we needed to participate in the pickle craze. Not that I mind, I heart pickles. So here it is – the coveted pickle recipe. They are good too. Dilly, garlicky, and nice and crisp.

Dill Refrigerator Pickles

In the bottom of a large jar layer:
2 heads of dill
1 onion, cut up
1/4 clove of garlic, cut up
Cucumbers, sliced however you like, layered half way up the jar

Next layer:
2 heads of dill
1 onion, cut up
More cucumbers until jar is almost full

On top of cucumbers, layer 2 heads of dill and another cut up onion.

Next, make the brine.
Brine
1 quart of water
1 pint of vinegar
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup salt
Bring to boil and boil for 3 minutes. Pour over cucumbers until covered.

Leave on counter for 24 hours and then put into refrigerator. After 3 days in the fridge, they are ready to eat.
Enjoy!

Chalkboard Scraproom Organizer

2011-06-24T12:18:00.002-05:00

I was so very inspired by another Studio Calico Member who found and prettied-up this great spinning organizer, I needed to try my hand at it too. My hubby was at Fleet Farm getting his oil changed and spotted some stack-able spinning shelves in the tool organization. Jackpot! They are sold individually and you can just keep on stacking them. Since it was already black and everything in my house is in danger of being covered with a chalkboard surface I figured this one would be no exception. I love the way it turned out, and it's not even full yet - lots more room for goodies! Check it out!

Thanks for looking!

Around the house: Valentine's Day Edition

2011-02-12T17:32:00.007-06:00

I love Valentine's Day. The hearts, the red and pink, the flowers and cards, and extra reason to be sweet and romantic. What's not to like?
So here's a little peek at some of our Valentine's Day decor. Some of it has been up since the end of December. That's right - that's just how excited I am to make the transition from winter to spring.

Our hutch - all kinds of odds and ends come together in the hutch vignette. That's really the way I like it. Almost everything in here is special to us in some way.

Here is a shelf above the couch. I painted a branch from the yard white and stuck it in those water-storing crystals that actually feel like really gross Jello. But hey, they look like crystals and sort of make it seem winter-y. Then some silver pieces and random pink flowers, cookie cutters, and paper doilies.

Then a fun, kitchsy yarn-wrapped wreath. I actually planned to make this for Christmas, but it just never happened. It was very easy to make. Here is the tutorial I used from CraftStylish.com Then some felt roses, felt hearts, and some tiny heart pins. Easy-peasy. It hangs in our basement.

For dinner, we are planning to cook at home. Our menu is Grilled Tuna Steak with Grape and Caper Salsa, an arugula salad - maybe like this one, Mustard Mashed Potatoes, and Broiled Grapefruit.

And this wine, Naughty Girl - Exciting!
It's tradition. We get it from Von Stiehl Winery in Algoma, WI.
Now I just need to come up with a super decadent dessert....Suggestions?

Maybe some Red Velvet Cake Pops...I so love cake pops. :)

We have a full week ahead so I am trying to clean and plan to cut down on the craziness, but we all know that's so much easier said than done. Wish me luck!!
I have you all have a very wonderful Valentine's week.
Smooch!

SC Wishlist

2010-12-21T21:22:00.008-06:00

Sure, it's been months. Literally months since I've updated anything. But there is nothing like an opportunity to post my Studio Calico wishlist that takes me out of blog-hiding.
Here are my wishes:
My first wish is a lofty one. The SC paper - the woodgrain letters - is just fab. The B-side if my favorite part. Somehow, someway, I hope to get my hands on just one more sheet of this paper.

Next is this doily stamp set. I can see these getting a lot of use.

I love these little birdies. I think they would be a really sweet touch to Christmas layouts.

These 3 mists are last on my list. I love the SC mists. The colors and coverage and just perfect.

Thanks SC for giving me the chance to post my favs! Happy Holidays!
The picture has nothing to do with anything...but it makes me laugh.

Big Days

2010-03-27T15:08:00.003-05:00

There is a day that I look forward to every year since Owen was born. And that is the day the NICU quilt square comes in the mail. There is a huge framed "quilt" that hangs outside of the NICU at Children's Hospital in St. Paul that we walked by every day for 4 months while Owen was there. It was one of the biggest inspirations I had to keep going every day while he struggled though so many obstacles. There were pictures of babies born just like him, some even smaller, and they were thriving and beautiful.
I can't express enough the joy I feel to put a picture of my baby on that wall now. And look at him thrive. We couldn't be more blessed to have been close enough to this hospital. A huge thank you to the nurses and doctors that helped Owen and babies just like him.
If you love preemies like I do, please contribute to the March of Dimes. Their help was invaluable to us, and I know it is to others as well.

Project 12: February 2010

2010-03-20T18:13:00.002-05:00

There it is...our February, the abridged version. Those little Scrapworks fabric tags have been in my stash for a very long time, it felt pretty good to finally use them. I have lots and lots to do today so it's a short and sweet one. Have a happy weekend!

Project 12: January 2010

2010-02-20T20:27:00.007-06:00

When I saw Davinie's Project 12 from the Scrapbooking & Cards Today Site, I thought that I should make a scrapping commitment to participate this year. What better way to keep tabs on our lives for the entire year? So, here's my layout for January....I decided to use all October Afternoon paper because I have a huge stockpile of it and it all goes well together. Then some misted borders, a little ribbon and Elles Studio vintage calendars.

That's all for now...

The big V-day

2010-02-15T16:49:00.000-06:00

The big V-day is here...and here's how our day shook out:

I tried to make heart-shaped cinnamon rolls in the morning, but they just puffed up to their original shape. The taste was not altered by their non-heart-shaped status. :)

Owen did some coloring in a Cars-theme Valentine's activity book.

Jason and I started prepping dinner pretty early on...

...and when it was all done, it looked pretty amazing. I tell you what, that man and I sure know how to cook together.

He, of course, gave me a gift, although it was discussed that no gifts would be given. I have been wanting this necklace for a long time. I am just tickled to finally have it, especially since it meant that he had to shop on etsy.com all by himself to get it. It's from Tiny Tokens Designs. Lots of adorable stuff there.

And this is the man and I, celebrating another dreamy Valentine's day.

Hope you had a lovely holiday.
Kisses!

V-day Prep

2010-02-13T09:08:00.000-06:00

I love Valentine's Day. I love it. I love all the candy and flowers and romantic silliness. Usually we go stay somewhere dreamy for a few days, but we are staying home this time with the little man. So, I have lots of things planned, and have done lots of prep.
Toenails painted. Check.
Cupcakes made. Check.

Cupcakes eaten. Check.

Sesame Street Valentine's stamped with little fingerprints. Check.

Flowers received at work. Am I spoiled? Oh absolutely.

House decorated. Check.

Rather than go out to eat, we decided to cook at home tomorrow, and thanks to allrecipes.com and a trip to the grocery store, we are all set. On the menu for tomorrow are Steak with Bleu Cheese-Chive Butter, Grilled Marinated Shrimp, and Berries 'n' Cream Dessert. I plan to serve the dessert parfait-style with some Sara Lee poundcake. Good and good for you, right. :)

Around the house: Stitches and Seams

2010-01-04T07:13:00.000-06:00

I am a very lucky girl. I have very, very talented people that are related to me, and that are willing to make things for me. A quick walk around our house and you can see plenty of evidence of their work.
A very lovely sampler from one of my aunties that was a Christmas gift this year. It's already found it's home in our entryway.

Jason and I's wedding quilt. We had people sign quilt blocks instead of a guestbook, and then later my mom assembled the quilt top and took it to be machine-quilted. It hangs on a quilt rack made by my Dad. It is an absolute treasure.

A very fun apron from Mom, note the buttons she covered herself, and the roman blinds also made by my Mom.

The next bunch is from both my Grandma and Mom. I have been looking at antique stores for floursack towels, especially day of the week ones. Mom decided to commission Grandma to make some instead. They are so very lovely. A kitty, a handsome little guy working around outside, and cute little pots with the days of the week. Mom made the towels to hang on the drawer knobs, and they look like darling little spring dresses. They are all going to be hard to actually use because of their cuteness, but they will make me so happy when I do.

The next bunch is a growth chart for Owen also made by my Mom. The picture is from his old bedroom, but you get the idea. I just hung it up last night in his new room, and marked his height on the side. He is growing way too fast. Way.

These are some more embroidered lovelies that brighten my linen closet. The sweet duckie pillowcase is for Owen, made by another auntie, and the last is a crib set my Mom made many moons ago.

See, what did I tell you. I'm lucky.

Since then....

2010-01-03T14:31:00.006-06:00

Okay, yeah, it's been a long time. Like months. But, it's a new year and I have lots to share.
Since my last post sometime in August '09 we've...

...celebrated our 5 year anniversary....

...we bought an old house in the country...

...we welcomed fall...

...we dressed up for Halloween...

...this little boy plays and plays, and has started talking and talking and talking...

...I crafted and scrapped and created...

...We braved the cold and went sledding in the yard...

...Santa came...

...and we rang in the new year with chocolate fondue. It was a wonderful, and very stressful couple of months. We sold our townhouse very quickly and moved into the country. There is so much for us to do out here, but I finally feel like we are home.
Happy New Year Everyone!

KRJ Benefit - More Pre-made Albums!

2009-08-04T20:29:00.007-05:00

Today was my first day back to work after our Door County vacation. I would have so much rather stayed in bed until 10 and spent the rest of the day with Jason and Owen, but I've gotta work, I guess.
Jas didn't work, so when I got home he had dinner ready (made with fresh zucchini!) with a glass of wine. The glass of wine was for my "transition out of vacation mode" according to him. To which I replied "I refuse to leave vacation mode".
So, in the spirit of that, we had these for desert tonight....including fresh raspberries. Seriously, does summer have to end?

Now, on to more pre-made albums for the benefit. These are the two wedding albums I made. I tried to keep them sort of classic-looking, and they are made for 4x6 pics, so I am hoping they appeal to some non-scrappers.
This one is an 8x8, and many of the pages can be flipped according to the kind of pic you happen to have. I really like that feature :) It has a fairytale theme and would work well for a wedding from 2010 or 1910. I like that feature too.
I used some pretty "old" K&Co patterned paper that I've had around and have loved, and some shimmery Bazzill. I mixed cream and white too, hoping to make it work for everyone.

This next one is 12x12, and has a rather classic theme as well. I kept the design super simple again, mostly to get it done really fast, but hopefully so it doesn't look too daunting for the non-scrapper. It has a "Wedding Icon" theme, which I normally don't like, but I really do enjoy the way it turned out. Very classic. Kinda glamorous. Lots of sparkle and shimmer.
Again, mixed cream and white, with only black, silver, grey. The album and some embellies are Making Memories, and I used the cricut (and Kaity's wedding solutions cart - thanks!! :)) for some of the icons. Then just some simple satin ribobon. Lemme know what you think.

Thanks so much for looking - I'd love some feedback on your tips on making pre-made albums for non-scrappers, or any projects that might go well at a silent auction.
Thanks!

KRJ Benefit 2009 - WARNING! MEGA PHOTO HEAVY!

2009-08-03T20:37:00.019-05:00

Spread the word!
This Sunday, August 9th from 2-7 pm, there will be a benefit for my amazing cousin Kaity. She has been aggressively battling a brain tumor that was found early this year. It has been a very difficult journey for her - and for our whole family. Of course, the medical expenses have been huge and we are hoping the community can help Kaitlin with some of this debt. It's pretty shocking how little support there is out there for someone like her. She worked full time, had insurance, and lived on her own, and there was no government aid for her. Pretty sad.
Please visit the website for all the details - www.krjbenefit.webs.com

I've been working furiously to get some pre-made scrapbooks ready for the silent auction, and I thought I'd showcase them here.
Here are some some Summer-themed mini albums, all made with 5x7 paper albums. They'll fit a 4x6 photo on each page.
This was has a girly Summer theme:

This one is slightly more boy-ish, but could work for a while family summer trip as well:

These two are 6x6, so some of the pages can be flipped to accomodate horizontal or vertical photos. Again, one is more boy-ish and one more girly.

I have tons more in the works and actually more completed. Baby, wedding, birthday....and on and on. Tomorrow will be the wedding albums - please come tomorrow and check it out, and please stop by the benefit or the benefit website to donate! ANY donation is so appreciated. Thanks for reading!

Cosmo Cricket Food Shelf Drive

2009-07-09T06:59:00.002-05:00

Just a quick one today - and one you'll need to act fast on - but please go over to Cosmo Cricket's blog and leave a comment. They are raising money for local food shelves.

Cosmo Cricket Blog

Hope you have a great day!
I have a short day at work and then I'll be bringing Owen to his endocrinology appt. We are hoping for him to be able to do a trial without his thyroid meds.
Cross your fingers!!

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-04T07:55:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th from Owen and his mommy (his daddy and Sophie wish you a happy fourth too, but he was at work and Sophie refuses to participate in the picture). We are thinking of my brother Ryan especially today, and pray that he returns safely and soon from Afghanistan. I hate having my only sibling across the world in a dangerous place. Please pray that he will be safe and his wife and kiddos will be enjoying his happy face again very soon.
Our day will be spent for the most part at Jason's sister's place, eating lots, and shaking our heads saying "I can't believe how loud it is!", and "seriously! everyone here has got to stop having children!" We'll have fun for sure, but they kids get way crazy when they are together. Owen is still getting used to them....
Anyway, have a glorious holiday! Happy Birthday USA!

Making a Monster Birthday Party

2009-07-03T21:49:00.013-05:00

I wanted to make as many decorations as I could for Owen's 2nd birthday. We tend to want to have big events for the little guy since his birthday is such a special day....plus, the more fun we have on June 14th, the more it makes up for how scary the day of his actual birth was.
After I saw this shirt, at the Carter's store, I knew exactly what the theme was going to be: A Monster Party for our little monster.

Then, my scrapper mind logically thought of the October Afternoon "Night Light" line, with all it's cute little monsters.
Then, with the help of the Wild Card and Celebrations Cricut cartridges, we made these invites:

The card and envelope. His picture and the details are inside.

Starting the assembly...

Daddy on the invite assembly line.

Paper lanterns from Oriental Trading Co. (we actually used them for his luau party last year too). Just added some circles to make some monster head lanterns.

I had fun with these. I played with craft foam hats and cut out craft foam shapes to make hats for the kids. I just drew the rest of the face on with a Sharpie.

I picked up these striped gift bags from Michael's and made stickers with cut-out monsters from the October Afternoon paper. They were filled with $ spot goodies. The little squirt guns were the biggest hit.

Another silly fun one. I covered half spheres with fabric and painted dots on them, then I drew on/stuck on faces with a Sharpie and craft foam again. I added wire antenae to some too. Then I put them on cardboard circles covered with white paper and a big orange paper dot. I made some of these puffy paper stars as confetti. I learned to make them in summer camp in 7th grade, and I still think they are uber cool.

Here's his banner, I made this using the Celebrations cartridge. Very fun to make.

Lastly, the cake made by Grandma Jeanne. I just gave her the pictures from the patterned paper and she took off with it. I love how it turned out, and it tasted so, soo good. Thanks Grandma Jeanne!

So, that's it. I plan to update with actual pics very soon.
Thanks for reading!

Happy 5 Month-iversary (a day late!)

2009-06-18T20:53:00.010-05:00

5 months ago my best friend Sarah got married to her sweetheart Jonathan. It was the most genuine, intimate ceremony I've ever been to. I teared up even. And I never tear up at weddings. We won't mention how I blubbered through my "maid" of honor speech....
I wanted to wish her and her new hubs a happy first five months with this blog post. Plus, it's so hot and muggy right now, that I thought some winter wedding pics might put a bit of a chill in the air.
So, here's some pics from her big day - all taken by me, the very, very, very non-pro photographer.

Their gorgeous rings. That's right. It's a vintage diamond.

The bride and groom in their winter wedding finery.

Me, squeezing Sarah

Reception smooches. We are not above the annoying glass clinking, even at their classy reception. C'mon. This is Wisconsin people. Just be happy we didn't do the chicken dance, okay?

Their pretty cake. Red freakin' velvet.

A long shot of the couple at the end of the table.

Memorable moments and phrases (don't you hate it when people put inside jokes on their blogs?):

"It tastes like bandages." as said by Sharon

"Frankie says relax" as said by Rick

The giant tangle of lights that were somehow magically supposed to go onto the arch, on the floor of the Manie and Tina's livingroom floor. Jonathan trying to splice the wires to fix it, and then promptly going to the store to get icicle lights. Such a dear.

The hot waiter at Manny's.

Me wearing my giant, bright white Sorel boots, and then discovering that's all I had to wear, so all of us had to go to the mall so I could buy some real shoes.

Happy Month-iversary, my dear Sarah. May you have a lifetime of inside jokes, amazing food and wine, belly-laughs, and sweet, beautiful love with that man of yours. You deserve complete bliss.

2 Years Ago

2009-06-07T11:51:00.003-05:00

Let's reminisce, shall we? 2 years ago on this day, I was un-blissfully pregnant. I was 25 weeks, my feet were swelling all the time, I went to the doctor every two weeks already, and my blood pressure was mysteriously out of control. Still, I had no idea Owen would be making his appearance. I guess all the signs were really there that I would be having a preemie, but Jason and I were both pretty naive about the whole thing. So, two years ago today, these pictures were taken of Owen with the clinics, brand-spanken new 4D ultrasound machine. I left work to be the guinea pig. There were all kinds of reps from the ultrasound machine company teaching my doctor to use it. Then, there he was. His little face, sucking on his tiny arms the same way he does now to comfort himself.

Pretty incredible. This same little person is nestled in his crib taking an afternoon nap right now. He runs now. He yells now. A LOT. He gets into everything, climbs all over, and jibber-jabbers constantly. He dances, and he sings even more. He signs for "eat", "more", and "fan". He has lots of scars marking his little body. Strangers have remarked on more than one occasion "he's so well-behaved". He's funny, he's smart, he's very loving and helpful. His mommy and daddy are very lucky people. What a difference 2 years makes.

Use It Thursday: Talkin' it up on the Sasha Gibb TalkShow

2009-06-04T22:03:00.007-05:00

That's right! I'm back in action! Lots of action actually. Cleaning the basement out, calling around to find some temporary storage, putting up shelves in the garage, sewing pillows, chasing an almost-two year old, and now, posting in my ever-neglected blog! Look at me go!
Seriously though, I feel like we are making major progress on clearing out the house, and Jason has been an amazing help. The more stuff we clear out, the more I like it. It feels like I can breathe and move around. Hopefully potential buyers will feel the same way too....
So, let's get to it. I made this layout on my scrapping retreat at the end of April. It's all old, old, old stuff I've had just sitting. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think it's Urban Lilly patterned paper, Maya Road and Doodlebug acrylic flowers and leaves, Queen & co brads, some Heidi Swapp journaling spots, and a little square of some scalloped Bazzill. I journaled with Creative Memories pens too. I don't have any....I think I borrowed Julie's, but dang, they work so nicely. Fun colors too. The picture of Owen is from last May, on the day after he got his oxygen taken off. He still looks like a baby.

That's all for tonight. Until next time when we'll be talking about politics, chest hair, and crazy cool medallions. Yeah-yeah, yeah-yeah. I know that's pretty random, but I'm been singing that song since I watched this....

The Barry Gibb TalkShow

Where have you been all my life?

2009-05-30T00:00:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I am still living.....work has been insane lately, leaving me with a lot less time for fun stuff. Oh, I'm still making things, don't you worry, I just haven't had the time to document them. I'm planning an uber blog-post with all kinds of things though. I bet you'll be on pins and needles until then :) But, for now, I'll leave you with some pics of the OG that we took in the front "yard". If you've never encountered a "little stinker" in your life, these should be helpful. This is what one looks like.

The Big One

2009-04-07T21:57:00.009-05:00

Today, I turned 30. 30 years ago I was brand new and fresh to the world. I don't feel so brand new anymore...
I wore a yellow cardigan, a light blue scarf, and an orange bracelet to work today....because I can, and I thought it might feel spring-y. Plus, I figure I may as well, now that I'm inching my way toward crazy old lady. The day was okay, but I have to admit that I am bothered by that number. 30. But, what's a girl to do? They bought me Chipotle for lunch at work and decorated my cube. Mom and Dad gave me a "What was happening in 1979" book/card that was cute and vintage-y looking. That's right. Vintage. Jas worked, so we didn't get to hang out, and I'd be lying if I said it didn't bother me that he had to work on my birthday evening. He got me some really nice gifts too....but it doesn't look like my dream lens - the Canon 50mm f1.8 will become mine quite yet. Bummer. Like a lot of things today, I'm gonna have to get over it.
I did have fun over the weekend at my "surprise" birthday party. I knew we were doing something, but not what, or where, or with whom. We ate at Ol' Mexico (holy yum!) and then went to Grumpy's for more cocktails and lots and lots of karaoke. The night itself was fun, but there were quite a few people that Jason had said were planning on coming that didn't show. I didn't really feel bad about it until the next day, and I know stuff happens. Whoa. I'll try to keep the self-pity in check for the rest of this post...
I sang lots of times. "Chain of Fools", "Proud Mary", "Wasted" -the Carrie Underwood tune (yes, I was quite tipsy to sing country), and "Summer Lovin'"with David. Karaoke is my new drug of choice. We actually closed down the bar - I haven't done that since college. Luckily, I felt fine on Sunday, otherwise I would have been really upset if I couldn't function. And I am so, so grateful to Jason for planning everything, and for my pals that partied with me. It was a momentous occasion that will not be forgotten.
Here's some shots of the evening - thanks Allison and Dave!

Getting Ahead of Myself

2009-04-04T15:28:00.004-05:00

I read this post from Studio Calico April a few weeks ago, and it really has me motivated to get started on selling our house/buying a new one in the country. There is a house we have in mind (okay, we have a house that I completely have my heart set on, that is), and I couldn't be less patient about the whole thing. I can't stop the fantasies about decorating an old house, and gardening, and even coming up with a name. Something "acres", I think….(see. I'm getting WAY ahead of myself again).
I am really trying to stay grounded about the whole thing and be patient and practical. There's a lot of money involved, obviously, in buying and selling, so I can't let my emotions get me too worked up either way. But, to be able to give Owen and Sophie a yard, and Jason a place to garden and grill (oh, and did I mention the "man cave"), and a place for me to scrap and cook and decorate, is pretty overwhelming. I know there are going to be challenges….probably some pretty big ones, but I've gotta believe that the reward will be greater.
We had the place inspected last week, and it was VERY encouraging for an old house - really no major fixes. So now, we just need to get spruce up our place, get a realtor, and sell our house without taking a gigantic hit since the market has changed so much since we bought it. Easy peasey, right? We just really need to get on the ball.
So I am starting with our basement. All I have to say about that is "YIKES". Giving away/throwing away/recycling/shuffling around. I feel like I have a long way to go, and the icky weather is just so unmotivating...
So, if anyone has any suggestions about buying/selling/and living in old houses, please share. I need help.

Use It To Make Something Thursday (the Friday Edition): Using less than perfect photos

2009-04-03T21:55:00.004-05:00

I wanted to challenge myself to use some photos that are not that great (and then take an even more terrible photo of the layout- ha ha) - but they are from a really sweet memory. The pictures were taken with my phone, which is all I had at the time, and they are pretty grainy. But, the point is that Owen was just so cute, having such a fun time at Buffalo Wild Wings, wearing his little "wild child" horns, that I just couldn't not make a layout about it.
I've had this paper sitting around a long time as well, including the bright orange Colormates cardstock - not exactly sure what possessed me to buy so much blaze orange cardstock…. So, the Fancy Pants patterned paper, and sparkly overlay, and some American Crafts vinyl stickers for the letters make up this layout. Some crazy journaling directly on the patterned paper, and that's it. Quick, easy, and all documented.

Use It To Make Something Thursday

2009-03-26T23:12:00.003-05:00

Just a quick one tonight, as my computer is being a total jerk.....

This is one of my favorite photos. The patterned paper, rub-ons, and title are all MME. The vintage dictionary paper is from a Studio Calico kit, and then some random buttons. Also, I think this is one of my very few layouts with no journaling - totally not my style, but it's kinda nice to just focus on a favorite pic speaking for itself.

Well, we have a huge day tomorrow - so hopefully I'll update tomorrow night. I hope all of you are well!

Use It To Make Something Thursday

2009-03-19T22:23:00.003-05:00

Just a quick one today. Things have been a tad crazy in our house....hopefully I'll have time to elaborate tomorrow. Anyway, here's one I made with some Heidi Grace paper that I've had laying around forever and some random elements from some Studio Calico kits. Oh, and can I point out the older-than-the-hills Basic Grey word pebbles?! I think they are from the very first line. Crazy, right? But, I still really like them.

Thanks for reading. I hope all of you are well.

Use It To Make Something Thursday

2009-03-12T19:50:00.003-05:00

This installment of "Use It Thursday" has a bit of a different spin than last week. I was looking through the clearance paper at Archivers the other day for some specific paper for a paper album - didn't find it btw - and I couldn't believe how many pieces of clearance paper were in there that I paid full price for, and now still have used. So, this week, I used the Crate die-cut paper, and the Basic Grey patterned paper, and flower stickers that are fairly new, but already on clearance at Archivers. On one hand, this market turns through product extremely quickly, always releasing something new based on season, and CHA. But, on the other hand, I have so much of it, there is no reason to hold onto something for the "perfect layout". If they tell even a tiny part of my story, it's perfect, right?

Thanks for looking - and I'd love you to link me to your "Use It Thursday" projects. It could be for anything - paper crafting, knitting, needlework, quilting, embroidery....you name it.

Thanks for reading!

Use it to make something Thursday:

2009-03-05T20:31:00.003-06:00

It's not a mystery. I have tons of scrapbooking supplies. My mom says "it's like a store". A very messy, messy store in a basement anyway. I like the things I buy, but I do donate things a lot just to clear my head and the space. It feels good. But during the cleaning up/donating process, I always run across something that I really want to use but I just haven't found "the perfect layout" yet. For me, "the perfect layout" just does not exist. If I held on to products until the perfect subject, or perfect photo came along, I wouldn't have anything scrapped in the last 10 years. Hence, "Use it to make something Thursday". I'll take some things I've been holding onto, and simply use them to make something. Anything. But, usually a layout.
So, here's the first installment. The "Use It" products in the first layout is the Luxe round rub-ons. Very cute, and they've been laying around forever. So, I layered the black and white circles on top of each other on the new Colorbok patterened paper from Michaels "Forest Friends". Presto! A layout about Owen staying with Grandma J while I was at my first scrapping retreat.
Other products: Bazzill Cardstock

For the second, there are a couple "Use It" products…..the tiny frame from Pebbles, the Basic Grey, used for the frame and base, and the old MME stripe patterned paper covered with paint and glitter to try to make it look vintage-y.
Other products: Bazzill Cardstock for stamp cut-out
American Crafts glitter Thickers
Studio Calico journaling stamp
Jenni Bowlin glitter paint
Fiskars Threading Water Border Punch
Silver glitter

I heart Smartwool.

2009-02-21T11:01:00.004-06:00

Ok, so maybe this stuff was originally invented for the outdoorsy-types who ski and such, but now there are super cute hats for little boys like Owen (with matching mittens that don't have thumbs - which is great because if you've ever tried to wrangle a 19 month olds thumb into the designated place on a mitten, you know how worthless it is), and stripey socks for cold-feeted mommies like me. I do love the outdoors. Just not for 6 months out of the year in WI - the dreaded winter. I skiied once. It was awful. I could be convinced to sled and skate though….. I digress.
Thank you to my cousin Kaitlin who not only introduced me to Smartwool, but also is my supplier of it.

So sorry.

2009-02-20T21:39:00.003-06:00

Oh poor, neglected SC feb. kit. It's just been sitting all alone in my scraproom. It is chock-full of scrappy goodness, and I just haven't touched it yet. Too many other projects to finish first. Hopefully this weekend.....

I love my aunties.

2009-02-04T22:16:00.009-06:00

Seriously. I have the best aunties in the whole world. They are all just cool. Case and point: One auntie happens to see that I have a newfound love for vintage embroidered pillowcases. So, for Christmas, I get thes beauties in the top pic with the prettiest waterlily design. But here's the kicker, these were made by my great-grandma, Rose. Very cool. Very special.

To top it all off, last Sunday, I had the pillowcases in the next pic made for me by the same sweet auntie! Aren't they lovely?

December Daily: Day 15

2008-12-16T08:32:00.004-06:00

I had my first real dose of winter driving for this season yesterday, and although it wasn't all that bad in comparison to other times, I'd rather not do it again. But, I will have to, that is for certain.

One of the more exciting parts of the day was that we finally made turkey on just a regular day. It was just the breast, and it was all placed in a loverly bag that it cooks in, so there was nearly no commitment, and it was oh, so good. I want to make one once a week. It was extra nice that the whole meal was prepared by my darling husband.

December Daily: Day 13

2008-12-13T14:17:00.002-06:00

Ah lovely Saturdays.....
Owen, Sophie, and I all slept in, super late. Embarassingly late. So late, I feel bad sharing that I let my baby sleep that long. So, I won't. But, I think the shih tzu, the baby, and I can all agree that it was glorious, and we'll probably do it again tomorrow.
I made eggs, toast, and mandarin oranges (well, I opened a container of those anyway) for Owen, for breakfast, and he ate like he'd never been fed before. He played, and walked and walked. His new thing is to lay on his back, which I don't understand at all. Try to lay him down to change his diaper, and it's the Armageddon. But, he'll happily roll around on the gritty-crusted floor, and look at the ceiling. Strange child.
Now, he naps, while I check out gifts for Jason, cruise the internet for the Sassafrass Lass Life at the Pole paper, and work on Cade's birthday album. Oh, and Tony Bourdain is on tv as well. Waxing poetic about Brazil. Ah, this life is a joy that I am lucky to behold.

December Daily: Day 7 (Done....and Done)

2008-12-06T20:37:00.001-06:00

It's official. I have finally finished scrapping Christmas 2007. Simple design + one paper line (SEI from last year, I think) + a few stamps (from Autumn Leaves by Rhonna Farrer) and a little journaling = I'm all done. It's a very satisfying feeling.

December Daily: Day Two

2008-12-03T08:54:00.001-06:00

A very busy December day today.....regular day at work, and off to Massage Envy right after at 4pm. I talked my massage therapist's leg off this time (I'm usually pretty quiet). He's sooo very good, and turns out, he's pretty funny too. After that, I went to a purse party at Lillians with some people from Jason's store. It was a lot more low-key than I expected, but I bought a sweet-ass purse.

There's twinkly lights everywhere, and I am deeply entrenched in the rare, and quick-lived beauty of this season.

December Daily: Day One

2008-12-02T08:15:00.000-06:00

The first day of December - that's pretty hard to believe.
I'm planning to do a December Daily album to try to grasp on to the fast-paced holiday season and preserve just a little piece of it. This project originated with Ali Edwards. Not surprising, I know, since most of my projects are inspired by her.

So, it was a rather standard Monday. I worked and Jason was off to take Owen to Children's for his Synagis (RSV vaccine). There wasn't any real holiday-type magic, but there was some Owen magic - he's walking! He's taking some steps all on his own, mostly between Jas and I. It is so very cute. His vocabulary also consists of "ma-ma", "da-da", "ba-ba", and mostly "uh-oh". He is always throwing something so he can say "uh-oh".
Other than that, Jason went out to watch the game, so I had the evening to myself to watch tv and do basically nothing. I watched "Kinsey" on IFC, and eventually went downstairs to scrap my Thanksgiving Day album - which is nearly finished.
I'm hoping for more fun holiday stuff coming up.

Owen rocks the 'fro

2008-11-01T21:42:00.002-05:00

Not much new to report.
Had a lovely Saturday and just had to share. Slept in for a long time next to my very warm, very snuggly husband, ate life-changingly good omelets made by said husband, and hung out for the afternoon with Adriel. I even did laundry and (gasp!) emptied half of the dishwasher. Although there were plenty of flunkies in the silverware department.
So excited to sleep in tomorrow as well.

Go and Get It. Right Now.

2008-10-28T21:47:00.005-05:00

Got the new Snow Patrol album today. I am going to render my iPod useless if I listen to it one more time. So beautiful. There are so many layers and elements of hip hop, 20th century music, and good old Snow Patrol rock in there. All sewn together by Gary Lightbody's lyrics. The album is cyclical and starts as it ends, and the words speak of pulse, and warmth, and the overwhelming feeling of existing between the planets.

It feels like a privilege to listen to it, because there is just so much work and time, and the story of a real, private relationship all played out in it. Thank you Snow Patrol for pulling it off, yet again.

4 years

2008-08-11T22:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Anniversary to me and my baby. 4 years together as man and wife. Lots of good stuff, lots of scary stuff, but I'm glad it's all been with you.

Vintage Goodness

2008-08-10T22:03:00.000-05:00

My new favorite thing is embroidered pillowcases...I got these beauties at an antique and salvage shop in Door County on our anniversary vacation. And some cool printer letters/numbers to add to my collection. And, underneath it all is an apron. For $3.00! It is just about the cutest thing ever. I'll have to model it later.

Missed.

2008-08-04T19:28:00.003-05:00

Friday was my best work bud Adriel's last day. To say I was lonely today at work would be an understatement. He will really be missed. To quote the visionary 80's hairband Cinderella, "Don't know what you've got, till it's gone". Indeed.

Getting Inventive vs. Facing Roadblocks

2008-07-28T12:36:00.005-05:00

I feel like I have a million things swirling in my head and circulating on list after list of all the things I "need". I feel like it's actually stifling me, holding me back from doing a lot of things. We just finished putting wood laminate flooring in our main floor - and it looks sooo good btw. We finished the moulding last night, and now everything is moved back into place. Now, I have to clean/dust and put all my things (read: pictures, candles, knick-knacks) back into place. But, I felt like I couldn't finish all that until I had a Swiffer Dry Vac to clean up the floors when I'm done. Seriously, like I couldn't have gotten started even? That seems very obsessive to me. Or maybe really lazy.
It is so the same deal that I have with scrapbooking. "I need this and this and this before I can even think about starting this project". That seems absurd to me now in this lucid moment, my thoughts unclouded by the dizzying product drunkeness of my basement studio (the word "studio" is used very, very loosely here). I have SO much paper, SO much cardstock, and SO many stamps, stickers, embellies, alphabets, and on and on and on. How could I possibly NOT make something. Case and point: the album pictured - although poorly pictured. It was made as a "birthday album" for a friend/co-worker. I made it entirely (except the album itself) with things I already have. She, of course, does not know or care that it's all super old DCWV stack stuff, that I almost cringe at. Why? It really is pretty paper - simple stripes and dots and florals. What could be wrong with that?
I know it's been discussed ad naseaum on Two Peas, and Ali E. has addressed it. I just really need to start to use what I have. Some of my favorite pages are the ones where I've had to be inventive. To use the stuff in my stash and tell the story. To tell the story better, not necissarily prettier. Although, pretty is nice.
I have lots of pending projects, including a baby album for the friend mentioned above. I am pushing myself to dig a little deeper in that studio/dungeon and get inventive.

Ahhh Mr. Lightbody....you stir me up

2008-07-15T08:01:00.008-05:00

I don't think I'm that easily starstruck, but when it comes to this man, I could turn into a screaming teenager in a kitty-wink (in reality, if I really ever saw him in "real-life" I would probably just freeze, as the sight of him would cause my nervous system to cease). Sure, he's just a dude who can sing and is musically/lyrically talented, you say. Maybe it is the lyrical thing that really draws me the most. So yeah, I've had all the training with voice lessons since forever ago, radical community musical theatre, and the whole music degree thing. But really, talk to me about chord progressions, The Golden Mean, and every tiny tid-bit of the history of this and that, and it will never hold a candle to the words for me. Granted, I do realize that all the rest is just as vital. But, give me the right words and I'm rapt. The gloriously painful clarity that loving someone brings - especially when you've screwed things up irreparably. Those are the feelings that Gary's eloquence brings to life. And damn, that's what I love. It brings back the days of my youth when I just couldn't end one relationship and then begin another, if you know what I mean...

I'm most compelled by the honesty, I suppose...it's the kind of "put it out there" attitude that seems like it would make for awkward family dinners with the girlfriend. "So, Gary, dear, sounds like you and the Mrs. are havin' some trouble....anything you wanna talk about?" I've always loved people who don't have any reticense about saying what's really going on sans the socially comforting sugar-coating. That's something I have trouble with, so I've always admired that quality.

So, the moral of my tirade is: Listen to Snow Patrol, you'll like it. And listen to more than "Chasing Cars" for goodness sake.

Rough day

2008-07-04T22:26:00.000-05:00

I absolutely hate days like this...days when I lose my cool and feel totally out of control when it comes to my son. He's certainly changing. Gone are the days of my sweet, tiny guy who was happy to be held or sleep alone in his Pack 'n Play, soothed by just a little music. Now, with teething and just general attitude, he cries, he hollers, he does a lot of whining. Lots. So, I get angry when I can't figure out what he needs, and when he's so obviously tired and yet refuses to take even one little nap. He is, of course, still incredibly sweet, and I should take most of this as great stuff. To remember this time last year, when he was so incredibly sick, always the first baby the doctors would round on in the morning. I was just praying that I would be able to bring him home and deal with the whining/crying/no napping.
Jason, as usual knows exactly how to make me feel better. When I'm convinced Owen hates me, he says "You and I are the only people he wants to come to when he is scared or hurt. He doesn't hate you, he loves his Momma". Okay. So he's got me there.
So, there it is. Some days are bad, and I yell and scream (which does not help one iota, in case you were wondering), and then I feel awful. Some days I could definitely try harder to be a better mom, but some days I just have to accept that I am not going to be perfect, and that I am going to make mistakes (lots of them). But, it will be okay. We will all be okay.

My baby is one. I can't believe it.

2008-06-17T22:07:00.003-05:00

Me and my guy. He was actually pretty crabby with teething, being tired, and seeing lots of new faces. But, it's still a day that I am amazed has already come and past - I've waited for it for so long. Happy Birthday, my sweet little miracle boy.

Super Tuesday WishList

2008-06-17T09:38:00.003-05:00

I love wishlists. Well, I just love lists in general. Grocery lists, playlists, to-do lists...but wishlists are almost like actually shopping, especially scrappin' wishlists.
So, here's the things I'm craving for my stash today....most of them are actually kind of basic, which I take as a good thing:

12x12 kraft cardstock - lots of it. I can't get enough of this stuff
12x12 white cardstock - runnin' really low
12x12 black cardstock
12x12 dark brown cardstock
12x12 blue cardstock - lots of boy pages to do
12x12 green cardstock - again with the boy pages
Brown American Crafts chipboard Thickers
SEI "Family" word album
E6000 glue
Prima Paintables Watercolor paper
Super tiny brads - neutral colors
4x6 or so lined stamp
Autumn Leaves big swirls stamps
Crate Sweet Branch Collection

Very cool stuff. The only thing that I really don't have a plan for (read "I really don't need it") is the Sweet Branch patterned paper. But, it is so cool and kinda spring-y. Take care all!

Happy Graduation...

2008-06-04T17:00:00.004-05:00

...to my NICU baby. This didn't occur to me until Owen was having his VCUG for his renal appointment, and the nurse said "he looks so good, I would have never known he was a NICU graduate". But, yes, Owen is a NICU graduate. On the day we left, Oct. 12, 2007, nothing was certain. But, it seemed almost certain that he would end up back in the NICU. We had waited for 121 horrible days to take him home, and from the looks on the doctors faces, and the nurses "don't blame yourself if you have to come back" speech, our joy and relief turned to panic. I had planned to take so many pictures; all of our nurses, the 3 of us together, holding him...I barely took any I was so scared. I wanted to cry. Why did they even decide it was time for him to come home? Still, we loaded up into the car (after installing the car seat - which took at least an hour, and looking at both the car seat instructions and the Vibe's instruction manual - WAY harder than I thought it would be) and we made our way home.
So, in response to that (and probably with lots of help from my Czech stubbornness), I decided I was NOT going to let him get re-admitted to the NICU. Jason made a spreadsheet and we tracked everything - every med, how many ounces in each bottle, even diapers. Looking back, it was pretty obsessive (oh me? no way!). But, it was the only way we could feel in control. I was still pretty sick, and no one could figure out why my blood pressure wasn't correcting, and I just wanted to sleep. Thankfully, Owen did sleep quite a bit, but I still felt completely overwhelmed and frustrated every day. He wasn't growing as fast as I expected, and the incredible amount of appointments and home visits seemed to be more than I could handle. Somehow, it happened though. He wasn't re-admitted, and he managed to avoid getting sick at all. His growth has been slow compared to other babies (which is my current obsession), but he has come so incredibly far. And, he did graduate. Today, we are talking about crawling, and teething, and speech instead of lung surgery, and the isolette, and MRSA. Jason and I have graduated too. Into real parents. From despair and fear to hope and laughter. From barely knowing the little boy in the red puppy-dog snuggly to waking up to get him from his crib every day.
We still walk by the NICU sometimes when we are at the hospital for appointments, and it still sort of feels like home (and I still hate that painting of all the twins). I feel so proud, and I hope that one of our old nurses will come out and see the boy that was once "the sickest baby in the NICU", and how he's transformed to our happy, crazy, teething, almost toddler. Maybe it doesn't feel like home....maybe more like our alma mater.

New and Pending Projects...updated: got it done!

2008-05-27T11:05:00.006-05:00

Simple Happiness:

This is a sweet little mini-album I'm working on using the May kit from Studio Calico. I loved the combo of the yellows and black and white. I used an Arte Blanche album as the base - it has all these cool windows. Then I got a bunch of 2x2 pics from Scrapbooking Pictures, some in B&W and some in color. There's not too much left to finish this one off:

1. Cut out remaining circles for pages and hambly circles for windows, stamp flourishes

2. Write out journaling - possibly on journaling spots

3. Add Pics

4. Embellish with birds and flourishes cut from Prima Paintables paper. Call 'er done!

I hope to finish this one within the next couple days, so I can post!

Owen's 1st Year Album:

This one just blows my mind....my baby is going to be a year old! So, I have a couple months left in his album, and then I have to fill in with 4x6's. The hardest part of this one will be organizing the pics chronologically. Usually, I'm not really a stickler for chronology, but with this album I think it's pretty important.

2008-03-24T14:36:00.000-05:00

My sweet little family - on Easter Sunday.

I hope you learn....

2008-03-17T17:00:00.002-05:00

To Owen:

There are so many things that I want you to learn from your Daddy. He is such an incredible man.

I hope you learn to harmonize like him. He can pick up harmonies like nobodies business. I've had years of singing training and I don't come close to his abilities when it comes to hearing the inner parts of a song.

I hope you learn your daddy's quiet strength. It is incredible. He took such good care of me when I started to get sick when I was pregnant with you, and then he took care of both of us after you were born. To this day, I'm still not sure how he kept it all together.

I hope you learn your daddy's sense of humor. It's so quiet and intelligent. He makes me laugh everyday, and at least once a week I laugh so hard, I cry.

I hope you learn to love to travel. He loves to plan trips and go and see new things.

I hope you learn to try new food like your daddy. He's pretty much unafraid. I've seen him order Beef Laab at a Thai restaurant (incredibly spicy!) to green-lipped mussels at the Mission Grille in Door Cty. I love that sense of adventure and "nothing to lose" attitude about him.

I hope you learn to be a hard worker like him. He's not afraid at all to jump in and get his hands dirty.

Your daddy is an amazing man, Owen. He is a wonderful example for you, and I am so proud to have made you with him. Love you both.

Post Christmas Relief....

2005-12-27T23:39:00.000-06:00

I love Christmas. I love to decorate and wrap presents. I love the carols and I really love the food. But, when it's over the only sadness I feel is when I know I have to spend SO much time taking down all of the decorations I put up. I guess that means I've spent the holiday in a way that makes me feel the most fulfilled. Now to get Jason feeling the same....That's definitely a resolution.
Watching Gavin have his first Christmas was a hoot too-he loved that tissue paper. And, anything that made noise. Which was just about every gift he got...ahhhh the joys of parenting. So I'm told anyway.
Tomorrow is OUR Christmas. Just me, Jas, and our tiny little girl. I'm so excited to have Jas open his gifts. Which reminds me that I need to wrap Sophie's gifts....She loves to unwrap them. She loves to tear (and eat!) paper no matter what the season. So, when she is allowed to do it once a year, she really takes advantage of it!
Can't wait! Maybe that's why I never feel bad about Christmas being over...We always drag it out for as long as possible.

Well....

2005-12-14T23:26:00.000-06:00

I'm terrible at this blogging thing! I had great intentions of keeping up with it and making daily entries.
Well no time like the present, right?
With the holidays coming on hot and heavy Jason is more devoured by work. I'm trying really hard to be the best and most understanding wife I can be. Trying really hard to strike a balance between not going crazy when he works for 14 hours and making sure that he realizes that his life is at home with me and Sophie. I know he knows his family needs him, but for some reason, he just feels so personally responsible. Usually everything goes so much better than he planned. I don't know if he gears himself up for the worst so that when things go well he is pleasantly surprised, or if he is just the biggest worrywart on the face of planet Earth.

Current Projects in my head:Book of my Husband-things he likes, and his old and new loves, his favorites, etc
Little Sophie flip book-want to use BG "Sophie" papers, and all the fake credit cards I get in the mail. Photos and stories, attached with a big book ring
Favorite Christmas Recipes-Using Blitzen or Holiday Hoopla
Favorite General Recipes-using 2-up album (what PP to use?)
Ribbon Storage-not sure about how to go about this one...my ribbon obsession is growing at a frightening pace-I MUST have more!

I'm also working on a wish list-c'mon scrappin' gift cards from Santa!!

Until tomorrow-maybe...

Now and Again

Fridge Pickles

Chalkboard Scraproom Organizer

Around the house: Valentine's Day Edition

SC Wishlist

Big Days

Project 12: February 2010

Project 12: January 2010

The big V-day

V-day Prep

Around the house: Stitches and Seams

Since then....

KRJ Benefit - More Pre-made Albums!

KRJ Benefit 2009 - WARNING! MEGA PHOTO HEAVY!

Cosmo Cricket Food Shelf Drive

Happy Fourth of July!

Making a Monster Birthday Party

Happy 5 Month-iversary (a day late!)

2 Years Ago

Use It Thursday: Talkin' it up on the Sasha Gibb TalkShow

Where have you been all my life?

The Big One

Getting Ahead of Myself

Use It To Make Something Thursday (the Friday Edition): Using less than perfect photos

Use It To Make Something Thursday

Use It To Make Something Thursday

Use It To Make Something Thursday

Use it to make something Thursday:

I *heart* Smartwool.

So sorry.

I love my aunties.

December Daily: Day 15

December Daily: Day 13

December Daily: Day 7 (Done....and Done)

December Daily: Day Two

December Daily: Day One

Owen rocks the 'fro

Go and Get It. Right Now.

4 years

Vintage Goodness

Missed.

Getting Inventive vs. Facing Roadblocks

Ahhh Mr. Lightbody....you stir me up

Rough day

My baby is one. I can't believe it.

Super Tuesday WishList

Happy Graduation...

New and Pending Projects...updated: got it done!

I hope you learn....

Post Christmas Relief....

Well....

I heart Smartwool.