tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63505160136099365632024-03-13T14:45:01.196-04:00Jabbering JaimeThings that make me go weeeee and a bunch that make me go ugh!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.comBlogger327125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-67314113114993219192009-02-16T18:50:00.003-05:002009-02-16T18:53:28.532-05:00Moving Day!<div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.allied.com/images/page_images/moving_checklist/img_moving_day.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 143px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.allied.com/images/page_images/moving_checklist/img_moving_day.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I've moved blogs, I don't want to lose you so please follow me over to <a href="http://www.ginghamskies.blogspot.com/">Gingham Skies</a>. Same me, different location!<br /></div>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-87867065183009335672009-02-08T23:03:00.003-05:002009-02-08T23:24:01.358-05:00Here and ThereMy attempts at keeping two blogs alive have been pathetic at best. My plan is to move everything over to <a href="http://www.ginghamskies.blogspot.com">Gingham Skies</a> so be prepared to arrive here one day soon to find a big SOLD sign telling you to head on over to <a href="http://ginghamskies.blogspot.com">Gingham Skies</a>. For the time being I'll share my posts on both blogs... saying goodbye to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">JJ</span> is going to take some getting used to on my part but I figure it's a smart business move to lead people back to my biz blog. Originally I had planned to keep GS all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">bizzzzzzzznezzzzzz</span> but I realize that's a silly idea considering I like to yap mostly about my life and useless other bits that make me smile and all I have to say about business is "look what a I made."<br /><br />I hope you will follow me when I move!! AND I hope that you lovely lurkers will say hello... there are an awful lot of regular international visitors but I rarely hear from you. Hello? Anybody out there?Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-10568467948861666262009-02-07T15:28:00.004-05:002009-02-07T16:58:03.264-05:00Gingham Skies New StyleI'm excited to announce that I have some new vegan designs in the works. Tess will be hitting the shop today:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vTZY4xWI/AAAAAAAAG78/8OmZ0WggSjg/s1600-h/blueswirl.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 255px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vTZY4xWI/AAAAAAAAG78/8OmZ0WggSjg/s400/blueswirl.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300155452996765026" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vTmxWCVI/AAAAAAAAG8E/miSrwGQyc0Q/s1600-h/blue+inside.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vTmxWCVI/AAAAAAAAG8E/miSrwGQyc0Q/s400/blue+inside.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300155456589007186" border="0" /></a><br />Anyone planning on working with vinyl? Let me save you a world of frustration: buy a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">teflon</span> foot for your sewing machine!<br /><br />Here's Tess in pink. This little lady will be sold in the shop at a significant discount - she was one of my first attempts at Tess therefore she has a few minor issues with less than perfect top stitching and an off-centre interior pocket. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vTwo4cuI/AAAAAAAAG8M/Bb5Qk1_1JQA/s1600-h/pink+swirl.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 333px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vTwo4cuI/AAAAAAAAG8M/Bb5Qk1_1JQA/s400/pink+swirl.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300155459237868258" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vUuAro2I/AAAAAAAAG8U/--qdosH_YUk/s1600-h/pink+swirl+inside.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3vUuAro2I/AAAAAAAAG8U/--qdosH_YUk/s400/pink+swirl+inside.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300155475712254818" border="0" /></a>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-90543795136895836522009-02-07T15:06:00.003-05:002009-02-07T15:11:10.698-05:00Fab Pick of Last Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5760796"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 376px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SY3qUOx5YqI/AAAAAAAAG7s/moORyp5iUJk/s400/hope+tile.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300149969770603170" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5760796">Artsy Rubbish</a> has an array of glass mixed media mosaic tiles perfect for gift giving and they are reasonably priced to boot. There is the option to order custom tiles as well - what a lovely idea for a wedding gift!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-26527935972633956612009-02-01T16:00:00.001-05:002009-02-01T16:00:00.957-05:00Two Years Today<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SW6HyWlUeUI/AAAAAAAAGzI/vcA4wEXoWgY/s1600-h/cardimg.php.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 362px; height: 218px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SW6HyWlUeUI/AAAAAAAAGzI/vcA4wEXoWgY/s400/cardimg.php.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291315911332231490" border="0" /></a>Happy Anniversary Baby!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-16294472108269786102009-01-29T17:18:00.005-05:002009-01-29T17:27:30.383-05:00PhotoliciousAnother fabulous new-for-me blog that I'm lovin': <a href="http://colormekatie.blogspot.com/">Color Me Katie</a>. She creates the best photo ops, like these thought bubbles stuck on the streets of NYC.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SYIr1AV08fI/AAAAAAAAG7k/8V8pxUZutnM/s1600-h/ladies+in+bikinis.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 281px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SYIr1AV08fI/AAAAAAAAG7k/8V8pxUZutnM/s400/ladies+in+bikinis.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296844301365735922" border="0" /></a>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-83406138701790380242009-01-27T09:01:00.000-05:002009-01-27T09:01:00.863-05:00Feelin ItI don't know how you could feel anything but love towards <a href="http://www.myspace.com/mgmt">MGMT</a>. Jackie included them on her list of favs and seeing their name reminded me of how much I adore their music. I think it's nearly impossible to listen to these tracks and not bop your head and tap your toes. Love it!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=35900812">MGMT - "Electric Feel" Music Video</a><br /><object height="360" width="425"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><param name="movie" value="http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=35900812,t=1,mt=video,searchID=bc0d148e-615c-47d4-913c-83bbb69632e0,primarycolor=,secondarycolor="><embed src="http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=35900812,t=1,mt=video,searchID=bc0d148e-615c-47d4-913c-83bbb69632e0,primarycolor=,secondarycolor=" allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="360" width="425"></embed></object></div><br /><br /> What would you classify MGMT as, electro pop maybe?Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-40517556741596407272009-01-25T22:00:00.000-05:002009-01-25T22:00:00.989-05:00Mmmm This Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXz90EMST2I/AAAAAAAAG7E/9u4KmtRGYLk/s1600-h/1524579505_f5bdcbeb1e.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXz90EMST2I/AAAAAAAAG7E/9u4KmtRGYLk/s400/1524579505_f5bdcbeb1e.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295386332801159010" border="0" /></a>Stuck to the menu once again this week, minor changes but nothing that entailed a trip to the grocery store. High five for me.<br /><br />I skipped Tantalizing Tuesday this week but will try to remember to post a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">goodie</span> for you this round.<br /><br />Here's the menu, yum.<br /><br />Monday: mini pita pizzas<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>Tuesday: Kim's Nana's <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0752226649?ie=UTF8&tag=littpeop-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0752226649">Parmesan Chicken</a> chicken recipe along with wee <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">roasties</span> - newbie<br />Wednesday: <a href="http://seasonalontariofood.blogspot.com/2007/11/gordon-ramsays-broccoli-soup-more-or.html">broccoli soup</a> with sandwiches on fresh crusty buns - didn't bother with the soup last week so it's a newbie<br />Thursday: tacos<br />Friday: <a href="http://jabberingjaime.blogspot.com/2009/01/soy-good.html">Soy Glazed Beef with Green Bean</a> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">stirfry</span> - so yum!<br />Saturday: Saturday: Chicken breasts with egg noodles on the side<br />Sunday: Anniversary dinner - order in<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Glub</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">glub</span>.Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-24713755440901434932009-01-25T10:41:00.002-05:002009-01-25T10:41:00.121-05:00Sounds Like Candy<div style="text-align: left;">Soko is simply adorable and has a voice that is so sweet your teeth are liable to ache after consumption.</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXs2tF9AMfI/AAAAAAAAG60/fBzAHI0lhm0/s1600-h/bruce-soko-2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXs2tF9AMfI/AAAAAAAAG60/fBzAHI0lhm0/s400/bruce-soko-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294885935224205810" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXs2tQkaadI/AAAAAAAAG68/Cywty9elWsg/s1600-h/soko.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXs2tQkaadI/AAAAAAAAG68/Cywty9elWsg/s400/soko.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294885938073856466" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Listen to her loveliness:<div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yfDvxCPjJBQ&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yfDvxCPjJBQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I found Soko thanks to Liss over at <a href="http://daydreamlily.blogspot.com/search/label/soko">Daydream Lily</a>, after watching the interview she posted I was smitten.</div></div></div></div></div>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-86957740882480987542009-01-24T09:40:00.003-05:002009-01-24T09:45:38.385-05:00Fab Pick of Last Week<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18534683"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXspBbNnZ5I/AAAAAAAAG6k/Df4kdYFo3Bs/s400/vintage+silver+studs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294870891365623698" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />These super sweet vintage zip earrings are right up my alley! I intend to break the primary school teacher trend of tacky holiday sweaters and light up snowmen earrings but still sneak in some kid friendly fashion: these are perfect, don't you think? Choosing a colour will be the difficult part, check out the selection at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18534683">Amalia <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Versaci's</span></a> shopGingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-15430007303480508302009-01-23T18:16:00.001-05:002009-01-23T18:16:04.283-05:00No Doubt About It<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/ojgi16des-U' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/ojgi16des-U'/></object></p><p>I might be alone on this one, but this commercial kills me every time I watch it. I was starting to feel blue again today and then I went downstairs and flipped on the tv right as the... well, right as the funny part happened and out popped the belly laugh from my grumpy mug. I can't help it, the immature part of me finds this terribly funny. Enjoy!</p></div>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-21049787644271898432009-01-22T21:00:00.006-05:002009-01-22T21:59:24.516-05:00Sew Lovely!<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">I've found a new medium and I have fallen sew in love. My second mom suggested I create some beach bags for the summer and off I went to hunt for some water resistant material: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">faux</span> leather was my fab find. I have to hit the sewing shop for some advice - sewing through a few layers of vinyl was not the easiest task so I'm curious to hear what the experts suggest: a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">teflon</span> foot maybe? I managed okay but my finished edge is a bit wonky on the inside and there was a bit of a drag visible on the inside.<br /><br />Vegan bags are going to be my focus this spring/summer. Here's the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">beach bag</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">proto</span>-type: vinyl inside and out for easy cleaning and to keep your goods dry. What do you think?<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXkmDA-wNoI/AAAAAAAAG58/ECpEeUFNuB0/s1600-h/beachbag3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXkmDA-wNoI/AAAAAAAAG58/ECpEeUFNuB0/s320/beachbag3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294304670195398274" border="0" /></a> <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXkk92ScPoI/AAAAAAAAG50/Dr9YFVOhcrw/s1600-h/upclosespiral.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXkk92ScPoI/AAAAAAAAG50/Dr9YFVOhcrw/s320/upclosespiral.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294303481914211970" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I wish I could find a little bit of time to sew every day, it's such a great stress reliever and helps to wash the sads away.<br /></div></div>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-28859910050964406422009-01-21T17:30:00.001-05:002009-01-21T17:33:21.348-05:00Is it really only January?!<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/missmurderscene/2966690546/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3230/2966690546_8552e0cc5c_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" >Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/missmurderscene/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">sharna</span>.</a></span><br /></div><br />PMS is a crazy thing. I spent a good chunk of last night crying my eyes out and then wilted once again today but this time it was in front of one of my professors. Nope, I wasn't in her office as one might think, I was standing at the front of the lecture room. Thankfully class was over and my back was turned to the majority of my peers. Oh the joys of hormones.<br /><br />Of course she said all the right things as I blubbered my shaky <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">embarrassed</span> apology while wiping at the never ending stream of tears: you're tired, you're frustrated, you have a tonne on your plate etc. She then assured me that she would help me with my most major issue and suggested I not stress about handing in a proposal that's due tomorrow. Of course I will get the proposal done but at the time hearing those words was exactly what I needed.<br /><br />One of my girlfriends assured me that I wasn't alone in the 'weeping in front of the prof department' - nevertheless I'm still pretty <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">embarrassed</span>. I need to get some sleep, wipe a few assignments off my plate, finish up the resumes and cover letters that need to be sent out and drink a glass of wine... then I'll feel much better. Ugh.<br /><br />I would much prefer to drink the wine, go to bed and wake up in May. I know I'm almost there and that I'll get through it but hell, I'm allowed to have the odd self-pity day, right?!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-39253887361258268312009-01-20T09:40:00.001-05:002009-01-20T09:40:00.313-05:00MmmmmusiqueI <a href="http://jabberingjaime.blogspot.com/2009/01/likey-lykkee-li.html">promised</a> more new music and here I am just a few days later delivering, lucky you!<br /><br />My fab friend Jackie is the Queen of Indie and I've asked her to send me a list of band names so that I can update my collection of tunes. She and her man Ian are always at concerts and listening to the up and coming before they rise to the top so I'll be sure to share my new finds with all of you.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.myspace.com/mothermotherspace">Mother Mother</a> is a band from Vancouver, British Columbia which just happens to be the home of three of my most favourite ladies (Jackie being one of them). The band isn't just fabulous by association of location, they have catchy songs that I intend to listen to over and over again. Check them out...<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VkWevX-S_NU&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VkWevX-S_NU&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-76464883821347444922009-01-19T11:45:00.004-05:002009-01-19T11:45:00.743-05:00More Wallpaper<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pokedstudio.com/computerwallpaper.html"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 160px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXNc9sVSQ0I/AAAAAAAAG0I/sQG2B-7RzPE/s320/seamonsters213wallpaper.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292676202032677698" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pokedstudio.com/computerwallpaper.html"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 160px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXNc9XMDkrI/AAAAAAAAG0A/mH7h0XpWC9U/s320/mycomputer213.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292676196356821682" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pokedstudio.com/computerwallpaper.html"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 160px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXNc9bRYbTI/AAAAAAAAGzw/gFUPN4ElBzE/s320/donteatbuildings213.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292676197452901682" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pokedstudio.com/computerwallpaper.html"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 160px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXNc9f8nHfI/AAAAAAAAGz4/_pJ6g5L6ymU/s320/iceland213.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292676198707961330" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I change my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">laptop's</span> wallpaper on a regular basis; being a full-time student and a blog addict - so says Mike, therefore it must be at least a partial truth - I spend a ridiculous amount of time looking at my monitor so I like to mix things up a bit. <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2009/01/desktop-wallpapers.html">How About Orange</a> posted a link to <a href="http://www.pokedstudio.com/computerwallpaper.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">PokeStudio</span></a> where you can find a load of cute wallpapers. Just click on the pic you like the best and choose an appropriate size for your computer, bigger is usually better, right click and save as your desktop background. Ta <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">da</span>!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-63872679161666952682009-01-18T11:10:00.004-05:002009-01-18T11:19:00.423-05:00Keep an Eye Out for Little People<div style="text-align: center;">"They're Not Pets, Susan" by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Slinkachu</span><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://little-people.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXNUqfRbmyI/AAAAAAAAGzo/-Qju481rNLQ/s400/They%27re+not+pets,+Susan+2+-+blog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292667076016315170" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://little-people.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXNUqG89JHI/AAAAAAAAGzg/1WWr1YQO5Ss/s400/They%27re+not+pets,+Susan+1+-+blog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292667069487981682" border="0" /></a><br />Mike sent me a link to the coolest blog; some people are just too clever. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Slinkachu</span> is an artist who places tiny people alongside other tiny bits in the city of London and then photographs them: little people in a big world. The shots above are found on <a href="http://little-people.blogspot.com/">his blog</a> - pop over to see more of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Slinkachu's</span> work or take a chance and buy <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0752226649?ie=UTF8&tag=littpeop-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0752226649">this</a> book.Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-19557685420182792432009-01-18T11:00:00.001-05:002009-01-18T11:37:19.078-05:00Mmmm This WeekAs promised I'm here to post my menu for the week. I know you've been chomping at the bit just dying to hear what we'll be eating this week. Hold onto your hats kids, it's going to be a yummy week with lots of new recipes because I'm crazy like that.<br /><br />Monday: spaghetti<br />Tuesday: chicken fajitas<br />Wednesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry?autonomy_kw=Beef%20and%20Broccoli%20Stir%20Fry&rsc=header_2">beef and broccoli stir-fry</a> - newbie #1 of the week<br />Thursday: <a href="http://seasonalontariofood.blogspot.com/2007/11/gordon-ramsays-broccoli-soup-more-or.html">Gordon Ramsay's broccoli soup</a> & wraps - newbie #2<br />Friday: rosemary-garlic chicken, <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Buttered-Noodles-with-Chives-106073">Buttered Noodles with Chives</a> - newbie #3<br />Saturday: chicken <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">caesar</span></span> salad using <a href="http://jabberingjaime.blogspot.com/2009/01/tantalizing-tuesdays-are-biggity-back.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Fergie's</span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">delish</span></span> dressing</a><br />Sunday: broiled chops, wee <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">roasties</span></span><br /><br />We managed to follow the menu this week, I switched a couple days around but only ate what was on the the plan. The new <a href="http://jenniferscooking.blogspot.com/2009/01/sesame-peaut-noodles.html">peanut noodle</a> recipe we tried was yummy but I heated the ingredients in a pan to avoid drenching myself while whisking - sticky peanut butter doesn't whisk well - next time I would use less soy sauce than is called for, it was a little too salty for us.<br />Oh, and we ate it warm - with the temperature being minus 20 and colder this week we needed all the warmth we could get.<br /><br />Monday was the one and only shopping day which was certainly a nice change and for once I didn't find myself tossing a bunch of wilted veggies on garbage day. I only bought what we actually intended to use and guess what, we used it: what a simple yet brilliant concept. Any new recipes out there that you want to share? Be sure to leave me a link!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-10553422736538241572009-01-16T17:03:00.004-05:002009-01-16T17:26:34.707-05:00Likey Lykkee LiI'm smitten. Thanks to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Liss</span> from <a href="http://daydreamlily.blogspot.com/">Daydream Lily</a> I have been introduced to a new artist to obsess over. I can finally set <a href="http://jabberingjaime.blogspot.com/2008/08/turn-it-up-for-todd-terje.html">Todd <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Terje</span></a> aside (at least temporarily). Listening to this lovely Swede's voice gets my creative juices flowing... watch her video below for Little Bit and check out her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">myspace</span> page to hear a few more of her <a href="http://www.myspace.com/lykkeli">songs</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=18912449"></a><br /><object width="425" height="360"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="movie" value="http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=18912449,t=1,mt=video"><embed src="http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=18912449,t=1,mt=video" allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="360"></embed></object>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-16565876741343854352009-01-16T17:00:00.000-05:002009-01-16T17:40:47.865-05:00Fab Pick of Last Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXEKtaJ7D6I/AAAAAAAAGzQ/c3tGqpOS9Lk/s1600-h/buttonsoap.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SXEKtaJ7D6I/AAAAAAAAGzQ/c3tGqpOS9Lk/s400/buttonsoap.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292022812368375714" border="0" /></a>Buttons and the beach are two of my most favourite things so this soap by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_1&listing_id=19312807"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">HelloCrafty</span></a> is right up my alley. Not only is the design eye catching, the scent description sounds lovely: "similar to Coppertone suntan lotion and many customers have told me it has a slight lilac fragrance as well." Heavenly!Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-6266699998340335522009-01-15T16:52:00.004-05:002009-01-15T17:10:39.918-05:00Brilliant!Yesterday I ranted and today I will rave. Last night Mike and I watched a special on the most amazing young man: <a href="http://www.stephenwiltshire.co.uk/videos.aspx">Stephen <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wiltshire</span></a>. Stephen is a brilliant artist who happens to be autistic; when I say brilliant artist I mean <span style="font-weight: bold;">brilliant</span>.<br /><br />I haven't been able to stop thinking about Stephen's art all day; while out for lunch with Mike I was thinking again about the phenomenal talent Stephen has for drawing from memory (he has been referred to as a human camera) when Mike blurted out: I can't stop thinking about that artist. My point is, this young man is worthy of awe... maybe you have heard of him over the years but Mike and I hadn't.<br /><br />We have every intention of purchasing a copy of one of Stephen's prints down the road and had no trouble agreeing on the panorama of England which the filming of the documentary circled around.<br /><br /><br />Grab yourself a glass of vino and be prepared to let your jaw drop. The video is 40 minutes but well worth the time. I think it would be impossible for you to watch this and not be impressed. Let me know what you think!<embed src="http://www.tvo.org/video/tvoplayersm.swf" quality="high" wmode="transparent" bgcolor="#ffffff" name="flashObj" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" flashvars="videoRefID=Masterworks_Full_0_897649_HumanCamera_00&videoPlay=manual" align="middle" width="326" height="292"></embed>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-7312255084570161842009-01-14T18:21:00.007-05:002009-01-15T17:12:47.885-05:00Ann Coulter: Wicked Witch of the Right-WingWe all have those moments where we watch something on TV and wish more than anything that we had access to Jeanie - from <span style="font-style: italic;">I Dream of Jeanie </span>- so that we could pop back in time to the studio where the show being viewed was filmed just long enough to slap someone upside the head. Don't we? Well I don't know about you but it happens to me and when I watched this infuriating woman today I wished I had a lamp. As nasty as it may be I so wished I could hurl some hate Ann <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Coulter's</span> way; she's throwing enough of it out to the single mothers in our world. See for yourself.<br /><br /><div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p><object width="425" height="350"><param value="http://youtube.com/v/IGbWSfIL1d4" name="movie"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://youtube.com/v/IGbWSfIL1d4" width="425" height="350"></embed></object></p></div><br /><br />Here we have an ignorant woman who has no children of her own judging all single mothers and suggesting they are selfish women raising rapists and thieves. A chapter in her book titled <span style="font-style: italic;">Victim of a crime? Thank a single mother</span>?! Single mothers <span style="font-style: italic;">must</span> be the root of all problems in the USA; the disgustingly high poverty rates have everything to do with women raising children on their own and nothing to do with Ann's much loved right-wing "give to the rich and take from the poor" approach to running a country. Give me a break.<br /><br />I should clarify that I don't paint all right-wing conservative women with the same brush, and I assume - please let me be right - that a huge number of republican women would be appalled by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Coulter's</span> words. Unfortunately for women sharing the political standpoint of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Coulter</span> the two females who are currently hold the spotlight are <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Coulter</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Palin</span>. Certainly not the sort of strong female role models I would want representing me.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Nevermind</span> Sarah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Palin</span>, she's dim but relatively harmless, it's Ann <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Coulter</span> who gets my vote as the wicked witch of the right-wing women.<br /><br />Sadly, this sneak peek leaves me wanting more. I'm curious to know what else is written in her book, there was just one chapter on single mothers so who else does she condemn? It's sort of like a traffic accident, it's gruesome but you can't help but stare. Of course I won't support this crazy woman by purchasing her book; sharing this video might be seen by some as promotion but more than anything I want to hear what you have to say about this. Feel free to disagree with my opinion.Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-70693952028034038192009-01-13T21:41:00.005-05:002009-01-13T21:57:28.566-05:00Why I Love Grade OneI've moved from the junior division to the primary at my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">PDS</span>. I'll be teaching six weeks straight in the grade one class after March break, until then I'm at the school one and a half days a week shadowing two phenomenal teachers (grade 1 & grade 2)<br /><br />Kids kill me. I'm going to post memorable quotes and questions here, figure I may as well share the laughs and my "uh oh" moments with you. <br /><br />Things that make you go <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">hmmmm</span>....<br />If Christ was Jesus' last name are there still people over there named Christ?<br />Why does your nose run when you go outside in the cold?<br />Do teachers get dressed when they leave school?<br />Did Jesus have a son?<br /><br />So serious but so funny.<br />That monkey worries me.<br /><br />Brilliant!<br />Child who struggles with reading, after flipping very quickly through a book responds to my<br />request that he read the story to me, "I don't want to read it aloud, I read it in my head so now you read it to me and I'll tell you if you're right."<br /><br />You've gotta love 'em.Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-70146463392755522652009-01-12T23:50:00.002-05:002009-01-12T23:55:35.643-05:00Tantalizing Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23283371@N05/2972314715/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3280/2972314715_e7646bc887_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23283371@N05/2972314715/">that-crazy-broccoli</a></span><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" >Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/23283371@N05/">Dennis Ferry</a><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">The only thing healthy about this recipe is the broccoli but it's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">uber</span> yummy so really, what does it matter?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Creamy Broccoli Salad<br /><span style="font-size:78%;">this is a dish I bring to every immediate-family meal because they all love it!<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">What You Need:<br />2 small broccoli<br />3/4 cup mayo<br />1/2 cup sugar<br />4 tbsp vinegar<br />chopped red onion<br />1 cup grated cheese<br />bacon bits (optional)<br /><br />What You Do:<br />Now read this very carefully because it's easy to mess up.<br />1. Mix.<br />2. Eat.<br /><br />In all seriousness, I suggest you mix up the wet bits with the sugar before adding the veggies.<br />That's all!<br /></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></div></div></div>Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-41442626727675727922009-01-11T19:45:00.008-05:002009-01-18T11:06:29.473-05:00*insert sarcasm here* I Know You're Dying to Know...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SWqe1C25fPI/AAAAAAAAGy4/ZIxttDM-3Po/s1600-h/Jamaica3+064edit.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SWqe1C25fPI/AAAAAAAAGy4/ZIxttDM-3Po/s400/Jamaica3+064edit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290215346437455090" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">An old pic from a trip to Jamaica 3 years ago: bliss.<br /><br /></span></div>I'm back on my organization kick. I went hunting for a post to link to as proof of past attempts at organization and laughed when I realized my disorganization stretches beyond the real world and into my little bit of property in cyberspace. In other words I can't find what I'm looking for so I'll give up and trust that you'll take my word for the fact that every now and then I attempt to get organized.<br /><br />Now that we are a one car couple I am finding it more important than ever to know what it is I need when I make a trip to the shops; it stinks when I realize I forgot to pick up 'such and such' and then remember I don't have a car available to take a quick trip. I've decided that the way I am going to limit the number of grocery store stops we have to make is by scheduling one visit to the grocer a week: Mondays will be shopping day. The only way I'll actually be able to stick to this is if I start making weekly menus that we actually use. I figure this will not only save us headaches and a ton of time - considering I hit the grocer at least 4 days a week now - it ought to save us a bunch of money. How often do I pick up extra things because I'm hungry when I shop after school? Every visit.<br /><br />I'm posting my weekly menu here not because I think you actually care to read it but for myself, if I post my menu every Sunday I'm more likely to stick to it. I'm keeping with my <a href="http://jabberingjaime.blogspot.com/2009/01/tantalizing-tuesdays-are-biggity-back.html">other</a> plan of more healthy eating and attempting new recipes each week so I'll be sure to link to any recipes that can be found on-line if I use any.<br /><br />Alright. Week one of menu planning... GO!<br />Monday: taco salad<br />Tuesday: <a href="http://jenniferscooking.blogspot.com/2009/01/sesame-peaut-noodles.html">Sesame Peanut Noodles</a> - new yum for the week<br />Wednesday: balsamic chicken, brown rice, asparagus<br />Thursday: out<br />Friday: pork stir fry<br />Saturday: Steak, baked potatoes, salad<br />Sunday: salmon and homemade friesGingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6350516013609936563.post-13627573047441541732009-01-10T19:58:00.004-05:002009-01-10T21:05:05.975-05:00A Terrific Taste of India<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kristian_rasmussen/3067883213/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ci83IRgTttM/SWlOVNk4CGI/AAAAAAAAGyw/YyonypMBj_4/s400/tandori.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289845363651905634" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo taken and uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kristian_rasmussen/3067883213/">Kristian Rasmussen<br /></a></span></div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kristian_rasmussen/3067883213/"><br /></a>Tanya left us a box full of lovely edibles when she took off to Russia. One of the treats found in the mix was <a href="http://www.gourmantra.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Gourmantra's</span></a> boxed Tandoori mix. I followed the simple directions printed on the box and the end result: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">DELISH</span>. Mike gobbled down his plate of chicken and rice announcing how fantastic the chicken was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">appx.</span> 8 million times before suggesting this become a weekly meal; it really was fabulous. If you like Indian food you have to give <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Gourmantra's</span> boxed mixes a shot.Gingham Skieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05719272761970590702noreply@blogger.com2