One Simple Girl With A Plan

Change Is Good

2012-02-13T12:16:00.001-08:00

I know I am never here :( but you can find me in a few other places. :)

And It Snowed

2011-11-29T13:34:00.001-08:00

We had the first snow of the winter season last night and early this morning. Liam couldn't wait to go outside and explore. I actually had my wits about me and remembered my camera. The woods were so peaceful and beautiful. The creeks flowed swiftly creating a soft purr in the woods. My most favorite thing about living here isn't the house, it is the woods. I could easily live happily in a small cabin nestled in this quiet place.

Visit my flickr page to see more photos

sneak peak

2011-10-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

we've been having such a great time since we moved. still working hard and making pretty good progress. i would say our new life suits us very well. you can visit my flickr account to see a little bit of what we've been up to.

Radical Sabbatical

2011-09-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

We are moving Saturday. It is amazing we have finally gotten to a point we can live in the new house. It is far from done but all I really need are electricity, a working bathroom and a grill. We are looking forward to not having to drive the 45 minutes , one way, to and from the new house anymore. Plus, it is just so peaceful there.

There is one thing that we have decided to give up for the move. Internet and satellite tv. Gasp. I know, it is radical. And making peace with losing technology for an indefinite period of time has taken a great deal of time and prayer. I know it sounds ridiculous but have you really thought about how much television and internet become a part of your life. You never do until the power goes out and then you realize just how much you miss it.

We will eventually add a HD antenna to the house. We'll get all the local stations plus a few PBS stations. I have to admit I would have a hard time living forever without PBS. The greatest thing is no monthly bill. Living out of city limits has limited our choices for internet providers. We haven't looked into all the possibilities yet but we will be adding internet at some point. Plus, we will be keeping Netflix.

So I guess it all boils down to the fact that I will be leaving my small internet world for awhile. I am sure I can check in with all of you but I won't be posting here for quite some time. I hope everyone has a great fall. I can't wait.

More Bedroom Inspiration

2011-09-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

I love the paneled wall. And the doggie is pretty cute too. Sadly, I do believe the source police will be coming to get me for I have no source for this photo.

Bedrooms

2011-09-13T09:08:00.000-07:00

Wainscoting Inspiration. Sadly, I have forgotten the source.

The Most Difficult

2011-09-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

When it comes to making decisions regarding the finishing touches to our house, I have had few difficulties. I usually know what I like and what doesn't seem to click for me. But paint colors have to be the exception. I find shades I love then I start to panic and second guess myself. This seems so odd since paint colors are one of the easiest things to change in a home. You would think I would obsess over things like light fixtures, cabinetry and trim designs. Oh no, not I. I lose sleep over paint.

Martha Stewart Chinchilla

Martha Stewart Whetstone Gray

Martha Stewart Fossil

Martha Stewart Rainwater

Martha Stewart Cobblestone

Martha Stewart Slipstream

The two bedrooms upstairs will eventually have six foot high wainscoting so there will only be a strip of painted drywall at the top. Tyler's room will have Chinchilla and the guest room will have Cobblestone. The gym will have Chinchilla on the walls with no wainscoting. The tv room will be Cobblestone.

The main areas of the house will be Whetstone Gray [great room, entry, halls, family/playroom, first floor guest bath [Liam's bath]. Some of these areas will have the traditional five foot wainscoting. Liam's bedroom will be Slipstream. The master suite area will be Rainwater. The kitchen and upstairs office will be Fossil. The above picture of Fossil looks a lot like the Whetstone Gray but in reality it has a very distinct green undertone. The dining room and mud/laundry room will be wallpapered with wainscoting.

I Know It's Only Thursday but I Think We Need a Song

2011-09-01T07:14:00.001-07:00

What Happens

2011-08-26T06:15:00.000-07:00

when it is 100 degrees outside and a little kitty wants, actually insists is a better word, on sleeping in your air conditioned garage. He is very persistent.

Old Friends

2011-08-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Whenever I finish a good book or watch an excellent movie, I am always a little sad when it is over. I guess I bond so easily to the characters that when it ends it is like saying goodbye to a friend. I just finished watching the last episode in the Larkrise to Candleford PBS series. It was set in a small hamlet near the end of the 19th century and focused on British country life. The three and a half season long series was based on the books by Flora Thompson.

I wanted to embed a youtube clip but sadly, embedding has been disabled on these clips but click here to be redirected.

But with every ending, no matter how sad, comes a new beginning. I am about to start the Road to Avonlea series and am very optimistic. It is six seasons long so it should keep us entertained for quite some time. You can actually watch full episodes online but I prefer to get the discs via Netflix.

Yesterday

2011-08-14T21:07:00.000-07:00

Such a lost art. Some call it bobbin lace making. Others call it tatting.

Don't Be Afraid . . . Well, Maybe We Should Be

2011-08-08T22:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have lived in southern Illinois my whole life and this is the first time I have heard of this "Gathering of the Juggalos". I guess I have been contently living under my rock. Just so you know, most of these links contain some f-bombs.

This past weekend Sean mentioned that the juggalos are coming to town next week. Apparently, he had been given the low down at work. We remembered seeing some strange folks last year around this time. Strange enough we still remembered them a year later. They were a large group of what I would call hippies who were playing music outside the local Walmart. I mistook them for the Rainbow People. Sorry, Rainbow People, no offense. How was I to know? No one was painted up like a clown at the time.


Grandma's Smiling But Deep Down She's Scared

Anyway, Cindy reminded (warned actually might be a better word) that this week was in fact the week. And that Charlie Sheen was hosting or something to that effect. Her fiance has already spotted a car load at a gas station. There usually isn't much crime associated with these people. Well, they aren't going on mass killing sprees anyway.

I have heard some stories that they can be loud and demanding. Someone Sean works with claim a small group came knocking on their (or maybe it was someone in their family) door last year wanting to use their bathroom. Uh, nope, sorry no bathroom here. Luckily, we aren't very near the 'gathering' place and I doubt anyone will be wandering up our lane. But it is kind of creepy. I've only watched a couple youtube videos because that's all my innocence can handle. And it's a whole lotta something I wouldn't want to be around. Yeah, I'm officially creeped out.

What Started It All

2011-08-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Get the Full Recipe Here

Sometimes you just happen to find a recipe that changes the way you cook forever. This is that recipe. I happened to see an episode of Down Home with the Neelys where they were preparing turkey sliders. I was actually more interested in the tomato jam recipe that was included. But once I tasted those sliders I knew I must try ricotta in all meat patties.

I have added ricotta to ground beef and chicken as well as the turkey with fabulous results. I also have used it in salmon patties and loved the outcome. Sometimes I stick with just a 1/4 cup of ricotta but have increased it to a 1/2 cup for ground beef.

It not only enhances the flavor but improves the moisture and texture of the patty. I don't believe I'll ever make burgers without it again. You must give it a try. Oh, and the tomato jam recipe is a keeper too. Lastly, it wouldn't be a true Simple Girl post if I didn't include a link detailing how you can make homemade ricotta cheese. My little gift to you. [smooches]

Things Are So Rosy

2011-07-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

back in may i decided to give it a go and attempt to root some cuttings from our miniature hedge rose. i had never rooted anything before but everything on the web told me it super easy. and it was once i threw out everything i had read on the internet.

every guide i read said the same thing, i have to cover the cuttings and mist them frequently. well, that didn't work for me. i tried covering the cuttings with an old glass aquarium and clear plastic bags. in both cases, the roses rotted before they could develop roots.

i started in may and went through several attempts and had given up when it happened, one of my cuttings took root. the funniest thing was i had given up and placed what cuttings hadn't already died on the north side of our house, sitting on top of the old aquarium. i had written them off for hopeless but a week later i noticed one of them had sprouted new leaves. my enthusiasm immediately returned.

this time around i kept the steps simple. i boiled water and poured over the already prepared pots to warm and sterilize the soil.

i also chose cuttings that were young but not too young. this is one of those vague areas that other guides left me scratching my head. i have found that you don't want to use brand new shoots like the one pictured below but you also don't want stems that are several years old either. i have had success rooting this years growth that is a couple months old as well as stems from last years growth.

don't use cuttings this young. find ones that have aged at least a month or so.

my biggest complaint with using the instructions found online is geography. no one ever shared what part of the world they were located. i think this makes a huge difference when rooting plants. when i first started back in late april, early may, the weather was quite unpredictable. some days were very warm and then we would dip back into a very cool spell.

it wasn't until the weather turned very warm, downright hot, and unbearably humid that i began to have success. i'm in southern illinois and these are our typical summers. this hot and humid weather is the key to rooting roses without the use of glass or plastic covers and daily misting.

here are the very basic and super simple steps to rooting roses in the heat and humidity of summer.

1. prepare small pots with basic high quality potting soil. sterilize the soil with boiling water.

2. make sure to prepare each stem completely as you go. in other words, don't cut all your stems at once and then move onto potting. cut then immediately pot the one stem to keep it from wilting. then move onto the next stem.

3. pick stems that are young but not brand new. if you're not for sure, guess and experiment.

4. i cut my stems about 4 inches long, stripped all the leaves off except the top two. then i scraped the lower inch of the stem with a knife, exposing a thin strip. this will help the cutting root.

5. dip the stem in rooting hormone powder.

6. i used a skewer to make a hole in the soil. i tried to bury about two inches of stem in the soil. tamp with fingers to secure and water with warm water.

7. it's important to water with warm water until the rose shows evidence of successful rooting. this cuts down the chance of stem rot. evidence of rooting include the sprouting of new leaves as well as visibly seeing roots in the drain holes of your pots.

8. place potted cuttings in a very shaded area like the north side of your house.

9. i found i had greater success when i placed the cuttings off the ground. i sat mine at least a foot off the ground. this cuts down the chances of pests and improves air circulation.

10. lastly, you may want to treat your cuttings with a mild fungicide if you have trouble with mildew or black spot.

good luck

sweat mixed with a little drywall dust

2011-07-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

it has happened. sheetrock has been conquered. it almost killed us and we didn't even hang it ourselves. finishers come thursday. hope to be priming soon.

click to see more

mud

2011-06-08T13:44:00.000-07:00

things have been a bit frustrating around here. i really, really didn't want to spend another summer here at the 'little' house. but some things just can't be helped. there just isn't much to do here. we had a lovely park but some heathens tried to burn it down. we have a public pool but it is over run with more unsupervised heathens. we planned on going here a lot but it is pretty far from where we live now and with gas prices as they are, we are grounded. so a mud puddle will have to do.

my shift keys are broken

2011-06-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

somethings i am loving today.

i love braided rugs. i would love this in our entry. 54.00 for a 8' runner

oh this tile. i want to put it somewhere, maybe the laundry backsplash. what color grout. 6.81 per sq. ft.

fabric for drapes in great room. curtains are expensive. i think i can make my own. 6.98 per yard

more fabric. this is upholstery weight fabric at 16.98 per yard.

these chairs are less than 37.00 each. barstools are 60.00 each. they are wood and come in several finishes.

Do You?

2011-06-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

source
Does anyone else love this bathroom as much as me?

I Bought Some Lights

2011-05-17T09:16:00.000-07:00

I have bought all the lights for the house (well almost). There really aren't that many light fixtures but finding affordable lights isn't easy. But I did luck out a little. I still love oil rubbed bronze. I know it isn't the "hot" finish anymore but I can't help but like it. Its decline in popularity did help decrease the price on some lights.

I believe the pendants for the kitchen are all that are left to buy. Those are tough! Oh, and a few ceiling fans. So far I have spent a little over $700. I think that is pretty good considering some people pay that for just one or two fixtures. All the lights have been delivered and I have to say the quality and design of all the lights have been excellent.

Dining Chandelier $88

Entry Fixture, $103

Liam's Bath Fixture $67

Master Bath Light Fixture $89 each

Dining Room Sconces $19 each with shade

Tyler's Bath Light Fixture $67 each

Mini Chandelier over Master Tub $133 - $10 off coupon

The Beginnings of a Good Ghost Story

2011-05-10T05:21:00.000-07:00

There is an old homestead across the road from our driveway. I spotted what appeared to be a cellar this winter when the trees were bare. This spring I finally made my way out for a visit. You can still see the stones protruding from the ground that once were the foundation footers. There is a well and a nicely preserved cellar.

Sean now works in the town we will be moving to. I bet he has come across a dozen people who grew up near where we are building. Everyone seems to have very happy memories of growing up there. That makes me happy.

One of Sean's patients, who is one of the dozen, remembers this old homestead. A family by the name of Ran lived there. They had two sons. I believe when they were older they were employed at the mine. Both were very nice fellows. One of the brothers did have an odd characteristic, though. Apparently, he had one normal sized hand and one hand that was twice the size of the other. When Sean shared this detail my mind went crazy with spooky stories surrounding that huge hand. I can't wait for the bonfires.

an old flower garden

foundation stones

creepy and unsafe well

better cover it back up

would really love to know what this was. it is a small brick box right beside the well

back of cellar

front of cellar. door is missing.

oops. surely, they wouldn't mind.

100 Year Flood

2011-05-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

I was told over the weekend that we have received over 20 inches of rain in the last three weeks.

Keep in mind there is usually no water in any of the areas pictured.

It used to be said we would have severe flooding every 100 years but this is the second episode of severe flooding since 2008.

This picture brought tears to my eyes. I can't imagine having to flee your home and leave a beloved pet behind.

So many homes have been lost.

This flood has surpassed the last four dating back into the 1800's.

Normally farmland.

Area before levee heading into Harrisburg, normally dry. I would say the water is well over 15 feet here.

A little closer look.

The highway to the new house was covered but still passable.

Sean was driving.

Let's hope the drying out starts soon.

Taking It for a Test Drive

2011-05-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

We have chosen engineered laminate wood floors for the new house. I thought they were pretty great but I am amazed at how many people freak a little. "Don't put them in a kitchen or bathroom!" "Don't get them wet for more than five seconds or they'll be ruined forever!" "You can't mop!" "Just use a slightly damp cloth to clean!" I really could go on.

I found all the hoopla a little hard to believe but it scared me enough that I almost reconsidered. But then the sample arrived of the floor I chose and I fell hard. It is a wide planked, distressed, hand-scraped floor. Perfect. I could scratch it, dent it, probably even scorch it. The finish looked so forgiving. But was it really that durable.

I decided to do things to that floor sample I would never do any floor. I used it as a coaster. Yep, I left cold, sweating beverages on it for hours at a time. It did swell a bit. But the finish was unharmed and once it was left to drive, it returned to its original state.

I dropped all manner of things on it; toys, shoes, even rocks. A few tiny nicks but not even noticeable. I used it as a hot pad. Again, it took the abuse like a true lady. I soaked it in the sink for over an hour. Again, it did swell but once it dried out, it looked like nothing had ever happened to it.

So last winter, I stuck it under one of my cacti that over-winter in the house. I probably watered the cactus about three times over the course of five months, making sure the plant was watered well. But any water under the pot, I left to dry on its own.

As you can see water accumulated under the pot after each watering.

Yesterday, I put the cactus back outside and surveyed the damage. I was surprised that once the sample was wiped clean, not one hint that a potted plant sat upon it all winter.

Like New

After all that aquatic abuse, still straight as can be.

But my permanent marker didn't fair as well.

This is not a paid advertisement, although I welcome reimbursement of any kind. I need the cash. Click here if you would like to see where to buy the flooring I picked. P.S. The price of the flooring has gone up a bit since I got my sample.

Water for Donkeys

2011-05-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

Remember that weather forecast I posted a while back? Well, it started raining then and it hasn't stopped much since. We've had a few days of reprieve but it has been a down pour after down pour. The southern most of Illinois is being evacuated in many areas. And it is raining again.

When Leo passed away last Monday, Liam, my mom and I ventured south to the new house to bury him. On the way, we had to drive threw about 500 feet of flooded highway. It was still passable but it freaked me out. I felt claustrophobic and my flight response kicked in. The next day that highway was closed as well as several others.

Amateur Race Track Under Water

Another Shot of Race Track

And Yet Another

Farm and Home Completely Cut Off from Highway

This is the entrance to the previous farm and home. The day before we saw the family leaving while they still could. Thankfully, their home appears to be safe.

Shouldn't Everyone Have One of These?

2011-04-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

Source

Karen, this made me think of you. You could totally make this. And you should.

Then the Rains Came

2011-04-26T21:12:00.000-07:00


Leo (December 4, 1994 - April 25, 2011)

Side Note . . . Weather

2011-04-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

It seems that if it isn't raining on the weekend the wind is blowing so hard we can't safely put up siding on the second floor. We were suppose to be done with the siding on the second floor by now. But first it was more snow than usual, then rain and wind. We have a few odds and ends to work on inside but that list is dwindling. I am hoping for a clear weekend with calm winds next week. Please.

It's Good Friday & I Am Thankful

2011-04-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

Graciousness & Bacon

2011-04-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much for your comments on my last post. I totally agree with everything said, except for Karen claiming to look like a senior citizen. Uhh, no way! I think Gayle had an excellent point when she said maybe those dropping the "g" word are used to seeing young grandmothers. I do live in an area where there is a very high number of young moms who lead to young grandmas. Matter a fact, when I had Liam at 31, the CRNA doing my epidural even made a comment that he sees many 35 year old grandparents in his job.

You all made me feel so much better. I had my first child at 21 so I shouldn't be a grandma for hopefully another 10 years. And even at 45, that seems like a young grandma to me! I don't think it is the actual age that is bothering me but the fact that sometimes I feel my age, and maybe a little older. I want to stay young at heart forever but this world can make that hard sometimes. So I am going to read a Laurie Notaro book and stay young forever!

And I think I read somewhere that bacon is one of those foods that keeps you young. Well, maybe I didn't read that. At any rate, bacon will make you happy. That is a fact. Add a little pancake batter and some good oil for frying and you will be in heaven.

Bacon poppers Recipe

Gerascophobia

2011-04-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

Source

I am so glad that a few of you have decided to bite the bullet and start trying that whole exercise thing with me. I finished last week with four, 30 minute workouts. I planned to aim for five but I was feeling a serious lack of motivation. I thought it might be better to take a few days off and start back fresh this week.

I was so pleasantly surprised to open my mailbox Saturday and see that Cindy (my BFF) didn't forget her promise. I shed a couple tears reading the super sweet card and then laughed so hard after I read the short essay, Thirty-ffff, by Laurie Notaro. I wasn't able to find a link to share it here {sadness}. Please Cindy, let me know which book this came from.

It really got me thinking about my issues surrounding turning 35. I think it's a given that vain people take aging hard. I have never thought of myself as being vain though. I thought only pretty people could be vain, or at least think they are pretty. Don't they spend hours in front of a mirror? Aren't they obsessed with how they look? That's not me, right? Maybe there is more to being vain. Maybe I have more of an issue with vanity than I thought. We'll have to revisit this topic again soon.

Laurie's essay made me realize there is also another group of people who don't handle growing older very well. And this is a group I do know I belong to; the immature people. You know the ones; the people who don't take too many things seriously at all. She really nailed it when she pointed out that certain behaviors can be seen as "cute" or "wacky" in young people. But when you hit that next age group, you just start to look down-right crazy.

It all brought back an "episode" from last December, an event I had blocked from my memory. Sean and I had gone to Rural King to pick up a certain toy for Liam for Christmas. At the checkout, the cashier, who was obviously just a teenager, went on about how her little brother just loved that tractor. I wasn't really paying attention to her. I was too busy gawking at all that bulk candy they stack next to the checkout lanes.

But then she said the most asinine thing ever uttered by another human being, "Is this for your grandson . . . or son?" I think I pulled a muscle just jerking my head around to see who she was talking to. It couldn't be us! Oh, but she was looking right at us. I didn't know how to respond. I mean, I was grateful she added the son part at the end, just to keep it from being completely awkward. Thankfully, Sean saw I was about to collapse to the floor. He took over and somehow I managed to get back to the car.

I was just baffled. I had never, ever been asked if I had a grandchild. Sean tried to smooth things over by convincing me that she was obviously speaking to him. He was completely convinced (yeah, right) that she probably thought I was his daughter and we were shopping for my son and his grandson. I was desperate and latched onto this absurd idea at first but after I obsessed for awhile longer I realized she would have said, "Is this for your grandson . . . and your son?" She would not have used the word or. He claimed, "She's a teenager for crying out loud."

Then I went into the angry phase of my "twelve step realization that I am no longer 25." How could she say that? Doesn't she know that you never, ever ask a person if that is their grandchild, unless of course, they have a walker. You always assume it is their child. Let them say the "g" word. Don't they teach this kind of stuff in school?

But the truth is, I could have a grandchild. Maybe not one old enough to play with a tractor clearly marked for children three and up but I certainly could be a brand-spanking-new grandma. Let's do the math, shall we?

35-17=18

And last time I checked, 18 year-olds are perfectly capable of having babies. True, I would have been a young mother and my child would also be a young parent but it is possible. But let's thank God that it is not the reality I live with.

It Happened One Night

2011-04-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

I left my coffee travel mug in the car with the lid on overnight. The next morning a tiny spider had moved in.

35

2011-04-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

I turn 35 in a couple months. It doesn't even sound possible. {Sigh} I know it isn't "old". But when I say it out-loud, "Thirty-five." I think I must be mistaken. Seriously, I can't be 35. Just yesterday I was 25.

I equate women turning 35 to a car rolling over 100,000 miles on the odometer. That's the magic number when things start happening. Things start breaking and need replacing. Time to go into the shop for maintenance. It feels the same for me.

I remember last year talking to my ob/gyn about maybe having another baby in the next year. Her response, "Well, you know you turn 35 next year. There will be more risk. Fertility starts to decrease every year after 35." Her words seemed to echo like we were in a cave.

Slowly, I have been creeping toward that magical number. And finally I stopped feeling sorry for myself and started creating a plan. I can't stop that birthday from happening but I can stop acting like a 35 year-old. I feel 25 so why not act like one.

I may claim that my health was the main reason for my motivation but that's not the truth. Vanity has been my biggest motivator.

Ellen Barrett

I love this dvd even though the title is a little stupid. I don't think bikini ready and fast should ever be used in the same sentence. Besides, I have no desire to ever wear a bikini. Ever.

I love any Ellen Barrett dvd. I do 30 minutes 4 to 5 times a week. I have no idea how much weight I have lost because I threw out my scale years ago. But I can tell you after only a week I started to feel a difference in how my clothes fit.

Spooky

2011-04-12T06:18:00.000-07:00

Link

Spring and summer may not have a reputation for being a time of spookiness. But I always find myself in the mood for a good ghost story this time of year. Maybe it has something to do with all the campfires.

Yesterday, I read an article about abandoned mansions on yahoo. I followed several links and came across RejectedMemories.com. It contains some spectacular photos of some very spooky places. So if you find yourself craving some abandoned hospitals or creepy cemeteries, you might want to take a peek. But make sure it is a dark, stormy night and you are all alone.

It Ain't No Turkey

2011-04-04T12:44:00.000-07:00

Saturday we spotted our first bald eagle. It was soaring over a nearby pond. A much smaller bird was not happy about its presence and kept trying to herd it away. Today I got an email about this 24 hour live video feed of an actual eagle nest in Decorah, Iowa. After seeing the "leftovers" in the nest, I can see why most animals wouldn't want an eagle for a neighbor.

Edited to add: We have become so fascinated watching these birds. Liam watched for 15 minutes while one of the parents fed the babies. I found myself thinking all day, "I wonder what those eagles are up to now?" So I have spent a little too much time watching this eagle soap opera today. Did I mention there is sound too? Cindy, I think Dave and you will be sucked in as well. :)

Karen, I honestly did try to find some live feed of turkeys but sadly, none exists at this time.

A Dog

2011-03-31T08:41:00.000-07:00

Our little dog, Leo, turned 16 last December. He has had a good life, better than most dogs. Last year, his health started going down hill. He has been deaf for a few years. He developed cataracts several years ago and they have finally taken most of his sight. Some time last year he developed dementia.

I look at him and he doesn't resemble the cute dog that always resembled a puppy. Food was his obsession. Now I have to coax him to eat. I know our time left with him is short and I already miss him.

2011-03-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

Go ahead. Say it out loud. "From the Edge with Peter Lik." Now stop giggling. I was discouraged from pursuing journalism because I looked too young. No one would take me seriously. It's nice to see the snickering and relentless teasing didn't stop him from pursuing his dream . But shame on his parents. And shame on me for my adolescent sense of humor.

Oh, Dear.

2011-03-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

The weather has turned colder and wet. It sleeted for about an hour this morning, but thankfully, the ground was too warm for it to stay around. Liam is hoping and praying for warmer temperatures and sunshine soon.

Some Things Just Work Out

2011-03-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

Sean tried desperately to explain how the split fascia board would look with the five projections on each side. I, for the life of me, couldn't picture it in my head. I trusted Sean, though I had just an ounce of doubt in the back of my head. And once again, he came through. I am really pleased with the detail. It was surprisingly easy to design and install. Now to move onto the next section right above the front porch.

We are slowly finishing the second floor siding. Once the second floor is done, the first floor should be a breeze. All the fascia boards and soffits will be installed. They definitely are the hardest part of the siding. The first floor is all lap siding. I hope it holds no surprises.

The Birds

2011-03-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

Sean surprised us with a couple new bird feeders. I thought about storing them until we move but Liam was so excited. And in just a matter of minutes, we had lots of birds to marvel over.

Vicarious Gardening

2011-03-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

Springtime without gardening is like the night sky without any stars. Simply disappointing. But I can live vicariously through all of my gardening friends, busy digging up bulbs, planning summer beds or planting vegetable gardens. I am going to do a little container gardening this year, just to keep me from going completely insane. And, of course, I am busy discovering new plants.

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Maybe it is because you find them all over the woods or maybe it is their delicate fronds. Whatever it is, I love ferns. They just may be my favorite shade plant. The one pictured above is a Burgundy Lace Japanese Painted Fern.

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This is a sedum named October Daphne. It is shown in a shallow pot but is considered a ground cover. I think it would be great in a rock garden.

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Burning Heart Dicentra is a shade lover. I think it would look lovely nestled between some ferns.

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Incarvillea delavayi, another fern, but this one blooms. Maybe, it is my favorite shade plant. It's hard to have a favorite.

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Evergreens weren't a favorite of mine until I came across some new varieties. Now I have a new appreciation for their shape and color during the bland winter months. This Korean Fir is your typical fir but has gorgeous cones.

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For some reason I am drawn to dwarf cedars, like this Mushroom variety. I think it is the texture and color they add in winter.

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I came across this Red Majestic Contorted Hazelnut in a gardening catalog. It's hard to tell from the picture above but it has wonderful corkscrew twisted stems. It also has hanging catkins that appear in the winter. Here is a photo of it in winter covered in snow.

Beauty in the Unusual

2011-03-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

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I have encountered odd colored deer twice in my life. Once I spotted a white deer from the interstate. It may have been an albino but it was too far away to tell. The second time, Cindy and I were exploring some back roads and had one cross the road right in front of us. I, unfortunately, only had my cell phone with me. The photo was nothing more than a white blur. That deer was white but not albino. It had the usual dark eyes and a few patches of brown fur. Oh, how I wish I had my camera that day.

Ahh, to Have a Dream

2011-03-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

I have a soft spot for dreamers.

I love to see people have an opportunity to make their dreams come true.

My dreamer, Sean, shared this incredible website with me last night. It is a platform where people can share their dreams and you can help make their dreams come true. Artists, musicians, inventors, filmmakers, authors, and designers share their projects (usually with a video). They create a time frame and a dollar amount they need to kick start their dream. They also create funding levels and give away stuff at each level. For example, a musician may send you a free copy of their finished CD if you donate $15 to their project. For $50, they might send two autographed CD's and a t-shirt.

People get really creative with their freebies. This Christian group, who is trying to raise money to professionally record their CD, will cook for you for a moderate donation. That's pretty slick.

A project to create a visual, interactive guide to the federal budget was recently funded and production started yesterday. Very interesting.

Sean got really excited about this one. An author, writing a book about things I will never understand, asked for $5,000 and supporters have already pledged over $24,000! I'm sure he never expected that to happen.

A guitar designer started a project to start production of three-string guitar kits for kids. $42,000 pledged so far!

Darn it! I missed out supporting The Blackberry Bushes with their next CD. But they succeeded anyway! You can listen to some of their music here.

The projects are endless and more than inspiring.

RTA Cabinets

2011-03-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

Source

Of the few people who glance at this blog, no one is probably in the market for new cabinets but I had to share anyway. (Maybe you know of someone who is.) You all may have heard of RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets before, but I never knew they existed until recently. Apparently, they are like IKEA cabinets but with many more options and styles available. You basically pick your style and sizes. They arrive boxed, ready to put together.

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If you can put a box together, you can assemble RTA cabinets. They come with the drawers already assembled and the cabinet doors are also already installed. You just have to put the cabinet bodies together using a screwdriver, wood glue and, maybe, a brad nailer. That seems pretty easy.

Source

What was most surprising about RTA cabinets was the price. Most 10x10 kitchens (L shaped) with wall and base cabinets ranged between $1,500 to $2,500. That's for all the cabinets. There are many different finishes and wood species to choose from. And many styles have soft-close drawers and doors standard, as well.

Source

And So It Begins . . .

2011-03-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

Sent to me via Cindy (my BFF)

Pregnant in America

2011-03-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

Today Is Going to be a _______ Day!

2011-03-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

It's Like Having a Crystal Ball

Some Days Are Like This

But if I'm Lucky I'll Get This

It's Friday & I Feel Like a Song

2011-02-25T06:23:00.000-08:00

This isn't bluegrass but it is fun and catchy. And you just might find yourself singing it next time you're in line at Walmart.

2011-02-23T22:13:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of Pinterest? I stumbled across it and thought, "Finally!" I usually place all my favorite things either on my Amazon wishlist or save the image to my desktop. Both work but have their pitfalls. It is virtually impossible to sort or search your Amazon wishlist. If I save the image, I have a hard time keeping track of where the image originated from.

Pinterest is still in the beta, testing stage but I hope they send out invites soon. I'm looking forward to trying it.

Homesteading: A Revolution

2011-02-21T07:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the boys and I decided to take a walk in the woods. It had been about a year since we had been out in the woods behind our house. Every time I enter that woods, I am reminded why we bought this 40 acres. We were only searching for 10 acres but this property stole not only our hearts but our souls.

I adore finding other people who share a love of homesteading. It is just fascinating to see how people have traded in their old lives for new ones. And I am thankful they are sharing their knowledge.

It's Friday & You Know What That Means

2011-02-18T06:11:00.001-08:00

Homeschooling a Preschooler

2011-02-17T07:58:00.000-08:00

Officially, Liam and I started preschool (at home) in November of last year. Things are going surprisingly well for both of us. Liam has mastered his colors, even learning which colors to mix to make new colors. Shapes are one of Liam's favorite exercises and he has learned all the basics. We started counting on our fingers then he learned numbers 0 to 12 by sight. We are now concentrating on the alphabet, taking a letter a week.

I have decided to take a very relaxed approach. We usually review in the morning and learn something new in the afternoon. Sometimes we work at the kitchen table but we are usually snuggle on the couch or bed. I can't wait for the weather to warm up enough to read and do lessons outside. As he gets older, we'll work our way into a more set schedule.

Websites Containing Preschool Curricula, Lists, and Activities

Other Resources in Print

Colorful stories that teach

Great workbook with colorful worksheets

Although not in color, we really like Richard Scarry

Great way to begin Bible stories

Great Math Workbook

This book is a must!

My Mii Family

2011-02-15T09:14:00.000-08:00

I Love Paper Dolls

2011-02-14T13:16:00.000-08:00

I guess I am just an overgrown kid. I am.

via MyOwlBarn

Art Day

2011-02-14T06:39:00.000-08:00

Forget Valentine's Day. I never cared for that so-called holiday anyway. I would much rather have art day.

Amanda Blake Art

Tastes Orangey

It's Friday & I NEED a Song

2011-02-11T04:45:00.001-08:00

Excitement

2011-02-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

is seeing my three favorite blogging ladies with new posts!

If I Had a Garden

2011-02-09T08:41:00.000-08:00

Every single time Karen mentions this book, I start to get excited. Although I won't be doing any serious gardening this year, I can plan. And planning I am. That's probably a good thing, since I tend to jump in with both feet when it comes to big projects. You would think I would learn. I hope you enjoy these little snippets of garden inspiration.

I love the unplanned, messiness of this garden. Source

I think the kids would have to fight me for this tree house. Source

Great way to use old marbles. Don't forget the epoxy! Source

Think you can't make a playhouse? Think again. This one would be super easy to make. Source

This is my dream garden. The beds, the fence, the path, perfection to me. Source

The perfect entrance to any garden. Source

I like how they made their fence from small, cut trees; much less expensive. Source

We have a lot of open grass on our property. What a pretty way to break it up. Source

I love the use of pea gravel instead of concrete in this step down garden area. No Source

I don't know what is in the hutch, but what a cute idea. I'm afraid we would have to build another enclosure around it to protect the critters inside. Source

I love container gardening. A great example of incorporating containers in a garden. Source

I am hoping that in 20 years our homestead resembles this. It looks so natural and not planned at all. Source

I'd love to clean up the edge of our woods to look like this. SO much work, but it would be worth it. Source

I always wondered if you could grow carrots in a pot. Source

High Gloss

2011-02-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

I whined just a tiny bit yesterday and was a little dramatic. But I have to agree with Karen, there just aren't that many home magazines that reflect my taste. My mother-in-law keeps my Southern Living subscription up-to-date for me. I also receive BHG, Traditional Home and English Home as I mentioned before. I have only received a couple issues of English Home but like it very much so far. The others are nice, but nothing that keeps me watching the mailbox for its arrival. I did run across a few that did pique my interest recently. I need to break down and find single copies just to see if they are all they seem to be. Has anyone subscribed to any of these below? If so, I would love to hear your opinion.

Old House Interiors ~ I am really tempted by this one

Romantic Homes

Tea Time


Victoria ~ You can get a combo subscription of Victoria & Tea Time for $29.95

Cottages & Bungalows

Harrowsmith Country Life

BBC Homes & Antiques

Homemakers

Polyvore ~ Liam's Bathroom

2011-02-07T05:18:00.001-08:00

Polyvore can be such a pain. I guess I just don't have the touch.

Some Things in Life Are Just So Unfair

2011-02-07T04:50:00.000-08:00

I am in love with the UK version of Country Living but a paper subscription costs over $80.00. Why, oh, why? Sure, I could go with an online subscription for about half the price, but I am old fashioned. I like the feel of having that magazine in my hand. Plus, I can take it wherever I please and keep it forever. All images are from Country Living UK.

Someone, please, straighten those lampshades! I do have a subscription to English Home and love it. It is definitely more affordable at a little more than $30.00 for a year. Anyone have a magazine they just can't live without?

It's Friday & I Feel Like a Song

2011-02-04T04:58:00.000-08:00

Liam and I are on a bit of a bluegrass streak. Please forgive. We think this song is fun.

Someday . . .

2011-02-03T07:33:00.000-08:00

I'm not much of a traveler. Oh, I used to think I loved it. And I guess I do for a couple days. But then I long for home. Once I get home, I think, "Why did I ever want to leave?" But there are a couple places that make my heart skip a beat. Places I would never want to leave.

The Lake District in the UK

Source ~ Near Sawry

Source ~ Also Near Sawry

Source ~ Sawrey House Hotel

Source ~ The Town of Kendal

Source ~ The Lake District National Park

Source ~ Stone Cottages Everywhere

Source ~ Landscape that Takes Your Breath Away

Source ~ Hotel Guru in Sharrow Bay

Source ~ More Beautiful Scenery

Source ~ Lake District Village

Source ~ Beatrix Potter's Hilltop Farm

Source ~ Linthwaite House Hotel & Restaurant

Source ~ Gold Hill Cottages, Shaftesbury England

Source ~ Cottages to Rent

Source ~ Cottage to Explore -Liiliput Lane Cottage

Source ~ Let's Not Forget the Food

Must Have ~ Two Part Epoxy

2011-02-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

Gorilla Epoxy

J-B Weld

We break things at our house. Sometimes they are broken beyond any hope of repair. But sometimes, a little epoxy can put them back together. And that's money in the bank.

Deal Alert!

2011-02-01T08:06:00.000-08:00

Cuisinart ICE-21 Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker

Amazon is offering this 1-1/2 quart ice-cream & sorbet maker for $37.10. It is marked down from $90.00 and received 77 five star reviews. Plus it is eligible for free shipping. That is a deal!

Let's Fake a Little Springtime

2011-01-31T22:26:00.000-08:00

Nothing says spring like lemons; well, in my book. Here are two of my very favorite lemon recipes. Lemon bars are a traditional favorite. Since I consider myself 4/5 British (are you buying that?), I must share my lemon curd recipe. It is super easy but so delicious.

Old-Fashioned Lemon Bars

1 - 14 oz.can sweetened condensed milk
zest of one lemon
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
2/3 cup unsalted butter
1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9"x13" pan. Pour condensed milk into medium sized bowl; stir in lemon zest and juice. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and baking powder in two additions, beating very well. Mix in oats. Spread flour/oat mixture evenly over bottom of pan. Pour lemon/milk mixture over flour/oat layer. Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool completely. Sprinkle powdered sugar over cooled bars and slice.

Simple Lemon Curd

3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
3/4 cup sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed

In a 2 quart saucepan, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and butter. Cook over medium-low heat until thick enough to hold marks from whisk, about 6 minutes.

Simple Books for a Simple Girl

2011-01-31T12:20:00.000-08:00

by Aldren A. Watson

by Kelly Alexander & Cynthia Harris

by Malena Skote

by Daniel J. Boorstin

by Alicia & Brian McGowan

It's Friday & I Feel Like a Song

2011-01-28T06:36:00.001-08:00

Make It as You Need It Furniture Polish

2011-01-27T07:54:00.000-08:00

This is another one of those tasks that seems silly to do when you have small children. But I feel the need to clean my wooden furniture on a somewhat regular basis (quarterly?). I feel bad for it, all covered in fingerprints and only-God-knows-what-else.

Make It as You Need It Furniture Polish

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon olive oil

2 cups warm water

Mix in small container. I use scraps of flannel to dip in mixture and clean furniture. Use another dry piece of flannel to dry and polish. Discard unused mixture.

Yes, I am aware lemon juice and olive oil aren't on the "list". I reason that since they are food items, they don't count. Ha!

Buy one!

Patiently Waiting for . . . .

2011-01-25T06:52:00.000-08:00

click on caption for source ~ All images from southern Illinois nature

Winding paths to explore

Secret hiding places

Endless blue skies

Hidden water holes

Famous rocks surrounded by green

Surprise thunderstorms

Ancient cemeteries to explore

Spring rain waterfalls

Trickling creeks covered in dark leaves

Chance encounters with wildlife

2011-01-24T22:33:00.000-08:00

Janet via facebook comments on yesterday's wallpaper post: Delicate and pretty but intimidating! What room do you wallpaper?! A small office or a huge dining room? Both? I love that dark swatch with the light branches.

I wish I could answer those questions. I do know I love wainscoting with wallpaper. The solid wood is strong enough to perfectly balance out a busy or dark wallpaper. But I also love the surprise of a bold paper in a water closet or pantry. I think it all depends on your style and how bold you dare to go.

The one wall with a mural

Tile wainscoting with modern floral

Bold one wall application

I would have never chosen this but like it very much

Another bold pattern with wainscoting

I love this fun room, see the wallpapered dining room!

A bold pattern but not busy.

Very dark and very bold.

Paper Your Walls Pretty

2011-01-24T14:23:00.000-08:00

Source

The Valentines Edition

2011-01-24T12:02:00.000-08:00

Too Many Pictures of Tile

2011-01-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

Inspirational Photo #1

Inspirational Photo #2

I am cringing right now. I am a bit tired of anything related to building a house. I love it, as much as a person can love a bunch of concrete and wood. I have to admit I was a little more in love with it before we started. And I can admit that, since it is only a house. I could never say that about a child or even a pet; not out loud anyway.

So here we go, way too many pictures of tile. I like all of these tiles. Sean and I have put the tile on the splurge list. We wanted real stone but weren't sure the budget would allow. I am hoping. One never knows until the minute it is time to order. I never speak in certainties anymore.

Slate from Stone Tile Depot - $.50 per sq. ft.

Travertine and pebble border also from Stone Tile Depot

Travertine mosaic from Stone Tile Depot

I am told that a pebble floor in the shower feels wonderful on the feet

The travertine is honed and filled but not polished

I was hoping the slate would work because of the price but the color wasn't just right

Pebble border - 4x12 pieces @ $.99 a square foot is the best deal I have found

Whose sweet hand is that?

The Cuteness Will Kill You

2011-01-21T07:52:00.000-08:00

music

I May Exaggerate Sometimes

2011-01-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

Source

Okay, I really didn't feel that guilty or ashamed about buying scrubbing bubbles. It takes a little more than a twenty-something passing judgment on me to bring on some guilt. But I was a little embarrassed to admit the real reason I make my own household cleaners. You see, I think it is fun. Does that sound weird? Maybe just a little?

I like to think of it in the same terms as baking a pie. Sure, you could just buy that pie. But what fun is there in that? Other than the eating it part. And everyone knows a homemade pie is always way better than a store bought one.

Super Duper Twice a Year Window Cleaner

1 teaspoon Borax

2 cups very warm water

1 teaspoon castile (or mild liquid) soap

1/4 cup rubbing alcohol

1/4 cup ammonia

1/2 cup white vinegar (use infused if you like)

32 oz. spray bottle

1 gallon bucket or larger

Dissolve borax in 2 cups very warm (but not scalding) water. Pour all ingredients into 32 oz. spray bottle and gently swish to mix.

I use this window cleaner recipe for the heavy duty, twice-a-year window cleaning. My method is pretty simple. I fill the gallon bucket about half full with water. On the interior windows, I move any furniture and cover the floor with a drop cloth or old blanket to catch drips. Spray the window with cleaner. Use a netted sponge to scrub. Using a different sponge, dip into bucket of water, squeeze excess and rinse window. I use a chamois cloth to dry window.

edited to add: I probably wouldn't clean my windows, inside or outside, but twice a year if I didn't have a sweet three year old, who likes to smear his cuteness on anything shiny. I have to be honest, I have never found a cleaner, store bought or otherwise, that I can just spray and wipe off without streaking. If you have a swear-by-it method please share. I usually add 1/4 cup of the general purpose cleaner to a sink or small bucket of warm water and wipe the windows clean with a sponge. Dry with a low lint towel like microfiber. I use this method for anything shiny in the house like mirrors, microwaves, etc. DO NOT use this method to clean televisions or computer screens!

The " I'm Better Than You" Method of Cleaning

2011-01-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

These days if you're seen buying a bottle of any household cleaner without the word "natural" or "green" on the label, you will be chastised and made to feel you just clubbed a baby seal. It happened to me one time at a Walmart when the cashier, a hippy looking college student, rolled her eyes at my bottle of scrubbing bubbles. I have felt ashamed and judged ever since. So I decided I'd just stop buying cleaning products all together. Pshaw! Who needs to clean anyway.

I did a little research on the information superhighway and found out most of your household cleaners can be made with a few very common ingredients at home.

Your List to Save the Planet

Basic Ingredients for Household Cleaners

Ammonia

Washing Soda (Arm & Hammer)

Borax

White Vinegar

Baking Soda

Rubbing Alcohol

Ammonia

Castile Soap*

Essential Oils

Hydrogen Peroxide

Essential oils can be found in health or natural foods stores. You can also find many different assortments for ordering off the internet. My favorites are lavender, orange, lemon, peppermint, wintergreen, eucalyptus, tea tree. I could go on, I have many favorites. Some oils like lavender, tea tree and peppermint have natural disinfectant properties. Vinegar is also a natural disinfectant.

*I have yet to find a local source for castile soap. You can order it online. Amazon carries many different varieties in different quantities. It is pricey but goes a long way and is used in many homemade beauty items as well. If you would like to read more about castile soap, click here. If you don't want to commit to castile soap; please feel free to substitute the same quantity with a mild liquid soap like baby shampoo.

That's it, my friends. You will be able to clean your home and clothes from top to bottom with this list of simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have. Today we'll start with a recipe for a basic, general purpose cleaner.

General All Purpose Household Cleaner

Great for all hard surfaces and carpet*
*Please spot test on fabric when appropriate

1/4 teaspoon essential oil (I like lemon or orange)

2 Tablespoons castile or mild soap

2 teaspoons washing soda (Arm & Hammer)

1/4 cup white or infused* vinegar

warm distilled water to fill 32 oz. spray bottle

Simply pour all ingredients in no particular order into your bottle and gently swish to combine.

Infused Vinegar*
Infused vinegar can be made by combining the peel of one citrus fruit, like orange or lemon, to three cups white vinegar. Store mixture in a quart container that can be sealed air tight. Place on shelf for two weeks and stir occasionally.

Happy Cleaning!

If You Like . . .

2011-01-17T17:26:00.000-08:00

watching period pieces set during the Great Depression, I think you might like Wind at My Back. The INSP channel airs the show several times during a day and it is set to start from the beginning tomorrow.

Click here for more info

Drum Roll Please

2011-01-17T07:44:00.000-08:00

I made art. You can too.

It starts with an idea.


Ballard Designs

I stole my idea from Ballard Designs. Ballard Designs stole their idea from Denise Fiedler. This is how it works in the highly competitive, back-stabbing world of crafting.

His and Her Collages

Materials:

Patterns ~ sketched or printed out

Craft paper ~ various patterns of your choosing

Construction paper
Cardstock

Scissors

Stick glue

(2) Matted 8x10 frames

Pick out your design. This jacket just happened to be the exact size I needed. I used my laptop as a light box. I simply placed my paper over the screen and traced the image. Can't get any easier than that. The dress I did freehand.

I had a few failed sketching attempts before success.

After you make your templates, pick out your craft paper.

Start cutting up your template into pieces. Use the pieces as individual patterns.

Start cutting out the individual pieces.

I found it helpful to number the pieces of my pattern to keep them in order.

I centered my pieces on the cardstock before I started gluing them.

Please forgive the poor picture quality. It seems I am at my most creative after the sun goes down.

I believe I will put these two in the new laundry room

Must Have ~ Liquid Stitch

2011-01-14T06:56:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of sewing. It is almost romantic to think about a wife/mother sitting by a fire mending and darning the clothing of her beloved family. But reality is never quite the same as our fantasies.

My answer is liquid stitch. It is fast and super easy. You can hem, attach patches and appliques, stop fraying, and much more, all with liquid stitch. Every woman who prefers to take the easy route should have a bottle. Happy Friday!

Oh, and Monday I reveal my latest project. Aren't you excited? Well, it's Friday, so be excited about that.

For the resourceful home economist

Rubber Pants

2011-01-12T17:39:00.000-08:00

I do believe I may have coughed myself into a permanent state of incontinence. Oh, don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about.

Yes, that darling, little boy of mine decided to pass his croupy little germs around the house. I was his first target. His dear old Dad was second. But somehow the oldest has dodged the germ-infested bullet. Oh, to have the immune system of a lively teenage boy.

But I'm surviving. . . .

Here's a shot of my tried-and-true method to endure a chest cold.

Pictured below: Cough drops, Mucinex Maximum Strength, decongestant, hard liquor
The hard liquor was re-gifted to me by some kind soul. I have been working on this bottle for a little over a week. Chest colds are a great way to rid the home of unwanted liquor.

Liam broke my shot glass so now I must drink my medicine in an espresso cup. I find it much more dignified.

I am in no way licensed to give out or endorse any medical advice. I am just your run of the mill know-it-all (much like many doctors).

Jill, who just happens to be one of my dearest friends, sent me this recipe. I think it is just what the doctor ordered! Thanks Jill!

A Retraction

2011-01-10T16:42:00.000-08:00

Source

I just feel plain awful. My last post dealing with resolutions and exercise seemed to paint gyms and exercise in a very bad light. Well, I don't feel that way at all. Gyms provide a wonderful service. They are valuable and any organization that works so tirelessly to rid the world of fatties* is A-OK in my book. Plus, people live longer when they exercise regularly. That is a marvelous thing. Unless you are considering Social Security. Well, then I guess living longer is a bad thing.

So please accept my sincerest apologies to gyms across the world and the people who go.

While I am at it, I probably came across a little indifferent to the whole process of self improvement. I can tell you right now that I am in a constant state of bettering myself and even those around me. I have already read one whole book this year. And let me remind you it is only two weeks into the new year. Secondly, I can honestly say we, as a family, eat healthy, well-balanced meals a good three days out of the week. That is almost half the year when you add it up.

And probably my most shining accomplishment of 2010; I gave up reality television. You heard me correctly. No more reality tv for this gal. It took me 3/4 of the year to do it but I did it. Well, I am still on the fence about Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood. Is that really reality tv? I mean, it feels awfully scripted to me. And I find it very hard to consider any celebrity reality shows true reality tv. I mean, they are already celebrities. And isn't the whole reason people do reality television in the first place is to become a celebrity. So why bother if you're already being hounded by the paparazzi? Oh, the questions I ponder.

Of course, that doesn't apply to people who used to be a celebrity, then everyone forgot who they were and now they want to be famous again. Anyway, I am swaying way off topic. Once again, gyms are not bad. They are very, very good. I LUV GYMS!!

*As a fatty myself, I reserve the right to be able to use the term "fatty" as I please.

Yesterday's Garden ~ Circa 2003

2011-01-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

Resolutions Are for Cyborgs

2011-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Source

Better Late Than Never

I don't do New Years resolutions. It just seems like you're setting yourself up for failure. Has anyone on the this planet ever made a resolution and kept it for more than two weeks? One week? Come on, be honest? Oh, hush!

Resolutions are about changing behavior. Changing behavior and routines are hard. We are creatures of habit and this creature (me) usually goes into a tailspin anytime things are switched up. You should see me when the grocery moves items around. Hello, where's the aluminum foil? I know it was right here last week. Wait this whole aisle is different. What day is it? Where am I? Mommy!

Sure I would love to eat healthier, exercise more, watch less tv, read more, save the environment, end poverty, adopt an elderly person, spend more time with my friends and family, spend less time with friends and family, train the dog to stop doing his business on the front patio (I really need to stop that one). But that's a lot to get done in January and I'm already a week behind.

So what's a person to do? Well, I would stop making resolutions. Duh. But if you must sit down and analyze your failure as a human being, start small. I really wouldn't vow to start exercising 30 minutes, four times a week. (Unless you already exercise 28 minutes, four times a week.) It's just never going to happen.

Folks, I have literally spent years trying to figure out how a person could keep such a ~~ridiculous~~ wonderful resolution. The best I can come up with would take the dedication of another person and plenty of cash on your part. I figure you would have to pay a third party to come to your house, drive you to the gym, escort you in and stick around to make sure you actually exercise. You might also want to give said person a key to your house up front. If you're like me, you'll start hiding in your bedroom closet about midway through the first week.

It would also probably be a good idea to find someone who is capable of dragging you from the closet and carrying your limp body to the car as well. Remember dead weight is always harder to carry. I figure I would start playing dead at the end of the first week. Even after all this careful planning, I found the success rate for keeping this resolution drops to 0 during the second week. That's when you figure out you can start hiding out at the crispy creme during pick up times.

Garden Envy

2011-01-05T08:04:00.000-08:00

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It's that time of the year. Everyone who gardens is busy browsing seed catalogs, sketching garden plans and digging out supplies to start early seeds indoors. I'm a bit envious. I can keep planning but there will be no gardening for me this year. I have to keep my wits about me though and not bite off more than I can chew next year.

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I don't naturally have a green thumb. In my twenties I was convinced that I was born with one. But experience taught me that wasn't true. I had many more failures than successes.

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Tomatoes and cucumbers took little effort. Over time I realized not everything grows once you stick it in the ground. There is a science behind gardening.

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The key is to test your soil and amend as needed. Know when and how much to water. Mulch accordingly. Choose the correct type and amount of fertilizer. And most importantly enjoy yourself!

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A good gardening reference guide is invaluable.

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Maybe trial and error offer the best lessons.

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Happy Gardening!!

The Organized Hoarder

2011-01-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

When we started building I thought it would be a good idea to start buying things we would need for the new house. It started with small things, like a couple lamps, some knick knacks, linens. It grew to braided rugs, many lamps, flower pots, more knick knacks and furniture. Soon I had to rent another storage building. I had good intentions.

There Is a Method to My Madness

You see all that furniture. I got it all free. All was set out for the trash. How could anyone set out a vintage record player for trash pick up? I had to rescue it. No, it probably doesn't work but I happen to be married to a guy who can fix just about anything. And even if he can't fix it. The cabinet is in pretty good condition and will make a nice table.

More Free Furniture

The dressers are in pretty rough shape. But all the pieces are there, ready to be glues together. I am going to paint these for Tyler's room. The lowboy is missing a drawer. Sean will make a new one and paint this for the dining room. The side table just needs cleaned and painted. All of these were also trash finds. It pays to keep a look out on trash day! Has anyone else found great things in the trash?

Heaven on Earth

2010-12-31T10:02:00.000-08:00

alternate title: Why I Love Rural King

Bless Their Hearts for Caring Everything You Need to Make Laundry Soap

Monkey Butt and Chicken Poop Are on Sale

80 oz. of Pickle for Less $3! I bet this is where the Duggars buy their pickles.

Warning: Quarantine

2010-12-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

So sad

No mumps here. But Liam does have the croup. Seriously, barking seal and all. Poor little fella. This is his first official illness. A few sniffles in the past but nothing like this. Bless his little heart. I'll be back when all is well and back to normal. Signing off . . .

Your One Stop Shop for DIY

2010-12-28T10:19:00.000-08:00

and I'm not talking "This Old House" DIY either. Scooch has instructions for making everything from homemade toothpaste, shampoo to homemade magic shell ice cream topping. How about a homemade kit kat bar? You must find her at instructables. What? You've never been to instructables. Well, you must go now! Scooch has over 100 recipes and crafts with detailed instructions on instructables. Once your there, start browsing. You won't be sorry. You can find instructions for just about everything.

Best Gift Ever

2010-12-27T09:45:00.000-08:00

This was a gift from my parents to my oldest. Not only did he love it but so did everyone else. We all just sat and stared as the little jellyfish just danced in the water.

There are pros and cons.

Pros: The jellyfish are fake so nothing to feed or die.

Cons: Everyone in your family will want one! Liam is already begging one for his room!

Buy yours here.

Grey House

2010-12-27T08:56:00.000-08:00

I am so glad we went with gray.

This craftsman has a lot of cottage character and I love it!

Christmas's Past

2010-12-22T15:02:00.000-08:00

Taking a little walk down memory lane, I ran across this little cake, circa 2006. It is really cute and pretty easy to make. It's perfect for one of those last minute throw together desserts and the kids can even help.


Family Fun

But it can go wrong. This is what you DON'T want it to look like. I wish I could blame it on a kid. Maybe the dog screwed this one up.

Swamp Thing Christmas Cake

Christmas 2011

2010-12-21T07:55:00.000-08:00


Available here

It's a little late this year, but if I start planning now I might be ready for next year!

Mish Mash

2010-12-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in months and I really do miss it. So today I broke down and decided it was time. I would love to return to posting regularly but our schedule is so hectic. Between building that darn house, homework with a 13 year old, homeschooling a three year old, all the regular stuff, there just aren't enough hours in the day.

Thanksgiving was so wonderful. We were all hoping to be celebrating in our new home but sometimes God has other plans. How's that joke go? If you want to make God laugh, just tell Him your plans? I kind of chuckle thinking about how this house has changed our whole outlook on life. We have learned that we might think we are in control, but the joke is on us. And since no one has threatened to jump off a cliff or burn it down, we will continue working. But don't ask when we think we will be done. I will fall to the ground rolling with sinister laughter. I am thinking of renaming our property "Never Done Acres". Seriously.

Our Turkey Centerpiece

Liam and I worked so hard on our little Tom. I think he turned out very nice. I did all the assembling and most of the cutting. But Liam did all of the painting. Watercolors are our favorite. We added family members' names to the feathers for a nice touch. I wasn't planning on keeping him but I have kind of gotten attached to the old bird. I may have to box him up for next year.

I Have Something I Must Tell You

2010-05-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

I am a horrible blogger. Probably in more ways than one. ;) I have been gone for so long and unfortunately it will be like this for a bit longer. Some of you know we are trying to build this.

We are about right here in the process.

We are slowly getting there but since we are doing the majority of work ourselves, it is definitely taking all of our time. I guess you could say it is the biggest DIY project we have ever done!!

Borrowed DIY of the Week - Make Your Own Eggs

2010-03-26T05:06:00.000-07:00

Fabric and wax that is. There are so many really cute Easter egg tutorials out there. I decided to show a couple of them here. I just couldn't resist. I am so weak.

Oh, and just so you know, right at this very exact moment, I am under heavy sedation having a couple wisdom teeth cut out of my head. Don't you just love the gruesome description? So be thinking of me this weekend as I recover. I hope my narcotics last! Since my wonderful husband, Sean, will be caring for me, I am going to milk it for all I can! Happy Weekend!!

Retro Mama has done it again with these just darn too cute fabric Easter eggs. Hers are sewn but I bet a person could cover plastic eggs with fabric or craft paper strips and mod podge. You know how I am about sewing.

Melissa Howard shared a tutorial on how to turn simple eggshells into very creative candles. I would have never thought of doing something like this. So cute and simple!

Fugly Lamps

2010-03-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

I recently went on a lamp buying spree, of sorts. I was looking for ugly lamps. Okay, not really ugly, just misunderstood. Lamps stuck in a past decade, and not a good one. Brass lamps, they have good bones but the finish is outdated. But they can be saved. They can be turned into a very nice lamp, down right presentable. I may even say stunning.

Fugly Lamp #1 - Go ahead, admit it. It was a looker in it's day. But those days are over. It needed a little work.

Ahh, now here's a lamp you can bring home to mama. So what's her secret? Oil Rubbed Bronze Paint!

Fugly Lamp #2 - This one's has a lot of potential.

Step #1 - Rub all the brass down really good with steel wool. Don't be afraid to scratch it up really good.

Step #2 - Wipe the whole lamp down with a tack cloth. Then tape off all necessary parts.

Step #3 - Apply paint according to directions. Make sure to allow each coat to dry well before reapplying paint.

All done! I'll probably replace the shade on this one but you have to admit, what a difference!

You have to admit, it makes you want to go out and buy an ugly lamp. I used both the Rust-o-leum and Krylon brand oil rubbed bronze paint for these lamps. There is a big price difference and I have to say, I liked the cheaper (Krylon) paint better. I found mine at Wally World for a little over $3 a can.

I'm linking it up again this week!! Have fun!

Transformation Thursday @ The Shabby Chic Cottage

Power of Paint Party @ Domestically Speaking

Bonus Borrowed DIY - Making Your Own Lamps

2010-03-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

In celebration of having over 100 visitors yesterday, I wanted to give you a little something extra to make your Friday a little sweeter.

Have any mismatched china? How about a favorite urn or flower pot? You can turn just about anything into a lamp.

All photos courtesy County Living Magazine

Click here to see the complete tutorial for mismatched china. It is actually very simple. You can find lamp kits at any hobby/craft store.

Photo courtesy Southern Living

Click here to find the instructions for turning a flower pot into a lamp. I can't believe just how easy it is!

Borrowed DIY of the Week - Mod Podged Hand Trees

2010-03-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

I saw this collection of tree artwork and fell in love. Then when I realized they are made with your kid's hands, I fell head over hills. Perfect for a playroom, family room, really any room.

Visit At Second Street to find the tutorial!

Happy Thursday Everyone!

Look What I Made, Mom!

2010-03-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, I won't sugar coat this at all. I won't make excuses, even though I have a ton. My DIY that I was going to post turned out to be a bit more complicated than I had expected. For some reason my simple, little mind thought using a compound miter saw would be no big deal. Well, I guess it is. So I have decided to scratch that DIY and come up with something else. I have quite a few ideas but I am waiting on a few supplies to come in the mail. But I will share what I have completed so far of my almost DIY.

I just realized that I didn't do a very good job centering the letters. But I think you get the idea. The corners are mitered at 45. That was the tricky part that Sean helped me with. I made the decision that if it isn't a project I can do myself than it won't make for a good DIY. But don't fret, this will probably be the first item I list on etsy (not Liam's, of course).

Here is a better shot of the corner piece. I don't recommend using a miter box and hand saw to cut the corners for picture frames. The edges are just too rough and messy, even after filling with wood putty.

I am painting the frame and letters Colonial Red. All wood will be sanded, primed, sanded, 1st coat, sanded, and then final coat of paint. Yes, that is a total of three sandings. This will make for a very durable and smooth finish. I haven't yet decided if I will distress the frame or letters any. I'll have to wait and see when painting is finished.

Be on the look out for more DIY's this week!!

Join the blog parties!

The Shabby Chic Cottage - Transformation Thursday

Get Your Craft On Thursday

Blue Cricket Design

A Few of My Favorite Things

Domestically Speaking

Got Kids? . . . Pets? . . . Both?

2010-03-11T10:59:00.000-08:00

I am stepping a little out of the box with this post. But I had to share my favorite cleaner with everyone.

Kids N Pets Stain Remover

I swear this is the only stain remover you will need for carpets, fabrics, even hard surfaces. It contains an enzyme that removes odors completely. I love that it doesn't have a spray nozzle as well, very handy when you need to quickly saturate an area. It also has a nice fragrance that isn't overwhelming. Wal-Mart used to carry it but unfortunately, they no longer do in my area. So I stock up through Amazon.

Borrowed DIY of the Week - Make Your Own Cake Stand

2010-03-08T12:46:00.000-08:00

I was hoping to have my very first DIY of my own this week, but things were just a little too crazy over the weekend. But I promise to work super hard this week, so I can show you how to make your very own fabric name plaque next week. It is pretty simple but does involve some power tools. I'll do my best to show all the details next week. Hey, it gives you something to look forward to.

Let's move onto this week's DIY. So how do you turn this . . . . .

Into this . . . .

Or this . . . . .

Aren't they just gorgeous? Well, Holly Doodle Designs has all the instructions. I think even those who who are craftaphobic will be willing to give them a try. I think her frilly designs are super cute but you could definitely go for a more modern look by using a black or white paint.

And with a little imagination, you can turn just about anything into a cake stand.

This cake stand is made out of a bowl attached to the underside of a plate. Be Different . . . Act Normal has all the instructions.