Heliotrope Tree House

Happy 2012!

2012-01-08T20:53:00.007-05:00

(Crocheted and gifted to my beautiful new niece born this year.

One of the highlights of my 2011)

It's a new year! Wow. The holidays sure did go quickly.

Today we went to church and celebrated Three Kings Day.

The priest reminded us that there is still one more official day left to the Christmas season.

At least I don't feel guilty for leaving our tree up! One year, I left it up until February! Okay, that was a little much, but it all goes along with my theme of the year for 2012.

We're sloooowing down. I had to cut back on the extracurricular activities my girl was involved in. We got pretty sick and rundown during Christmas vacation. All the activity caught up to us and made me realize, we have very busy days...and both me and my girl require a lot of downtime. We love being home and unwinding.

We don't need to keep up with anyone or any activity level.

I'm going to slow down this year and I'm going to savor our precious time together at home.

This year there will be more:

quiet, listening, reading, early bedtimes, movie-watching, easier healthy meals,

pajama-days or at least pj mornings, cooking/baking lessons for my girl while I'm preparing in the kitchen, drawing, painting, sculpture time, nature walks.

There will be more good old fashioned time spent together.

And that is all I want.

That, and to be a better human being, a better mother...a more devoted child of God...

living my life to the fullest in the small, simple joys of

just being alive.

Happy New Year to You All.

I'm wishing you peace, joy, and love throughout every day

of the year ahead.

Holiday Pre-Game Photo Dump

2011-12-14T07:51:00.009-05:00

Been meaning to post for a while...but been busy. Life has been good

in that happily contented way.

Time to catch-up now.

Thanksgiving was my first as a vegan/vegetarian. It was awesome.

I had a Tofurky turkey and it was okay. Just okay.

Wouldn't do it again...especially 'cause there are so many other goodies to eat.

I am all about the sides, anyway. Next year, I'll know.

Here are some pre-holiday photos of the goodness we've been enjoying in our little corner of the world. Me and my girl both LOVE everything about preparing for Christmas, so it has

been all about holiday songs, hot chocolate, advent activities, crafting, and the like!

Our holiday kick-off: We saw the Beach Boys at the St. George Theater.

John Stamos performed with them and it was magic.

We had a ball on cold Sunday night.

Our little white Christmas tree. I always dreamed of a white tree when I was a child, now I have one. It just reminds me of sweet confections, snow, and all yummy wintry things.

I love it. So grateful to our babysitter and my daughter for putting it all together this year while I was at a class one Saturday. It looks so pretty in our living room.

A sideways photo of an advent activity calender I made for my girl.

Each day she turns over a card and there is a holiday activity we will do together.

Tonight, it's singing a Christmas carol together. Tomorrow, we'll play Uno or Scrabble Junior and the winner will get a candy cane. That kinda thing...

She's lovin' it. This was so simple and easy...and sweet to create.

Still in love with this Martha Stewart holiday letter banner I made three years ago.

It's perfect on the bookcase.

Jumped on the "cover everything in yarn" wagon that seemed to have taken place around Thanksgiving. I'm going to make a yarn covered initial for my new niece. But to warm up,

I covered an olive jar. It's cute enough.

Thinking of making a few mini jars to go next to it in other bright jewel colors.

Lastly, this was my economical teacher-gift prezzie this year. I made up four of these and they are wrapped pretty in cellophane and satin bows. Two for my daughter's classroom teachers, two for my grandmother's home health aides.

Everything was purchased at the dollar store: pretty vases, silk holiday flowers, an ornament, and peppermint candies.

I thought they were pretty festive and practical, too.

My favorite kind of gift!

How are you all preparing for the holidays?

Things left on our list: Only two more gifts for Mama to buy, a trip to the tree at Rockefeller, a trip to the American Girl store 'cause Mama promised, a meal at my favorite vegan restaurant in the E. Village, more crafting...and our favorite activity...

Baking (vegan) Gingerbread for Santa!

Can't wait!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-05T08:56:00.004-04:00

Halloween was rather spontaneous this year. We had our costumes planned,

but did not know where we would go or who would be included

in the trick-or-treating candy parade.

Turns out it couldn't have been more perfect.

Isn't it always like that?

Little Cub, our "Spanish Flamenco Dancer" was joined by

her BFF "Princess Peach" and the rest of our neighborhood gang.

Even Daddy joined the fun!

I broke-out another homemade costume using clothes from my "vintagey-costume"

clothes bin in my closet.

Disco Zombie Mama. Although, Cub's daddy said it was more like

"Prom Zombie!" Either way, it was all good.

And Daddy got to carry her candy while I got to gab

with my mama friends while walking.

There was a delicious diner visit afterwards where lots of yummy food was enjoyed as we were all starving.

Then we ended the night with hot apple cider before dropping off Daddy at the bus stop.

It was a great little holiday.

Now looking forward to planning my first vegan Thanksgiving.

Can't wait!

Looking Ahead...

2011-10-13T21:44:00.004-04:00

It's the time of year again...I get semi-excited for Halloween...but I'm already looking further down the road to the HOLIDAYS.

I know it's early. But I love to make handmade gifts for my loved ones and I'm already making my list.

Here is some of what I'll be making:

Crochet face-scrubbies- I'm already using them. Just whipped-up a weeks worth for myself in one night on the couch with a movie.

Planning on giving a set to a friend and a family member.

These are great for exfoliation and for toner. Think I'll gift them with an all natural face wash from Whole Foods.

I fell in love with this lovely night light project and if it is not too much trouble, just might have to make one for myself. Thinking about giving it to my brother and sis-in-law for my niece's (expected date of arrival, 10-27-11!!!!!!) nursery.

And no holiday would be complete without making something for my little girl.

She is all about her American Girl dolls this year and I know she will just love a couple of cute outfits. I'm definitely making this ensemble in her favorite color, RED with hot pink trim.

Another holiday tradition!

I've been making truffles since the my girl's first Christmas. Wow, that's almost seven years ago, now!

This year, they will be of the vegan variety.

Yuuummmm.

Thinking these for my beautiful sis-in-law as she loves chocolate.

Also, my aunt...another chocoholic in our family!

I began making this very scarf for myself last year and ran out of yarn for the fringe!

Then, I wasn't into the peacock-blue color that I chose for it!

Too bad, because I really like this pattern.

Going to splurge on some fancy yarn and make this for my aunt.

Thinking black...or a pretty pastel.

That's it for now.

I'm still trying to figure out what I'll be making for the baby.

I'm thinking a cute cardigan with matching hat and booties.

I can't wait to meet and LOVE my niece.

I am just overjoyed with the

anticipation of her arrival...

and daydreaming about all the goodies I'm going to make for her

this holiday season.

The words of my seven-year old...

2011-10-03T22:02:00.011-04:00

When we are not laughing, eating, or adventuring together...

We are TALKING.

Me and my girl have so many amazing conversations.

Some, I want to remember forever.

Like the one we had tonight.

Here is just something she said before bed this evening.

(After I finished reading Chapter 1 of The Boxcar Children to her...)

"Mom, I know why some people don't like children.

It's because they didn't have a happy childhood.

But me, I'm reeeeallly enjoying mine.

Life is gooooood."

Mama is not surprised you said it...but Mama is so happy you feel that way, my Girl.

xoxo

Vegan Mama

2011-09-28T01:14:00.005-04:00

I went vegan the first week in July this past summer and it has been one of the BEST

decisions I have ever made. I have seen the benefits of this way of mindful eating on every level of my being: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. For me, it is the

healthy & compassionate choice and it just makes sense.

For me.

There has been a TON of cooking and baking...but right now, here is some of what

we've been enjoying in random order.

Vegan = the most delicious, healthy meals to create and devour!

Vegan French Toast with Agave and Fresh Berries.

Vegan Lo Mein

The most scrumptious Vegan Berry Muffins, made by my Cub!

Typical Simple Summer Meal: Garbanzo Oat burger with corn on the cob.

Fresh-squeezed lemonade & a salad was also somewhere in there.

Summer Breakfast: Usually consisted of a quick bowl of some sort of organic cereal and organic berries with oat milk, rice milk, or occasionally vanilla soy milk.

Stay tuned for my post about the vegan Rosh-Hoshanna dinner I prepared tonight to take

to my aunt's apartment in the city tomorrow night.

There is usually a lot of meat there...and I wanted to make sure I had something tasty...that I could share with everyone.

I made Stuffed-Cabbage style vegan meatballs and chopped "mock" liver.

Wanted to make sweet potato kugel but I became exhausted after the third hour of cooking

after work.

Here's to good health!

xoxo

One of A Kind

2011-09-26T23:42:00.005-04:00

I am in love with this for the following reason:

1. It was made out of melted Ring Pops, so iconic in their own rite.

2. Of course, the words go without saying. No explanation needed.

3. Reminds me that sometimes it's those little unexpected expressions of another's creativity that makes me so happy.

(Thank you, Julia Chiang, artist.)

The A-Z's of Moi...

2011-09-25T15:16:00.008-04:00

Thought I would jump on the tell-all train and complete this little interview. This A-Z OF ME seems to be all over the blog circuit lately. I conducted an interview with my Cub this week that I'll post later on. So for now...Here I go:

A: Age? Timeless

B. Bed size: Queen...but it is not a good bed. I don't like it. I desperately want one of those new fancy beds with the pillow top and king-size would be nice, too.

C. Chore that you hate: Doing dishes. I am forever cooking; therefore I am forever doing dishes.

D. Dogs: Never. Highly allergic. Don't believe in keeping domestic animals, either. Sorry pet lovers.

E. Essential start to your day: Prayer, Coffee, Kiss my daughter

F. Favorite color: Turqoise

G. Gold or Silver: Gold girl.

H. Height: 5'6"

I. Instruments you play: Still can play piano a bit...Have studied piano, violin, clarinet...and soon guitar!

J. Job title: Mama to Girl Cub, English teacher, occasional Seamstress/Costume Designer... but I'm not finished yet! In the future I hope to answer this with "Birth Doula, Yoga Instructor, Author, Vegan Chef & Instructor, Nutritionist."

K. Kids: My Beautiful 7 year-old daughter. Soon there will be more...Another post for another day!

L. Live: Don't make me write this. Okay, Staten Island, NY. Hopefully we'll be living happily in the seaside town we've been dreaming about by next summer. We're getting closer...

M. Mother’s name: Jo-Ann.

N. Nicknames: Cyn, Cyndells, Sis, Sprouts & Smeautiful.(both by the ex)

O. Overnight hospital stays: Birth of my daughter by c-section.

P. Pet peeves: People who talk about themselves incessantly...or when someone feels the need to tell others what a "good" person they are. (Um, why?!) OR the opposite end of the spectrum: those who don't communicate at all. Hmpf.

Q. Quote from a movie: "Stay gold, Pony Boy. Stay gold."

R. Right or left handed: Right but can draw & eat with my left pretty well if necessary. And I have a major weakness for lefties.

S. Siblings: My magnificent younger brother, Peter--who is in every way my compliment and my heart.

U. Underwear: comfortable, cotton, simple but girly.

V. Vegetable you hate: Never met one I hate, but allergic to a couple.

W. What makes you run late: Everything. Character-flaw alert!

X. X-Rays you’ve had: teeth, breasts, sinuses. Do sonograms/ultrasounds count?

Y. Yummy food that you make: Everything I make is yummy. Seriously. My Pinto Bean Carrot Cake is pretty kick ass and I make some out of this world vegan soups.

Z. Zoo animal: "Zoos are terrible. It's prison for animals." I have to agree with Kara, here. I never take my daughter to the zoo. She has only gone twice with her father's family.

THAT'S ALL FOLKS

Taking it all in...

2011-09-14T21:17:00.005-04:00

Cub puts a flower ring on every finger at a jewelry sale.

Mama eats a veggie taco salad at the beach.

Beautiful fall berries inspire future crochet projects. I couldn't stop touching these...

Something a bit magical, comical, and eerie about these formations down by the pond.

We have commented on them and stopped to say hello each time we've been there.

Loving the natural world...

A Day In Our Life: Saturday

2011-09-10T19:43:00.011-04:00

We headed back to work and school this week. Overall, it went well. Cub looked exhausted both days when I picked her up in the afternoon. At night while putting her to bed, she told me she had missed me and wanted to go home. I felt similarly during the first day back at work, too.

On Friday, I just stopped for a second...and my mind was not occupied with students, rooms, attendance, lesson plans...and I just remembered, "I have a daughter who is at school today and I miss her a lot. I wonder how she is doing right now?" I don't like being apart from her for so long, but this mama has to pay the bills, so right now there is no choice.

One day, maybe my dream of homeschooling my children will become a reality. I'm hoping it will be after she completes fifth grade, so I have four years to make it happen.

This morning, Cub's violin lesson was rescheduled and we ended up treating our tired selves to Starbucks and pedicures. I love that they are right next to each other. Certainly makes it easier to do the double indulgence thing. Afterwards, we went over to the home of Cub's "bff," which I'll call House of M on this blog to protect their privacy. While the girls played together I took off for the farmer's market sans Cub. There is something I love about buying fresh produce from the market and then going home to cook afterward. I made an Israeli couscous salad with collard greens and carmellized onions. It was delicious. Too bad the Black Bean Brownies were not as yummy. I will no longer use a whole mashed banana plus olive oil for egg replacers. Serves me right for straying too far out from the original recipe. Later, I walked the few blocks between our place and House of M and watched a touching and thought-provoking documentary about a charter school in Harlem, "The Lottery" with S.

Tonight, I am typing from House of M where I'll be watching the kids while my sweet friends; E's parents get to enjoy a night out on the town. So, its pizza, crocheting, and movies with the girls for the duration. Baby M is already sleeping in her mama's bed and Boy M is at a movie night down the block. I love our friends and their big, relaxed, intelligent, kind family. I love that we are friends as well as neighbors and that our kids love each other and are classmates. There are always things to talk about and do together. It is just comfortable with them. We are blessed.

Our Endless Summer: Catching Up - South Fork, LI

2011-08-27T01:48:00.013-04:00

While texting a friend from our camp site last night I found myself telling him what I've been saying for weeks now: This was the BEST. SUMMER. EVER.

Yes, we have been living our summer life to the fullest...and there has been one adventure after the next. I'm taking photos but haven't found the moments needed to upload and post. So, this will be the first of a series of catch-up posts.

#1: Long Island, Terrell River County Park- We took off one Sunday for a spontaneous hike along a section of the south fork in Long Island. We hiked a short mile through what felt like an enchanted forest until we emerged at the shoreline.

***************

We ate a delicious lunch at the old school diner on Main Street, hiked, explored, bathed our hair in the water, lounged, talked, shared a delicious bar of organic dark chocolate & made some new friends, too.

It was a magical, serene & restorative day for me & Girl Cub.

Cooking/Diet Inspiration

2011-08-16T16:27:00.005-04:00

A trip to the local library with my Cub and her sweet friend allowed for time to browse my fave section of the library-the cookbooks!

I found three books that I am really enjoying. I've listed them in order, saving the best for last.

The Everything Vegan Cookbook is a great basic cookbook that reinvents the classic comfort foods (like "Deli Macaroni Salad") and some yummy desserts for this sweet tooth ("Sweetheart Raspberry Lemon Cupcakes!")

The Daily Bean : I never met a bean I didn't like and I have been eating them almost daily for protein as well as enjoyment. I love this book. It is divided into chapters according to bean variety. So far, it all looks very yummy...especially the desserts. This evening, I think I'm going to have to try out the "Pinto Bean Carrot Cake." It just looks so good.

And my Cub loves her carrot cake!

This is a book I have been wanting to read for the looooongest time and just have not had the chance. I will definitely buy it.

After some resistance, I have come to really admire Alicia Silverstone.

Yes, she has come a long way since Clueless!

I read this book in one day and made a lot of notes about diet and food in general.

The Kind Diet focuses on diet, eating for optimum health and self-improvement with respect for all living beings on our planet.

She breaks everything down in easily understandable terms and gives a lot of medical/nutritional information to support her food choices.

I highly recommend it...and the recipes look tasty, too.

To me, a person who reads cookbooks and recipe/food blogs for fun...there is nothing more inspirational than expanding my knowledge of the food I eat

and refining my skills to make each meal beneficial

for the greater good.

Blessings and happy eating, Everyone!

One of the Best Compliments

2011-08-15T21:02:00.006-04:00

My little J swatting at seagulls on our beach vacation in August.

I received one of the nicest compliments yesterday from a new friend I both love and admire.

She said, "You make it look so easy."

I don't think she had any idea..while we were driving through the rain with our little ones in the back...(for a "girl's day out")

just how much she touched my heart.

But really I have to say...My GIRL, she makes it easy.

I feel like the luckiest Mama in the world.

But I know we are all blessed: both mamas and daughters of this world.

I am not unique just because me and my daughter have a beautiful relationship.

Love & hugs to all the mamas who are taking good care of their little ones.

God bless.

Just a few highlights of our Summer! So far...

2011-08-11T11:12:00.010-04:00

Best. Summer. Ever.

Went on the most amazing, fun, relaxing, beautiful vacation to the shore

with my favorite person...for a week!

Oh, and fell in love with instagram while I was there.

(Separate vacation/instagram post soon to come!)

Me and my other half on the first day in our hotel.

Lots of new and exciting interests and hobbies for both me and my girl.

My cub is taking violin lessons and LOVING it!

She came to me, "Mom, I'd like to play the violin."

And I swooned.

This is my little virtuoso at her very first lesson.

Re-committed myself to 90% vegan diet...10% vegetarian.

I've been experimenting a lot with new recipes and learning a ton...and we've been eating

really well as a result!

Here is a veggie lo mein I made for lunch at Grandma's after shopping at the

local Asian market, H Mart.

Dancing at (still) our favorite picnic spot on SI.

Typical after lunch picnic scene.

Lake Sabago in the Catskills with our besties at the beginning of summer!

My cub swam on and off for FOUR hours. Yup!

It has been a blessed season for us.

So many wonderful adventures with our loved ones by our side.

We couldn't ask for more, really.

And tomorrow my baby turns SEVEN, 7!!!!

Summer Sleep Over

2011-07-10T09:41:00.007-04:00

My girl finally got together with one of her besties.

They met in the "baby room" of the day care six years ago.

Different schools, different neighborhoods, all around life-busyness make it more challenging to get together these days.

So very happy to see that they are still like sisters.

An extended play date turned into an impromptu sleepover because

they were having THAT much fun.

Pedicures were given that would put any nail salon to shame!

Love these two.

(Popcorn remnant still lingers...)

Summer Lovin'

2011-07-08T22:49:00.008-04:00

As soon as we are moved and settled, I am piling up the blankets in the living room of our new place and having a good ol' fashioned Girl Scout-style party with my girl.

And we will make...

Friendship bracelets: I've always wanted to make these and wear 'em on my ankle. This is a tutorial I finally understand!

(I LOVE this photo so much, I'm thinking of getting it blown up

to hang in our new place. I adore it, actually.)

S'mores Bark: Need I say more?

She Finds Along The Way

2011-07-07T00:18:00.015-04:00

1. Driving home from being out East.

LIE Sunset Forever...

2. Tattoo

3. Mama's Rescue Classic Guitar

4. Mother/Daughter Vintage Dress Finds

5. Psychedelic Donut

6. Exit to India

7. Neighborhood Flag

In the Kitchen

2011-06-25T00:18:00.005-04:00

Sun tea brewing on the windowsill.

Just old fashioned Lipton's with a few Celestial Seasonings

thrown in for good measure.

Quick and Easy Bran Muffins:

Made from the best mix on the planet

with added ground flax seed and blueberries.

Om nom nom.

My first vegan chickpea pot pie and it

was more delicious than I thought.

I used puffed pastry, but next time I

think I'll make my own crust.

What have you been making?

Anything yummy to share?

A Virtual Stage

2011-06-17T20:11:00.006-04:00

"I've walked these streets...

In a carnival of sights to see." - Natalie Merchant, Carnival

Something You Didn't Know About Me #1

2011-06-14T19:51:00.005-04:00

When I was a child and people asked me what I wanted to be, I would always say, "an artist."

I never remember a time I was not in awe of COLOR. Just pure ol' color--

in the form of crayon, colored pencils, Play-Doh, clay,

paints & glitter.

During my teen years, I fell in love with hair color and make-up and often took

matters of this nature into my own hands, to the dismay of my family members.

I was told by my friends I was really good at cutting hair & doing make-up.

I looooved working on a live, human, face.

I thought it was just amazingly beautiful and so rewarding to watch

a transformation take place at my very hand & eye.

Soooooo...Jeremy Scott, Fashion Designer,

I'm in love with the make-up look on your runway this past spring!

These colors? This look?

Hair? Make-up?

This is what I feel embodies my aesthetic...What is deep inside of me:

A little bit clown

A little bit edge

A little bit street fashion

A little bit punk...

along with an underlying touch of childhood innocence.

That's me on the inside and I wish, wish, wish,

I could walk around in real life looking like this.

But alas, (sigh...)

I'm just an English teacher

single Mama

trying to make my way

in this world.

xoxoxoxo

It is a Reflection...

2011-06-12T10:29:00.004-04:00

YOUR LIFE IS NOT A COINCIDENCE. IT'S A REFLECTION OF YOU
A son and his father were walking on the mountains.
Suddenly, the son falls, hurts himself and screams: "AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"
To his surprise, he hears the voice repeating,
somewhere in the mountain: "AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"
Curious, he yells: "Who are you?"
He receives the answer: "Who are you?"
Angered at the response, he screams: "Coward!"
He receives the answer: "Coward!"
He looks to his father and asks: "What's going on?"
The father smiles and says: "My son, pay attention."
And then he screams to the mountain: "I admire you!"
The voice answers: "I admire you!"
Again the man screams: "You are a champion!"
The voice answers: "You are a champion!"
The boy is surprised, but does not understand.
Then the father explains: "People call this ECHO, but really this is LIFE.
It gives you back everything you say or do.
Our life is simply a reflection of our actions.
If you want more love in the world, create more love in your heart.
If you want more competence in your team, improve your competence.
This relationship applies to everything, in all aspects of life;
Life will give you back everything you have given to it.

A Mother's Love

2011-06-07T07:29:00.006-04:00

My daughter changed my life.

Because of her, I have become a better person...always striving to be the best I can be...

For HER.

I have never loved anyone or anything the way I love my girl.

There is nothing I wouldn't do to keep her happy, healthy, SAFE...

My silly little one.

My sweet little companion; my child.

My greatest blessing and joy.

From the first time I held you in my arms,

till the end of time...

I love you, Josette.

Chocolate Raspberry

2011-06-02T20:58:00.004-04:00

There is just something about this combination that makes me

feel a little weak-in-the-knees...

Last night, I baked a delicious vegan chocolate cake using this awesome recipe.

I hereby declare this my new go-to recipe for chocolate cake. Wow.

I love Andrea's blog. In fact, it is where I've been learning a whole lot about

delicious vegan cooking.

The heat eventually got to me last night. After the cake was made and partially eaten, I decided to do without the frosting. I mean, I'm not one of those people that needs frosting to enjoy a cake. In fact, most of the time, if it's fresh- I prefer it plain with just a dusting of cocoa or powdered sugar.

But while wondering the aisles of the health food store...Look at what I found?

I justified the purchase because summer is coming and we will make good use of this

yumminess...Sorbets? Cakes? Fresh fruits? Smoothies?

Oh, yeah.

This find made me happier

than it probably

should have.

xoxo

Nature Girl

2011-05-31T18:01:00.003-04:00

I'm doing amazingly well with my new diet.

I'd say I'm about 90% vegan. The ten percent is the egg whites I eat once a week, if that...

and the organic chicken or fish--also about once a week.

I think it may just be a matter of time that I cut this amount out altogether.

But if not..Hey, I'm feeling happier, healthier & stronger than ever.

My Memorial Day dinner:

Indonesian corn cakes with arugula & black bean salads.

Yum.

Tonight, we went out for burritos.

Instead of an ice, I opted for my very own

frozen Mexican hot chocolate: Rice milk, ice cubes, cocoa, & cinnamon all

blended up in the Magic Bullet.

So good with chocolate chip cookies!

My new medicine cabinet remedies that kicked a mean sinus infection's butt

last week: colloidal silver, grapefruit seed extract, quercetin, and phospherous homeopathy remedy. They seriously worked like a charm...and I was able to tear up

the script for antibiotics. Yes!

In skin care news: Simple toner made with 3 parts apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 part water in a spray bottle beats any product I've ever bought before!

Lovin' the natural life.

In Lovin' Color

2011-05-27T17:40:00.005-04:00

Spring has been surrounding us with

COLOR

LOVELINESS

Everywhere.

Two new favorite pairs of shoes...Love the colors & the styles.

They are both cute and comfey, too!

One of my three favorite trees...a Japanese Maple in one of my favorite neighborhoods in Staten Island.

The other two are birch & weeping willow.

Just look at it shine in all its

springtime glory!

Such a great contrast against the sky, too...

Pretty swirly lollipops

always put a smile on my face.

(Along with the children who were celebrating

a good friend's birthday!)

Loving this BEAUTIFUL season!

When We Went to See Thor...

2011-05-21T10:29:00.006-04:00

In my early days of photography I was obsessed with squares, rectangles, shapes...and generally the patterns they seemed to randomly form around us.

Guess I still see things that way...

After school Fridays...

2011-05-21T00:15:00.005-04:00

I decided a long time ago that Fridays (after school/work) would be Mama/Daughter fun time!

We are pretty good at finding yummy, interesting, creative, or relaxing adventures together.

Today, it was directly to Starbuck's for our favorite iced tea.

Nice thing is, we only had to walk a few doors down to go for manicures. :)

After nails, we decided to give the new neighborhood sushi place a try.

It was goood. Really good. Veggie tempura rolls, spicy salmon skin, cucumber and asparagus & sweet potato rolls. Oh, my!

Amazingly "toasty" green tea. Mmmm tea.

Me and my girl love our tea.

The sushi guys turned us on to some really good music, too.

Too bad itunes does not have Xian Qi Ren (aka "Richie Ren")for some reason. What's up with that?

His music is diverse, beautiful & cooool sounding.

Apparently, he is pretty big in Hong Kong.

Turns out my little one is developing a hearty love of

international pop music, just like Mama.

xoxoxoxo

Ode to Spring

2011-05-09T21:56:00.007-04:00

"Snow melts.

And the village is overflowing--

with children." -Issa

Wishes waiting to be made...

Spinning art at Communion parties...

"Mom, can I see your phone? I wanna take a picture."

"Okay, honey. Watcha takin' a picture of?"

"Which pair of shoes looks better?"

This was photo Number 1.

Love it.

Love her even more.

We are taking in all this season has to offer and welcoming

Spring with all we've got!

Hope you are enjoying it, too.

Homes

2011-04-21T18:49:00.005-04:00

The start of our week and a half long vacation began with a first-time visit to a

neighborhood church, within walking distance from our house.

The church sits right on the beach and has tremendously high ceilings made of

wood, complete with its original wood beams.

It is has such modest beauty. We love it.

Best of all, there is a prayer basket placed at the entrance.

Anyone can write their prayer on a sticky note and place it in the basket.

Our house on Long Island--the home where three generations of us lived.

I know I will really miss this place someday.

I'm grateful my grandmother is alive and well and still calls it home.

I love these Long Island skies. I have never seen them anywhere else

and I've been to many, many, places.

This certain sky belongs to my home only.

I love this light. So familiar.

I love the air, the sky, the feel of

the place I grew-up.

No other place like this.

Sprinkles...

2011-04-16T20:40:00.003-04:00

Just have a way of making ya happy!

Photo and recipe courtesy of Baking Bites, one of my favorite and most amazing baking blogs!

Been doing a lot of baking lately.

These are in our near future.

First, I gotta order one of those adorable

mini-donut pans.

What I Love About Early Spring...

2011-04-12T22:44:00.012-04:00

Discovering new buds, leaves, and flowers everywhere...Such sweet

surprises when we are out and about. I can't help but snap some photos of

the beauty.

Early morning trips into NYC by ferry or by car...Either way, there is nothing

like riding towards one of my "spirit" homes on a cool, crisp, morning with the sun shining above and my little girl riding along with me.

Eating primarily vegan due to allergies and all around dietary benefits means easier meals to cook!

Vegan baking...always my FAVORITE!

These vegan cupcakes were absolutely scrumptious and I wasn't the only one who thought so!

Some non-vegan friends couldn't even tell the buttercream was vegan!

This recipe is a keeper.

In the city visiting one of our favorite people.

I love how she actually uses that water bottle tote I

crocheted for her!

Not only is she cute, she is practical too!

Love. Her.

...And no trip to the city would be complete without visiting one of our favorite stores.

She picked out the Magic Mushroom bath bomb all by herself!

I am afraid she has inherited my obsession with yummy

bath paraphernalia!

(And all things that smell delightful!)

Yes, that is pale yellow nail polish.

I have decided recently that I should never give up wearing crazy colored polish on my nails.

I'm not going to get sucked into that "age appropriate" vortex. Ha! No Way.

I will like what I like and that's that!

Conveniently, Sinful Colors are sold in CVS-

The colors are beautiful, the polish is long-lasting and its super affordable.

So, you don't have to feel guilty about

splurging on novelty!

What are you diggin' on these early days of Spring?

Art Everywhere! Weekend, Part II

2011-03-27T19:26:00.003-04:00

A sunny, crisp-cold morning boat ride into Manhattan started our day.

My girl pointed out this dress to me in a paper goods store window.

The dress is made out of party invites.

Just Adorable.

The dress is nice, too! Ha, ha!

I'm pretty much vegetarian now...and flirting with vegan all the time. Put it this way,

all of the recipes, blogs, and cookbooks I've been sourcing are strictly vegan.

I think I'm what you'd call a "cheating vegan" because I do use butter and cheese occasionally.

Anyway, it has been an educational and enlightening experience...all of this food research!

Here is a meal we ate tonight...a garden salad and a deeelicious vegetable casserole made with couscous. I found the recipe in my new favorite cookbook. I spent an hour copying recipes out of it in Barnes and Nobel last night while Cub and Daddy read books together.

Pretty-pretty.

Best of all, Girl Cub LOVED it and asked for seconds.

Holy Guacamole!

And at least once a day my daughter "wows" me with

either something she says or does...or both.

Tonight, she made an actual test for each of her little friends, passed out pencils,

"helped" them to take it, then graded them.

Think she is a teacher's daughter, or what?!

If only my students were as cooperative as

Mama Owl

Mia

Dino

Orange Tiger

Lambie

Leo.

There is Art Everywhere...

2011-03-26T21:51:00.005-04:00

Today was one of those all-around great days.

Look what I found staring up at me while I paid the cashier at the Russian supermarket this morning.

These are actual chocolate bar wrappers!

How beautiful are they? I was so struck by that girl's face.

You get two treats for the price of one...chocolate and the pretty picture.

Sorry about the tags. Couldn't find any without the prices!

Later this afternoon we were blessed with a wonderful piano concert performed by the amazingly talented and very lovely Celeste Lederer.

She played so many beautiful pieces of classical music- Bach, Mozart, Chopin, Debussy, & Beethoven.

Then we were treated to some good ol' fashioned ragtime.

Loved it all.

My girl however, fell asleep on her daddy's lap after the first

three songs!

There was a late-lunch, a trip to the crafts store to

buy some yarn for another crochet handbag, and then the

mandatory "walk through" at Toys R Us.

I couldn't help myself.

Still a sucker for Smurfs.

It was a really nice day. I needed it after the all-consuming

weeks I've been having.

Tomorrow, we are off to the city to take care of taxes and hopefully

catch this amazing show at the Cooper Hewitt Museum.

I have been influenced lately by the colors and patterns Sonia Delaunay used in her

work. She has been inspiring many of my

recent crochet projects, too.

Magic Girl

2011-03-26T00:42:00.002-04:00

Because perfume,

the fabulous 80's,

and all things French make me HAPPY...

I am in love with this video.

Hope you it puts a smile on your face.

Wild Weekend In Philly

2011-03-23T19:17:00.008-04:00

Me & my girl met up with some good friends this past weekend for the Sendak in Spring festival in Philadelphia.

Besides all things Wild, we enjoyed

Ethiopian food

the gorgeous Super Moon

yummy crepe breakfast at the awesome Reading Terminal Market

the beautiful sights of the city

super strong coffee

yummy cupcakes

& best of all was the company of LOVING FRIENDS.

Looking forward to a lot more adventures...

Healing. Inspiring. Doing.

2011-02-24T22:20:00.003-05:00

I made that crochet eyeball for my daughter's father and we gave it to him for Valentine's Day. It's all part of the healing, I suppose.

Besides, I had fun making it.

He gave us each a piece of his artwork.

Giving a handmade gift that will make the recipient smile is nice.

No matter what the situation.

(Even if he did rip up the last handmade gift I gave him--a painting.)

Lately, I've been obsessed with crocheting. Funny to me, because I took so many months away from it to focus on sewing. Now, I'm into crochet. Sewing can wait.

Yes, I am a fickle pickle. Oh, well. I'm enjoying myself.

Best of it is I've secured a table at a spring craft event on Staten Island.

This puts the pressure on a bit...and I have no idea what I'm doing, really.

But I want/need to put myself out there.

I craft for others after all, not myself...So, it will be kinda perfect-

whether I sell anything or not. Something new.

And while I'm on the topic of crochet...

I was super-excited to see granny squares hit the runway for Fall 2011.

Crochet scarves were trendy this past fall/winter-

glad to see it taken to another level.

Hats off to HOUSE OF HOLLAND!

2011 So far, so good.

2011-02-12T10:47:00.004-05:00

Haven't updated in a while, but I finally figured out how to download my photos again!

So far, this year has been good to us.

I've rediscovered my love for crochet and have been making time

to create some new goodies for my loved ones.

Here's a hat I made for my girl while watching a movie one night last week.

I'm happy to say, she loves it!

We've been having some nice winter visits with Cub's daddy, too.

This inspiring place has become a favorite of ours.
There is so much peace and beauty there and usually we have most
of the place to ourselves.

I love taking photos when I'm there. The light is perfect and there are so many
beautiful and interesting things to capture.
You travel back in time while you are there.

Other things I've been enjoying A LOT this year...

Indian Cooking
Vegan Baking
Crocheting handbags and body parts...yup, body parts.
Watercolor Painting
What seems to be a revival in QUALITY American mainstream filmmaking.
Getting back into working my "program." Yay, healing!
Quiting smoking...for the umpteenth time. It's gonna stick this time around. I know it is!
Yoga three times a week! Whoo-hoo!
Continuing to feed my guilty pleasure...building my perfume collection-now adding vintage bottles and miniatures. Oh, boy.
Planning an exotic summer getaway with my daughter! More to come on that one...

What have you been up to?

She Says...

2010-12-29T21:08:00.003-05:00

This is my daughter on her first day of first grade this year.

If you know her, you will know that this is a typical face she makes. She loves making the thumbs up sign when she likes something, too. I think it is adorable.

For the past two days she has been saying the darndest things. I wanted to record them here in my special space so I'll never forget them.

She is experiencing a growth spurt lately...specifically in the intellect which is exhibited by her curiousity and all the amazing thoughts she has been having.

"I'm really excited about being a grown-up...except I don't like the part about dying.

I don't want to be ninety. But I wanna be a grown-up. Twenty is the age I wanna be. It's half way between a kid and a grown-up."

"You make a good mom. You just do."

"I've gotta go into business. I could sell snowcones or lemonade. I think we'll do lemon snow cones. That's in the middle."

Wasn't I smart today? How I investigated my butt. Since I was five, I was always curious about what the inside of my body looked like. "

"Look how big my heart is. See how big it is? That's because I'm so kind."

I love you, my little girl.

What a blessing to be by your side...

Handmade for the Holidays...

2010-12-19T10:57:00.002-05:00

This is an old image...maybe from two years ago or so. I would love to post photos of what I've been up to in terms of "elving," but my iphone is not uploading properly and I've been too busy/lazy to try and solve the problem.

This year, I decided to take the pressure off myself as far as crafting for everyone in our lives. I decided to set a reasonable budget and shop within set boundary. It actually worked out and for the first time I'm not completely stressed. It has felt nice to just enjoy and not rush to complete projects. Truth is, I'm just really exhausted this year. Our lives have been fun-busy...but this mama is tired.

Here are a few links to things I've made for our sweet loved ones so far:

crochet bow headbands

cinnamon-coffee bath salts

(My first!!!) Arigurumi-Heloise the Hen

chocolate-covered pretzels (teacher gifts)

one of these fabric ornaments

Now the only thing left is some cookie making later in the week.

This Christmas season, I am missing my sweet Grandfather terribly.

The holidays just don't feel the same without him...

It's Gonna Be A Good One

2010-11-18T17:11:00.006-05:00

"It's a new dawn,

It's a new day,

It's a new life for me

And I'm feelin' good..."

Oh, how I love that song! And lately it sounds great to my ears.

( image courtesy of thestir.cafemom.com)

For a few years now I've tossed around the idea of a pink Christmas tree.
But what I really wanted was a white one...With lots of candy-colored trim!
While on Long Island a few weeks ago, me and my girl were in a favorite store and guess what we found? A lovely white Christmas tree. Perfect size. Perfect cost.
My girl was a little suspicious at first, but I quickly convinced her how pretty
it is going to look in our new living room.
I can just tell that this coming holiday season is going to be wonderful.
It's all about NEW BEGINNINGS...
and about feeling good.
Next weekend we will go to our favorite dollar store where they have the bestest, most kitschiest ornaments in the world, and we will stock-up on Christmas cuteness.
We both can't wait to decorate.

I can't wait to make some of these for the tree!

Thoughts, Dreams, and Plans

2010-11-07T10:05:00.005-05:00

I am marking this point in time for myself by posting this picture.

It is symbolic for me. It was snapped at our special place this past summer.

Lately, I can't help but feel the beginnings of a new life cycle for me and it feels so good.

I feel strong.

This is such a new feeling for me...Feeling strong and confident.

Of course, I give all the credit and glory to my best friend and heavenly Father above!

It has been a loooong season for me-this coming into my own.

But I believe it has finally arrived.

And I am so grateful.

These past few weeks I have been inspired by-

1. Singing in unison with the new choir I am a part of!

2. The originality and creativity of my beautiful daughter.

3. The generous heart of my Girl--for everything she makes is for someone she loves. Always.

4. The courage and grace of a dear friend as she continues on a most sacred journey.

5. The beauty and strength of my Grandmother, as she presses on without my beloved Grandfather, her husband of seventy years.

6. The beauty of autumn here in New York, which has been so vibrant and beautiful-

serving as a reminder that there is so much beauty even within the "dying" times of life...

...and that it is okay to let things fall away as they need to.

"I'm baaaaaack!"

2010-10-20T23:14:00.002-04:00

How I've missed this cozy little sharing spot!

I see my last post was almost two months ago.

So, what have I been up to?

Let's play a little catch-up!

We continue to be blessed with happiness, good health, and the love of dear friends and family.

So, life is good. Very busy, but good busy.

*************

We moved at the end of the summer and it has been the best thing I've done in a looong time. Our place is a much better "fit" for me and my daughter.

There is great shopping and convenience, a community filled with families and children, a wonderful new church...and the beach is nearby. There are even little old-school Italian American gems-like restaurants and salumerias tucked within the streets leading up to the beach. We are happy here.

So recently, it has been all about settling in and living day to day.

It's the little details of our simple life together that I love and enjoy the most.

I've missed you all!

xoxo

Easy Bake

2010-08-27T00:07:00.002-04:00

Chocolate. Cookies. Cakes. Baking!

(Photo courtesy of Allrecipes.com)

Seriously, though.

Last week we were walking the aisles of a local grocery store in search of a yummy snack.

I wanted sweet, preferably chocolate...and wholesome. That is, I don't like a lot of chemicals and hard-to-pronounce ingredients in our goodies.

PS: I ended up leaving without said snack because I just couldn't find anything that fit the bill.

In a pinch, I will settle for Pepperidge Farm...and I've never met an Oreo I didn't like...But those are our occasional splurges. Time and again, I always go back to baking.

For me, it is just the best way to go.

Tonight, a sudden craving for brownies led me to this recipe.

It does not get much easier than this and the plus side is you'll know

every ingredient that went into your treat!

Hope you enjoy.

"August creates as she slumbers..."

2010-08-21T09:38:00.006-04:00

After all the traveling around here and there and living out of our suitcases this summer,

it has been so relaxing to finally be home for a chunk of time.

We have been enjoying these days as summer (sadly) winds down.

The change in light and the air especially in the evenings is already noticeable.

Here is just a little bit of what we have been up to:

Dancing-

While on a picnic at our very special place...

Not to mention some very exciting outdoor concerts

including KC & The Sunshine Band!

Crocheting-
Granny hangers for me & my girl...

A great way to cover those ugly ones from the dry cleaners.

I'm making this one for my future sister-in-law to hang her wedding dress on.

I've been working on a basic shawl in black and adorable shrug for the fall.
I'm hoping to eliminate the confusion I often feel when trying to buy something

to wear during transitional, in-between weather!

Fingerless Gloves & matching headband for a girl who is turning 7

and has a style all her own...She LOVES black, too!

Cooking-
Lots of vegetarian and Indian, as usual... I am very proud of this
Aloo Paratha, which is an Indian flatbread stuffed with potatoes and spices and is
one of my favorite things to eat for lunch.
After many attempts over the past months, I finally have the dough spot on!
(Thank you, KitchenAid.)
I go to my favorite Indian "Auntie" for my virtual cooking classes.
I wish Manjula lived next door to me! I am such a fan.
She is one of those people I would love to just hang-out and cook with, too.
She has taught me everything I know about cooking
delicious homestyle Indian food, my favorite!

I hope everyone is having a healthful, happy, blessed
SUMMER...enjoying each day to the fullest!
xo

Today You Are Six

2010-08-12T22:45:00.006-04:00

I can't believe how quickly a baby grows into a six year old little girl.

I have an ongoing joke with my little one...I say, "Okay, so what did you

do with the baby???" And she just laughs and says, "MOM..I AM THE BABY!

I GREW UP!"

(Yes, my sweet girl, you are growing up.)

I am happy and a bit sad, too-

because life goes by so quickly, and I never truly internalized that

until I had my daughter. I'm just savoring every minute of her life; taking it all in and enjoying

the blessings of watching a human being evolve-From the blip on the sonogram when I first saw her, discovering I was pregnant...to now and God willing beyond...I'd gladly take forever if I could...

Josette, "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, You make me happy

when skies are gray..."

I discover new things about you every day and they are all AMAZING!

I can't believe I created you...with God's help, of course!

Happy Birthday, Sweet One.

I can't wait to see what SIX brings...xoxo

It was a very nice few days, indeed. A couple of parties, friends, family, pizzas, ice-cream, a movie, a walk along a rainy beach, new earrings, a special memory necklace for a
"Big Girl," and lots of clothes with a smattering of books, dvd's and toys.

This birthday marked the start of my using handmade fabric gift bags instead of wrapping.
I have finally made the transition and LOVE IT.
As fun as it is, I just can't do the paper anymore.
These make so much more sense to me...and we get to save them throughout the
years and make them special!

What a wonderful 24 hours it has been celebrating

my girl.

SIX.

Wow!

DIY: Rare Earth Daily Cleanser and a little background...

2010-08-07T00:38:00.005-04:00

My love of Kiehl's first started when I was eleven and went to visit my best-friend from summer camp who lived in Ohio, and while visiting NYC was staying at the Waldorf Astoria hotel.

My grandpa, (who passed on his love for all-natural products to me) picked me up from my city weekend and brought me down to the lobby, where they sold Kiehl's. I remember picking out little samples of egg and herbal shampoos...Hey, it was the 70's!

I was hooked.

Years later, when I was in my early thirties, I lived a block away from the famous Kiehl's store in NYC.

Me and my boyfriend at the time were addicted to a couple products, primarily the Pour Homme shower gel and body lotion, which to me was the perfect unisex fragrance to share.

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of strolling around downtown with my girl and what do you know...I found myself right in front of the shop. Well, Pour Homme brought back fond memories, but I had no interest in wearing them! I ended up purchasing one of Kiehl's original fragrance oils in Cucumber. It was the perfect quirky spring fragrance and I love it.

(I read somewhere Bjork likes it, too.)

Things apparently changed at Kiehl's because they are no longer as "generous" with the samples as they once were. Everyone knew you only had to purchase a little something to take home a hefty smattering of their famous samples.

This time, I found myself practically begging for a sample of facial cleanser and only after taking what felt like an oath that I had combination skin! Ugh. Anyway, that is how I found Rare Earth facial cleanser and my skin fell in love with it.

The End...

Not really. See, this Mama is on a tight budget. It is also empowering to make my own (and almost always) BETTER products using the original as an inspiration for my homemade creations. And not that I'm knockin' them, but there are a few (or more than a few) suspicious chemicals, additives, and ingredients in their costly products.

So, I took the key players from the Kiehl's version, mainly the clay...and I created something that makes my skin feel even cleaner and softer, than the "OG!" Sorry, Kiehl's.

I still love you...

My Rare Earth Facial Cleanser

3 Tablespoons Baking Soda

2 Tablespoons French Clay

1 Teaspoon of Sugar (for exfoliation)

1.5 Tablespoon Oatmeal

Put the above ingredients in a blender or other blending device. I used a coffee bean grinder I have and it worked splendidly!

Give it a few whirls until everything is ground up fine.

Careful when you open the lid. You don't want to breathe in clay powder!

Put your lovely facial cleanser in a jar or other air-tight container.

To Use: Place about a teaspoon of cleanser into the palm of your hand. Add a tiny bit of hot water, enough to mix a paste. Gently rub around your entire face, focusing on the oily areas.

You can even leave this on for a few minutes as a mask, if desired.

Rinse and pat your beautiful face dry.

I promise, you will love the way your skin feels.

Hope you'll try it.

***Stay tuned for my tingly deoderant/foot powder recipe!

Dear Summer,

2010-08-05T18:16:00.009-04:00

I am unabashedly relishing all of the delights you have offered me!

(Staten Island, NY)

There have been few free moments, but all have been memorable.

(Movies at the Brooklyn Salt Marshes)

You have given us sunshine, water, peace, beauty, lots of fun,
and the love & company
of our wonderful family & friends.

(Westhampton Beach, NY)

Thank you for being so very good to me & my girl.

Love Always,

Cyndy

Our Summer Kitchen

2010-07-28T17:22:00.006-04:00

The heat and humidity finally seemed to break the past two days...I didn't realize how much

I've missed cooking & creating in our kitchen!

Yesterday, we made this easy Strawberry Refrigerator Jam.

We used organic berries and very little sugar. It's nice and tart and

delicious. Can't wait to put it on my toast tomorrow morning...or later this evening!

I think I'll use this recipe again to experiment with other fruits, too.

Wow, we really can make our own jam without turning our kitchen upside

down with the crazy canning process!

Last week we recieved a kohlrabi in our CSA harvest.

My eastern euro roots must be the reason I love it so much.

It's an interesting cross between a potato and a turnip.

I wanted to try something new and found a delicious recipe over at Farmgirl Fare.

Kohlrabi puree is yummy! I added a red potato and some parsley, too.

For this evening, I'm finally getting around to making Indian Plum Chutney.

We picked up some beautiful red plums on the drive home from upstate last weekend, so

I'm excited to get started. I am loving the idea of plum combined with spices.

Can't take credit for the photo above. Photo and recipe are from

EVIL Mad Scientis Laboratories.

...There have been many homemade popcicles & fruit granitas for dessert.

On a less exotic note, I've been experimenting with making my own healthier versions of the icky foods my girl seems to love and want to eat a lot of...like Chef Boyardee
and Hamburger Helper. Both contain chemicals and tons of suspicious ingredients.

Chicken in the Road has been a great resource for cooking

to the taste of my cub...plus she has

an amazing story to tell about life on her family farm.

Someday...

Summer Color

2010-07-19T16:16:00.004-04:00

Nothing like the bright colors of summer to make you smile...

Here is Cub modeling the latest sundress I made her. Super easy 'cause

the material was already smocked when I bought it...Just sew up the sides and add ribbon.

I really need to make her another one of these. She loves it so.

While cleaning out the closets, we found a huge stash of playdough.

I enjoy my girl's interesting scuptures!

She calls this her "summer snowman!"

In preparation for our camping trip, I picked up some great reads this afternoon.
Hopefully, I'll finish them by the end of summer!
Enjoying the bright sunlight streaming through the windows.

Leaving for the woods in a few days...

We can not wait!

Tangled Up in Blue

2010-07-13T13:39:00.004-04:00

I've been staring at a pile of old jeans for too long now.

So, today I went on a search for some cute projects to whip-up fast.

Denim is so durable and easy to work with, too.

I love the above apron tutorial by Betz White. I'm going to make a version for myself later and trim the edge with some red pom-poms.

Right now, I'm making my girl this longish apron by the fabulous Threadbanger people.

It's a fast and fun way to use up the old denim.

Some other things I'm planning to make with the same pair of jeans:

oven mitt, bibs, and if I'm feeling ambitious...

I would absolutely love to make a pair of these!

It's been a great way to spend a rainy morning.

I love being creatively productive.

Now, if I could only get the other stuff on my to-do list done!

Summer 2010 So Far...

2010-07-07T19:59:00.011-04:00

A List

1. Grieving

2. Graduations

3. Close-knit time spent with our beautiful family

4. The Try-Out costumes

5. Adventures across the water...Battery Park days

5. And portraits, too.

6. Absolutely shameless Starbucks coffee runs & late-night eats with a certain someone

7. Outdoor movies at night, riverside...

8. Fancy hair salons

9. Mani-Pedi's - Already too many to count!

10. Many meals at our favorite restaurants, like this one.

(Photo taken by my girl!)

11. Westhampton Beach and all the time spent together as a family
12. Fourth of July & a private fireworks display.
13. The most wonderful achievement...my girl overcoming every fear
of the water and swimming like a fish. This is one of my all-time favorites
of my girl and wonderful brother. So cute together...

14. Making my version of meal planning for summer (Eh-hem- too many restaurants had to end sometime!!). Using this amazing website to make a long list of foods & ideas...So far, so good.
15. Enjoying every morsel of our farm share.

16. Homemade Popcicles- For kids (& some for grown-ups, too!)

16. Lots of crafting, cooking, sewing, indoor camping, picnics,
and a lot of travel in the near future.
17. Both of us joining the NYPL Summer Reading Program.
18. Reading Philosophy & Literature and The Emperor of Scent & loving both!

Still to Come: Camping in the Woods, Vacation Bible School, and a very special wedding.

A Peaceful & Blessed Summer, Everyone.
May you find a little bit of bliss each day.

The Try-Out

2010-07-06T19:55:00.004-04:00

At 7:00 am this morning I reported to a baseball field underneath the

Manhattan Bridge. I have to say it was a pretty nifty sight, the only problem was the weather.

Today, it hit 96 and factoring the humidity the heat index was up around 101.

Boy, did I feel sorry for all the guys in their wool baseball uniforms.

This was my second time working on a film crew for costume/wardrobe.

The Try-Out is a short film made by the talented (and adorable)

Gibson Frazier.

This time I was more of a seamstress, refashioning baseball uniforms and caps and altering a pair of pants worn by Gibson's character, Felix.

The dugout scene was filmed under the bleachers...a relief from the sun.

Almost looks like a real team, huh?

What a blessing to experience the process of filmmaking from the inside with

such a talented and professional group of people.

Eternally Grateful

2010-06-14T23:36:00.003-04:00

This is a cropped version of a recent photo I took of my girl at a birthday party for a friend.

There have been so many things I want to document here in this space, but my camera appears to have finally kicked the bucket and I haven't had time to shop for a new one.

I miss writing and sharing here.

This is our little space...our cyber dreamcatcher--a place to capture memory bits.

Highlights-

-Hiking through tall trees & around waterfalls with my girl and friends

-Relay For Life: One of the most special nights we have ever had...

-Popcorn & "movie theater nights" at our place

-The last June days of school...A summer stretched out before us...

-Cabins reserved, vacations to come...Excitement, anticipation!

-Costume design jobs for theater and film! (Still speechless)

-The short-stories my girl continues to write & illustrate: Tonight's title:

"Toot, Toot, Boom, Boom!" (A Fishing Tale...)

-The constant buzz of creativity always present in our home

-Tinkering with new projects: crochet jewelry, hardware lockets, paint & collage

-The blessings of our family & friends and all the love surrounding us...

-My daughter, my first and strongest prayer partner...How I cherish our prayer time together.

Heavenly Father,

We are so grateful for the beautiful life you have blessed us with.

You have been so good to me & my girl.

Thank you!

Summer Project: Room for My Big Girl

2010-06-01T18:20:00.005-04:00

Turns out SIX is a bit of a milestone-I've noticed my girl is growing taller, has a loose tooth, and is already reading on her own. She has definitely left the baby stage...which was also noticeable when we began to go through her toys this past weekend. There was so much she was actually willing to put into the donation bag this time. I've noticed her play is changing, too...Less dramatic play and A LOT more art & writing. Of course, it is a little bittersweet for this Mama.

But I am welcoming each stage of her precious life with open arms and heart!

So, in honor of her upcoming Kindergarten graduation (June) and sixth birthday (August), we are redecorating her room this summer. Time for some upgrades...and we are having a blast picking it out together. Well, it is mostly me. I'm lucky she loves my taste!

Here is her big-girl bed. I am going to place the order in the next week or two.

I love antique iron bed frames.

Here is a new rug for her room. I have ordered this already. We both sorta fell in love with it at first sight. I guess we are going for the Shabby Chic look,

which I think suits my girl so well!

Next, we are going to comb the thrift stores out East and upstate while we are on vacation this summer...in search of the perfect book case and vintage dresser. The book case is a must because the one she has now no longer contains all the books we've acquired.

There will be few shelves added to the wall so that she may display her favorite things...and some new wall art. She is getting this vintage Barbie portrait for her graduation.
I can't wait to surprise her with it because she went wild for it a while ago.
And let me not forget the Japanese Fighting fish she will be getting for graduation as well.

Mommie's little girl is growing up so beautifully...

Peek-A-Boo

2010-05-29T21:42:00.008-04:00

So proud of my girl & I...we almost went an entire year without getting sick.

But it definitely hit us hard this past week. I blame all of the road-tripping, visiting, and late-night creating sessions...but they were so worth it!

Our strep throat & fevers have forced us into some much needed downtime at home. Unfortunately, we are not with the rest of our gang out east in Long Island for this three day weekend! Late this afternoon, we finally began to bounce back a little. I finished-up some easy projects I had laying around-

This simple skirt with a draw-string made from a thrifted DKNY t-shirt:

...And a wide crocheted belt with satin ribbon closure. Totally does not go with the day's attire, but hey- I wanted to share!
I actually made this to belt a white t-shirt tunic dress and another olive
green peasant dress.

Other than that-we've been making lots of movies with my new Flip video cam. I highly recommend them...so light and portable. We love it! My girl has been busy writing lots of short stories and even a play that was supposed to be performed by my family this weekend.
Tomorrow we are off to the beach to rest-up at one of my girl's favorite places.

A blessed & safe Memorial Day to all.

A special thank-you to my Grandpa's youngest brother, my Uncle Richard-whom I never had the chance to meet...He ran away at 15 and signed himself into the service. He died during World War II, when his ship went down. I have a picture of him on my altar. I don't know much about him...I do know he was very patriotic and died for the love of this country.
God bless him...and all who have died in service for something they believed in.

The Otherworld

2010-05-23T17:16:00.009-04:00

This was a tremendous weekend that began at 6am friday morning when we loaded-up the car with the costumes I made and set out for Millbrook, New York - one of several locations for

The Otherworld Film. I proudly completed all of the tunic, tunic dresses, and fairy wings I was hired to make...and then I was honored when Gisela, the director/filmmaker asked if my daughter and I would appear in a couple of scenes. Wow.

Not to sound too cliche, but this entire experience has been quite magical.

Working on these costumes has already opened some doors for me. I will be working on costuming/wardrobe at the Rhinebeck Center for the Performing Arts this summer and this morning I was offered a one-week position as Costume Assistant on a soap opera being filmed not too far from NYC! More to come...Now back to The Otherworld:

Several scenes of the film were shot at Wing's Castle, an incredible place built by owner Peter Wing and his wife. You really have to see it to believe it. The inside is just as beautiful as the outside, too. My daughter and I spent our first hour there just running around inside the castle with wide-eyes, mouths open, taking photos and squeeling with delight!

Here is the view from the side yard...

Oh, I've missed the mountains, even the little ones.

I took lots of photos, I thought I'd just share a few here.
Actors on set!

Me and my girl hanging waiting for our scene in the woods.
It was such a glorious feeling making this tunic dress for my daughter.
This was an experience of a lifetime and I have been so very blessed to be able to share it all
side-by-side with my darling child.

Like her Mama, she enjoyed every second of it all.

"I wanna thank you Heavenly Father for shining your light on me." - Alicia Meyers

Otherworld Costumes

2010-05-11T16:15:00.006-04:00

I have been keeping a little bit of a secret here in bloggy-land.

About a month ago, I signed on to be a costume designer/seamstress for

an independent feature called

The Otherworld Film.

This actually rocked my world for so many reasons!

I have flirted with the stage/film industry throughout my life...Primarily acting in my late teens and throughout my twenties. The dream sort of morphed in my thirties and I became more interested in the actual writing and "craft" of the theater.

In more recent years, I have been dreaming about costumes...Something I have always been interested in. I almost applied to FIT at 27 to study Costume Design.

Funny, how things come around again...Or never really leave you, that is!

I have been so abundantly blessed with this opportunity.

It leaves me speechless.

Here is one of several women's tunic dresses I've been working on.

And here is the dress alongside a couple of men's tunics.

I have a few more of those to make.

The filmmaker is still deciding on whether or not she wants trim on the men's tunics.

I personally think we should go for it.

I like ornate costumes!

The next phase of costumes will involve more tunics and more
elaborate dresses. Also, long, flowy, fairy-wings will be made.
The film will begin shooting again on Monday, so this is going to be a very busy week for me.
However, I don't mind at all. I love it.
I was made to do this.

Dresses...by Us!

2010-05-10T17:24:00.004-04:00

Mama's: Using this nifty tutorial I whipped-up a batch of funky nighties

after scoring a pile of old-time concert tees from back in MY day!

(Pink Floyd's The Wall included!)

This was especially useful since my girl is growing like a dandelion and was in

need of some bed clothes. She loves to throw them on as soon as she gets home

from school. They make us both happy and just suit her so well!

And LIVE & IN COLOR...

CUB'S CREATION: (So proud of her!)

Just check-out Barbie's dress. It is completely made of paper!

Too bad my girl wouldn't boost Barb from the car so I could give you a full view of the dress.

She even cut the bottom into a fishtail shape!

Is there a fashion career in her future or what?

Happy Monday, Everyone!

We Made...

2010-05-08T20:03:00.006-04:00

I made a white nightie out of a thrifted LL Bean T-shirt.

She made my dream of becoming a mother come true.

We made...

Bouquets of Love

The pipe cleaner bouquet is a Mother's Day gift I made.
My little fairy-girl made the paper bouquet for me a while back and placed them next to my bed,
"So you would feel like you're in a hotel, Mom!"

May you have a blessed Mother's Day.
Peace & Hugs to you all!

What We've Been Up To...

2010-04-27T20:00:00.004-04:00

So busy. Exhausted.

I haven't made anything for myself in two whole weeks, which makes me feel...

well, not much like me! So tonight, I put all things aside for a half an hour and whipped up this quick t-shirt tunic. I wanted to do something cool with this particular tee.

I thrift tons of 'em actually. I wait for them to "speak" to me..to tell me what they

want to be and then...they are!

I just sewed an elastic the width of my waist around the inside of the shirt.

I cut around the neckline and sewed it under using a zig-zag.

I wore it right away with a pair of leggings and my daughter gave it her

stamp of approval:)

She even took this photo. Not bad, right?

And to replenish tired souls...I constructed an altar this past Sunday.

And it has really added a special kind of beauty to our home.

My mantra for the end of April heading into May:

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

Reuse, Recycle, Renew!

2010-04-10T09:26:00.002-04:00

I save all of my jars and some of the prettier bottles.

I use them for storage, flowers, candle-holders, just about anything.

Thanks to Gingerbread Snowflakes for this brilliant way to perk-up the glass

for Spring! Our windowsill now has a fresh burst of color.

Spring Sewing 2

2010-04-08T19:34:00.003-04:00

I have spring sewing fever.

This warm weather has inspired me to make us both some new clothes.

I have enough of this fabric to make my Cub the same skirt.

Our first "Mother & Daughter" pieces...

I can't wait to wear them together.

This was a rush job.

I'm still learning to measure the waist on the smaller side when using elastic

and to keep the zig-zag stitch fairly short and tight.

I can already tell I will need to sew around it again...Oh, well.

And this is the simplest bag that anyone could ever make...And ya know what?

I love it more than anything.

It is so comfortable, soft, & easy to use.

I think this will end up being my go-to weekend bag.

Give it a try! All it takes is an old t-shirt.

Now to get working on the big sewing project...

Spring Sewing

2010-04-07T18:14:00.002-04:00

We were in the fabric store and I bumped into this fabric for the third time, so I figured
at $3.00 a yard, it was a good buy.
Owls reading books? What could be better?
A skirt for my girl, of course!
I whipped this up in about an hour and there will be many more for her in the near future.
I'm excited to make all different kinds at all different lengths.
She is expressing a real interest in making her own clothes lately.
Today, she picked-out a t-shirt, a gold iron-on peace sign decal, and
a piece of lace and fabric and declared, "I'm making my own shirt!"
When we got home, I let her pick out where she wanted everything to go and
then I did the final iron & sew.
I am seriously considering signing her up for the kids sewing camp (run by the fabulous Megan)
two mornings a week this summer.
The interest is definitely there,
so why not start her young?
She makes me such a proud Mama...

Pillbox Hat 1

2010-04-03T09:40:00.003-04:00

Here is my version of an Easter bonnet!

Meet my very first hat. I'm calling her "Miss Peacock."

She's made of recycled cardboard, a vintage napkin, button and ribbon,

tulle and feathers.

I have two others that are not quite finished that I'd like to share soon.

These hats are pretty addicting to make.

Mostly, I'm getting more into making hats as "art" and less for practical wear.

But I'd like to combine it all.

It's a lot of fun coming up with color combinations, material, and trim.

Happy Day!

Hats

2010-04-01T23:36:00.004-04:00

Very recently, I have been diving into a pool of research for a new project.

I will give all the details soon. First, I wanted to make a little progress before sharing.

I know you understand.

In the middle of all the research, I stumbled upon a couple of vintage hat websites.

One thing always leads to another and so I found myself revisiting (for my umteenth time )

pill box and fascinator hats of days gone by.

So, I have made two in the past 24 hours.

Talk about diversion...

Here is my inspiration for tonight's pillbox.

What a beauty!

I wish I could find this website again because one hat is more delicious

than the next and there are so many of 'em.

What is it about these hats that give me such delight?

And looky-looky! Let me not forget about my sweet love crochet.

I haven't forgotten about you, Dear.

It's just that you are all about slowing down and relaxing...

and lately I have become addicted to the thrill that is sewing!

But I'll be back for this one soon enough!

Can't wait to show you my hats!

Along with the show, I hope to compile a little list of tutorials and websites

I've found to help & inspire along the way.

I just need to get some elastic now to finish them up.

I know Cub can't wait to model them for me!

Colors: Making Me Happy

2010-03-31T16:21:00.005-04:00

The brightest, sunniest, most comfortable shoes, ever.

(They really are more orange than red...and not quite this bright!)

Found today for $4.00 while on a very special trip to the thrift shop.

I'll explain more soon...

Pastel Petit Fours.

This is the best recipe I've tried.

Only I make my own pound cake...From a box this year 'cause I'm pressed for time.

Love these and can't wait to make them for our family holiday party,

starting on Saturday night.

Loving this week off so much...

Practical Sewing

2010-03-29T09:08:00.004-04:00

My fabric stash is growing and slowly taking over an entire corner of my room!

So, in attempt to curb my appetite for fabric--I have put myself on a fabric "diet" of sorts.

I can not, will not, spend over $5.00 a yard...and so far, I've been able to

find some pretty great pieces for next to nothing.

I made this Phoebe Bag with fabric I found at a local thrift shop.

It was fifty cents for half a yard...The lining was the same price. Wow!

Out of the three bags I've made so far, this is my favorite.

I think it will get a lot of use this summer, too!

Thank you, Rebeka for this beautiful, free pattern.

And I am pretty happy with this refashion.

Originally, this was a very old white cotton shirt from India that I barely wore.

I really liked it...I just don't think I ever "felt" it in that way.

Well, I cut off the long sleeves, dyed it Pearl Gray (Rit) and made some pretty flowers

to bring it up to date a bit...and here she is!

I love it and can not wait till it warms up again to wear it belted.

I had fun yesterday dipping all kinds of textiles around the house into the pretty gray soup! Now I have pillowcases to match the duvet I made. (I still need to show and tell that one.)

I've discovered that the liquid Rit dye is way better than the powder, btw.

After many strange results, I will only be purchasing bottled dye in the future!

'Fumes of Spring and A Little Secret History

2010-03-25T19:03:00.011-04:00

I've had a love affair with scents for a long, long, time.

I have written countless essays on my own personal history with scent, scent & society,

the "culture" of scent...and so on and so on. My earliest memories of fragrance trace back to

the bottle of perfume on my mother's dresser. The classic sky-blue bottle of

Estee Lauder's Youth Dew was the scent of my gorgeous, raven-haired mother.

I bought myself a bottle many years ago just so I could always have a part of her with me.

Scent is like that. As our most powerful memory-keeper, it is the fastest way

to revisit a special someone or some time.

I could go on forever and maybe this will be the place where I start to "publish" some of

my ideas, my studies, and writing on the subject.

After a few years completely off the stuff for various reasons, I am back in full force.

I have been allowing myself to decadently dabble in this costly indulgence.

Hey, I'm worth it, right? And those pretty bottles of magic make me so happy!

Thank heavens for places like TJ Maxx...for all the classic jewels like Rochas Tocade and Ma Griffe. But LuckyScent is my real weakness.

I first encountered niche fragrances at the counters of Barney's & Saks Fifth Avenue.

LuckyScents has everything niche and more...Best part, you can sample anything they carry for (usually) $3.00. This is just perfect for my every-changing moods & tastes.

I get to sample these works of artful science in small doses and at a fair price, too.

All I know is (so far), I've never met scents like these before:

Calamus: I met you three years ago right around the time I met LuckyScents for the first

time. Loving CdG, your neon green bottle and the fact that you are the offspring of Leaves...that was enough for me. I love your creamy freshness and the fact that even though you are a

green scent, you are so not one dimensional...or even two!

You are simply gorgeous and remind me of the cool bath Titania & Oberon must take together

amidst the velvety moss.

Le Labo: Forgive me for avoiding you for so many years. I wrote you off as another

hipster niche fragrance after you moved your fragrance lab to downtown nyc.

A lab? How pretentious, I thought.

Then there was the guy at Stink Bomb's old job at the bakery who said, "You love perfume?

Oh, YOU MUST GO TO LE LABO AND TRY ROSE 31!!!!"

"Okay. Sure," I said...as I really thought "Yeah, right! Now get away from me, please!'

But my girl Katie is always dead-on and she has the best nose around and she seems

to have similar tastes in 'fumes as me and I'm a little in love with her as a person...

So, I broke-down recently and sampled Labdanum 18.

Oh. My. My.

This stuff is....one sexy but tame, french smelling beast.

It is not dirty-sexy, although there is a definite waft of animalistic stuff thrown in the mix, but it is way in the background here.

This one has an unusual haunting innocence about it.

-Meant for a romantic date at The Metropolitan Museum of Art

followed by a dirty martini in the lobby of the W Hotel

and some amazingly playful conversation.

And this is the most oddly familiar scent I have ever encountered.
I have read so many interesting reviews on this one.
It has a real following. I hear a certain celebrity studied this one for a long time before
coming up with the formula for her most popular scent and ya know what?
I can totally smell the influence of this one in her frangrance. (Think synonym for the word, beautiful, here!) However,
you could never match this true masterpiece.
Andy Tauer, you are such an original artist and I am such a fan of yours.
It's crazy. How the heck do you do what you do with scent?

I want to sample all of your work. Soon.

This one triggers a memory of someone I have no recollection of.
It's a memory of him, whoever he happens to be.
He is real and true
and strong and natural and beautiful.

He is rare.

Smelling this about an hour after I put it on, almost makes me cry with longing for him.

These three jewels are so special, I don't know if I actually want to commit to purchasing more than the modest samples that now lay on my vanity.
Because...

I want this love to last.

Yes Sir, That's My Baby!

2010-03-23T17:46:00.003-04:00

Sometimes there is just no denying that she is mine...

and I love it!

For example, some of her tastes- her likes and dislikes.

Well, they are proof that we are very much genetically connected.

Her crazy love for artichokes -ME!

Her constant love of being busy and in motion...ME!

Let's not forget her love of all things fragrant & lovely...

Yup, she has definitely inherited my "enthusiasm"

for perfume and already has her own wee collection.

This past year she has expressed an appreciation for school uniforms!

She she goes to a public school...However, a few trips to the thrift shop resulted in some uniform-style clothing being brought home with us.

I didn't know if she would be turned off because they are not her

usual style--all flair, color, and drama for my Leo girl!

But she is undoubtedly the daughter of the free-sprited, rebellious high-school freshman who upon learning she would be attending a local private school could not wait to wear the uniform!

My Cub loves the uniform-preppy style so much that I went on a little shopping spree for her

over at my all-time favorite clothing line for kids.

French Toast, now we both love you!

Spring Things

2010-03-20T08:03:00.005-04:00

Seems like I buy a new tote bag with each coming of Spring.

With frequent trips to the green market and random last-minute outings they are so useful and convenient. I think the beautiful weather combined with scoring some gorgeous, inexpensive fabric at a local thrift shop was the perfect combination here.

This fabric is soft and lovely. It is a vintage cotton, but it has a very subtle sheen to it and it is a bit thicker than most. I adore it...and I purchased a yard for 50 cents. Yes, 50 cents!!!!

I used this Vintage Fabric Tote tutorial for a quick sew.

This is great for a beginner as the directions are straightforward & easy to understand.

I was especially happy to cut-up that pesky sheet I was no longer using and had been hanging around the donation corner for way too long! It made the perfect lining for the bag.

And a peek inside...

Look who finally has little sewing labels.

Yay, Me!

Too many friends and relatives have told me they would love a label

inside what I have made them.

I thought it was a good idea. I decided to stick with Candy Buttons, too. Although, I have another name in mind for a side ("company") project I'll be working on this summer.

We'll see...

Cute, no?

Here is an extra something that made me smile.
On Monday I wore the new crochet necklace I made to work
and it made me very happy!

Happy Weekend &
A Blessed Spring to
Everyone!

I Love the Rain

2010-03-14T18:55:00.006-04:00

Love the fact that the rain allowed me a little bit of extra-crafty time I wouldn't

normally indulge in over the weekend.

Finally picked-up the much needed parts for my sewing machine and she's working like a dream.

I was able to finish up those pesky t-shirt refashions that have been hanging around a while, too.

Today, after church, lunch & the movies...We ran into JoAnn's to pick-up a chain for a project I'm completing tonight and I just happened to run into these gorgeous

fabric remnants. They are home upholsteries that are being discontinued. Normally $36.00 a yard- I purchased three of 'em for $2.00 a piece. They are thick & lovely.

I see some adorable make-up cases, pouches, & wristlets in their future!

This ruffled-crochet bib necklace was a lot of fun to make and took no time at all.

I plan on making more of these with a fun twist- each layer a different color and maybe using a combo of ribbon & chain. Ah, the possibilities.

Can't wait to wear this...maybe tomorrow!

I hope this weather is going to hang around just a little bit longer.

I'm not ready for full-on sunlight through 7pm.

I think I'm one of the strange ones that does not appreciate daylight-savings at all.

I love my evenings-the earliler they begin, the better.

Have a great week, Friends.

A Favorite Recipe

2010-03-13T19:46:00.003-05:00

A day of adventuring in the wild weather has left us happy to be home this evening.

We are baking these delicious & nutritious brownies while watching Labrynth.

I discovered this recipe a while ago, when I was trying to

lose the baby weight while still enjoying baking & sweets.

To this day, they are by far our favorite brownies!

Give them a try.

I think you'll love 'em, too!

Finally...

2010-03-12T16:46:00.003-05:00

My Buttercup Bag is complete!

It was difficult to decide which fat quarter of fabric to use.

But after thinking it over...knowing that I wear a lot of solids- I thought this

animal-print style would make a cute accessory for spring

...one that I would actually use!

The photo is deceiving. It is fairly small.

I'm happy about the way the inside of the bag looks, too.

If you are a beginner and are interested in making a little bag- I would definitely recommend this quick, easy, and user-friendly pattern by the generous & talented
Made by Rae.

Sewing Inspiration: Fairytale Fashion Show

2010-03-06T09:19:00.006-05:00

I get so refreshed & excited when I find something from the fashion world that

reflects a sense of originality & true creativity!

I found the lovely photos this morning via Craftzine.

Super exciting and relevant to me because the Fairy Tale Fashion show happened at Eyebeam, an innovative organization I worked closely with while at my old school in the city.

I was teaching Media Studies at the time and ran a Creative Technology after-school program for student artists.

I am so happy for Eyebeam. They are expanding & growing and are at the center of so many great things. I keep reading about them everywhere, it seems!

Check out their amazing website 'cuz they truly are on the cutting edge.

Anyway- I was so inspired by these photos.

I love each piece of clothing for its detail, craftmanship and for this specific fashion show, use of technology!

Love the sleeves on this Origami Jacket.

This Cameo Halter has an electric wire running through it with the controls hidden inside the cameo. How cool is that? I would wear that in a second.

Where I would wear it is the question!

I am going to make a shirt like this without the wire. A big red velvet choker, super-size cameo and beautiful tulle trimmed with ribbon. Yup. That's it!

This is so ethereal & futuristic. Love it.

This is the Twinkle Skirt.
Apparently, it has very tiny lights inside the apron-style skirt.

And here is my personal favorite...The gorgeous Balloon Dress!

You must watch this video for the sheer beauty of it.

I know you will be inspired, too!

Here's to the visionaries who are working with fashion as the medium it truly is--

an art form as well as an expression.

Happy Weekend, Friends!

Material Girl

2010-03-04T20:47:00.007-05:00

I am so happy.

Guess what's coming to Target on March 14?

Liberty of London fabric collection, "exclusively for Target!"

I fell in love with Liberty fabric during my first trip to London in 1987.

(Saw David Bowie in concert there, too!)

I don't formally collect Liberty because it is way out of my price range, but I

do have a few pieces I've scored while thrifting over the years.

Yes, I will be the nerdy girl waiting for the doors to open that day

'cuz besides the clothing & housewares in all their deliciousness-

I'm gonna pick-up that

NEW BIKE!

And while we're on the subject of stuff...

Look at these cute shoes. I love the color, bows, and the fact that they are suede.

I love suede shoes so much, but they are ridiculously impractical.

Can you believe they cost almost twice as much as the bike?

Think I could make a pair of these?

A Refashion For Her

2010-03-03T17:34:00.005-05:00

Not the greatest photos, but you will get the idea.

I've begun to fill an enormous box with the clothes Cub has outgrown or just does not

wear for whatever reason. She never wore this straight Levi jeans skirt and I thought it was worth saving. So, I cut a shirt that no longer fit her and sewed it to the bottom half of

the skirt. To cover the quicky cut & sew job, I sewed ruffled eyelet trim around.

I know she really likes it 'cuz I gave it to her last night

and she put it on this morning.

Boy, have a become a pro at not saying everything that is on my mind this year!

My brain was screaming...You TOTALLY can not wear clashing floral patterns!!!!!

But of course, I told her, "nice outfit" and "great job!"

I'm just so happy she is enthusiastic about dressing herself these days.

Here is the lumpy-butt back view. She actually wore her long floral shirt outside the skirt today, but it covered the ruffle trim, so I hastily tucked it in right before I took the photo for y'all!

"Come on, Mom! Hurry up!"

You get the idea, that's the main thing.
I absolutely love sewing clothes for children.
I could do this all day long...

An Early Refashion

2010-03-01T23:22:00.003-05:00

Today was supposed to be the day that I received the email from Wardrobe Refashion

explaining to me how I could link to their site and post my (re)creations.

I never received it. Whaaaaa! I've been so excited. I sent Nikki an email, so hopefully we can figure it out soon!

This was the first refashion I was going to share- so here goes!

This was a pink cashmere sweater my grandmother gave me a loooooong time ago.

It is from her favorite store, Lord & Taylor.

I haven't really worn it much in the last five years or so, but I've kept it for

its sentimental value.

Then I found a link somewhere about refashioning sweaters and trimming

cardigans with crochet, etc.

And so I gave it a whirl!

This was the first of a few sweater refashions.

I started out by cutting off the zipper. Then I crocheted all the way around the sweater. I used my wonderfully discontinued "Rave" Cache yarn, too!

I'm pretty happy with it. I closed it with a vintage pin and wore it

to church on Sunday.

There you have it!

Little Crafty Bits

2010-02-27T11:48:00.005-05:00

Starting to make & gather for some "little buttons."

In the process of dying an entire lot of kiddie tees & onesies all the colors of the rainbow.

Then I'm embellishing with rhinestones, buttons, ribbon, fabric appliques, embroidery, whatever!

This is a project I use to "fill-in the gaps" between the larger ones.

It's nice & easy.

There is a lot of room for creativity & it is instantly gratifying & fun.

I've always wanted to embellish a light switch. (Nerd alert!)

So when I found a random naked one in our "catch all" drawer, I got busy!

Before...

After! Ah...a pretty dress for my fashion passion!

I cut this image from an old Vogue.

I did this in about ten minutes. I cut the image and literally

slopped the mod podge on.

I guess you can kinda tell it was a rush job,

but I actually like the effect.

It no longer looks like a shiny fashion mag photo!

Here's to finding joy in little crafty bits!

PS: Just found this great post by Heather- Roundup: Using Old T-Shirts!

So many great ideas. I especially love that wreath.

Check-it out and make something! :)

A T's Tease...

2010-02-26T14:59:00.006-05:00

I welcomed the snowy morning with coffee and this tutorial. It was my second time doing this and I finally got it! After struggling with threads broken during the ruffling process, I finally understand why someone once suggested fishing line is best for that job.

While all my bits & pieces of sewing pile-up on the rack, I thought

I would go ahead and share what I had patience to photograph this morning.

Here is the halter top I made using Generation T, my new favorite sewing book.

The link above is to the site, which I love as well.

This was made from a t-shirt I scored at Salvation Army for 99 cents! So happy with this, not to mention I love this NY band!

Here is a sneak peak at my Miss Mary Mack dress while its under (re)construction!

That's an ex's old t-shirt!
I just placed one of Cub's dresses over it as a pattern and cut it out A-line style.
It is now sleevless and will soon have a ruffled neckline.
I'm going to sew big black satin bows down the front. And the back...
well- I'll wait to surprise you, but I'm sure you can guess
what will go back there!

Reconstructing t-shirts has been one of the most exciting things for me as far
as recent sewing goes. I'm learning a lot and can't wait till the weather warms up so
I can sport my new attire.
Starting March 1st, I'll be posting what I make over on Wardrobe Refashion,
which has been an endless source of inspiration to me.

Happy Weekend, Everyone!

Inspiration Tee

2010-02-25T21:52:00.004-05:00

I haven't been taking a lot of photos lately. My camera batteries died and I was too lazy to pick-up new ones. The other problem is...I've been sewing LATE at night. That is when I feel most inspired and motivated for creating. I've always been that way. This means I am a tired ol' mess in the morning; downing two cups of coffee before I teach my first class!

I have been doing so much with t-shirts lately.

I get the biggest kick out of thrifting for the coolest/cutest ones then taking them home and making something adorable. So far I've sewn shrugs, an angular 80's tunic, halter top, and a punky-gathered tank. Then I became real daring Tues. evening and made a halter dress out of an XL funky American Apparel tee. It was surprisingly quick & easy.

Last night involved sewing the ruffle on to a (refashioned tee) dress I'm making for Cub.

I'm calling it the Miss Mary Mack dress.

I also dared to begin a (get this) bikini, which will probably just end up being undies.

So, so excited and can't wait to share...but I realize this involves daylight & some form of modeling the clothes or at least draping them all pretty on a hanger or my new dress form, so you can see what I've made & I can be all proud.

Until I get that together, I just wanted to share a wee bit of inspiration.

Doesn't get any more 80's than that!

Love my stripes & that little bow up there is a sweet touch. Makes the shirt, in my opinion.
You can find this and other beauties right here.

Dolls

2010-02-22T19:00:00.011-05:00

We were honored to be spoiled by a total "Girl's Day Out" yesterday with our favorite ladies!

The loooong day ended with an early supper at Alice's Teacup-an Alice In Wonderland-themed cafe. But before that, we did some power browsing/shopping at FAO Schwarz.

My brother and I would go about once a year around the holidays when we were kids.

My grandparents would allow us to pick out one toy we really wanted. So, we continued the tradition with my girl yesterday.

The doll floor is so extensive and quite breath-taking.

Being a doll-lover, I was in seventh heaven right along with my girl.

Just look at these diva Barbies posing right in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Aren't they just so fabulous in their black attire? Sooooo NYC.

There is even an automated runway show that is fairly hypnotic. Cub was indeed captivated...but not enough to choose a Barbie to take home!

My personal favorite are the Madame Alexander Dolls.

Oh. My. Stars.

My knees almost buckled when I saw the entire wall filled with these 8-inch beauties...one more lovely than the other! This is just a small corner of the wall.

Here is one of my absolute favorites.

How could I resist that green face? Ohhhhhh. Love.

(She is a character from the Broadway Musical Wicked, btw.)

Because I spent money like water during our vacation, I had to refrain and put her back on the shelf. So sad. But I'll be back for her real soon, though.

I have always promised myself that one day I will have a PROPER doll house and a SERIOUS doll collection. I will definitely start with one of these dolls...or two or three!

And these!!!

There are no words to express how I feel about these.

I could cry just looking at them!

What is it about those borderline creepy, blank-stare faces that I simply adore?

This Mama left the store with a lot of candy-colored photos to remember the experience.
But my little Leo found a "baby" to adopt from the real life Baby Doll Nursery up on the second floor. She picked this one out from the glass incubators. The nurse brought her over
and Cub had to answer lots of questions and fill-out paper work.
It was all so "official" and absolutely adorable. She was so excited!
So, we finally have a new baby at our house after all.

She named the baby girl Kayleanna
and told the nursery that she was born on December 9th at 7pm!
She is such a good Mommy, too.

"Thank heaven...for little girls."

Our Lovely Week

2010-02-19T09:40:00.005-05:00

How gorgeous is this Paper Chandelier?

MUST MAKE & HANG IN OUR APARTMENT...TODAY.

Love it so much, it hurts!

Something about this photo just makes me feel good, too.

Our week off has been a combination of being silly busy and having some real relaxing down time...(buble-baths included!):

1. Short family vacation out on Long Island including a beautiful Valentine's Day!

2. Lots of out-to-dinner with friends.

3. Important tasks and errands were completed...finally!

4. I actually watched THREE films, too: Beowulf (EXHILARATING! And one of my new favorites), An Education (STYLISH & GORGEOUS), and L'Appartement (French, 1996- SEXY/QUIRKY/COOL). Yep, I loved them all...a lot! Before this lovely week is over I will finish Precious and Food, Inc. Can't wait...

5. Tons of crafting & creating: Finished some WIPS, lots of cute t-shirt recons, fabric dyeing,

some crochet for Craft Hope. I also attended a sewing fundraiser for Haiti...and did way too much thrifting! Currently working on Cub's "Miss Mary Mack" dress!

6. Finally have taken the two month pledge. Excited!

There are three more days of fun planned including a brunch date at Alice's Teacup in nyc.

I think I'm more excited than Cub!

I will have to get batteries for my camera so that I can share pics of everything soon.

And I wanted to leave you with a really cute t-shirt recon by one of my favorite crafty gals, Whitney. This pillowcase tut is so practical and adorable. I've already made one for little girl and she loves its softness and the graphic isn't too shabby, either (vintage Muppets).

And let me not forget the best #7: My Cub has been busy drawing & making her books, using her new electric pencil sharpener to its fullest capacity...and making animal puppets! Thanks to the beautiful Kristin for that amazing puppet-making kit. We love you!!

Yes, we have been busy bees here! It has been a really fun week together.

Blessings, Everyone.

A Snowy Day

2010-02-10T09:20:00.003-05:00

Introducing my latest crafty love-

upcycling & refashioning sweaters!

I am dreaming of something BIG in my future with all of this- and one day, God willing-

it will be a reality. Until then, I'm having fun teaching myself a lot about clothing,

fabric, and putting it all together.

Last weekend, I found the most beautiful 80's Liz Claiborne sweater at the thrift mart for $6.00.

So far, I've been able to make three pairs of mittens out of it- Papa bear, Mama bear, and

Baby bear size!

I really wish I had some sweet red velvet ribbon to trim the bottom of them!

Super easy to make: Trace your hand on a piece of paper to make a mitten pattern. Don't forget to include your wristies, too. I usually add about an inch more around the pattern to allow for seam allowances, etc. It is especially nice to place the paper pattern on the sweater so the wrist rests on the elastic waistband part of your sweater for the benefit of a finished edge.

For Cub's pair, I zig-zagged the edges of the mitten wrist to prevent unraveling.

With wrong sides together, sew around the mitten using a zig-zag stitch.

When finished, turn inside-out and you have a lovely pair of

mittens for yourself or a loved one.

Enjoy the day, Everybody.

It is a winter wonderland here.

The snow is gorgeous

and we have a day off!!!

Another Work In Progress

2010-02-08T22:07:00.005-05:00

(Sorry about the blur. They can't all be winners! )

There is my baby taking a rare nap this weekend. Hee, hee.

She is such a big girl, really. So, it just makes me giggle with delight that she still sucks her thumb. Sounds funny, right? But it is one of the few glimpses into her "baby-ness" that I still get to enjoy. So sweet...

The work in progress is the wall above the couch.

We had a hemp line hanging on the wall with all her artwork hanging from clothes pins.

We frequently rotated artwork and photos.

Recently, I had the feeling the room needed to be cleaned-up and minimized a bit.

You wouldn't be able to tell from our small apartment, but I really

am a minimalist when it comes to dwelling places and furnishings.

I appreciate neat, stylish rooms on the sparse side.

So, I've been on a mission to frame my favorite pieces of her work

and to do a hodge-podge wall. All the frames are thrifted and/or purchased at the dollar store.

There are about five more frames I need to put together and hang.

Some still need glass, but that is what Michael's is for!

Tonight, using this for inspiration...I've had fun cutting up a light pink cashmere sweater my Grandma gave me about 10 years ago. I haven't had the heart to donate it for obvious reasons, but hey- I hold on to cashmere! It's just too soft not to. I cut the ugly zipper out, cut a new neck-line and have been crocheting around the edges with my favorite Moda Dea (discontinued!) Rave yarn.

I'm planning on topping it all off with a vintage brooch for the closure.

I'll be sharing it real soon.

Love the refashioning oh, so much!

Life is beautiful.

You Make My Day

2010-02-05T21:24:00.006-05:00

Dear Song of My Heart

Joy of My Life,

Thank-you for blessing me with your being.

Thank you for that beautiful paper doll you made me this evening;

How you glued it to the cardboard paper towel tube so that it would stand...
"So you can play with it, Mom."

...For the drawings you leave in my room for me at least once a week.

And if that isn't enough...

You've made me happy for the rest of my life-

the day you were born and each day thereafter.

Tonight, before falling asleep...

"I love you, Mom.

Each day you make my heart grow bigger and bigger."

You make it all worthwhile.

Thank you,

Your Mama

5-Star Chocolate Cake

2010-01-28T17:10:00.004-05:00

Did I actually just eat half a (small, okay) chocolate cake in almost 24 hours?

Yes, I did and it was worth every bite!

I mean, just look at this baby.

My homemade buttercream could be thicker, I suppose...But what can I say?

I'm afraid of all that powdered sugar!

Anyway, this cake deserves to be called both "The Best Chocolate Cake in the World," and "Super Moist Chocolate Cake," 'cuz that's what it is!

Although I am not a vegan, for some reason, I go vegan for most of my baking recipes.

I enjoy the more wholesome ingredients and figure it can't be all that bad for ya, either.

So, VegWeb is one of my favorite sources for vegetarian as well as vegan recipes. I've been a member for like, six years and it is my go-to spot for a solid recipe or idea.

You can find this wonderfully cake recipe here. I highly recommend it;

especially if you are a chocolate cake freak, like myself.

I made a simple (non-vegan) buttercream frosting:

2 Tablespoons butter

1 Cup of powdered sugar

Tiny splash of vanilla

3 chopped strawberries mashed with a fork.

Whip the butter until its light yellow.

Add sugar and vanilla, keep beating with mixer.

Add the berries, fold 'em in or if you are lazy like me, dump them in and keep the mixer going.

Either way, you can't go wrong with homemade frosting...with

no scary chemicals and ingredients. Yummy.

Enjoy!

A Whole Lotta Craftin' Goin' On...

2010-01-26T22:34:00.009-05:00

Since the coming of the new year, I have been in creative overdrive and it has been wonderful!

Lots of looong crochet scarves. Well, the pink/black one on the left and the orange/pom-pom scarf were both fingerknitted. The white one is a long popcorn chain scarf. It looks pretty cute as a belt, too! I'm going to attach some crochet-rosettes to the "mint ice" one below.

Another shrug made from an Old Navy t-shirt I had not worn in over eight years!

Yay, for clothing reincarnation! :)

I am pretty happy with this one and am planning on wearing it real soon under a bulky black sweater. It was made from one of my many thrifted XL tees.
The little appliques on the front are iron-on peacock feathers.

...And here is the refashion I am most proud of at the moment.
Remember this old hoodie of mine that I cut-up last week?
Well, it has been given quite the "face-lift" and now belongs to
the best little girl in the whole wide world.

Tah-dah!!
I attached a pink hoodie from a sweatshirt she outgrew.
I kept it sleeveless but she really wanted to wear the black turtleneck today...not the pink one Mama picked out.
I sewed this cool multi-colored rick-rack down the sides of the zipper and at the top of the pockets for accent. I attached a vintage heart charm dangling from a polka-dot ribbon to the zipper pull...and that's it!

Oh, yeah- I made a couple of super-cute bow headbands for her using Elsie's adorable
bow tutorial.
This one just happens to match perfectly.
She wore her new "dress" proudly today.
It gives me so much joy to know that she is wearing something I made just for her.
My little one, I would make a quilt out of the world
and give it to you, if I could.
xoxo

Hope you are enjoying your week.

Staten Island Years: Broken Bits and Pieces

2010-01-25T21:58:00.003-05:00

Photo taken by my new favorite (French) photographer, Cedric Bihr.

So happy to have accidentally found this wonderful photographer tonight in my bloggy travels.

I wish I could remember exactly how I found him, but you know how it is once you fall down the rabbit hole of blogs and links! Anyway, I think I am going to write to him, asking his permission to use the photo for this particular section of my "book." (Yes, I'm using the term loosely).

It's just too perfect, with that ferry trudging ominously into the distance from the "Manhattan" side. With that, I thought I'd share some of the entries I've written for the chapter.

#24

He gave the stray food,

She was deathly allergic.

Mom made them keep it.

#93

Windows front and back

Wood floors lead from room to room

This is where we died.

#07

Auto mechanic,

Artist, antique-store owner

All of them, but you.

Perhaps a bit on the dark side. But oh, so much fun to write and like I said a few posts ago,

wonderfully healing and therapeutic. Each chapter is another "milestone" section of my life.

I am loving this ongoing writing project.

Blessings for your week, All. xoxo

Tag. I'm it!

2010-01-23T18:26:00.002-05:00

I was tagged the other day by the most adorable April and so I'll play along, have some fun, and share some more...

7 Things I Love Lately~

1. My Daughter's Artwork, Writing, and Crafting

My girl is just blossoming in the art department lately. Some of her recent creations include a birdseye view of her classroom (from above!), her own town complete with parks, a store, houses, a road, and a school. She just handed me her, "very own paper chicken!"

Two days ago she turned a pudding cup into a holder for her "smencils."

Can you tell how proud I am of her?

2. God (When I asked my daughter what I love lately...She said, "People," then "God." So, God, it is!)

When we can't get to church, I listen to podcasts of sermons online.

I try to start our day with some type of inspirational music.

Me and my daughter pray and sing together each night before she goes to sleep. Later, I work on bible study (right now its the 30 Proverbs in 30 days), prayer, meditation, reading and/or journaling.

If nothing else...I never forget to say "thank-you," for the beautiful life He has given me.

3. Sewing!

I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't love sewing. However, I have been sewing-obsessed.

I have started a small notebook that I carry around with me, just for sewing/crafting ideas now.

I am IN LOVE with reconstructing our old clothes and (too)many thrift-shop finds.

I feel so refreshed and renewed while sitting at my machine these days. It is wonderful.

4. All of our January get-togethers and gatherings

Lots of birthday parties, school gatherings, re-unions, family dinners, and time spent with friends both old and new.

Not to mention Cub's upcoming play, "Bye, Bye, Birdie."

January has been oh, so busy...but so much fun.

5. Conan O'Brien-

Who said recently,

"If you work really hard and are kind, amazing things will happen to you."

In a world that seems all too controlled by the Media Machine,

you stood bravely for what you believed was right.

My Man, I've always liked you...but now I respect you, too.

6. Nail Polish

I was off the nail polish for a while...After so many years of being crazed with it.

I think at one point, while living in nyc, I had at least one shoebox full in my fridge.

Well, I've rediscovered it and the darker the color, the better.

My current favorite brand is NYC - affordable, good quality, and fun colors- all named after nyc neighborhoods. Today, I bought a really cool blue-black called, "West Village." Love.

7. My Autobiographical Haiku Art Book Project

I have been searching so long for the appropriate written medium-

for the most comfortable way to pen fragments of my memoir, of sorts.

There are several sections and then sub-sections.

There are photos and collages that I have been working on as well.

My current section: "Staten Island Years: Broken bits and pieces."

This has been a miraculous and enormous release for me.

Don't know where it will end, but the creative journey is wonderfully healing.

Wow! Looking back over these seven things...I realize there could easily be 7 more.

(Silly, trivial things, too: Dunkin' Donuts hot chocolate, the music of the gorgeous Goldfrapp, rediscovering board games- again, my crock-pot...and the not so trivial...being in love, thinking about adopting, and my amazing family whom I love and appreciate more and more each day!)

There are so many things, people, and activities that I simply adore.

Yup, I LOVE life and living and everything that goes along with it.

I am blessed!

xoxo

Have you heard about Molly?

2010-01-22T20:04:00.004-05:00

I have been touched by this young woman's spirit and heart.

Thank you, Becky Ramsey for sharing.

I am reading Molly's blog and I am saddened, yet so inspired.

At 22 years of age, she has left behind quite a legacy.

My new heroine.

Maybe she will be yours, too.

Blessings.

Under (Re)Construction!

2010-01-18T09:36:00.007-05:00

Three day weekend, You've been so good to us!

Aside from brief bouts of the yuckies, our days have been filled with friends, shopping for goodies, yummy food, and wonderful parties!

Mama's evenings have been filled with sweet company, music, meditation, lots of sewing, and as of yesterday...good movies!

As you can probably tell, I have become very ambitious with preparations for my upcoming pledge. I now have two boxes of clothing to reconstruct. Yes, Cub now has her own little stash. Come spring, she will have some interesting (eh-hem) new pieces in her wardrobe!

I finished one shrug last night and made another this morning: grey with cranberry satin ribbon. Very cute for Mama come spring.

Turns out this was the number one tutorial of 2009 over at Cut Out and Keep It,

and I can see why. These things are so easy and addicting to make!

Here is a sneak peak at an overhaul I'm giving an old piece of clothing of mine.

I haven't worn it in many years. But it was so sentimental to me I couldn't say good-bye to it, either. So I'm giving it a second life and will be so happy to wear my (old) new friend!

I attacked a well-worn hoodie I don't wear anymore, too.

The black hood is currently being pinned to a scarf I made with black t-shirt-to make one of those hooded-scarf thingies.

I cut off the arms and here is what I'm doing with the rest:

I had Cub put it on and pinned it to her form. I am attaching a pink hoodie that I cut from a sweatshirt that didn't fit her anymore...And soon it will be called her "new jumper!"

Yay for making new things out of the old!

And here is something I found this morning when I turned on my computer.

It is the perfect phrase for the three little antique frames I found in LI two summers ago.

I've been waiting for the perfect inspiration and I've finally found it.

( Thank-you always to KIND OVER MATTER)

What a beautiful message for us to display in our home, yes?

Have a blessed day, Friends.

Clothing Recon #'s 3 & 4 and an Upcycle by Cub

2010-01-17T09:55:00.008-05:00

I've been having so much fun reconstructing tee-shirts lately.

Yesterday, I purchased lots of shirts at the thrift mart. Many dkny with all that well-made jersey- I can't wait to make: tunics, scarves, t-yarn, dresses, knickers, and more.

I even found a dress I'm going to dare to reconstruct. (dkny organic line. Whoa!)

Thanks to all the crafty ladies out there for making those inspiring youtube tutorials I've been devouring!

Here is a simple shirt I dolled-up yesterday...just cuts and ribbon. I sewed the bows down for extra security.

And this shawl/capelet/belt whatever is much cuter in person, I promise.

It was a rush-job in the wee hours...after watching and crying a lot about Haiti.

I still have to trim-up those strays and stretch it a bit more, but it looks very cute over a camisole. Not Batwoman or Goth, really!

Whitney is my new hero. Love her.

I will make another one of these. Emerald Green or Ivory.

And I'll take my time to make it all even and pretty.

On the topic of my latest favorite obsession, I was touched and inspired by this talented woman's post today. Yes, it is so much better for the planet to make do with what we have...And that dress is adorable!

I am so ready to buy less and make more. Glad so many of us are on the same page here.

And here is Cub's very own creation...A headband made of the yarn Mama accidently left behind on the floor and a gift bow.
She makes me so proud...following the crafty-footsteps. I love it.

PS: Check-out big girls new earrings. She got them pierced this week. A coming-of-age for sure. I've been reading a lot about turning six. It's a magical transition from 5-6. Children are said to leave their "heavenly"bodies and ground themselves in their "earthly" ones. (sniff, sniff) That makes me just a wee bit sad for some reason. I can really see this transition, too and it is miraculous, to say the least. What an honor and blessing to be a parent, sharing and observing the daily growth, development, and all the love she gives to the world and to her Mama.

Maybe that dream of the Mother-Daughter craft shop/studio/school
will really come true one day...

Peaceful Sunday, Everyone.

I Heart Saturday Morning

2010-01-16T08:59:00.005-05:00

Weekend plans may have to be put on hold until this Mama feels better.

Under the weather, but here are some things around the house that are bringing me joy this morning.

Aside from listening to lots of Melanie...

A beautiful gourd we found in Long Island this fall. The stem grew like that long after we brought it home. It reminds me of a pretty pear. Me and my girl both love this a lot.

So simple and unique in its perfection.

Macro-shots of new yarn for a few fun projects make my heart race just a little.

And this has been making me the HAPPIEST of all.
My girl has really taken off with her writing!
She did this completely unassisted.
It was a surprise for me last night...A follow-up to the paper heart she left in my room the day before.

My Girl, you are Mama's beating heart.
I am so proud of you!
xoxo

Enjoy your Saturday, Friends.

A Funny Story and My Second Reconstruction

2010-01-10T11:04:00.009-05:00

Just a cute backstory to a new craft I've been having a lot of fun with lately:

The other night, a very dear pal was over and she went on my computer to check her facebook. She logged me out of my page and logged on to hers. No problem.

The night went on...cookies were made and eaten, lots of laughs were had then everyone went home. Of course, this Mama stays up late enjoying her quiet crafty time. I jumped on the computer and taught myself how to finger knit...A simple, lovely, craft.

I was so excited I just had to share...So I blabbed on Facebook:

"Finger Knitting a neckwarmer!"

Then I saw the little profile photo pop-up beside it and it was my beautiful friend, who has so many talents: healer, communicator, compassionate humanist, excellent listener, brilliant advice-giver...You get the idea. She is AWESOME. However, she is not a crafter, and is probably the absolute last person who would finger knit a neckwarmer!!

I logged out of her page quickly and realized this could possibly be interesting.

The next morning, my friend said, "So, I'm finger-knitting a neckwarmer, huh?"

She showed me all of the comments she received as a result of my accidental "hack" into her status update, and we laughed hysterically at the responses:

"Fascinating."

"Interesting. Who are you planning to strangle?"

"Could you make one to strangle my neighbor, he is a monster?!"

Yes. We had a good laugh. On my update, the best comment was, "What the ****is finger-knitting?

Well, I'm proud to display the results of my first finger-knitting party.

I made a bra top (which you won't see!) and this neck warmer...and I don't plan on strangling anyone with it!! LOL!

This, my dears, is FINGER KNITTING:

Delicate and pretty, yes?

I'm going to have fun creating lots of accesories with this technique. I'm already working on a funky twisty scarf with some thick yarn.

I highly reccomend watching some youtube and trying it for yourself.

This is something I plan on teaching my Cub.

Now, for my second clothing recon.

1) I took this old, thrifted cardigan I never wear out of the donation pile and had some fun.

I stayed up into the wee hours transforming it into a nifty sweater scarf and I am in love with the result. I was inspired by this tutorial.

2) I changed the buttons on the sweater and tied thin satin ribbon bows into the button holes.

I whip-stitched around the edged and done.

It is warm and toasty, too.
Perfect for the cold and crispy weather we're having.
Am I the only one who loves this cold?

Happy and blessed Sunday, Everyone.

Project 6- Here I Come!

2010-01-08T22:57:00.002-05:00

Photo courtesy of Craft Hope

My heart was filled to the brim tonight after opening the recent Craft Hope post and learning that Project 6 is finally underway.

I found Craft Hope over the summer and was so happy to find that someone is actually organizing the craft community to help those in need- all over the world, too!

What a brilliant, loving and kind idea.

Jade Sims, you are an angel!

This next project is especially near and dear to my heart as the scarves will be sent all over the country to thousands of teens in foster care.

What a great feeling to know that something I make will be sent to someone I've never met...and that my scarf will help to keep them warm.

What a nice way to reach out to someone.

I can't wait to find the perfect unisex crochet pattern. That should be easy.

Funny, because earlier tonight, I bought a big skein of one of my favorites...Lion Brand Hometown USA yarn in red!

The deadline is February 14th, how appropriate!

So, I think I'll add this to my Crafty-To-Do-List for the weekend (More realistically like the coming weeks!) :

1. Finish the no-sew blanket for my sweet friends.

2. Complete that sock monkey I started a few nights ago!

3. Darn that last pair of booties and complete an overdue ornament.

4. Work on the crochet Kingston Hat I also began this week.

5. More Finger Knitting! I have so many ideas and I am in love with this at the moment!

6. Oh, yes. Make some more t-yarn to finger-knit with. I think it would be perfect.

7. Work on embellishing that retro-style photo frame I've been thinking about.

8. Headbands and more headbands!

9. More 3-D religious inspired portraits...in the future.

10. Tee-shirt reconstructions. I watched at least an hour of them last night!

11. Sew a zipper into my green crochet pouch.

12. Start and finish Cubs "Princess and the Frog" themed pillow-case!

Can you tell I've had crafting-mania lately?

Yes, it is true...but blissful. I'm loving it...So inspired and having so much fun!

Happy Friday Evening to you...

May your weekend be filled with joy and blessings.

Latest Obsession: Discontinued Yarn

2010-01-06T23:20:00.009-05:00

It all started when I fell in love with this Caron shrug pattern.

I know one of the reasons I love it so much is the yarn and that d-ring. Cool, yes?

Oh, then the yarn name, "Black Magic." Ohhhhh. Interesting.

A very short search revealed that sadly, this yarn was discontinued.

Hmmmm. I never thought about that before!

Just look at this yarn! What can I say? I love it! If I were a yarn, I think I would be this one!

I'm a sucker for a 70's color palette...and then that whisper of metallic yarn running throughout.

That sealed the deal for me.

So off to ebay I went in search of my Black Magic.

Sadly, I don't think anyone has four skeins of any of it.

Well, maybe one seller. But I'm still waiting to hear from her.

Oh, the things I could make with this.

I have so many ideas. Too many!

Here is one purse I am cuckoo over. I MUST...I WILL make this for myself...After I get my hands on some more of this, that is!

(Am I the only one out there that gets really excited about things like this?!)

While up late cruising around for discontinued yarn, I ran into this absolutely adorable capelet...

Coats and Clark...I'll never sleep again with all of those yummy patterns!

I think last night I copied at least fifteen free pattern numbers into my project log.

Looks like I'll be wonderfully busy for a while.

Anyway, the saga continues 'cuz the yarn used for this creation is also...

DISCONTINUED!

Moda Dea Cache in Rave...Where are you? Back to ebay.

Turns out this is a bit easier to find. At least Moda Dea lists all of their discontinued yarn on their site...Wow. I wish I had a ton of money to buy up all of these chunky, bright yarns, with their metallic threads and retro-flavor!

Love Moda Dea yarn.

I guess now I know I have a "type" because these two have a lot in common!

See for yourself. Sigh...

So, yeah. I've been up later than I should the past few nights.

I've bought lots of discontinued funky yarn.

I'm happy! Excited! Can't wait to make stuff!

INSPIRED!

And now I'm tired.

Night-night.

Thanks for letting me share.

Inspiration Everywhere

2010-01-05T17:48:00.002-05:00

Looks like I'm already gearing up to take the two-month Wardrobe Refashion pledge. I must admit, I'm getting pretty excited and inspired after reading what many creative people are doing over there daily. Awesome. I've started putting aside pieces of our clothing for refashioning instead of the usual donations. I love having an ongoing project such as this to prepare for.

I wasted no time getting to work after seeing this lovely scarf posted on the very first day of the year! Late last night I removed some tired black buttons from this recently thrifted cardigan and spruced it up with some vintage pearl buttons. Here's a two-for-one shot of both!

The scarf was originally given to Cub, who never wanted to wear it.

However, the ruffle and large button have won over my girly-girl.

I guess we'll be sharing this one, which is definitely all right with me.

A trip to a favorite dollar store is always a source of creative inspiration. Tonight, I scored a pack of 8 zippers in rainbow colors - perfect for my new crochet pouch obsession...and some pink and white knee socks with black skullies are presently being transformed into my very first...

SOCK MONKEY!!!!

I've been wanting to make one of these for a while. This is a super tutorial, if you'd like to join me.

Have a happy week! xo

The Fine Art of Procrastination:

2010-01-03T22:56:00.008-05:00

1. Finally make all that Peppermint Bark you were going to before the holidays.Preferably do this while simultaneously preparing two separate dinners. (Plus, kale chips, that were amazing; even Cub crunched on a few!)

2. In the middle of melting the white chocolate, try dipping some pretzels in, the way

they did on all those nifty tutorials you were reading last week (while home relaxing...Ahhh.).

These are really yummy, by the way...and addicting!

3) After being completely wired on sugar from all the bark and pretzels consumed with a strong cup of tea, read two veeeeery long stories to your little one before putting her to bed, organize all of your WIPS, wash a gazillion dishes for the umteenth time today, chat a bit with a friend,

and stroll around the grounds over here until you find something you just HAVE

to make...

4) Go ahead and crochet that flower headband (First photo above...too tired and lazy to re-do the order!) and then...

share the madness!

I can't believe my vacation is over. I guess I'm still awake because I really don't want it to end. It was absolute perfection. It was sweet and delicious. One of the best winter breaks EVER!

...And I'm going to miss my little girl like crazy tomorrow.

Best wishes for the upcoming week, Everyone!

Must Make and Do In 2010 (The Abbreviated Version!)

2010-01-01T17:20:00.012-05:00

Happy New Year, All.

I can't help but look ahead to just a few things I'm going for in the upcoming year.

Here is a sampling from my larger list of simple goals:

1) A weekend visit to this ashram with my daughter.

Very soon.

2) A New Abode...Destination Unknown.

This is going to be ours someday (in Paris)!

Ha, ha...Why not dream big?

Thanks, (now defunct) Domino magazine for the lovely inspiration.

3)Continuing my love affair with CROCHET and making lots of
vintage-inspired coin purses and clutches, like the one below and this cutie.

4)To eventually join Wardrobe Refashion and begin with a 2-month pledge.
Hey, I have to start somewhere!

5) And when I am in the throws of my 2-month pledge...
I'm going to make this dress with all of those ties I've been collecting.
I luuuuuv this dress!

6) More prayer, yoga, meditation and overall focus on healthy living.

Here's to a magical and blessed year ahead.